VE-Cadherin reporter mouse lines reveal cardiovascular endothelial origin, heterogeneity, and function
This study generated two novel dual VE-Cadherin reporter mouse models, enabling high-sensitivity labeling and lineage tracing of endothelial cells (ECs). Validation confirmed the models' specificity in visualizing ECs across multiple developmental stages and organs. Application studies revealed that Nfatc1+ endocardial cells are the primary source of intramyocardial coronary vessels, highlighting the heterogeneity in EC origins. Comparative analysis of VE-Cadherin and Pecam1 reporter expression revealed organ-specific and temporal regulatory differences. Single-cell transcriptomics identified functionally distinct EC subpopulations in the postnatal heart, with dynamically changing gene expression profiles. This genetic toolbox provides a powerful platform for investigating EC functions in development, disease, and regeneration.