Pleiotrophin promotes capillary-like sprouting from senescent aortic rings

► We examine pleiotrophin (PTN) effect on capillary sprouting during aging. ► Capillary sprouting is lower in senescent aortic rings as compared to adults. ► Capillary formation is improved after PTN treatment in explanted vessels at all ages. ► Angiogenic effects of PTN and VEGF are of the same extent in senescent vessels. ► PTN could be a promising therapeutic agent for revascularization therapy during aging.