Alk1 and Alk5 inhibition by Nrp1 controls vascular sprouting downstream of Notch

Neuropilin 1 sequestration by neuropathogenic mutant glycyl-tRNA synthetase is permissive to vascular homeostasis

The mechanism by which dominantly inherited mutations in the housekeeping gene GARS, which encodes glycyl-tRNA synthetase (GlyRS), mediate selective peripheral nerve toxicity resulting in Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 2D (CMT2D) is still largely unresolved. The transmembrane receptor protein neuropilin 1 (Nrp1) was recently identified as an aberrant extracellular binding partner of mutant GlyRS. Formation of the Nrp1/mutant GlyRS complex antagonises Nrp1 interaction with one of its main natural ligands, vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A), contributing to neurodegeneration. However, reduced extracellular binding of VEGF-A to Nrp1 is known to disrupt post-natal blood vessel development and growth. We therefore analysed the vascular system at early and late symptomatic time points in CMT2D mouse muscles, retina, and sciatic nerve, as well as in embryonic hindbrain. Mutant tissues show no difference in blood vessel diameter, density/growth, and branching from embryonic development to three months, spanning the duration over which numerous sensory and neuromuscular phenotypes manifest. Our findings indicate that mutant GlyRS-mediated disruption of Nrp1/VEGF-A signalling is permissive to maturation and maintenance of the vasculature in CMT2D mice.

Interleukin 37 promotes angiogenesis through TGF-β signaling

IL-37 is a novel pro-angiogenic cytokine that potently promotes endothelial cell activation and pathological angiogenesis in our previous study, but the mechanisms behind the pro-angiogenic effect of IL-37 are less well understood. Extending our observations, we found that TGF-β interacts with IL-37, and potently enhances the binding affinity of IL-37 to the ALK1 receptor complex, thus allowing IL-37 to signal through ALK1 to activate pro-angiogenic responses. We further show that TGF-β and ALK1 are required in IL-37 induced pro-angiogenic response in ECs and in the mouse model of Matrigel plug and oxygen-induced retinopathy. The result suggests that IL-37 induces pro-angiogenic responses through TGF-β, which may act as the bridging molecule that mediates IL-37 binding to the TGF-β receptor complex.

Role of bone morphogenetic proteins in sprouting angiogenesis: differential BMP receptor-dependent signaling pathways balance stalk vs. tip cell competence

Before the onset of sprouting angiogenesis, the endothelium is prepatterned for the positioning of tip and stalk cells. Both cell identities are not static, as endothelial cells (ECs) constantly compete for the tip cell position in a dynamic fashion. Here, we show that both bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) and BMP6 are proangiogenic in vitro and ex vivo and that the BMP type I receptors, activin receptor-like kinase 3 (ALK3) and ALK2, play crucial and distinct roles in this process. BMP2 activates the expression of tip cell-associated genes, such as delta-like ligand 4 (DLL4) and kinase insert domain receptor (KDR), and p38-heat shock protein 27 (HSP27)-dependent cell migration, thereby generating tip cell competence. Whereas BMP6 also triggers collective cell migration via the p38-HSP27 signaling axis, BMP6 induces in addition SMAD1/5 signaling, thereby promoting the expression of stalk cell-associated genes, such as hairy and enhancer of split 1 (HES1) and fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (FLT1). Specifically, ALK3 is required for sprouting from HUVEC spheroids, whereas ALK2 represses sprout formation. We demonstrate that expression levels and respective complex formation of BMP type I receptors in ECs determine stalk vs. tip cell identity, thus contributing to endothelial plasticity during sprouting angiogenesis. As antiangiogenic monotherapies that target the VEGF or ALK1 pathways have not fulfilled efficacy objectives in clinical trials, the selective targeting of the ALK2/3 pathways may be an attractive new approach.-Benn, A., Hiepen, C., Osterland, M., Schütte, C., Zwijsen, A., Knaus, P. Role of bone morphogenetic proteins in sprouting angiogenesis: differential BMP receptor-dependent signaling pathways balance stalk vs. tip cell competence.

Targeting tumour vasculature by inhibiting activin receptor-like kinase (ALK)1 function

Angiogenesis is a hallmark of cancer and is now a validated therapeutic target in the clinical setting. Despite the initial success, anti-angiogenic compounds impinging on the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathway display limited survival benefits in patients and resistance often develops due to activation of alternative pathways. Thus, finding and validating new targets is highly warranted. Activin receptor-like kinase (ALK)1 is a transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) type I receptor predominantly expressed in actively proliferating endothelial cells (ECs). ALK1 has been shown to play a pivotal role in regulating angiogenesis by binding to bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)9 and 10. Two main pharmacological inhibitors, an ALK1-Fc fusion protein (Dalantercept/ACE-041) and a fully human antibody against the extracellular domain of ALK1 (PF-03446962) are currently under clinical development. Herein, we briefly recapitulate the role of ALK1 in blood vessel formation and the current status of the preclinical and clinical studies on inhibition of ALK1 signalling as an anti-angiogenic strategy. Future directions in terms of new combination regimens will also be presented.

