High-throughput screen identifies metabolite regulators of endothelial function
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ABSTRACT: Endothelial cells (ECs) line blood vessels, regulate organ homeostasis, and their dysfunction is central to the development of cardiovascular diseases. Metabolites are critical regulators of EC health and function, yet only a limited number of metabolites that impact ECs have been identified. Here, we undertook a high-throughput screen of 884 metabolites and common drugs found in human to systematically identify metabolites that impact barrier function of primary human umbilical cord vein ECs (HUVECs). Seven metabolites that deregulate vascular barrier function without causing cell death were shortlisted. This includes (-)-epigallocatechin gallate, (±)-3-methyl-2-oxovaleric acid, taurocholic acid, myricetin, meloxicam, hesperetin and trans-3-indoleacrylic acid. These metabolites elicited organ-specific responses, and showed differential effects on coronary artery ECs, lung ECs and HUVECs. Transcriptional profiling revealed that each of the seven metabolites triggered different changes in ECs, suggesting distinct mechanisms triggering EC barrier disruption. Notably, trans-3-indoleacrylic acid deregulated VE-cadherin junctions, and initiated increased EC sprouting independent of cell migration, suggesting a role in angiogenesis. These results reveal circulating metabolites that regulate EC function and provide novel insights into metabolites and vascular health.
ORGANISM(S): Homo sapiens
PROVIDER: GSE332745 | GEO | 2026/09/18
REPOSITORIES: GEO
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