Biomedical Sciences ETDs
Publication Date
Fall 12-13-2025
Abstract
Endothelial cells (ECs) in resistance arteries express integral membrane proteins, including ion channels and transporters critical for blood flow regulation and intercellular communication. The function of these proteins is highly sensitive to membrane cholesterol content, which can disrupt responses to vasoactive molecules such as nitric oxide, carbon monoxide, and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S). The ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) regulates membrane cholesterol by promoting efflux to nascent HDL particles. We found that increased ABCA1 expression lowers EC membrane cholesterol, while inhibition raises cholesterol and impairs H₂S-mediated vasodilation. Shear stress (SS) further modulates this system, enhancing ABCA1 expression and reducing membrane cholesterol. Using rat mesenteric arteries and human aortic ECs, we demonstrate that ABCA1 and SS are key determinants of endothelial lipid homeostasis and vasodilatory capacity.
Keywords
Endothelial, Membrane Cholesterol, ABCA1, Hydrogen Sulfide, Shear Stress, Vascular Function
Document Type
Dissertation
Language
English
Degree Name
Biomedical Sciences
Level of Degree
Doctoral
Department Name
Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program
First Committee Member (Chair)
Thomas C Resta, Ph.D.
Second Committee Member
Jay S Naik, Ph.D.
Third Committee Member
Nancy L Kanagy, Ph.D.
Fourth Committee Member
Diane S Lidke, Ph.D.
Recommended Citation
Anderson, Jacob R.. "The Role of Membrane Cholesterol in Regulating Vascular Function." (2025). https://digitalrepository.unm.edu/biom_etds/289
Included in
Medical Cell Biology Commons, Medical Molecular Biology Commons, Medical Physiology Commons