Vascular heterogeneity and specialization in development and disease

Blood and lymphatic vessels pervade almost all body tissues and have numerous essential roles in physiology and disease. The inner lining of these networks is formed by a single layer of endothelial cells, which is specialized according to the needs of the tissue that it supplies. Whereas the general mechanisms of blood and lymphatic vessel development are being defined with increasing molecular precision, studies of the processes of endothelial specialization remain mostly descriptive. Recent insights from genetic animal models illuminate how endothelial cells interact with each other and with their tissue environment, providing paradigms for vessel type- and organ-specific endothelial differentiation. Delineating these governing principles will be crucial for understanding how tissues develop and maintain, and how their function becomes abnormal in disease.

Endoglin prevents vascular malformation by regulating flow-induced cell migration and specification through VEGFR2 signalling

Loss-of-function (LOF) mutations in the endothelial cell (EC) enriched gene endoglin (ENG) causes the human disease hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia-1, characterized by vascular malformations promoted by vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA). How ENG deficiency alters EC behaviour to trigger these anomalies is not understood. Mosaic ENG deletion in the postnatal mouse rendered Eng LOF ECs insensitive to flow-mediated venous to arterial migration. Eng LOF ECs retained within arterioles acquired venous characteristics and secondary ENG-independent proliferation resulting in arterio-venous malformation (AVM). Analysis following simultaneous Eng LOF and overexpression (OE) revealed that ENG OE ECs dominate tip cell positions and home preferentially to arteries. ENG knock-down altered VEGFA-mediated VEGFR2 kinetics and promoted AKT signalling. Blockage of PI3K/AKT partly normalised flow-directed migration of ENG LOF ECs in vitro and reduced the severity of AVM in vivo. This demonstrates the requirement of ENG in flow-mediated migration and modulation of VEGFR2 signalling in vascular patterning.

Radial Glia Cells Control Angiogenesis in the Developing Cerebral Cortex Through TGF-β1 Signaling

Neuroangiogenesis in the developing central nervous system is controlled by interactions between endothelial cells (ECs) and radial glia (RG) neural stem cells, although RG-derived molecules implicated in these events are not fully known. Here, we investigated the role of RG-secreted TGF-β1, in angiogenesis in the developing cerebral cortex. By isolation of murine microcapillary brain endothelial cells (MBECs), we demonstrate that conditioned medium from RG cultures (RG-CM) promoted MBEC migration and formation of vessel-like structures in vitro, in a TGF-β1-dependent manner. These events were followed by endothelial regulation of GPR124 and BAI-1 gene expression by RG-CM. Proteome profile of RG-CM identified angiogenesis-related molecules IGFBP2/3, osteopontin, endostatin, SDF1, fractalkine, TIMP1/4, Ang-1, pentraxin3, and Cyr61, some of them modulated by TGF-β1 induction. In vivo gain and loss of function assays targeting RG cells demonstrates a specific TGF-β1-dependent control of blood vessels branching in the cerebral cortex. Together, our results point to TGF-β1 signaling pathway as a potential mediator of the RG-EC interactions and shed light to the key role of RG in paving the brain vascular network.

VEGF165-induced vascular permeability requires NRP1 for ABL-mediated SRC family kinase activation

Fantin et al. show that the VEGF isoform VEGF165 signals through a complex of VEGFR2 and NRP1, in which the NRP1 cytoplasmic domain promotes the ABL-mediated activation of SRC family kinases to evoke a hyperpermeability response, a known cause of pathological edema.

The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) isoform VEGF165 stimulates vascular growth and hyperpermeability. Whereas blood vessel growth is essential to sustain organ health, chronic hyperpermeability causes damaging tissue edema. By combining in vivo and tissue culture models, we show here that VEGF165-induced vascular leakage requires both VEGFR2 and NRP1, including the VEGF164-binding site of NRP1 and the NRP1 cytoplasmic domain (NCD), but not the known NCD interactor GIPC1. In the VEGF165-bound receptor complex, the NCD promotes ABL kinase activation, which in turn is required to activate VEGFR2-recruited SRC family kinases (SFKs). These results elucidate the receptor complex and signaling hierarchy of downstream kinases that transduce the permeability response to VEGF165. In a mouse model with choroidal neovascularisation akin to age-related macular degeneration, NCD loss attenuated vessel leakage without affecting neovascularisation. These findings raise the possibility that targeting NRP1 or its NCD interactors may be a useful therapeutic strategy in neovascular disease to reduce VEGF165-induced edema without compromising vessel growth.

