MITOVASC was founded from the association of several groups sharing a common scientific goal, which is to provide a better understanding of the interactions between the small arteries controlling blood flow supply and the mitochondria controlling cell metabolism. 

The scientific rationale is based upon the following facts:

1) vascular disorders appear often and early in many mitochondrial diseases such as MELAS (Mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke-like episodes), which is characterized by cerebrovascular disorders with NO insufficiency, 

2) mitochondrial disorders appear early in healthy and diseased vascular ageing, 

3) mitochondrial and vascular disorders play key roles in most “metabolic” disorders, including hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and finally 

4) mitochondria bioenergetic and dynamics play central roles in the control of vascular tone and structure, as suggested by our recent findings. 

Thus, we are developing common projects in the 2 main domains of the unit, cardiovascular and mitochondrial physiopathology, in order to foster innovative results and develop rational therapeutic targets.

The 2 main topics of the unit are divided into several tasks ranging from clinical to fundamental researches. In order to strengthen translational research in the unit, we created the MitoVasc Institute, promoting better interactions with MDs from the University Hospital of Angers. Indeed, the research strategy developed by the unit is based on a “bedside to bench to bedside” program. Clinical observations and investigations on animal models reproducing human diseases led to hypotheses that are now investigated in vitro, taking into consideration the interplay between mitochondria and blood vessels functioning.

Practically, the unit is made up of 2 teams:

- Team 1 led by Guy Lenaers, working on mitochondrial pathophysiology (MITOLAB)

- Team 2 led by Daniel Henrion, working on cardiovascular pathophysiology (CARME)

In order to improve interactions between teams, we have organized technological supports into several platforms, which are accessible to other teams outside MITOVASC (see our collaborations).