A Regulatory microRNA Network Controls Endothelial Cell Phenotypic Switch During Sprouting Angiogenesis [RNA-Seq]

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 cultured in 3D collagen matrix as quiescent, not-stimulated spheroids (SPHC), and VEGF-A-stimulated sprouted spheroids (SPHV).