Alk2/ACVR1 and Alk3/BMPR1A Provide Essential Function for Bone Morphogenetic Protein-Induced Retinal Angiogenesis

OBJECTIVE

Increasing evidence suggests that bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling regulates angiogenesis. Here, we aimed to define the function of BMP receptors in regulating early postnatal angiogenesis by analysis of inducible, endothelial-specific deletion of the BMP receptor components Bmpr2 (BMP type 2 receptor), Alk1 (activin receptor-like kinase 1), Alk2, and Alk3 in mouse retinal vessels.

APPROACH AND RESULTS

Expression analysis of several BMP ligands showed that proangiogenic BMP ligands are highly expressed in postnatal retinas. Consistently, BMP receptors are also strongly expressed in retina with a distinct pattern. To assess the function of BMP signaling in retinal angiogenesis, we first generated mice carrying an endothelial-specific inducible deletion of Bmpr2. Postnatal deletion of Bmpr2 in endothelial cells substantially decreased the number of angiogenic sprouts at the vascular front and branch points behind the front, leading to attenuated radial expansion. To identify critical BMPR1s (BMP type 1 receptors) associated with BMPR2 in retinal angiogenesis, we generated endothelial-specific inducible deletion of 3 BMPR1s abundantly expressed in endothelial cells and analyzed the respective phenotypes. Among these, endothelial-specific deletion of either Alk2/acvr1 or Alk3/Bmpr1a caused a delay in radial expansion, reminiscent of vascular defects associated with postnatal endothelial-specific deletion of BMPR2, suggesting that ALK2/ACVR1 and ALK3/BMPR1A are likely to be the critical BMPR1s necessary for proangiogenic BMP signaling in retinal vessels.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data identify BMP signaling mediated by coordination of ALK2/ACVR1, ALK3/BMPR1A, and BMPR2 as an essential proangiogenic cue for retinal vessels.

Identification of the First Selective Activin Receptor-Like Kinase 1 Inhibitor, a Reversible Version of L-783277

We synthesized 1 (San78-130), a reversible version of L-783277, as a selective and potent ALK1 inhibitor. Our study showed that 1 possesses great kinase selectivity against a panel of 342 kinases and more potent activity against ALK1 than L-783277. Among the six ALK isotypes (ALK1-6), ALK1 is most significantly inhibited by compound 1. Compound 1 suppresses the BMP9-induced Smad1/5 pathway by mainly inhibiting ALK1 in C2C12 cells. Our molecular dynamics simulations suggest that H-bonding interaction between the C-4' hydroxyl group of 1 and Arg334 of ALK1 substantially contributes to the ALK1 inhibition. To the best of our knowledge, 1 is the first selective ALK1 inhibitor. Furthermore, compound 1 promoted angiogenesis in both endothelial tube formation and microfluidic chip based 3D angiogenesis assays, suggesting that 1 could be a lead compound for therapeutic angiogenesis agents. Our study may provide an insight into designing selective and potent inhibitors against ALK1.

Neuropilin 1 Involvement in Choroidal and Retinal Neovascularisation

PURPOSE

Inhibiting VEGF is the gold standard treatment for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). It is also effective in preventing retinal oedema and neovascularisation (NV) in diabetic retinopathy (DR) and retinal vein occlusions (RVO). Neuropilin 1 (Nrp1) is a co-receptor for VEGF and many other growth factors, and therefore a possible alternative drug target in intra ocular neovascular disease. Here we assessed choroidal and retinal NV in an inducible, endothelial specific knock out model for Nrp1.

METHODS

Crossing Nrp1 floxed mice with Pdgfb-CreERT2 mice produced tamoxifen-inducible, endothelial specific Nrp1 knock out mice (Nrp1ΔEC) and Cre-negative, control littermates. Cre-recombinase activity was confirmed in the Ai3(RCL-EYFP) reporter strain. Animals were subjected to laser-induced CNV (532 nm) and spectral domain-optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) was performed immediately after laser and at day 7. Fluorescein angiography (FA) evaluated leakage and postmortem lectin staining in flat mounted RPE/choroid complexes was also used to measure CNV. Furthermore, retinal neovascularisation in the oxygen induced retinopathy (OIR) model was assessed by immunohistochemistry in retinal flatmounts.

RESULTS

In vivo FA, OCT and post-mortem lectin staining showed a statistically significant reduction in leakage (p<0.05), CNV volume (p<0.05) and CNV area (p<0.05) in the Nrp1ΔEC mice compared to their Cre-negative littermates. Also the OIR model showed reduced retinal NV in the mutant animals compared to wild types (p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

We have demonstrated reduced choroidal and retinal NV in animals that lack endothelial Nrp1, confirming a role of Nrp1 in those processes. Therefore, Nrp1 may be a promising drug target for neovascular diseases in the eye.

