Vascular Patterning as Integrative Readout of Complex Molecular and Physiological Signaling by VESsel GENeration Analysis

Mark Lagatuz, Ruchi J. Vyas, Marina Predovic, Shiyin Lim, Nicole Jacobs, Miguel Martinho, Hamed Valizadegan, David Kao, Nikunj Oza, Corey A. Theriot, Susana B. Zanello, Giovanni Taibbi, Gianmarco Vizzeri, Mariana Dupont, Maria B. Grant, Daniel J. Lindner, Hans Christian Reinecker, Alexander Pinhas, Toco Y. Chui, Richard B. RosenNicanor Moldovan, Mary B. Vickerman, Krishnan Radhakrishnan, Patricia Parsons-Wingerter

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

9 Scopus citations

Abstract

The molecular signaling cascades that regulate angiogenesis and microvascular remodeling are fundamental to normal development, healthy physiology, and pathologies such as inflammation and cancer. Yet quantifying such complex, fractally branching vascular patterns remains difficult. We review application of NASA's globally available, freely downloadable VESsel GENeration (VESGEN) Analysis software to numerous examples of 2D vascular trees, networks, and tree-network composites. Upon input of a binary vascular image, automated output includes informative vascular maps and quantification of parameters such as tortuosity, fractal dimension, vessel diameter, area, length, number, and branch point. Previous research has demonstrated that cytokines and therapeutics such as vascular endothelial growth factor, basic fibroblast growth factor (fibroblast growth factor-2), transforming growth factor-beta-1, and steroid triamcinolone acetonide specify unique "fingerprint"or "biomarker"vascular patterns that integrate dominant signaling with physiological response. In vivo experimental examples described here include vascular response to keratinocyte growth factor, a novel vessel tortuosity factor; angiogenic inhibition in humanized tumor xenografts by the anti-angiogenesis drug leronlimab; intestinal vascular inflammation with probiotic protection by Saccharomyces boulardii, and a workflow programming of vascular architecture for 3D bioprinting of regenerative tissues from 2D images. Microvascular remodeling in the human retina is described for astronaut risks in microgravity, vessel tortuosity in diabetic retinopathy, and venous occlusive disease.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)207-230
Number of pages24
JournalJournal of Vascular Research
Volume58
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 1 2021

Keywords

  • 3D bioprinting
  • Angiogenesis
  • Central retinal vein occlusion
  • Diabetic retinopathy
  • Keratinocyte growth factor
  • Leronlimab
  • Microvascular
  • Saccharomyces boulardii
  • Spaceflight-Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Physiology
  • Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Vascular Patterning as Integrative Readout of Complex Molecular and Physiological Signaling by VESsel GENeration Analysis'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this