Genomic Behavior Profile Developed of Human Arteries

Scientists at HemoShear LLC in Charlottesville, Virginia, have produced a profile of all genes that influence the biology and function of the human artery system. The research offers insights into the range of genes found in specific cell-types that make up human arteries.

Brett Blackman, one of the company’s founders, said HemoShear’s team “identified individual genes and novel gene networks that may play an important role in inflammation and atherosclerosis, which remain the leading causes of death in the western world.” Atherosclerosis is a blood vessel inflammatory disease characterized by build-up of plaque in the arteries, which limits blood flow and can lead to heart attack and stroke. Blackman added, “[A]s we uncover and validate new gene targets, we plan to collaborate with pharmaceutical companies to develop improved treatments for vascular disease.”

HemoShear is a developer of cell-based, human surrogate models for discovery and assessment of new drug compounds. According to the company’s announcement, its scientists conducted experiments with newly harvested human cells to replicate healthy regions of the artery system as well regions susceptible to disease. The experiments aimed to develop a baseline understanding of human artery biology and to gain insight into how arterial inflammation and early atherosclerosis develop in humans.

Image: Yale University School of Medicine/Wikimedia Commons