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Dorninger F, Kiss A, Rothauer P, Stiglbauer-Tscholakoff A, Kummer S, Fallatah W, Perera-Gonzalez M, Hamza O, König T, Bober MB, Cavallé-Garrido T, Braverman NE, Forss-Petter S, Pifl C, Bauer J, Bittner RE, Helbich TH, Podesser BK, Todt H, Berger J. Overlapping and Distinct Features of Cardiac Pathology in Inherited Human and Murine Ether Lipid Deficiency. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:1884. [PMID: 36768204 PMCID: PMC9914995 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24031884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Inherited deficiency in ether lipids, a subgroup of glycerophospholipids with unique biochemical and biophysical properties, evokes severe symptoms in humans resulting in a multi-organ syndrome. Mouse models with defects in ether lipid biosynthesis have widely been used to understand the pathophysiology of human disease and to study the roles of ether lipids in various cell types and tissues. However, little is known about the function of these lipids in cardiac tissue. Previous studies included case reports of cardiac defects in ether-lipid-deficient patients, but a systematic analysis of the impact of ether lipid deficiency on the mammalian heart is still missing. Here, we utilize a mouse model of complete ether lipid deficiency (Gnpat KO) to accomplish this task. Similar to a subgroup of human patients with rhizomelic chondrodysplasia punctata (RCDP), a fraction of Gnpat KO fetuses present with defects in ventricular septation, presumably evoked by a developmental delay. We did not detect any signs of cardiomyopathy but identified increased left ventricular end-systolic and end-diastolic pressure in middle-aged ether-lipid-deficient mice. By comprehensive electrocardiographic characterization, we consistently found reduced ventricular conduction velocity, as indicated by a prolonged QRS complex, as well as increased QRS and QT dispersion in the Gnpat KO group. Furthermore, a shift of the Wenckebach point to longer cycle lengths indicated depressed atrioventricular nodal function. To complement our findings in mice, we analyzed medical records and performed electrocardiography in ether-lipid-deficient human patients, which, in contrast to the murine phenotype, indicated a trend towards shortened QT intervals. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that the cardiac phenotype upon ether lipid deficiency is highly heterogeneous, and although the manifestations in the mouse model only partially match the abnormalities in human patients, the results add to our understanding of the physiological role of ether lipids and emphasize their importance for proper cardiac development and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Dorninger
- Department of Pathobiology of the Nervous System, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 4, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Attila Kiss
- Center for Biomedical Research, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter Rothauer
- Department of Neurophysiology and Neuropharmacology, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Währingerstrasse 13a, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Alexander Stiglbauer-Tscholakoff
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-Guided Therapy, Division of Molecular and Structural Preclinical Imaging, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Stefan Kummer
- Neuromuscular Research Department, Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Straße 13, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Wedad Fallatah
- Department of Genetic Medicine, King AbdulAziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Human Genetics and Pediatrics, Montreal Children’s Hospital, McGill University, 1001 Décarie Blvd, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Mireia Perera-Gonzalez
- Center for Biomedical Research, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Ouafa Hamza
- Center for Biomedical Research, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Theresa König
- Department of Pathobiology of the Nervous System, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 4, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael B. Bober
- Skeletal Dysplasia Program, Nemours Children’s Hospital, 1600 Rockland Road, Wilmington, DE 19803, USA
| | - Tiscar Cavallé-Garrido
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Cardiology, Montreal Children’s Hospital, McGill University, 1001 Décarie Blvd, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Nancy E. Braverman
- Department of Human Genetics and Pediatrics, Montreal Children’s Hospital, McGill University, 1001 Décarie Blvd, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Sonja Forss-Petter
- Department of Pathobiology of the Nervous System, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 4, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Christian Pifl
- Department of Molecular Neurosciences, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 4, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Jan Bauer
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 4, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Reginald E. Bittner
- Neuromuscular Research Department, Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Straße 13, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas H. Helbich
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-Guided Therapy, Division of Molecular and Structural Preclinical Imaging, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Bruno K. Podesser
- Center for Biomedical Research, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Hannes Todt
- Department of Neurophysiology and Neuropharmacology, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Währingerstrasse 13a, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Johannes Berger
