Leukocyte-endothelial adhesion molecules. Blood. 1994;84:2068-2101. [PMID: 7522621 DOI: 10.1182/blood.v84.7.2068.2068]

Serum Soluble Adhesion Molecules (sICAM-1, sVCAM-1, sE-selectin) and Neopterin in Patients with Sjögren's Syndrome

Sjögren's syndrome is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by focal lymphocytic infiltration of the salivary and lacrimal glands. Expression and up-regulation of adhesion molecules and activation of cellular immune system is essential for the migration of inflammatory cells into tissues. Soluble forms of adhesion molecules sICAM-1, sVCAM-1, sE-selectin and neopterin were analyzed in serum of 17 patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome and 11 patients with secondary Sjögren's syndrome together with 26 age-matched healthy blood donors. There were significantly higher serum concentrations (mean ± 1SD) of sICAM-1 (362.0 ± 67.9 ng/ml, p<0.001), sE-selectin (78.7 ± 28.1 ng/ml, p<0.001) and neopterin (17.9 ± 6.4 nmol/l, p<0.001) in primary Sjögren's syndrome patients in comparison to control group (sICAM-1: 128.3 ± 46.9 ng/ml, sE-selectin: 46.3 ± 39.5 ng/ml, and neopterin: 7.6 ± 2.3 nmol/l). Sera from patients with secondary Sjögren's disease contained significantly higher levels of sICAM-1 (356.0 ± 62.4 ng/ml, p<0.001), sE-selectin (65.5 ± 27.0 ng/ml, p<0.05), and neopterin (18.8 ± 9.8 nmol/l, p<0.001) in comparison with control group. There were no significant differences between patients with primary and secondary Sjögren's syndrome in any parameters tested. No statistically significant differences in serum levels of sVCAM-1 were found either in patients with primary or secondary SS compared to control group.

Evidence for a dynorphin-mediated inner ear immune/inflammatory response and glutamate-induced neural excitotoxicity: an updated analysis

Acoustic overstimulation (AOS) is defined as the stressful overexposure to high-intensity sounds. AOS is a precipitating factor that leads to a glutamate (GLU)-induced Type I auditory neural excitotoxicity and an activation of an immune/inflammatory/oxidative stress response within the inner ear, often resulting in cochlear hearing loss. The dendrites of the Type I auditory neural neurons that innervate the inner hair cells (IHCs), and respond to the IHC release of the excitatory neurotransmitter GLU, are themselves directly innervated by the dynorphin (DYN)-bearing axon terminals of the descending brain stem lateral olivocochlear (LOC) system. DYNs are known to increase GLU availability, potentiate GLU excitotoxicity, and induce superoxide production. DYNs also increase the production of proinflammatory cytokines by modulating immune/inflammatory signal transduction pathways. Evidence is provided supporting the possibility that the GLU-mediated Type I auditory neural dendritic swelling, inflammation, excitotoxicity, and cochlear hearing loss that follow AOS may be part of a brain stem-activated, DYN-mediated cascade of inflammatory events subsequent to a LOC release of DYNs into the cochlea. In support of a DYN-mediated cascade of events are established investigations linking DYNs to the immune/inflammatory/excitotoxic response in other neural systems.

Serum Soluble Adhesion Molecules (sICAM-1, sVCAM-1 and sE-Selectin) in Healthy School Aged Children and Adults

The aim of this study was to map normal levels of serum soluble isoforms of adhesion molecules in relation to age and sex in the group of school-aged children. sICAM-1, sVCAM-1 and sE-selectin were determined in the group of 158 normal children subdivided into two subgroups; 6-10 years (68 children, median age 8 years) and 11-15 years (90 children, median age 12 years) and in 70 normal adult blood donors (25 females and 45 males, median age 46 years). The levels of sICAM-1 and sE-selectin fell down significantly over the age range 6-15 years, while the level of sVCAM-1 was remained. Age-related normal ranges were established using correlation analysis and were expressed as the 5%-95% percentiles intervals: sICAM-1 206.8-486.8 ng/ml, sE-selectin 36.7-153.2 ng/ml in the group of 6-10 years old children, sICAM-1 184.1-354.0 ng/ml, sE-selectin 29.9-114.1 ng/ml in group of 11-15 years old children. The levels of sVCAM-1 were 359.6-822.0 ng/ml and were constant within the examined age interval from 6 to 15 years. The influence of sex was also assayed and it was not statistically significant in any age category tested. Normal ranges of sICAM-1 (60.2-218.4 ng/ml), sE-selectin (8.3-116.9 ng/ml) and sVCAM-1 (338.0-1148.0 ng/ml) were established for adult population of healthy blood donors using the same methods.

Endothelial dysfunction and low-grade inflammation in the transition to renal replacement therapy

Introduction

End-stage renal disease (ESRD) strongly associates with cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. This risk is not completely mitigated by renal replacement therapy. Endothelial dysfunction (ED) and low-grade inflammation (LGI) may contribute to the increased CVD risk. However, data on serum biomarkers of ED and LGI during the transition to renal replacement therapy (dialysis and kidney transplantation) are scarce.

Methods

We compared serum biomarkers of ED and LGI between 36 controls, 43 participants with chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage 5 non-dialysis (CKD5-ND), 20 participants with CKD stage 5 hemodialysis (CKD5-HD) and 14 participants with CKD stage 5 peritoneal dialysis (CKD5-PD). Further, in 34 and 15 participants repeated measurements were available during the first six months following dialysis initiation and kidney transplantation, respectively. Serum biomarkers of ED (sVCAM-1, E-selectin, P-selectin, thrombomodulin, sICAM-1, sICAM-3) and LGI (hs-CRP, SAA, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α) were measured with a single- or multiplex array detection system based on electro-chemiluminescence technology.

Results

In linear regression analyses adjusted for potential confounders, participants with ESRD had higher levels of most serum biomarkers of ED and LGI than controls. In addition, in CKD5-HD levels of serum biomarkers of ED and LGI were largely similar to those in CKD5-ND. In contrast, in CKD5-PD levels of biomarkers of ED were higher than in CKD5-ND and CKD5-HD. Similarly, in linear mixed model analyses sVCAM-1, thrombomodulin, sICAM-1 and sICAM-3 increased after PD initiation. In contrast, incident HD patients showed an increase in sVCAM-1, P-selectin and TNF-α, but a decline of hs-CRP, SAA and IL-6. Further, following kidney transplantation sVCAM-1, thrombomodulin, sICAM-3 and TNF-α were lower at three months post-transplantation and remained stable in the three months thereafter.

Conclusions

Levels of serum biomarkers of ED and LGI were higher in ESRD as compared with controls. In addition, PD initiation and, less convincingly, HD initiation may increase levels of selected serum biomarkers of ED and LGI on top of uremia per se. In contrast to dialysis, several serum biomarkers of ED and LGI markedly declined following kidney transplantation.

Neutrophil extracellular trap-microparticle complexes trigger neutrophil recruitment via high-mobility group protein 1 (HMGB1)-toll-like receptors(TLR2)/TLR4 signalling

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Recent data suggest that neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) form aggregates with microparticles (MPs) upon activation of neutrophils although the functional role of NET-MP complexes remain elusive. The objective of this study was to examine the role of NET-MP aggregates in leukocyte recruitment in vivo.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

PMA stimulation of murine bone marrow neutrophils generated NET-MP complexes and pretreatment with caspase and calpain inhibitors resulted in the formation of NETs depleted of MPs. Leukocyte-endothelium interactions were studied by using intravital microscopy of the mouse cremaster microcirculation.

KEY RESULTS

Intrascrotal injection of NET-MP aggregates dose-dependently increased leukocyte recruitment. In contrast, leukocyte responses were markedly reduced after administration of NETs depleted of MPs. Neutrophil depletion abolished intravascular and extravascular leukocytes in response to challenge with NET-MP complexes. Electron microscopy revealed that NET-associated MPs express HMGB1. Notably, immunoneutralization of HMGB1 markedly decreased NET-MP complex-induced neutrophil accumulation. Moreover, inhibition of TLR2 and TLR4 significantly reduced neutrophil recruitment in response to NET-MP aggregates.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

These data show that NET-MP complexes are potent inducers of neutrophil recruitment, which is dependent on HMGB1 expressed on MPs and mediated via TLR2 and TLR4. Blocking MP binding to NETs or downstream inhibition of the HMGB1-TLR2/TLR4 axis might provide useful targets to attenuating NET-dependent tissue damage in acute inflammation.

