Impaired glycolysis in aged endothelial cells is associated with reduced neovascularisation upon tissue ischemia

The vascular system experiences an age-associated decline in tissue perfusion and response to ischemic diseases. The factors driving this age-associated neovascularization decline remain unclear. While old endothelial cells (ECs) adopt a pro-angiogenic gene expression profile, we observed a stark reduction in the proliferative capacity of old ECs, while migratory capabilities remain intact. This is paralleled by a drastic decline in glycolytic capacity and ATP production, which likely act as limiting factors to neovascularization. These findings may provide new strategies to restore EC function in aging, thereby improving organ resilience and extending health- and lifespan.