Neuropilin 1 binds platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-D and is a co-receptor in PDGF-D/PDGF receptor β signaling

Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-D is a PDGF receptor β (PDGFRβ) specific ligand implicated in a number of pathological conditions, such as cardiovascular disease and cancer, but its biological function remains incompletely understood.

In this study, we demonstrate that PDGF-D binds directly to NRP1, with the requirement of the C-terminal Arg residue of PDGF-D. Stimulation with PDGF-D, but not PDGF-B, induced PDGFRβ/NRP1 complex formation in fibroblasts. Additionally, PDGF-D induced translocation of NRP1 to cell-cell junctions in endothelial cells, independent of PDGFRβ, altering the availability of NRP1 for VEGF-A/VEGF receptor 2 signaling. PDGF-D showed differential effects on pericyte behavior in ex vivo sprouting assays, compared to PDGF-B. Furthermore, PDGF-D induced PDGFRβ/NRP1 interaction in the trans-configuration between endothelial cells and pericytes.

In summary, we show that NRP1 can act as a co-receptor for PDGF-D in PDGFRβ signaling, possibly implicated in intercellular communication in the vascular wall.

The expanding role of neuropilin: regulation of transforming growth factor-β and platelet-derived growth factor signaling in the vasculature

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Long recognized for its role in regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor signaling, neuropilin (Nrp)1 has emerged as a modulator of additional signaling pathways critical for vascular development and function. Here we review two novel functions of Nrp1 in blood vessels: regulation of transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) signaling in endothelial cells and regulation of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) signaling in vascular smooth muscle cells.

RECENT FINDINGS

Novel mouse models demonstrate that Nrp1 fulfills vascular functions independent of vascular endothelial growth factor signaling. These include modulation of TGFβ-dependent inhibition of endothelial sprouting during developmental angiogenesis and PDGF signaling in vascular smooth muscle cells during development and disease.

SUMMARY

Broadening our understanding of how and where Nrp1 functions in the vasculature is critical for the development of targeted therapeutics for cancer and vascular diseases such as atherosclerosis and retinopathies.

PI3 kinase inhibition improves vascular malformations in mouse models of hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia

Activin receptor-like kinase 1 (ALK1) is an endothelial serine-threonine kinase receptor for bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) 9 and 10. Inactivating mutations in the ALK1 gene cause hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia type 2 (HHT2), a disabling disease characterized by excessive angiogenesis with arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). Here we show that inducible, endothelial-specific homozygous Alk1 inactivation and BMP9/10 ligand blockade both lead to AVM formation in postnatal retinal vessels and internal organs including the gastrointestinal (GI) tract in mice. VEGF and PI3K/AKT signalling are increased on Alk1 deletion and BMP9/10 ligand blockade. Genetic deletion of the signal-transducing Vegfr2 receptor prevents excessive angiogenesis but does not fully revert AVM formation. In contrast, pharmacological PI3K inhibition efficiently prevents AVM formation and reverts established AVMs. Thus, Alk1 deletion leads to increased endothelial PI3K pathway activation that may be a novel target for the treatment of vascular lesions in HHT2.

A mouse model of hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia generated by transmammary-delivered immunoblocking of BMP9 and BMP10

Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is a potentially life-threatening genetic vascular disorder caused by loss-of-function mutations in the genes encoding activin receptor-like kinase 1 (ALK1), endoglin, Smad4, and bone morphogenetic protein 9 (BMP9). Injections of mouse neonates with BMP9/10 blocking antibodies lead to HHT-like vascular defects in the postnatal retinal angiogenesis model. Mothers and their newborns share the same immunity through the transfer of maternal antibodies during lactation. Here, we investigated whether the transmammary delivery route could improve the ease and consistency of administering anti-BMP9/10 antibodies in the postnatal retinal angiogenesis model. We found that anti-BMP9/10 antibodies, when intraperitoneally injected into lactating dams, are efficiently transferred into the blood circulation of lactationally-exposed neonatal pups. Strikingly, pups receiving anti-BMP9/10 antibodies via lactation displayed consistent and robust vascular pathology in the retina, which included hypervascularization and defects in arteriovenous specification, as well as the presence of multiple and massive arteriovenous malformations. Furthermore, RNA-Seq analyses of neonatal retinas identified an increase in the key pro-angiogenic factor, angiopoietin-2, as the most significant change in gene expression triggered by the transmammary delivery of anti-BMP9/10 antibodies. Transmammary-delivered BMP9/10 immunoblocking in the mouse neonatal retina is therefore a practical, noninvasive, reliable, and robust model of HHT vascular pathology.

