3D modelling of pulmonary arterial stenosis and endothelial dysfunction in CTEPH

Abstract

Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) arises from progressive thrombotic occlusion of pulmonary arteries, involving vessel blockage by unresolved thrombi and small vessel arteriopathy. This disrupts blood flow, increases lung pressure, and alters vessel geometry, contributing to endothelial dysfunction. However, the mechanisms remain unclear. To study these interactions, we developed microfluidic 3D models of pulmonary arteries with 30–80% stenosis using CTPAs from CTEPH and acute pulmonary embolism (APE) patients, in silico flow simulations, 3D printing, and soft lithography. Unlike standard circular channels, we designed semi-circular channels enclosed by a coverslip, which computational modelling confirmed closely mimics real vessel flow dynamics. Human pulmonary artery endothelial cells (HPAECs) cultured in 30–80% stenosis channels exhibited increased expression of pro-inflammatory, pro-thrombotic, and pro-angiogenic genes, with responses varying by stenosis severity and location. Cells in post-stenotic dilatation regions (60–80% stenosis) lost alignment and junctional integrity due to disturbed flow. The transcriptional profile of HPAECs from 80% stenosis channels closely resembled that of CTEPH pulmonary endarterectomy specimens. Platelet adhesion, dependent on von Willebrand factor (VWF), varied with stenosis severity and flow rate. Low perfusion rates increased adhesion in stenotic regions, while higher flow rates promoted adhesion post-stenosis. Our patient data-based stenosis models provide a robust platform for studying the effects of vascular geometry on blood flow, endothelial responses, and platelet aggregation, advancing research on CTEPH, pulmonary embolism, and other diseases associated with vascular occlusion.