Innate Immune Dysfunction in Rosacea Promotes Photosensitivity and Vascular Adhesion Molecule Expression

Rosacea is a chronic skin disease characterized by photosensitivity, abnormal dermal vascular behavior, inflammation, and enhanced expression of the antimicrobial peptide LL-37. We observed that dermal endothelial cells in rosacea had an increased expression of VCAM1 and hypothesized that LL-37 could be responsible for this response. The digestion of double-stranded RNA from keratinocytes exposed to UVB blocked the capacity of these cells to induce adhesion molecules on dermal microvascular endothelial cells. However, a synthetic noncoding snoU1RNA was only capable of increasing adhesion molecules on endothelial cells in the presence of LL-37, suggesting that the capacity of UVB exposure to promote both double-stranded RNA and LL-37 was responsible for the endothelial response to keratinocytes. Sequencing of RNA from the endothelial cells uncovered the activation of Gene Ontology (GO) pathways relevant to the human disease, such as type I and II interferon signaling, cell-cell adhesion, leukocyte chemotaxis, and angiogenesis. Functional relevance was demonstrated as double-stranded RNA and LL-37 promoted adhesion and transmigration of monocytes across the endothelial cell monolayers. Gene knockdown of TLR3, RIGI, or IRF1 decreased monocyte adhesion in endothelial cells, confirming the role of the double-stranded RNA recognition pathways. These observations show how the expression of LL-37 can lead to enhanced sensitivity to UVB radiation in rosacea.

High-mannose intercellular adhesion molecule-1 enhances CD16+ monocyte adhesion to the endothelium

Human monocytes have been classified into three distinct groups, classical (anti-inflammatory; CD14⁺/CD16^-), nonclassical (patrolling; CD14⁺/CD16⁺⁺), and intermediate (proinflammatory; CD14⁺⁺/CD16⁺). Adhesion of nonclassical/intermediate monocytes with the endothelium is important for innate immunity, and also vascular inflammatory disease. However, there is an incomplete understanding of the mechanisms that regulate CD16⁺ versus CD16^- monocyte adhesion to the inflamed endothelium. Here, we tested the hypothesis that a high-mannose (HM) N-glycoform of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) on the endothelium mediates the selective recruitment of CD16⁺ monocytes. Using TNF-α treatment of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), and using proximity ligation assay for detecting proximity of specific N-glycans and ICAM-1, we show that TNF-α induces HM-ICAM-1 formation on the endothelial surface in a time-dependent manner. We next measured CD16^- or CD16⁺ monocyte rolling and adhesion to TNF-α-treated HUVECs in which HM- or hybrid ICAM-1 N-glycoforms were generated using the α-mannosidase class I and II inhibitors, kifunensine and swainsonine, respectively. Expression of HM-ICAM-1 selectively enhanced CD16⁺ monocyte adhesion under flow with no effect on CD16^- monocytes noted. CD16⁺ monocyte adhesion was abrogated by blocking either HM epitopes or ICAM-1. A critical role for HM-ICAM-1 in mediating CD16⁺ monocyte rolling and adhesion was confirmed using COS-1 cells engineered to express HM or complex ICAM-1 N-glycoforms. These data suggest that HM-ICAM-1 selectively recruits nonclassical/intermediate CD16⁺ monocytes to the activated endothelium.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Monocyte subsets have been associated with cardiovascular disease, yet it is unknown how different subsets are recruited to the endothelium. This study demonstrates the formation of distinct ICAM-1 N-glycoforms in the activated endothelium and reveals a key role for high mannose ICAM-1 in mediating proinflammatory CD16⁺ monocyte adhesion. Presented data identify roles for endothelial N-glycans in recruiting specific monocyte subsets during inflammation.

Increased endothelial activation in α-thalassemia disease

One complication of thalassemia is thromboembolism (TE), which is caused by an abnormal red blood cell surface, as well as endothelial and platelet activation. These findings are commonly observed in severe β-thalassemia. However, limited information on α-thalassemia exists. This study enrolled subjects with deletional and non-deletional α-thalassemia and normal controls (NC). Plasma and serum of subjects were tested for endothelial activation markers including thrombomodulin (TM), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), and von Willebrand factor antigen as well as platelet activation markers including thromboxane B2 and platelet factor 4. A total of 179 subjects were enrolled: 29 in the deletional group (mean age 13.3 ± 4.4 years), 31 in the non-deletional group (mean age 12.9 ± 4.8 years), and 119 in the NC group (mean age 13.6 ± 3.0 years). Twenty nine percent of subjects in the non-deletional group received regular red blood cell transfusion and iron chelator administration. Serum ferritin level was higher in the non-deletional group than that in the deletional group. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that VCAM-1 and TM levels were increased significantly in α-thalassemia compared with NC group (816.8 ± 131.0 vs 593.9 ± 49.0 ng/ml, and 4.9 ± 0.7 vs 4.0 ± 0.4 ng/ml, P < 0.001 respectively). VCAM-1 and TM levels in the non-deletional group were significantly higher than that in the deletional group. The present study demonstrated endothelial activation in children with α-thalassemia disease, especially those in the non-deletional group, which might be one risk factor for TE in α-thalassemia disease.

Icariin Attenuates High Glucose-Induced Apoptosis, Oxidative Stress, and Inflammation in Human Umbilical Venous Endothelial Cells

Endothelial dysfunction is closely associated with diabetic complications. Icariin, a flavonoid glycoside isolated from the Epimedium plant species, exhibits antidiabetic properties. However, its impact on endothelial function remains poorly understood, particularly under hyperglycemia. In this study, we investigated the potential protective effect of icariin on high glucose-induced detrimental effects on vascular endothelial cells. Human umbilical venous endothelial cells were incubated in media containing 5.5 mM glucose (normal glucose) or 25 mM glucose (high glucose) in the presence or absence of 50 µM icariin for 72 h. We found that high glucose markedly induced cell apoptosis, enhanced reactive oxygen species generation, and elevated expression levels of inflammatory factors and cell adhesion molecules, which were greatly subdued by icariin supplementation. In conclusion, icariin exerted a beneficial effect on high glucose-induced endothelial dysfunction. This new finding provides a promising strategy for future treatment of diabetic vascular complications.

Sickle cell disease: Hemostatic and inflammatory changes, and their interrelation

Sickle cell disease, the most common genetic blood disorder in the world, has high clinical variability, negatively impacts quality of life and contributes to early mortality. Sickled erythrocytes cause blood flow obstruction, hemolysis, and several hemostatic changes that promote coagulation. These events, in turn, induce chronic inflammation, characterized by elevated plasma levels of pro-inflammatory markers, which aggravates the already unfavorable state of the circulatory system. Empirical evidence indicates that the hemostatic and inflammatory systems continuously interact with each other and thereby further propagate the hypercoagulability and inflammatory conditions. In this review article, we discuss the pathophysiological aspects of sickle cell disease and the hemostatic and inflammatory changes that underlie its pathogenesis.

Real-Time Observation of Fibrous Zeolites Reactivity in Contact with Simulated Lung Fluids (SLFs) Obtained by Atomic Force Microscope (AFM)

Inhalation of fibrous erionite particles has been linked to malignant mesothelioma. Accordingly, erionite is considered the most carcinogenic mineral. The reactivity and the nature of erionite biotoxicity has been the subject of intensive research. Despite very close chemical and structural relationships between erionite and offretite, the reactivity of offretite in lung fluids remains unknown. In this paper, the interaction of erionite and offretite surfaces with simulated lung fluids was investigated by means of in situ atomic force microscope (AFM). To simulate different environments in the lungs, artificial lysosomal fluid (ALF) and Gamble’s solution were used. In ALF (4.15 < pH < 4.31) the dissolution of erionite and offretite surfaces was detected, as well as an evident removal of particles (mainly attributed to impurities) from the crystal faces. Instead, the growth of a layer of a yet unknown phase on the surface of both zeolites was observed during the interaction with Gamble’s solution (7.4 < pH < 8.48). The thickness of this layer reached a few tens of nanometers and covered all the observed areas. The understanding of the observed processes is of paramount importance, since they could be potentially involved in the mechanisms triggering the toxicological effects of erionite fibres.

