Epicardial Derived Cell Contribution to Coronary Vascular Patterning

Lay Summary: The proper formation of coronary blood vessels is essential for heart development. When the heart does not have proper blood circulation during development, congenital abnormalities can occur.  This project aims to understand the biochemical signals that contribute to embryonic heart blood vessel formation. Three different cell types make up a blood vessel, and this project will focus on the support cell populations. We will uncover how manipulation of these signals directs blood vessel development. In turn, these studies will reveal potential methods for generating better blood vessels in congenital disease, enabling the tissue to receive adequate nutrients from the blood.