Notch regulates BMP responsiveness and lateral branching in vessel networks via SMAD6

Functional blood vessel growth depends on generation of distinct but coordinated responses from endothelial cells. Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMP), part of the TGFβ superfamily, bind receptors to induce phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of SMAD transcription factors (R-SMAD1/5/8) and regulate vessel growth. However, SMAD1/5/8 signalling results in both pro- and anti-angiogenic outputs, highlighting a poor understanding of the complexities of BMP signalling in the vasculature. Here we show that BMP6 and BMP2 ligands are pro-angiogenic in vitro and in vivo, and that lateral vessel branching requires threshold levels of R-SMAD phosphorylation. Endothelial cell responsiveness to these pro-angiogenic BMP ligands is regulated by Notch status and Notch sets responsiveness by regulating a cell-intrinsic BMP inhibitor, SMAD6, which affects BMP responses upstream of target gene expression. Thus, we reveal a paradigm for Notch-dependent regulation of angiogenesis: Notch regulates SMAD6 expression to affect BMP responsiveness of endothelial cells and new vessel branch formation.

The mechanism underlying endothelial cell responses to BMP signals is unknown. Here, the authors show that the endothelial response to pro-angiogenic BMP ligands is regulated by Notch via its effect on SMAD6, a known inhibitor of BMP intracellular signaling cascade.

Defective fluid shear stress mechanotransduction mediates hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia

Morphogenesis of the vascular system is strongly modulated by mechanical forces from blood flow. Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is an inherited autosomal-dominant disease in which arteriovenous malformations and telangiectasias accumulate with age. Most cases are linked to heterozygous mutations in Alk1 or Endoglin, receptors for bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) 9 and 10. Evidence suggests that a second hit results in clonal expansion of endothelial cells to form lesions with poor mural cell coverage that spontaneously rupture and bleed. We now report that fluid shear stress potentiates BMPs to activate Alk1 signaling, which correlates with enhanced association of Alk1 and endoglin. Alk1 is required for BMP9 and flow responses, whereas endoglin is only required for enhancement by flow. This pathway mediates both inhibition of endothelial proliferation and recruitment of mural cells; thus, its loss blocks flow-induced vascular stabilization. Identification of Alk1 signaling as a convergence point for flow and soluble ligands provides a molecular mechanism for development of HHT lesions.

Phase-Transformation Engineering in Cobalt Diselenide Realizing Enhanced Catalytic Activity for Hydrogen Evolution in an Alkaline Medium

Phase-transformation engineering is successfully applied in designing an alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) electrocatalyst. Benefiting from phase-transformation engineering, which endows higher electrical conductivity, ideal water adsorption energy, and faster transformation efficiency of Hads into hydrogen, cubic-phase CoSe2 realizes an enhanced electrocatalytic activity for HER under alkaline conditions.

BMP9/ALK1 inhibits neovascularization in mouse models of age-related macular degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in aging populations of industrialized countries. The drawbacks of inhibitors of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGFs) currently used for the treatment of AMD, which include resistance and potential serious side-effects, require the identification of new therapeutic targets to modulate angiogenesis. BMP9 signaling through the endothelial Alk1 serine-threonine kinase receptor modulates the response of endothelial cells to VEGF and promotes vessel quiescence and maturation during development. Here, we show that BMP9/Alk1 signaling inhibits neovessel formation in mouse models of pathological ocular angiogenesis relevant to AMD. Activating Alk1 signaling in laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) and oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) inhibited neovascularization and reduced the volume of vascular lesions. Alk1 signaling was also found to interfere with VEGF signaling in endothelial cells whereas BMP9 potentiated the inhibitory effects of VEGFR2 signaling blockade, both in OIR and laser-induced CNV. Together, our data show that targeting BMP9/Alk1 efficiently prevents the growth of neovessels in AMD models and introduce a new approach to improve conventional anti-VEGF therapies.

Signaling Receptors for TGF-β Family Members

Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) family members signal via heterotetrameric complexes of type I and type II dual specificity kinase receptors. The activation and stability of the receptors are controlled by posttranslational modifications, such as phosphorylation, ubiquitylation, sumoylation, and neddylation, as well as by interaction with other proteins at the cell surface and in the cytoplasm. Activation of TGF-β receptors induces signaling via formation of Smad complexes that are translocated to the nucleus where they act as transcription factors, as well as via non-Smad pathways, including the Erk1/2, JNK and p38 MAP kinase pathways, and the Src tyrosine kinase, phosphatidylinositol 3'-kinase, and Rho GTPases.

