“Green” bio-mimetic platform based on lipid nanoemulsions for detection of endothelial senescence – SenEmul

Atherothrombosis, a major cause of cardiovascular diseases including myocardial infarction, is a process that starts early in childhood and is accelerated by cardiovascular risk factors. The atherogenesis process is targeting initially well-defined arterial sites at risk such as bifurcations, characterized by a sub-optimal vascular protection, exposure to low shear forces and premature endothelial senescence. We will develop bio-inspired lipid nano-droplets (nanoemulsions) loaded with dyes and fluorinated agents for specific targeting and imaging of senescent endothelial cells. Fluorescence modality of nanoemulsions will be applied for in vitro and ex vivo studies in cultured and native healthy and senescent endothelial cells, whereas fluorine-19 MRI modality will allow detecting senescent cells in live animals. The developed “green” nanomaterials composed of non-toxic organic components will provide effective tools for diagnostics and prevention of the development of atherogenesis.