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Mechanisms of Arteriogenesis |
Arteriogenesis (remodeling of pre-existent arteriolar collateral networks into large collateral conductance arteries) serves as the most efficient mechanism to restore blood flow after arterial occlusion. Perivascular inflammation and monocytes/macrophage accumulation accompany this process. We are currently exploring the inflammatory mechanisms of arteriogenesis. These mechanisms may also be relevant for other situations in which blood vessels remodel in response to high shear stress. Our collaborators at the University of Freiburg have pioneered microsphere techniques in mice for the molecular dissection of arteriogenesis mechanisms. |