Mechanisms and regulation of endothelial VEGF receptor signalling

Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) and their receptors (VEGFRs) are uniquely required to balance the formation of new blood vessels with the maintenance and remodelling of existing ones, during development and in adult tissues. Recent advances have greatly expanded our understanding of the tight and multi-level regulation of VEGFR2 signalling, which is the primary focus of this Review. Important insights have been gained into the regulatory roles of VEGFR-interacting proteins (such as neuropilins, proteoglycans, integrins and protein tyrosine phosphatases); the dynamics of VEGFR2 endocytosis, trafficking and signalling; and the crosstalk between VEGF-induced signalling and other endothelial signalling cascades. A clear understanding of this multifaceted signalling web is key to successful therapeutic suppression or stimulation of vascular growth.

The endothelial adaptor molecule TSAd is required for VEGF-induced angiogenic sprouting through junctional c-Src activation

Activation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor 2 (VEGFR2) by VEGF binding is critical for vascular morphogenesis. In addition, VEGF disrupts the endothelial barrier by triggering the phosphorylation and turnover of the junctional molecule VE-cadherin, a process mediated by the VEGFR2 downstream effectors T cell-specific adaptor (TSAd) and the tyrosine kinase c-Src. We investigated whether the VEGFR2-TSAd-c-Src pathway was required for angiogenic sprouting. Indeed, Tsad-deficient embryoid bodies failed to sprout in response to VEGF. Tsad-deficient mice displayed impaired angiogenesis specifically during tracheal vessel development, but not during retinal vasculogenesis, and in VEGF-loaded Matrigel plugs, but not in those loaded with FGF. The SH2 and proline-rich domains of TSAd bridged VEGFR2 and c-Src, and this bridging was critical for the localization of activated c-Src to endothelial junctions and elongation of the growing sprout, but not for selection of the tip cell. These results revealed that vascular sprouting and permeability are both controlled through the VEGFR2-TSAd-c-Src signaling pathway in a subset of tissues, which may be useful in developing strategies to control tissue-specific pathological angiogenesis.

Membrane-mediated regulation of vascular identity

Vascular diseases span diverse pathology, but frequently arise from aberrant signaling attributed to specific membrane-associated molecules, particularly the Eph-ephrin family. Originally recognized as markers of embryonic vessel identity, Eph receptors and their membrane-associated ligands, ephrins, are now known to have a range of vital functions in vascular physiology. Interactions of Ephs with ephrins at cell-to-cell interfaces promote a variety of cellular responses such as repulsion, adhesion, attraction, and migration, and frequently occur during organ development, including vessel formation. Elaborate coordination of Eph- and ephrin-related signaling among different cell populations is required for proper formation of the embryonic vessel network. There is growing evidence supporting the idea that Eph and ephrin proteins also have postnatal interactions with a number of other membrane-associated signal transduction pathways, coordinating translation of environmental signals into cells. This article provides an overview of membrane-bound signaling mechanisms that define vascular identity in both the embryo and the adult, focusing on Eph- and ephrin-related signaling. We also discuss the role and clinical significance of this signaling system in normal organ development, neoplasms, and vascular pathologies.

NRP1 function and targeting in neurovascular development and eye disease

Neuropilin 1 (NRP1) is expressed by neurons, blood vessels, immune cells and many other cell types in the mammalian body and binds a range of structurally and functionally diverse extracellular ligands to modulate organ development and function. In recent years, several types of mouse knockout models have been developed that have provided useful tools for experimental investigation of NRP1 function, and a multitude of therapeutics targeting NRP1 have been designed, mostly with the view to explore them for cancer treatment. This review provides a general overview of current knowledge of the signalling pathways that are modulated by NRP1, with particular focus on neuronal and vascular roles in the brain and retina. This review will also discuss the potential of NRP1 inhibitors for the treatment for neovascular eye diseases.

miR-342-5p Is a Notch Downstream Molecule and Regulates Multiple Angiogenic Pathways Including Notch, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Transforming Growth Factor β Signaling

Background

Endothelial cells (ECs) form blood vessels through angiogenesis that is regulated by coordination of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), Notch, transforming growth factor β, and other signals, but the detailed molecular mechanisms remain unclear.

