S01-Animal models

The entire consortium of TRR259 is dependent on complex animal models that adequately resemble the molecular pathologies of aortic valve stenosis (AS) and aortic aneurysm (AA) formation. Project S01 serves as a central unit for a) providing animal models, b) comprehensive imaging and phenotyping, c) training of surgical and imaging skills, and d) quality management and assurance across the research sites in Bonn, Cologne and Düsseldorf. Project S01 developed and deeply phenotyped several animal models of experimental aortic valve stenosis and aortic aneurysm formation and has generated extensive baseline data sets for quality control during the first funding period. Furthermore, it has provided the scientific and personnel infrastructure to develop and establish a large animal model of aortic aneurysm formation in pigs. In the upcoming second funding period, S01 will not only continue its efforts to offer highly reliable experimental animal models but also coordinate the development and characterisation of novel techniques and large-animal models of aortic disease.