Characterisation of endothelial cell metabolic plasticity and vascular remodelling in the retina

Assessments of in vitro metabolism were assessed using the Seahorse XF system and qPCR to highlight potential changes in metabolic pathways. Functional assays including 3D-Matrigelexperiments, Clonogenics, proliferation, migration, and barrier integrity were also implemented to ascertain what changes to functionality occur after HDG exposure. Furthermore, the use of pharmacological compounds such as the glycolytic inhibitor 3PO ((2E)-3-(3-Pyridinyl)-1-(4-pyridinyl)-2-propen-1-one),and Proxison (7-decyl-3-hydroxy-2-(3, 4, 5-trihdroxyphenyl)-4-chromenone) a synthetic flavonoid were also implemented in this study to determine if pharmacological interventions/ modifications to metabolism could be effective in reducing HDG exposure affects.

In an attempt to understand angiogenic pathways in more detail, single cell sequencing was also performed on cells recovered from 3D environment. This project together helps to understand the nature of this complex disease and identify potential new targets of therapeutic interventions.<br><br>