Methods and Results

Small RNA sequencing initially identified miR‐342‐5p as a novel downstream molecule of Notch signaling in ECs. Reporter assay, quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis indicated that miR‐342‐5p targeted endoglin and modulated transforming growth factor β signaling by repressing SMAD1/5 phosphorylation in ECs. Transfection of miR‐342‐5p inhibited EC proliferation and lumen formation and reduced angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo, as assayed by using a fibrin beads–based sprouting assay, mouse aortic ring culture, and intravitreal injection of miR‐342‐5p agomir in P3 pups. Moreover, miR‐342‐5p promoted the migration of ECs, accompanied by reduced endothelial markers and increased mesenchymal markers, indicative of increased endothelial–mesenchymal transition. Transfection of endoglin at least partially reversed endothelial–mesenchymal transition induced by miR‐342‐5p. The expression of miR‐342‐5p was upregulated by transforming growth factor β, and inhibition of miR‐342‐5p attenuated the inhibitory effects of transforming growth factor β on lumen formation and sprouting by ECs. In addition, VEGF repressed miR‐342‐5p expression, and transfection of miR‐342‐5p repressed VEGFR2 and VEGFR3 expression and VEGF‐triggered Akt phosphorylation in ECs. miR‐342‐5p repressed angiogenesis in a laser‐induced choroidal neovascularization model in mice, highlighting its clinical potential.

Conclusions

miR‐342‐5p acts as a multifunctional angiogenic repressor mediating the effects and interaction among angiogenic pathways.

BMP signaling in vascular biology and dysfunction

The vascular system is critical for developmental growth, tissue homeostasis and repair but also for tumor development. Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling has recently emerged as a fundamental pathway of the endothelium by regulating cardiovascular and lymphatic development and by being causative for several vascular dysfunctions. Two vascular disorders have been directly linked to impaired BMP signaling: pulmonary arterial hypertension and hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia. Endothelial BMP signaling critically depends on the cellular context, which includes among others vascular heterogeneity, exposure to flow, and the intertwining with other signaling cascades (Notch, WNT, Hippo and hypoxia). The purpose of this review is to highlight the most recent findings illustrating the clear need for reconsidering the role of BMPs in vascular biology.

Bone morphogenetic proteins in tumour associated angiogenesis and implication in cancer therapies

Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) belongs to transforming growth factor-β superfamily. To date, more than 20 BMPs have been identified in humans. BMPs play a critical role in embryonic and postnatal development, and also in maintaining homeostasis in different organs and tissues by regulating cell differentiation, proliferation, survival and motility. They play important roles in the development and progression of certain malignancies, including prostate cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, etc. Recently, more evidence shows that BMPs are also involved in tumour associated angiogenesis. For example BMP can either directly regulate the functions of vascular endothelial cells or indirectly influence the angiogenesis via regulation of angiogenic factors, such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Such crosstalk can also be reflected in the interaction with other angiogenic factors, like hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). All these factors are involved in the orchestration of the angiogenic process during tumour development and progression. Review of the relevant studies will provide a comprehensive prospective on current understanding and shed light on the corresponding therapeutic opportunity.

The Notch intracellular domain integrates signals from Wnt, Hedgehog, TGFβ/BMP and hypoxia pathways

Notch signaling is a highly conserved signal transduction pathway that regulates stem cell maintenance and differentiation in several organ systems. Upon activation, the Notch receptor is proteolytically processed, its intracellular domain (NICD) translocates into the nucleus and activates expression of target genes. Output, strength and duration of the signal are tightly regulated by post-translational modifications. Here we review the intracellular post-translational regulation of Notch that fine-tunes the outcome of the Notch response. We also describe how crosstalk with other conserved signaling pathways like the Wnt, Hedgehog, hypoxia and TGFβ/BMP pathways can affect Notch signaling output. This regulation can happen by regulation of ligand, receptor or transcription factor expression, regulation of protein stability of intracellular key components, usage of the same cofactors or coregulation of the same key target genes. Since carcinogenesis is often dependent on at least two of these pathways, a better understanding of their molecular crosstalk is pivotal.

Neuropilin 1 balances β8 integrin-activated TGFβ signaling to control sprouting angiogenesis in the brain

Angiogenesis in the developing central nervous system (CNS) is regulated by neuroepithelial cells, although the genes and pathways that couple these cells to blood vessels remain largely uncharacterized. Here, we have used biochemical, cell biological and molecular genetic approaches to demonstrate that β8 integrin (Itgb8) and neuropilin 1 (Nrp1) cooperatively promote CNS angiogenesis by mediating adhesion and signaling events between neuroepithelial cells and vascular endothelial cells. β8 integrin in the neuroepithelium promotes the activation of extracellular matrix (ECM)-bound latent transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) ligands and stimulates TGFβ receptor signaling in endothelial cells. Nrp1 in endothelial cells suppresses TGFβ activation and signaling by forming intercellular protein complexes with β8 integrin. Cell type-specific ablation of β8 integrin, Nrp1, or canonical TGFβ receptors results in pathological angiogenesis caused by defective neuroepithelial cell-endothelial cell adhesion and imbalances in canonical TGFβ signaling. Collectively, these data identify a paracrine signaling pathway that links the neuroepithelium to blood vessels and precisely balances TGFβ signaling during cerebral angiogenesis.

