France - Inserm

Project presentation

ANGIOLOCO aims to determine whether these vascular abnormalities—and in particular a protein called VEGF-A, involved in vessel formation—are responsible for the respiratory sequelae of long COVID. This project draws on well-documented patient cohorts, advanced molecular analyses, and cutting-edge technologies to explore the mechanisms of long COVID.

The project also studies a very rare type of cell in the blood called ECFCs (endothelial colony-forming cells). These cells, derived from blood vessels, are capable of reforming vascular networks and reflect the health of the endothelium, the inner layer of blood vessels. Analyzing them could help identify persistent vascular disorders and lead to new targeted therapeutic approaches.

Methodology and expected results

The ANGIOLOCO program is structured around three main areas:

1. Biomarker monitoring: measuring indicators of vascular dysfunction (such as VEGF-A) in patients followed up for up to 18 months after COVID.
2. Cell analysis: studying ECFCs in patients with respiratory sequelae to assess their angiogenic capacity, cellular aging, and tendency to promote coagulation.
3. Mechanical studies: understanding how molecules such as VEGF-A can promote prolonged coagulation activation via endothelial cells.

The results of ANGIOLOCO could lead to the development of targeted treatments for the respiratory sequelae of long COVID, in particular by testing the efficacy of existing drugs that block VEGF-A.

A project serving science and patients

Led by Professors Jean-Luc Diehl and David Smadja and an interdisciplinary team at the Georges Pompidou European Hospital (AP-HP, Paris Cité University) and the INSERM PARCC unit, the ANGIOLOCO project is part of an applied translational research approach. It draws on expertise in hematology, vascular biology, pulmonology, and biotechnology, and contributes to the development of solutions to improve the quality of life of people suffering from long COVID.

We now know that COVID-19 leaves some patients with various types of long-term effects, but the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. ANGIOLOCO aims to explore an innovative avenue: the role of blood vessel abnormalities. This project will enable us to identify predictive markers and potential therapeutic targets to better prevent or treat long COVID."

Prof. David Smadja, Inserm PARCC and HEGP

What the Air Liquide Foundation does

In addition to its medical impact, the ANGIOLOCO project promotes the training of young researchers. This project illustrates the shared commitment of the Air Liquide Foundation and research teams to better understand respiratory diseases and support biomedical innovations.