Enhancing human capillary tube network assembly and maturation through upregulated expression of pericyte-derived TIMP-3.

ABSTRACT: In this study, we identify and characterize new molecular determinants that optimize human capillary tube network assembly. Our lab has previously reported a novel, serum free-defined 3D co-culture model using human endothelial cells (ECs) and human pericytes whereby EC-lined tubes form and co-assemble with pericytes, but when these cultures are maintained at or beyond 5 days, tubes become progressively wider and unstable. To address this issue, we generated novel human pericytes that carry a tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-3 transgene which can be upregulated following doxycycline addition. EC-pericyte co-cultures established in the presence of doxycycline demonstrated marked enhancement of capillary network assembly including dramatic narrowing of capillary tube widths to an

SUBMITTER: Yrigoin K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11560913 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature