endothelial CELLS AND CHRONIC LUNG DISEASE

Role of endothelial cells in lung fibrosis

Endothelial cells line blood vessels (arteries, veins and capillaries) and lymphatic vessels in all organs throughout the human body. They play an essential role in a variety of molecular mechanisms. Their dysfunction leads to severe implications which significantly alter an individual’s well-being and quality of life. This project aims to map the diverse subpopulations of endothelial cells in both elderly lung and fibrotic lungs. The project also works to uncover the role of endothelial cells (and their subpopulations) in chronic lung diseases, including lung fibrosis. We are developing a humanised model focused on accurately representing endothelial heterogeneity and characterising alterations to this heterogeneity in chronic lung disease. This work will open new avenues for therapeutic management for chronic lung diseases. The project is supported primarily by the Kate Garthwaite Research Fund and works in close collaboration with the High-Performance Computer (HPC) VIPER team at the University of Hull.