PKR: A Kinase to Remember

Aging is a major risk factor for many diseases including metabolic syndrome, cancer, inflammation, and neurodegeneration. Identifying mechanistic common denominators underlying the impact of aging is essential for our fundamental understanding of age-related diseases and the possibility to propose new ways to fight them. One can define aging biochemically as prolonged metabolic stress, the innate cellular and molecular programs responding to it, and the new stable or unstable state of equilibrium between the two. A candidate to play a role in the process is protein kinase R (PKR), first identified as a cellular protector against viral infection and today known as a major regulator of central cellular processes including mRNA translation, transcriptional control, regulation of apoptosis, and cell proliferation. Prolonged imbalance in PKR activation is both affected by biochemical and metabolic parameters and affects them in turn to create a feedforward loop. Here, we portray the central role of PKR in transferring metabolic information and regulating cellular function with a focus on cancer, inflammation, and brain function. Later, we integrate information from open data sources and discuss current knowledge and gaps in the literature about the signaling cascades upstream and downstream of PKR in different cell types and function. Finally, we summarize current major points and biological means to manipulate PKR expression and/or activation and propose PKR as a therapeutic target to shift age/metabolic-dependent undesired steady states.

Bone resorption: supporting immunometabolism

Activation of the immune system is associated with an increase in the breakdown of various peripheral tissues, including bone. Despite the widely appreciated role of inflammatory mediators in promoting bone resorption, the functional value behind this process is not completely understood. Recent advances in the field of immunometabolism have highlighted the metabolic reprogramming that takes place in activated immune cells. It is now believed that the breakdown of peripheral tissue provides metabolic substrates to fuel metabolic anabolism in activated immune cells. We argue that phosphate, liberated by bone resorption, plays an indispensable role in sustaining immune cell metabolism. The liberated phosphate is then incorporated into macromolecules such as nucleotides and phospholipids, and is also used for the phosphorylation of metabolites (e.g. glycolytic intermediates). In addition, magnesium, also liberated during the breakdown of bone, is an essential cofactor required by various metabolic enzymes which are upregulated in activated immune cells. Finally, calcium activates various additional molecules involved in immune cell migration. Taken together, these factors suggest a key role for bone resorption during infection.

Prognostic impact of soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 in hepatocellular carcinoma

The identification of novel biomarkers for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is of great importance in improving the outcome of patients with HCC. The present study aimed to determine the prognostic significance of the soluble intercellular adhesion molecule (sICAM)-1 in patients with HCC. The present study prospectively collected clinicopathological data from 36 patients with HCC who had undergone successful hepatectomy. An analysis using a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was performed to determine the cut-off value for predicting prognosis. Overall survival (OS), recurrence-free survival (RFS) and potential prognostic factors were analyzed. The ROC curve analysis revealed a sICAM-1 cut-off value of 440 ng/ml. HCC patients with sICAM-1 ≥440 ng/ml exhibited a poorer OS and RFS than those with sICAM-1 <440 ng/ml (P=0.002). sICAM-1 ≥440 ng/ml (hazard ratio=3.623; 95% confidence interval: 1.145-11.458; P=0.028) and Child B (hazard ratio=1.514; 95% confidence interval: 1.066-2.150; P=0.021) were independent prognostic factors for OS, and sICAM-1 ≥440 ng/ml was an independent prognostic factor for RFS (hazard ratio=3.625; 95% confidence interval: 1.233-10.659; P=0.019). Serum sICAM-1 may be a promising predictor for the overall and recurrence-free survival of patients with HCC.

Intragraft vasculitis and gene expression analysis: Association with acute rejection and prediction of mortality in long-term heart transplantation

INTRODUCTION

Vasculitis entails heterogeneous origins; it starts with an inflammatory process that leads to small vessels' necrosis, hemorrhage, and ischemic lesion, and may further result in occlusion of the vascular lumen. Vasculitis' contribution to allograft rejection is still unclear. This study aims to investigate the incidence of vasculitis in the early stages of heart transplantation as well as to assess the intragraft genes' expression associated with vascular function and subsequently to verify the way in which it affects the outcome of the allograft.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, 300 archive paraffin-embedded endomyocardial biopsies from 63 heart allograft recipients were assessed. Cellular rejection and vasculitis were diagnosed through histological analysis, and antibody-mediated rejection was performed with immunohistochemical C4d staining. The transcripts of ICAM, VCAM, VEGF, CCL2, IFNG, TGFB, TNF, ADIPOR1, and ADIPOR2 genes were examined through quantitative polymerase chain reaction using B2M for normalization.

RESULTS

We observed a higher prevalence of severe vasculitis in the early period of post-transplant, and recovery was observed to take place around 1 year post-transplant. Additionally, vasculitis was found to be directly associated with acute cellular rejection and antibody-mediated rejection. The intense C4d capillary positivity predicts higher long-term cardiovascular disease mortality. In comparison with the vasculitis-free group, the group with severe vasculitis displayed reduced left ventricular ejection fraction and an upregulation of VCAM and IFNG associated with the downregulation of VEGF, ADIPOR1, and ADIPOR2.

CONCLUSION

The vasculitis associated with the presence of C4d and the change in intragraft gene expression profile may contribute to poor allograft outcomes.

Anti-TNF Therapy in Crohn's Disease

Crohn’s disease (CD) accounts for a variety of clinical manifestations or phenotypes that stem from chronic inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. Its worldwide incidence is increasing including younger or childhood-onset of disease. The natural history of Crohn’s disease is characterized by a remitting and relapsing course that progresses to complications and surgery in most patients. The goals of treatment are to achieve clinical and endoscopic remission, to avoid disease progression and minimise surgical resections. Medical treatment usually features antibiotics, corticosteroids, immunomodulators (thiopurines, methotrexate). Anti-TNF (tumour necrosis factor) therapy was approved for use in Crohn’s disease in 1998, and has changed the paradigm of treatment, leading to improved rates of response and remission in patients. There are significant considerations that need to be borne in mind, when treating patients including immunogenicity, safety profile and duration of treatment.

Prognostic impact of elevated preoperative C-reactive protein on patients with differentiated thyroid carcinoma

BACKGROUND

C-reactive protein (CRP) has been reported to be associated with poorer prognosis in various malignancies. However, the relationship between CRP and differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) remains to be elucidated.

METHODS

A total of 45 patients, including 32 patients with preoperative DTC and 13 DTC patients with metastatic disease, were included in the study. The relationships between CRP levels and clinicopathological features were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

Analysis using a receiver operating characteristic curve revealed a preoperative CRP cutoff value of 0.155 mg/dL. Patients with preoperative CRP ≥ 0.155 mg/dL, those with T3 + T4, those with extrathyroidal invasion, or those with stage II, showed a statistically shorter recurrent-free survival than those with preoperative CRP < 0.155 mg/dL, those with T1 + T2, those without extrathyroidal invasion, or those with stage I (P = 0.001, P = 0.004, P = 0.024, and P = 0.025, respectively). Preoperative CRP ≥ 0.155 mg/dL was an independent prognostic factor for recurrent-free survival in the DTC patients (hazard ratio = 6.334, 95% confidence interval: 1.023-39.234, P = 0.037). The proportion of patients aged ≥55 y, and those with T3 + T4, was statistically higher in those with preoperative CRP ≥ 0.155 mg/dL than in those with preoperative CRP < 0.155 mg/dL (P = 0.037 and P = 0.038, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Higher preoperative CRP levels have a robust prognostic impact on recurrence-free survival in DTC patients. In addition, higher preoperative CRP levels were associated with age ≥ 55 y and T3 + T4.

