Zonation-specific endothelial FOXF2 signaling in stroke and small vessel disease (A02)

• Subject Area: Molecular and Cellular Neurology and Neuropathology
• Term: since 2026
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 548585053

Focusing on the transcription factor FOXF2, this project explores its role in brain endothelial cells and its zonation-specific function in small vessel disease (SVD) and stroke. Using mouse models with endothelial cell-specific FOXF2 deletion, the project studies effects on blood–brain barrier integrity, neurovascular signaling, and astrocyte interactions. It aims to determine how FOXF2 deficiency via its effects on zonation-specific cellular crosstalk affects vascular dysfunction and infarct expansion as a basis for the development of targeted therapeutic interventions for SVD and stroke.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1744: Compartmentalized cellular networks in neurovascular diseases
• Applicant Institution: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
• Project Head: Professor Dr. Martin Dichgans