Autophagy protein 5 controls flow-dependent endothelial functions.

Dysregulated autophagy is associated with cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, where impaired flow-mediated endothelial cell responses promote cardiovascular risk. The mechanism by which the autophagy machinery regulates endothelial functions is complex. We applied multi-omics approaches and in vitro and in vivo functional assays to decipher the diverse roles of autophagy in endothelial cells.

Colonization of dermal arterioles by Neisseria meningitidis provides a safe haven from neutrophils.

The human pathogen Neisseria meningitidis can cause meningitis and fatal systemic disease. The bacteria colonize blood vessels and rapidly cause vascular damage, despite a neutrophil-rich inflammatory infiltrate. Here, we use a humanized mouse model to show that vascular colonization leads to the recruitment of neutrophils, which partially reduce bacterial burden and vascular damage.

Inflammation-linked adaptations in dermal microvascular reactivity accompany the development of obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Background/objectives: The increased prevalence of obesity has prompted great strides in our understanding of specific adipose depots and their involvement in cardio-metabolic health. However, the impact of obesity on dermal white adipose tissue (dWAT) and dermal microvascular functionality remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the temporal changes that occur in dWAT and dermal microvascular functionality during the development of diet-induced obesity and type 2 diabetes in mice.