Endothelial cell activation is attenuated by everolimus via transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulatory mechanisms after drug-eluting coronary stenting

We previously found higher level of endothelial cell (EC) activation in patients who suffered from in-stent restenosis after bare-metal stenting compared to subjects who underwent drug-eluting stenting (DES) showing no complications. Here we investigated the potential transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulatory mechanisms by which everolimus attenuated EC activation after DES. We studied the effect of everolimus on E-selectin (SELE) and VCAM1 mRNA levels when human coronary artery (HCAECs) and human umbilical vein ECs were challenged with recombinant TNF-α (100 ng/mL) for 1–24 hours in the presence or absence of everolimus using 0.5 μM concentration locally maintained by DES. EC activation was evaluated via the levels of IL-1β and IL-6 mRNAs with miR-155 expression by RT-qPCR as well as the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor kappa beta (NF-κB) detected by fluorescence microscopy. To investigate the transcriptional regulation of E-selectin and VCAM-1, TNF-α-induced enhancer RNA (eRNA) expression at p65-bound enhancers in the neighboring genomic regions of SELE and VCAM1 genes, including SELE_-11Kb and VCAM1_-10Kb, were measured in HCAECs. Mature and precursor levels of E-selectin and VCAM-1 repressor miR-181b were quantified to analyze the post-transcriptional regulation of these genes in HCAECs. Circulating miR-181b was analyzed in plasma samples of stented subjects by stem-loop RT-qPCR. TNF-α highly elevated E-selectin and VCAM-1 expression at transcriptional level in ECs. Levels of mature, pre- and pri-miR-181b were repressed in ECs by TNF-α, while everolimus acted as a negative regulator of EC activation via inhibited translocation of NF-κB p65 subunit into cell nuclei, lowered eRNA expression at SELE and VCAM1 genes-associated enhancers and modulated expression of their post-transcriptional repressor miR-181b. Significant negative correlation was observed between plasma miR-181b and soluble E-selectin and VCAM-1 in patients. In conclusion, everolimus attenuates EC activation via reduced NF-κB p65 translocation causing decreased E-selectin and VCAM-1 expression at transcriptional and post-transcriptional level after DES.

Blueberry supplementation attenuates oxidative stress within monocytes and modulates immune cell levels in adults with metabolic syndrome: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Blueberries (BB) have been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and endothelial function in obese and pre-diabetic humans, and decrease oxidative stress and inflammation, and ameliorate cardio-renal damage in rodents. This indicates that blueberries have a systemic effect and are not limited to a particular organ system. In order for blueberries to exert beneficial effects on the whole body, the mechanism would logically have to operate through modulation of cellular humoral factors.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the role of blueberries in modulating immune cell levels and attenuating circulatory and monocyte inflammation and oxidative stress in metabolic syndrome (MetS) subjects.

DESIGN

A double-blind, randomized and placebo-controlled study was conducted in adults with MetS, in which they received a blueberry (22.5 g freeze-dried) or placebo smoothie twice daily for six weeks. Free radical production in the whole blood and monocytes, dendritic cell (DC) levels, expression of cytokines in monocytes and serum inflammatory markers were assessed pre- and post-intervention.

RESULTS

Baseline free radical levels in MetS subjects' samples were not different between groups. Treatment with blueberries markedly decreased superoxide and total reactive oxygen species (ROS) in whole blood and monocytes compared to the placebo (p ≤ 0.05). The baseline DC numbers in MetS subjects' samples in both groups were not different, however treatment with blueberries significantly increased myeloid DC (p ≤ 0.05) and had no effect on plasmacytoid cells. Blueberry treatment decreased monocyte gene expression of TNFα, IL-6, TLR4 and reduced serum GMCSF in MetS subjects when compared to the placebo treatment (p ≤ 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of the current study demonstrate that blueberries exert immunomodulatory effects and attenuate oxidative stress and inflammation in adults with MetS.

Naturally occurring cell adhesion inhibitors

This paper reviews naturally occurring cell adhesion inhibitors derived from a plant, microbial and marine origin. Plant-derived inhibitors are classified according to a type of structure. Microbially and marine-derived inhibitors were described according to age. In addition, effects of inhibitors on cell proliferation and that of standards on cell adhesion are listed as much as possible.

Vascular adhesion protein-1 is actively involved in the development of inflammatory lesions in rat models of multiple sclerosis

Background

Vascular adhesion protein-1 (VAP-1) is an inflammation-inducible endothelial cell molecule and primary amine oxidase that mediates leukocyte entry to sites of inflammation. However, there is limited knowledge of the inflammation-related expression of VAP-1 in the central nervous system (CNS). Therefore, we investigated the expression of VAP-1 within the CNS vasculature in two focal rat models of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) mimicking multiple sclerosis (MS).

Methods

EAE was induced either with Bacillus Calmette-Guérin, resulting in a delayed-type hypersensitivity-like pathogenesis (fDTH-EAE), or with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (fMOG-EAE). A subgroup of fMOG-EAE rats were treated daily with a selective VAP-1 inhibitor (LJP1586; 5 mg/kg). On 3 and 14 days after lesion activation, rat brains were assessed using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ex vivo autoradiography was conducted to evaluate the binding of Gallium-68-labelled VAP-1 ligand. Histology and immunohistochemistry (OX-42, VAP-1, intercellular adhesion protein-1 [ICAM-1], P-selectin) supported the ex vivo autoradiography.

Results

EAE lesions showed MRI-detectable signal changes and binding of the VAP-1-targeting radiotracer in both rat models. Some of the VAP-1 positive vessels showed morphological features typical for high endothelial-like venules at sites of inflammation. Inhibition of VAP-1 activity with small molecule inhibitor, LJP1586, decreased lymphocyte density in the acute inflammatory phase of fMOG-EAE lesions (day 3, P = 0.026 vs. untreated), but not in the remission phase (day 14, P = 0.70 vs. untreated), and had no effect on the amount of OX-42-positive cells in either phase. LJP1586 treatment reduced VAP-1 and ICAM-1 expression in the acute inflammatory phase, whereas P-selectin remained not detectable at all studied stages of the disease.

Conclusions

Our results revealed that VAP-1 is expressed and functionally active in vasculature within the induced focal EAE lesions during the acute phase of inflammation and remains expressed after the acute inflammation has subsided. The study indicates that VAP-1 is actively involved in the development of inflammatory CNS lesions. During this process, the endothelial cell lesion-related vasculature seem to undergo a structural transformation from regular flat-walled endothelium to HEV-like endothelium.

Monocytes enhance neutrophil-induced blister formation in an ex vivo model of bullous pemphigoid

BACKGROUND

Lesions of bullous pemphigoid (BP), an autoimmune subepidermal blistering disease characterized by the presence of tissue-bound and circulating autoantibodies to hemidesmosomal antigens, harbor a mixed inflammatory cellular infiltrate. In various models, neutrophils, eosinophils, mast cells, monocytes as well as B and T cells have been shown to be involved in the pathogenesis of BP. However, their interactions with and effective role in blister formation remain uncertain. This study was aimed at investigating the effect of monocyte/neutrophil interaction on blister formation in an ex vivo BP model.

METHODS

Skin cryosections were incubated with purified human neutrophils and monocytes, in the presence or absence of BP autoantibodies. Production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), degranulation, mediator release (neutrophil elastase [NE], myeloperoxidase [MPO], matrix metalloproteinase-9 [MMP-9]), binding of Fcγ receptor (CD16, CD32, CD64), and cell adhesion (CD18, ICAM-1) was investigated using appropriate inhibitors. Dermal-epidermal separation (DES) was assessed by light microscopy and quantified by Fiji software.

RESULTS

Monocytes and neutrophils synergistically interact resulting in a significantly higher DES compared to either monocytes or neutrophils separately (P < .0001). Monocyte/neutrophil-induced DES was associated with increased ROS production and was dependent on adhesion and FcγRIII binding. Upon stimulation by the granule-poor fraction of monocyte supernatants, neutrophils increased their release of MMP-9, thereby also DES at the dermal-epidermal junction of skin cryosections.

