Dr. Sanuri Liyanage, a Sri Lanka born medical scientist at the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), has led a groundbreaking discovery in vascular biology by identifying a new cell type – viz. EndoMac progenitors.
Found in the aorta of mice, these cells play a crucial role in blood vessel formation following injuries – a concept first hypothesised over 100 years ago.
The discovery is a game changer for tissue repair and vascular health.
EndoMac progenitors are activated by injury or reduced blood flow and help promote the formation of new blood vessels. In experiments with diabetic mice, transplanting these cells sped up wound healing, showcasing their potential in regenerative medicine.
In collaboration with Dr. Anna Williamson and Prof. Peter Psaltis, the research also sheds light on the cells’ origin and function. While the study was conducted in mice, early evidence suggests similar cells exist in humans.
This breakthrough could revolutionise the treatment of chronic wounds, cardiovascular diseases and other tissue damage, offering hope for better healing outcomes worldwide.