A Regulatory microRNA Network Controls Endothelial Cell Phenotypic Switch During Sprouting Angiogenesis [shDICER]

We exploited a three-dimensional model of sprouting angiogenesis in which the phenotypic switch from quiescent ECs to tip cells was triggered by VEGF-A. The information obtained about modulated miRNAs and their related protein-coding gene targets was used to generate a co-expression network encompassing gene modules that are post-transcriptionally regulated and whose activity is required for sprouting. Gene expression profile study of HUVEC transduced with a non-targeting shRNA (pLKO) or with a shRNA targeting DICER1 (shDICER). Cells were cultured in a 3D collagen matrix as quiescent not-stimulated spheroids (SPHC), and subsequently stimulated with VEGF-A. Two replicates for each experimental point are included.