CONCLUSION

Our observations suggest that the interaction of cells, as shown here for monocytes and neutrophils, enhances mediator release resulting in an increased subepidermal blister formation. Thus, blocking intercellular cross talk promises a new therapeutic approach for blocking tissue damage in BP.

De novo assembly of Schizothorax waltoni transcriptome to identify immune-related genes and microsatellite markers

Schizothorax waltoni (S. waltoni) is one kind of the subfamily Schizothoracinae and an indigenous economic tetraploid fish to Tibet in China. It is rated as a vulnerable species in the Red List of China's Vertebrates, owing to overexploitation and biological invasion. S. waltoni plays an important role in ecology and local fishery economy, but little information is known about genetic diversity, local adaptation, immune system and so on. Functional gene identification and molecular marker development are the first and essential step for the following biological function and genetics studies. For this purpose, the transcriptome from pooled tissues of three adult S. waltoni was sequenced and analyzed. Using paired-end reads from the Illumina Hiseq4000 platform, 83 103 transcripts with an N50 length of 2337 bp were assembled, which could be further clustered into 66 975 unigenes with an N50 length of 2087 bp. The majority of the unigenes (58 934, 87.99%) were successfully annotated by 7 public databases, and 15 KEGG pathways of immune-related genes were identified for the following functional research. Furthermore, 19 497 putative simple sequence repeats (SSRs) of 1-6 bp unit length were detected from 14 690 unigenes (21.93%) with an average distribution density of 1 : 3.28 kb. We identified 3590 unigenes (5.36%) containing more than one SSR, providing abundant potential polymorphic markers in functional genes. This is the first reported high-throughput transcriptome analysis of S. waltoni, and it would provide valuable genetic resources for the functional genes involved in multiple biological processes, including the immune system, genetic conservation, and molecular marker-assisted breeding of S. waltoni.

Microfluidics for investigating vaso-occlusions in sickle cell disease

SCD stems from amutation in the beta globin gene. Upon deoxygenation, hemoglobin polymerizes and triggers RBC remodeling. This phenomenon is central to SCD pathogenesis as individuals suffering from the disease are plagued by painful vaso-occlusive crises episodes. These episodes are the result of a combination of processes including inflammation, thrombosis, and blood cell adhesion to the vascular wall which leads to blockages within the vasculature termed vaso-occlusions. Vaso-occlusive episodes deprive tissues of oxygen and are a major contributor to SCD-related complications; unfortunately, the complex mechanisms that contribute to vaso-occlusions are not well understood. Vaso-occlusions can occur in post-capillary venules; hence, the microvasculature is a prime target for SCD therapies. Traditional in vitro systems poorly recapitulate architectural and dynamic flow properties of in vivo systems. However, microfluidic devices can capture features of the native vasculature such as cellular composition, flow, geometry, and ECM presentation. This review, although not comprehensive, highlights microfluidic approaches that aim to improve our current understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms surrounding SCD. Microfluidic platforms can aid in identifying factors that may contribute to disease severity and can serve as suitable test beds for novel treatment strategies which may improve patient outcomes.

Significance of Soluble Endothelial Molecule E-Selectin in Patients with Breast Cancer

Increasing evidence suggests that endothelial cells are involved in tumor growth and metastasis. E-selectin, an adhesion molecule specifically expressed or secreted by activated endothelial cells, may enhance tumor angiogenesis and the adhesion of tumor cells to endothelial cells at distant sites. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between concentrations of circulating soluble E-selectin and clinical, pathological and biological features in patients with breast cancer (BC). sE-selectin concentrations were analyzed by an ELISA method in sera from 113 patients with metastatic BC, 30 patients with primary inflammatory BC, 105 patients with primary non-inflammatory BC, 456 patients with node-negative BC, and 42 healthy controls. sE-selectin in the metastatic BC group was significantly higher than in the healthy control group. In metastatic BC, sE-selectin was significantly higher in patients with liver metastases than in patients without liver metastases. In patients with primary non-inflammatory BC, a negative correlation was found between sE-selectin concentrations and tumoral microvessel count. In overall and disease-free survival studies performed in the node-negative population (median follow-up duration 7.5 years), multivariate analyses demonstrated a prognostic value of sE-selectin and tumor size. This study suggests that endothelial activation might play a role in the development of BC. This role seems not to be related to angiogenesis.

TLR2 contributes to trigger immune response of pleural mesothelial cells against Mycobacterium bovis BCG and M. tuberculosis infection

Mycobacterium tuberculosis is a causative agent leading to pleural effusion, characterized by the accumulation of fluid and immune cells in the pleural cavity. Although this phenomenon has been described before, detailed processes or mechanisms associated with the pleural effusion are still not well understood. Pleural mesothelial cells (PMCs) are specialized epithelial cells that cover the body wall and internal organs in pleural cavity playing a central role in pleural inflammation. Toll-like receptors are expressed in various cell types including mesothelial cells and initiate the recognition and defense against mycobacterial infection. In the present study, we investigated direct immune responses of PMCs against two mycobacterial strains, M. bovis vaccine strain Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) and M. tuberculosis virulent strain H37Rv, and the role of TLR2 in such responses. Infection with BCG and H37Rv increased the production of IL-6, CXCL1, and CCL2 in WT PMCs, which was partially impaired in TLR2-deficient cells. In addition, the activation of NF-κB and MAPKs induced by BCG and H37Rv was suppressed in TLR2-deficient PMCs, as compared with the WT cells. TLR2 deficiency led to the decrease of nitric oxide (NO) production through the delayed gene expression of iNOS in PMCs. TLR2 was also shown to be essential for optimal expression of cellular adhesion molecules such as ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 in PMCs in response to BCG and H37Rv. These findings strongly suggest that TLR2 participates in mycobacteria-induced innate immune responses in PMCs and may play a role in pathogenesis of tuberculosis pleural effusion.

Lung Metabolism and Inflammation during Mechanical Ventilation; An Imaging Approach

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a major cause of mortality in critically ill patients. Patients are currently managed by protective ventilation and alveolar recruitment using positive-end expiratory pressure (PEEP). However, the PEEP's effect on both pulmonary metabolism and regional inflammation is poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate the effect of PEEP on pulmonary anaerobic metabolism in mechanically ventilated injured rats, using hyperpolarized carbon-13 imaging. Pulmonary lactate-to-pyruvate ratio was measured in 21 rats; 14 rats received intratracheal instillation of hydrochloric-acid, while 7 rats received sham saline. 1 hour after acid/saline instillation, PEEP was lowered to 0 cmH2O in 7 injured rats (ZEEP group) and in all sham rats; PEEP was continued in the remaining 7 injured rats (PEEP group). Pulmonary compliance, oxygen saturation, histological injury scores, ICAM-1 expression and myeloperoxidase expression were measured. Lactate-to-pyruvate ratio progressively increased in the dependent lung during mechanical ventilation at ZEEP (p < 0.001), but remained unchanged in PEEP and sham rats. Lactate-to-pyruvate ratio was correlated with hyaline membrane deposition (r = 0.612), edema severity (r = 0.663), ICAM-1 (r = 0.782) and myeloperoxidase expressions (r = 0.817). Anaerobic pulmonary metabolism increases during lung injury progression and is contained by PEEP. Pulmonary lactate-to-pyruvate ratio may indicate in-vivo neutrophil activity due to atelectasis.

Laminar Flow Attenuates Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor Expression in Endothelial Cells

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is a non-canonical cytokine that is involved in multiple inflammatory diseases, including atherosclerosis. High MIF expression found in leukocytes which facilitates the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis. However, little is known about biomechanical forces in the induction of MIF in endothelial cells (ECs). Here, we show that laminar shear stress (LS) inhibits the expression of MIF in ECs. By profiling the whole transcriptome of human coronary artery ECs under different shear stress, we found that athero-protective LS attenuates the expression of MIF whereas pro-atherosclerotic oscillatory shear stress (OS) significantly increased the expression of MIF. En face staining of rabbit aorta revealed high MIF immunoreactivity in lesser curvature as well as arterial bifurcation areas where OS is predominant. Mechanistically, we found that Krüpple like factor 2 (KLF2) is required for inhibition of MIF expression in ECs in the context of shear stress. Knockdown of KLF2 abolishes LS-dependent MIF inhibition while overexpression of KLF2 significantly attenuated MIF expression. Overall, the present work showed that MIF is a shear stress-sensitive cytokine and is transcriptionally regulated by KLF2, suggesting that LS exerts its athero-protective effect in part by directly inhibiting pro-inflammatory MIF expression.

