In Vitro Analysis Of Runx1 And Vegf Pathway Interactions

Purpose: Neovascularization is a pathological feature of proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). Current anti-angiogenic therapies typically target vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and are effective treatments for a number of angiogenic diseases of the eye. We have recently identified glucose-dependent up-regulation of Runt-related transcription factor 1 (RUNX1) in vascular endothelial cells and its role in PDR. We have identified RUNX1 as a novel pathway of potential therapeutic interest and implicate RUNX1 as a mediator of aberrant retinal angiogenesis. The aim of this study is to investigate the role of VEGF in regulating RUNX1 expression.Methods: Human Microvascular Endothelial cells (HMRECs) were cultured in endothelial growth media, supplemented with high concentrations of D-glucose (30 mM), h-VEGF (5 or 10 ng/ml) or aflibercept (40 mg/ml) for 12 to 48 hours. The effect of glucose and …