Summary: Neuropilin 1 and β8 integrin cooperatively promote cerebral angiogenesis by mediating adhesion and signaling events between neuroepithelial cells and vascular endothelial cells in the mouse brain.

Vesicular trafficking mechanisms in endothelial cells as modulators of the tumor vasculature and targets of antiangiogenic therapies

A common feature of solid tumors is their ability to incite the formation of new blood and lymph vessels trough the processes of angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis, respectively, to support tumor growth and favor metastatic dissemination. As a result of the lack of feedback regulatory control mechanisms or due to the exacerbated presence of pro-angiogenic signals within the tumor microenvironment, the tumor endothelium receives continuous signals to sprout and develop, generating vessels that are structurally and functionally abnormal. An emerging mechanism playing a central role in shaping the tumor vasculature is the endothelial-vesicular network that regulates trafficking/export and degradation of key signaling proteins and membrane receptors, including the vascular endothelial growth-factor receptor-2/3 and members of the Notch pathway. Here we will discuss recent evidence highlighting how vesicular trafficking mechanisms in endothelial cells contribute to pathological angiogenesis/lymphangiogenesis and can provide novel and exploitable targets in antiangiogenic therapies.

DLL4/Notch1 and BMP9 Interdependent Signaling Induces Human Endothelial Cell Quiescence via P27KIP1 and Thrombospondin-1

OBJECTIVE

Bone morphogenetic protein-9 (BMP9)/activin-like kinase-1 and delta-like 4 (DLL4)/Notch promote endothelial quiescence, and we aim to understand mechanistic interactions between the 2 pathways. We identify new targets that contribute to endothelial quiescence and test whether loss of Dll4(+/-) in adult vasculature alters BMP signaling.

APPROACH AND RESULTS

Human endothelial cells respond synergistically to BMP9 and DLL4 stimulation, showing complete quiescence and induction of HEY1 and HEY2. Canonical BMP9 signaling via activin-like kinase-1-Smad1/5/9 was disrupted by inhibition of Notch signaling, even in the absence of exogenous DLL4. Similarly, DLL4 activity was suppressed when the basal activin-like kinase-1-Smad1/5/9 pathway was inhibited, showing that these pathways are interdependent. BMP9/DLL4 required induction of P27(KIP1) for quiescence, although multiple factors are involved. To understand these mechanisms, we used proteomics data to identify upregulation of thrombospondin-1, which contributes to the quiescence phenotype. To test whether Dll4 regulates BMP/Smad pathways and endothelial cell phenotype in vivo, we characterized the vasculature of Dll4(+/-) mice, analyzing endothelial cells in the lung, heart, and aorta. Together with changes in endothelial structure and vascular morphogenesis, we found that loss of Dll4 was associated with a significant upregulation of pSmad1/5/9 signaling in lung endothelial cells. Because steady-state endothelial cell proliferation rates were not different in the Dll4(+/-) mice, we propose that the upregulation of pSmad1/5/9 signaling compensates to maintain endothelial cell quiescence in these mice.

CONCLUSIONS

DLL4/Notch and BMP9/activin-like kinase-1 signaling rely on each other's pathways for full activity. This represents an important mechanism of cross talk that enhances endothelial quiescence and sensitively coordinates cellular responsiveness to soluble and cell-tethered ligands.

Neuropilin Functions as an Essential Cell Surface Receptor

The Neuropilins (Nrps) are a family of essential cell surface receptors involved in multiple fundamental cellular signaling cascades. Nrp family members have key functions in VEGF-dependent angiogenesis and semaphorin-dependent axon guidance, controlling signaling and cross-talk between these fundamental physiological processes. More recently, Nrp function has been found in diverse signaling and adhesive functions, emphasizing their role as pleiotropic co-receptors. Pathological Nrp function has been shown to be important in aberrant activation of both canonical and alternative pathways. Here we review key recent insights into Nrp function in human health and disease.

Vascularisation of the central nervous system

The developing central nervous system (CNS) is vascularised through the angiogenic invasion of blood vessels from a perineural vascular plexus, followed by continued sprouting and remodelling until a hierarchical vascular network is formed. Remarkably, vascularisation occurs without perturbing the intricate architecture of the neurogenic niches or the emerging neural networks. We discuss the mouse hindbrain, forebrain and retina as widely used models to study developmental angiogenesis in the mammalian CNS and provide an overview of key cellular and molecular mechanisms regulating the vascularisation of these organs.

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CNS vascularisation is initiated during embryonic development.

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CNS vascularisation is studied in the mouse forebrain, hindbrain and retina models.

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Neuroglial cells interact with endothelial cells to promote angiogenesis.

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Neuroglial cells produce growth factors and matrix cues to pattern vessels.