Protein Biochip Array of Adhesion Molecule Expression in Peripheral Blood of Patients with Nasal Polyposis

Nasal polyposis is a chronic non-infectious inflammatory disease of the nasal and paranasal cavity mucosa of unknown multifactorial origin in which inflammatory cells, and in particular eosinophils, seem to play a pivotal role. Eosinophil migration from the bloodstream to nasal polyps is considered to be specific and is a complex process involving several different molecules such as ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and L-, P- and E-selectins. The aim of this study was to investigate, using a protein biochip array technology, the concentrations of these molecules in the peripheral blood of a group of patients affected by nasal polyposis. Patients exhibited a significantly higher expression of VCAM-1, E-selectin, and L-selectin compared to healthy controls, and Spearman's rank correlation test limited to the molecules with significant between-group differences demonstrated a significant correlation between VCAM-1 and E-selectin, VCAM-1 and L-selectin, and E-selectin and L-selectin. The results of this investigation are in line with those coming from various imunohistochemical analyses, and seem to confirm the role of inflammation in the pathogenesis of nasal polyposis. These molecules may also represent novel therapeutic targets in the treatment of nasal polyps, and may allow the selection of pharmacological prophylactics that would allow effective inhibition of the inflammation induced by a given allergen.

Reduction of Endothelial Nitric Oxide Increases the Adhesiveness of Constitutive Endothelial Membrane ICAM-1 through Src-Mediated Phosphorylation

Nitric oxide (NO) is a known anti-adhesive molecule that prevents platelet aggregation and leukocyte adhesion to endothelial cells (ECs). The mechanism has been attributed to its role in the regulation of adhesion molecules on leukocytes and the adhesive properties of platelets. Our previous study conducted in rat venules found that reduction of EC basal NO synthesis caused EC ICAM-1-mediated firm adhesion of leukocytes within 10-30 min. This quick response occurred in the absence of alterations of adhesion molecules on leukocytes and also opposes the classical pattern of ICAM-1-mediated leukocyte adhesion that requires protein synthesis and occurs hours after stimulation. The objective of this study is to investigate the underlying mechanisms of reduced basal NO-induced EC-mediated rapid leukocyte adhesion observed in intact microvessels. The relative levels of ICAM-1 at different cell regions and their activation status were determined with cellular fractionation and western blot using cultured human umbilical vein ECs. ICAM-1 adhesiveness was determined by immunoprecipitation in non-denatured proteins to assess the changes in ICAM-1 binding to its inhibitory antibody, mAb1A29, and antibody against total ICAM-1 with and without NO reduction. The adhesion strength of EC ICAM-1 was assessed by atomic force microscopy (AFM) on live cells. Results showed that reduction of EC basal NO caused by the application of caveolin-1 scaffolding domain (AP-CAV) or NOS inhibitor, L-NMMA, for 30 min significantly increased phosphorylated ICAM-1 and its binding to mAb1A29 in the absence of altered ICAM-1 expression and its distribution at subcellular regions. The Src inhibitor, PP1, inhibited NO reduction-induced increases in ICAM-1 phosphorylation and adhesive binding. AFM detected significant increases in the binding force between AP-CAV-treated ECs and mAb1A29-coated probes. These results demonstrated that reduced EC basal NO lead to a rapid increase in ICAM-1 adhesive binding via Src-mediated phosphorylation without de novo protein synthesis and translocation. This study suggests that a NO-dependent conformational change of constitutive EC membrane ICAM-1 might be the mechanism of rapid ICAM-1 dependent leukocyte adhesion observed in vivo. This new mechanistic insight provides a better understanding of EC/leukocyte interaction-mediated vascular inflammation under many disease conditions that encounter reduced basal NO in the circulation system.

Long-Term Effects of Environmental Lead Exposure on Blood Pressure and Plasma Soluble Cell Adhesion Molecules in Young Adults: A Follow-Up Study of a Prospective Cohort in Kosovo

Background and Aims

Epidemiologic studies examining the relationship between environmental lead (Pb) exposure and blood pressure (BP) generally report small associations between blood lead concentration (BPb) and BP. However, these studies are predominantly cross-sectional. In addition, no epidemiologic studies evaluate associations between either current or past Pb exposure and serum levels of markers of systemic inflammation and endothelial dysfunction, including soluble vascular adhesion molecule (sVCAM-1) and soluble intercellular cell adhesion molecule (sICAM-1).

We prospectively investigate these associations later in life

Methods. From our original prospective birth cohort study in Mitrovica (a mining town) and Prishtina (a control town), Kosovo, from 1985 to 1998, we located and assessed BPb and BP in 101 participants (mean age of 24.9 years old) in 2011.

Results

We found highly statistically significant association between concurrent BPb and sVCAM-1 in men and a marginally significant association between concurrent PBb and sICAM.-1 in women. We did not find evidence of mediation.

Conclusion

Current study results, along with previously reported findings on this cohort, provide evidence for the hypothesis that exposure to Pb leads to small increases in sBP and perhaps to increased circulating levels of sVCAM-1 and sICAM-1 later in life.

Clinical significance of circulating vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 to white matter disintegrity in Alzheimer’s dementia

Endothelial dysfunction leads to worse cognitive performance in Alzheimer’s dementia (AD). While both cerebrovascular risk factors and endothelial dysfunction lead to activation of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and E-selectin, it is not known whether these biomarkers extend the diagnostic repertoire in reflecting intracerebral structural damage or cognitive performance. A total of 110 AD patients and 50 age-matched controls were enrolled. Plasma levels of VCAM-1, ICAM-1 and E-selectin were measured and correlated with the cognitive performance, white matter macro-structural changes, and major tract-specific fractional anisotropy quantification. The AD patients were further stratified by clinical dementia rating score (mild dementia, n=60; moderate-to-severe dementia, n=50). Compared with the controls, plasma levels of VCAM-1 (p< 0.001), ICAM-1 (p=0.028) and E-selectin (p=0.016) were significantly higher in the patients, but only VCAM-1 levels significantly reflected the severity of dementia (p< 0.001). In addition, only VCAM-1 levels showed an association with macro- and micro- white matter changes especially in the superior longitudinal fasciculus (p< 0.001), posterior thalamic radiation (p=0.002), stria terminalis (p=0.002) and corpus callosum (p=0.009), and were independent of, age and cortical volume. These tracts show significant association with MMSE, short term memory and visuospatial function. Meanwhile, while VCAM-1 level correlated significantly with short-term memory (p=0.026) and drawing (p=0.025) scores in the AD patients after adjusting for age and education, the significance disappeared after adjusting for global FA. Endothelial activation, especially VCAM-1, was of clinical significance in AD that reflects macro- and micro-structural changes and poor short term memory and visuospatial function.

