Abstract
Vascular calcification is the deposition of calcium phosphate mineral, usually as hydroxyapatite, in the arteries. Despite being a common consequence of ageing and conditions including type II diabetes, the cellular mechanisms underpinning vascular calcification are poorly understood. Exosomes are small membrane-bound particles released from cells which contain a diverse array of signalling molecules (including the calcification inhibitor, ATP). Recent work has suggested exosomes may play a role in vascular calcification. This studentship will investigate whether alterations in glucose levels that occur in diabetes can modulate exosome composition and release thereby contributing to the development of vascular calcification.
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