Understanding mechanisms of regeneration by resident endothelial cells in the post-ischaemic heart

The primary aim of our research is to characterise the molecular mechanisms through which resident cardiac endothelial cells contribute to vascular regeneration in the post-ischaemic heart.

Our research is centred upon identifying the genetic targets and pathways through which the cells that line the blood vessels of the heart (endothelial cells) can contribute to repair of the heart muscle wall following a heart attack (myocardial infarction). We aim to develop strategies to enhance cardiovascular repair and regeneration through manipulation of these targets.

Research Methods and Objectives

• Use of endothelial cell-specific multispectral transgenic mouse models (Confetti mice) for lineage analysis of vascular turnover and regeneration

• In vivo models of myocardial infarction to study cardiovascular regeneration

• Advanced imaging and analysis
• Single cell RNA-Sequencing and bioinformatics
• Human endothelial cell isolation and primary culture (BOEC, vessel wall EC)

Principal Investigator, Co-Investigators, Other researchers

Dr Mairi Brittan (PI)

Dr Cass Li (Postdoc)

Mr Manolis Solomonidis (PhD student)