Increased expression of cell adhesion molecule receptors on monocyte subsets in ischaemic heart failure

The objective of this study was to evaluate the expression of cell adhesion molecule (CAM) receptors (integrins) on monocyte subsets in heart failure (HF) and examine their prognostic implication. Increased levels of soluble CAMs have been observed in patients with HF, but the precise mechanism of monocyte adhesion to the vascular endothelium remains unknown. Patients with acute HF (AHF, n=51) were compared to those with stable HF (SHF, n=42) and stable coronary artery disease (CAD, n=44) without HF. Expression of integrins-receptors to intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1R) and vascular CAM-1 (VCAM-1R) on monocyte subsets was assessed by flow cytometry. Monocyte subsets were defined as CD14++CD16–CCR2+ (‘classical’, Mon1), CD14++CD16+CCR2+ (‘intermediate’, Mon2), and CD14+CD16++CCR2– (‘non-classical’, Mon3). Compared to patients with SHF, those with AHF had significantly higher expression of ICAM-1R on Mon2 (p=0.01). Compared to those with stable CAD, patients with SHF had a significantly higher expression of ICAM-1R on Mon2 (p=0.025). Compared to SHF, patients with AHF had a similar expression of VCAM-1R on both Mon1 and Mon3 but significantly higher expression on Mon2 (p=0.019). There were no significant differences between SHF and CAD in monocyte expression of VCAM-1R. In multivariate Cox regression analysis, VCAM-1R expression on Mon2 was associated with adverse clinical outcome (death or rehospitalisation) in AHF [HR 1.07 (1.01–1.14), p=0.029]. In conclusion, HF is associated with increased monocyte expression of integrins-receptors to both ICAM-1 and VCAM-1, being particularly linked to Mon2 subset. Expression of VCAM-1R on Mon2 may have prognostic value in patients with AHF.

Effect of fibrinogen, fibrin, and fibrin degradation products on transendothelial migration of leukocytes

In spite of numerous studies on the involvement of fibrinogen in transendothelial migration of leukocytes and thereby inflammation, there is still no clear understanding of which fibrin(ogen) species can stimulate leukocyte transmigration. Although we have previously proposed that interaction of fibrin with the VLDL receptor (VLDLR) promotes leukocyte transmigration, there is no direct experimental evidence for the involvement of fibrin in this process. To address these questions, we performed systematic studies of interaction of VLDLR with fibrinogen, fibrin, and their isolated recombinant BβN- and βN-domains, respectively, and the effect of various fibrin(ogen) species on transendothelial migration of leukocytes. The results obtained revealed that freshly purified fibrinogen does not interact with VLDLR in solution and has practically no effect on leukocyte transmigration. They also indicate that the VLDLR-binding site is cryptic in fibrinogen and becomes accessible upon its adsorption onto a surface or upon its conversion into fibrin. We also found that the D-D:E₁ complex and higher molecular mass fibrin degradation products, as well as soluble fibrin and fibrin polymers (clots) anchored to the endothelial monolayer, promote leukocyte transmigration mainly through the VLDL receptor-dependent pathway. Thus, the results of the present study suggest that fibrin degradation products and soluble fibrin that may be present in the circulation in vivo, as well as fibrin clots that may be deposited on the surface of inflamed endothelium, promote leukocyte transmigration. These findings further clarify the molecular mechanisms underlying the fibrin-VLDLR-dependent pathway of leukocyte transmigration and provide an explanation for a possible (patho)physiological role of this pathway.

The α1,3-fucosyltransferase FUT7 regulates IL-1β-induced monocyte-endothelial adhesion via fucosylation of endomucin

Monocyte-endothelial adhesion is a hallmark feature of atherosclerosis at early stage and emerging evidence suggests that the glycosylation of vascular adhesive molecules and its ligands is involved in this process. Nevertheless, the mechanism underlying this process remains incompletely elucidated. In this study, we reported that treatment with inflammatory factors interleukin-1β (IL-1β) pronouncedly upregulated α1,3-fucosyltransferase VII gene (FUT7) mRNA and protein expression level in EA.hy926 endothelial cells. Moreover, FUT7 overexpression significantly promoted monocyte-endothelial adhesion, while FUT7 knockdown obviously inhibited IL-1β-induced monocyte-endothelial adhesion. Further analysis demonstrated that fucosylation of selectin ligand endomucin was directly involved in IL-1β-induced monocyte-endothelial adhesion. Finally, we demonstrated that p38 and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) MAPK signaling pathway was activated by IL-1β, while inhibition of p38/ERK signaling pathway decreased FUT7 expression level and IL-1β-induced monocyte-endothelial adhesion. In summary, these results provide a novel insight that FUT7-mediated fucosylation contribute to the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis.

The blood-brain barrier in Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the pathological accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) peptides and neurofibrillary tangles containing hyperphosphorylated neuronal tau protein. AD pathology is also characterized by chronic brain inflammation, which promotes disease pathogenesis. In this context, the blood-brain barrier (BBB), a highly specialized endothelial cell membrane that lines cerebral microvessels, represents the interface between neural cells and circulating cells of the immune system. The BBB thus plays a key role in the generation and maintenance of chronic inflammation during AD. The BBB operates within the neurovascular unit (NVU), which includes clusters of glial cells, neurons and pericytes. The NVU becomes dysfunctional during AD, and each of its components may undergo functional changes that contribute to neuronal injury and cognitive deficit. In transgenic animals with AD-like pathology, recent studies have shown that circulating leukocytes migrate through the activated brain endothelium when certain adhesion molecules are expressed, penetrating into the brain parenchyma, interacting with the NVU components and potentially affecting their structural integrity and functionality. Therefore, migrating immune system cells in cerebral vessels act in concert with the modified BBB and may be integrated into the dysfunctional NVU. Notably, blocking the adhesion mechanisms controlling leukocyte-endothelial interactions inhibits both Aβ deposition and tau hyperphosphorylation, and reduces memory loss in AD models. The characterization of molecular mechanisms controlling vascular inflammation and leukocyte trafficking could therefore help to determine the basis of BBB dysfunction during AD and may lead to the development of new therapeutic approaches.

Platelet Endothelial Cell Adhesion Molecule-1 and Oligodendrogenesis: Significance in Alcohol Use Disorders

Alcoholism is a chronic relapsing disorder with few therapeutic strategies that address the core pathophysiology. Brain tissue loss and oxidative damage are key components of alcoholism, such that reversal of these phenomena may help break the addictive cycle in alcohol use disorder (AUD). The current review focuses on platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule 1 (PECAM-1), a key modulator of the cerebral endothelial integrity and neuroinflammation, and a targetable transmembrane protein whose interaction within AUD has not been well explored. The current review will elaborate on the function of PECAM-1 in physiology and pathology and infer its contribution in AUD neuropathology. Recent research reveals that oligodendrocytes, whose primary function is myelination of neurons in the brain, are a key component in new learning and adaptation to environmental challenges. The current review briefly introduces the role of oligodendrocytes in healthy physiology and neuropathology. Importantly, we will highlight the recent evidence of dysregulation of oligodendrocytes in the context of AUD and then discuss their potential interaction with PECAM-1 on the cerebral endothelium.

Clinical Significance of Soluble Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1 and Interleukin-6 in Patients with Extrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma

Purpose/Aim: Although several prognostic factors for extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (EHC) have been reported, preoperative prognostic factors have yet to be established. We investigated the serum concentration of angiogenic, inflammatory, and nutritional parameters.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-five patients with EHC were enrolled before starting treatment. Preoperative prognostic factors were identified using multivariate analyses.

RESULTS

The serum soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1) levels were significantly higher in the patients with EHC (436.0 ± 43.2 ng/ml) than in the healthy volunteers (228.6 ± 22.0 ng/ml) (p <.001). In addition, the serum IL-6 levels were significantly higher in the patients (18.0 ± 5.6 pg/ml) than in the healthy volunteers (5.7 ± 0.8 pg/ml) (p <.05). The serum IL-6 and sICAM-1 showed a strong correlation (r = 0.559) in the patients with EHC (p <.01). The serum IL-6 (area under the curve = 0.764, p =.030, cut-off level = 11.6) and sICAM-1 (area under the curve = 0.818, p =.007, cutoff level = 322.6) were revealed to be useful as prognostic factors by the receiver operating characteristic curves. The high IL-6 group and the high sICAM-1 group showed poorer DSS than those of the respective low groups. In the multivariate analysis, IL-6 (hazard ratio: 1.050, 95% confidence interval: 1.002-1.100, p =.043) and sICAM-1 (hazard ratio: 1.009, 95% confidence interval: 1.002-1.015, p =.009) were independent prognostic factors for DSS.

CONCLUSIONS

IL-6 and sICAM-1 were independent preoperative prognostic factors in EHC patients, causing continuous inflammation and malnutrition in collaboration with other pro-angiogenic factors.

