Cell-specific genome editing to decipher the hypertrophic effect of Meg3 (B08)

• Subject Area: Cell Biology ; Anatomy and Physiology
• Term: since 2019
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 403584255

The long non-coding RNA Meg3 controls cardiac and vascular function, restricts angiogenesis and enhances fibrotic remodeling in hypertrophic hearts. However, the cell type responsible for the antiangiogenic and pro-fibrotic signals of Meg3 is unclear. Therefore, we will cell-specifically delete the Meg3 cluster in Cas12-transgenic pig hearts: vectors selectively targeting cardiomyocytes, endothelial cells, fibroblasts and pericytes will be used to deliver guide RNA (gRNA) into these target cells to delete Meg3 postnatally. Functional effects will be assessed in vivo in pig hearts activated by hypertrophic stimuli.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 267: Non-coding RNA in the cardiovascular system
• Applicant Institution: Technische Universität München (TUM)
• Project Heads: Dr. Andrea Bähr, since 7/2023; Professor Dr. Christian Kupatt; Professorin Dr. Angelika Schnieke, until 6/2023