The role of the olfactory receptor 2 in aortic aneurysm formation (A09*)

• Subject Area: Cardiology, Angiology
• Term: since 2023
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 397484323

Macrophages contribute to inflammatory processes and extracellular matrix remodelling in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) formation. Therefore, the modulation of inflammatory and matrix-degrading macrophage phenotypes represents an attractive strategy to reduce vascular inflammation and AAA. Recently, extra-nasal olfactory receptor 2 (Olfr2) expression in vascular macrophages has been shown to modulate their inflammatory response. We will determine how Olfr2 contributes to AAA formation and the accompanying vascular macrophage response in Olfr2-deficient mice. Finally, by genetically and pharmacologically inhibiting or augmenting Olfr2 signalling, we will test if Olfr2 is a novel therapeutic target in AAA.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 259: Aortic Disease
• Applicant Institution: Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn
• Project Head: Professor Dr. Holger Winkels, since 7/2023