Anti-Inflammatory Targets for the Treatment of Reperfusion Injury in Stroke

While the mainstay of acute stroke treatment includes revascularization via recombinant tissue plasminogen activator or mechanical thrombectomy, only a minority of stroke patients are eligible for treatment, as delayed treatment can lead to worsened outcome. This worsened outcome at the experimental level has been attributed to an entity known as reperfusion injury (R/I). R/I is occurred when revascularization is delayed after critical brain and vascular injury has occurred, so that when oxygenated blood is restored, ischemic damage is increased, rather than decreased. R/I can increase lesion size and also worsen blood barrier breakdown and lead to brain edema and hemorrhage. A major mechanism underlying R/I is that of poststroke inflammation. The poststroke immune response consists of the aberrant activation of glial cell, infiltration of peripheral leukocytes, and the release of damage-associated molecular pattern (DAMP) molecules elaborated by ischemic cells of the brain. Inflammatory mediators involved in this response include cytokines, chemokines, adhesion molecules, and several immune molecule effectors such as matrix metalloproteinases-9, inducible nitric oxide synthase, nitric oxide, and reactive oxygen species. Several experimental studies over the years have characterized these molecules and have shown that their inhibition improves neurological outcome. Yet, numerous clinical studies failed to demonstrate any positive outcomes in stroke patients. However, many of these clinical trials were carried out before the routine use of revascularization therapies. In this review, we cover mechanisms of inflammation involved in R/I, therapeutic targets, and relevant experimental and clinical studies, which might stimulate renewed interest in designing clinical trials to specifically target R/I. We propose that by targeting anti-inflammatory targets in R/I as a combined therapy, it may be possible to further improve outcomes from pharmacological thrombolysis or mechanical thrombectomy.

Cardiovascular toxicity of abacavir: a clinical controversy in need of a pharmacological explanation

: There is a long-lasting controversy surrounding an association between abacavir (ABC) and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease in HIV-positive patients. Although differing in their specifics, a number of published cohort studies and clinical trials support such an association, usually relating it to recent exposure to the drug, independently of traditional predisposing factors. However, other clinical trials have failed to reveal such a relation and have pointed to methodological differences to explain discrepancies. Significantly, the controversy has been fueled by the lack of a credible mechanism of action to justify the putative detrimental actions of ABC. There is a myriad of contradictory clinical indicators which are not clearly compatible with known profiles of either vascular physiopathology or pharmacological interference. However, basic research has recently hinted at altered homeostatic mechanisms, though this requires clinical validation. In particular, recurrent evidence - both clinical and experimental - relates ABC with vascular inflammation, a leading contributor to the atherosclerotic plaque and thrombosis. ABC's chemical structure is very close to that of endogenous purines (ATP, ADP and AMP), major paracrine signaling molecules capable of triggering prothrombotic and proinflammatory vascular programs. Other proposed mechanisms are a competitive inhibition of guanylyl cyclase in platelets and a subsequent decrease in cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). The present review aims to shed light on this complex subject by summarizing and critically evaluating all the available clinical data regarding a relationship between ABC and cardiovascular disease, and to put forward potential pharmacological explanations compatible with both the clinical scenario and experimental findings.

Anti-oxidant and immune-modulatory properties of sulfated alginate derivatives on human chondrocytes and macrophages

Degeneration of articular cartilage represents one of the most common causes of pain and disability in our aging society. Current treatments only address the symptoms of joint disease, but not their underlying causes which include oxidative stress and inflammation in cartilage and surrounding tissues. Sulfated biopolymers that mimic aspects of the native extracellular environment of cartilage are recently gaining interest as a means to slow the inflammatory events responsible for tissue degeneration. Here we show that the natural polysaccharide alginate and particularly its sulfated derivatives have potent anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-immunogenic properties in vitro. We found that these polymers exert a free radical scavenging activity in a sulfation-dependent manner. In particular, the sulfation degree of substitution of alginate directly correlated with its ability to scavenge superoxide radicals and to chelate metal ions. We also studied the effect of sulfated alginate on the ability of IL-1β to stimulate inflammatory genes in human chondrocytes and found decreased expression of the pro-inflammatory markers IL-6 and CXCL8, which inversely correlated with the sulfation degree. Moreover, in studies testing the ability of the alginates to modulate macrophage polarization, we found that they decreased both the gene expression and synthesis of the proinflammatory cytokine TNF-α in human THP-1 macrophages with M1-like phenotype in a sulfation-dependent manner. To conclude, sulfated alginates effectively protect against oxidative stress and inflammation in vitro and are a promising biomaterial to be explored for treatment of osteoarthritis.

Altered activation state of circulating neutrophils in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration

Background

Neutrophil dysfunction plays a key role in the development of diseases characterized by inflammation and angiogenesis. Here, we studied the systemic expression of neutrophil markers reflecting activation, adhesion, and resolution of inflammation in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Results

This was a prospective case-control study of patients with neovascular AMD and age-matched healthy control individuals. Patients were recruited from an outpatient program, and control individuals were recruited amongst patients’ relatives. Current smokers and individuals with either active immune-disease or ongoing cancer were not included, as these factors are known to affect neutrophil function. Fresh-drawn venous blood was processed for flow cytometric analysis of neutrophil markers. We determined percentages of positive cells and compared expression levels using fluorescence intensity measures. We found conditional differences on marker expression between patients with neovascular AMD (n = 29) and controls (n = 28): no differences were found when looking broadly, but several differences emerged when focusing on non-smokers. Here, patients with neovascular AMD had increased expression of the activity marker cluster of differentiation (CD) 66b (P = 0.003; Mann-Whitney U test), decreased expression of adhesion marker CD162 (P = 0.044; Mann-Whitney U test), and lower expression of the resolution of inflammation marker C-X-C chemokine receptor 2 (P = 0.044; Mann-Whitney U test).

Conclusions

We present novel evidence suggesting that the activity of circulating neutrophils, sensitive to smoking, may differ in patients with neovascular AMD.

E-selectin and sICAM-1, biomarkers of endothelial function, predict recurrence of venous thromboembolism

BACKGROUND

Risk factors for atherosclerosis and venous thromboembolism (VTE) overlap and are mostly associated with endothelial dysfunction (ED). We hypothesized that ED is present in patients after the first episode of acute pulmonary embolism (APE) and predicts the risk of VTE recurrence.

DESIGN AND METHODS

Patients, at least 6months after the first episode of symptomatic, confirmed APE were included in this case-control study. The exclusion criteria were risk factors for cardiovascular diseases and other conditions associated with endothelial dysfunction. Eighty two patients (aged 38±11years; 44 M; 38 F) were enrolled in the study, 39 after provoked APE, 43 after unprovoked APE, and 30 controls (C) (aged 38±12years; 15 M, 15 F). In order to evaluate the endothelial function in patients with a history of APE flow-mediated dilation (FMD) of the brachial artery and biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction (sVCAM-1, sICAM-1, ADMA, E-selectin) were measured. Subsequently all patients were followed up in an outpatient clinic for VTE recurrence.

RESULTS

FMD was more often impaired in APE patients than in controls (5.3% (0.8-20.3) vs. 13.8% (4.1-24.3); p<0.0001). Biomarker levels differed between APE and C groups: sVCAM-1 (631ng/ml (105-2382) vs. 495ng/ml (348-934); p=0.04) and sICAM-1 (679ng/ml (279-1006) vs. 600ng/ml (394-766); p=0.002). There were 19 recurrences of VTE during the at least 12-month follow-up (15 with history of unprovoked-APE and 4 after provoked-APE). E-selectin ≥39ng/ml and sICAM-1≤655ng/ml indicated the group without recurrence of VTE. In a group of 43 unprovoked APE patients both E-selectin<39ng/ml and sICAM-1>655ng/ml were found in 17 subjects. Eleven of them (65%) were diagnosed with recurrent VTE.

CONCLUSIONS

Endothelial function is significantly impaired in patients after an episode of APE as indicated by FMD assessment and biomarker levels. Low concentrations of E-selectin and high levels of sICAM-1 are associated with a high risk of recurrent thromboembolism.