All blood vessels are carpeted with endothelial cells, which are strategically positioned to influence blood flow and the development of new vessels. Jean-Philippe Gratton’s research unit focuses on studying the cellular mechanisms that control the proliferation, survival and differentiation of endothelial cells. Using molecular and cellular biology techniques and modern pharmacology, the team studies the elements that influence the intracellular signaling of certain growth factors of the vascular endothelium, agents that regulate endothelial function by activating specific intracellular mechanisms and therefore play an important role in cardiovascular disease and in the development of new vessels in tumours (angiogenesis).