Delineation molecular and cellular mechanisms in vascular malformations
The Royal Free London and University College London (UCL) run a collaborative translational research programme to improve the care of patients with vascular malformations including arteriovenous malformations or AVMs. We combine the expertise of our specialist clinicians and nurses at the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust and the biomedical scientists and biomedical engineers at the UCL and NIHR/UCLH Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) to carry out research studies ranging from molecular science, computer simulation and modeling, drug repurposing and clinical trials to improve our understanding of the disease mechanisms of vascular malformations with the aim to improve the treatment and care of our patients. Our research studies are also regularly guided by feedback from our patients to answer questions that really matter to them and families.
Recently, our molecular research has focused on understanding the genetic mutations that result in the initiation of lesions specific to the individual patient. However, the initiation of vascular malformations is a multifactorial complex process that is poorly understood and delineated. We believe that this complicated personalized approach, although very insightful and valuable, has slowed down the discovery of effective therapies. Our approach is to focus on the common mechanisms of the disease that gives rise to all vascular malformations, understanding what makes AVMs different to other vascular malformations i.e. venous and lymphatic malformations, and normal vessels, and if it is possible to intervene to halt progression or induce regression of existing lesions.
Finally, we thank The Butterfly AVM Charity for their continuing strong support to our vascular malformation translational research programme at the Royal Free London – University College London.
The Royal Free London – University College London vascular malformation clinical and research team
Date: 29 October 2025
The biomedical scientists and vascular surgeon specialise in AVM in the molecular laboratory at the UCL Royal Free Campus.