The research concerns a protein that detects low oxygen levels in a tissue. When oxygen levels are low, such as in the heart in the case of atherosclerosis, the function of this protein is activated, and it will activate genes that are important for the formation of new blood vessels (to increase oxygen supply) and for adapting the tissue's metabolism to the low oxygen levels. The latter is important for the exposed tissue's ability to survive the oxygen starvation. In this project, we want to use the protein that detects low oxygen levels to increase vascular regeneration in heart muscle or brain that is exposed to low oxygen levels due to reduced blood supply. In contrast to single growth factor therapies (which have a limited effect), this system represents a promising new approach to restore the oxygen balance in the diseased tissue. In detailed molecular studies, we will try to develop techniques to effectively activate the oxygen-sensitive protein, thus keeping an oxygen-starved heart cell (or brain cell in the case of stroke) alive. We will also investigate how different genes will be regulated when cardiovascular tissues are exposed to low levels of oxygen, e.g. in models of peripheral vascular disease, atherosclerosis and increased blood pressure in the pulmonary circulation. The project will provide important knowledge to increase vascular regeneration and exert positive effects on metabolism in tissues exposed to low oxygen levels (ischemia).