Grant: Operating Grant

The cells that line our vascular system, endothelial cells (ECs) are sensitive to changes in blood flow. There is good clinical and experimental evidence to believe that changes in these cells in regions of disturbed blood flow is an underlying cause of heart attacks and strokes. This research will identify how ECs sense and change in the presence of disturbed blood flow. We will use three dimensional EC models to investigate the role of the outer lining of the cells (glycocalyx) in responding to changes in blood flow. We will also measure structural changes (actin cytoskeleton) in the EC support system to identify if disturbed flow changes the stiffness of the cells. Using our innovative cell culture models, this research will help define the mechanisms of EC dysfunction and provide new opportunities for the treatment of strokes and heart attacks.