- Department of Pathobiology of the Nervous System, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 4, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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Yuan J, Huang X, Zhao Y, Gu J, Yuan Y, Liu Z, Zou H, Bian J. Rat Hepatocytes Mitigate Cadmium Toxicity by Forming Annular Gap Junctions and Degrading Them via Endosome-Lysosome Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415607. [PMID: 36555247 PMCID: PMC9778680 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junction protein connexin 43 (Cx43) plays a critical role in gap junction communication in rat hepatocytes. However, those located between hepatocytes are easily internalized following exposure to poisons. Herein, we investigated the potential of buffalo rat liver 3A (BRL 3A) cells to generate annular gap junctions (AGJs) proficient at alleviating cadmium (Cd) cytotoxic injury through degradation via an endosome-lysosome pathway. Our results showed that Cd-induced damage of liver microtubules promoted Cx43 internalization and increased Cx43 phosphorylation at Ser373 site. Furthermore, we established that Cd induced AGJs generation in BRL 3A cells, and AGJs were subsequently degraded through the endosome-lysosome pathway. Overall, our results suggested that Cx43 internalization and the generation of AGJs were cellular protective mechanisms to alleviate Cd toxicity in rat hepatocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junzhao Yuan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, 12 Wenhui East Road, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Xiaoqian Huang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, 12 Wenhui East Road, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Yumeng Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, 12 Wenhui East Road, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Jianhong Gu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, 12 Wenhui East Road, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Yan Yuan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, 12 Wenhui East Road, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Zongping Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, 12 Wenhui East Road, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Hui Zou
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, 12 Wenhui East Road, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Correspondence: (H.Z.); (J.B.)
| | - Jianchun Bian
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, 12 Wenhui East Road, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Correspondence: (H.Z.); (J.B.)
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Chen Y, Sun Q, Hao C, Guo R, Wang C, Yang W, Zhang Y, Wang F, Li W, Guo J. Identification of a novel variant in N-cadherin associated with dilated cardiomyopathy. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:944950. [PMID: 36111109 PMCID: PMC9468813 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.944950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), which is a major cause of heart failure, is a primary cardiac muscle disease with high morbidity and mortality rates. DCM is a genetically heritable disease and more than 10 gene ontologies have been implicated in DCM. CDH2 encodes N-cadherin and belongs to a superfamily of transmembrane proteins that mediate cell–cell adhesion in a calcium-dependent manner. Deficiency of CDH2 is associated with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (OMIM: 618920) and agenesis of the corpus callosum, cardiac, ocular, and genital syndrome (OMIM: 618929). However, there have been no reports of isolated DCM associated with CDH2 deficiency. Methods We performed whole exome sequencing in a 12-year-old girl with non-syndromic DCM and her unaffected parents. Variants in both known DCM-related genes and novel candidate genes were analyzed and pathogenicity confirmation experiments were performed. Results No pathogenic/likely pathogenic variant in known DCM-related genes was identified in the patient. We found a de novo variant in a candidate gene CDH2 in the patient, namely, c.474G>C/p.Lys158Asn (NM_001792.5). This variant has not been reported in the ClinVar or Human Gene Mutation Database (HGMD). CDH2 p.Lys158Asn was found in the conserved domain of N-cadherin, which is associated with the hydrolysis of the precursor segment and interference with adhesiveness. Furthermore, we tested the expression and efficiency of cell–cell adhesion while overexpressing the CDH2 Lys158Asn mutant and two previously reported variants in CDH2 as positive controls. The adhesion efficiency was considerably reduced in the presence of the mutated CDH2 protein compared with wild-type CDH2 protein, which suggested that the mutated CDH2 protein's adhesion capacity was impaired. The variant was probably pathogenic after integrating clinical manifestations, genetic analysis, and functional tests. Conclusion We identified a CDH2 variant in DCM. We observed a new clinical symptom associated with N-cadherin deficiency and broadened the genetic spectra of DCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanying Chen
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Genetics of Birth Defects, Beijing Pediatric Research Institute, MOE Key Laboratory of Major Diseases in Children, Capital Medical University, Center of Rare Diseases, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Pediatric Inherited and Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou Hospital of Beijing Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Qiqing Sun
- Department of Cardiology, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou Hospital of Beijing Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Chanjuan Hao
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Genetics of Birth Defects, Beijing Pediatric Research Institute, MOE Key Laboratory of Major Diseases in Children, Capital Medical University, Center of Rare Diseases, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Pediatric Inherited and Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou Hospital of Beijing Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ruolan Guo
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Genetics of Birth Defects, Beijing Pediatric Research Institute, MOE Key Laboratory of Major Diseases in Children, Capital Medical University, Center of Rare Diseases, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Pediatric Inherited and Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou Hospital of Beijing Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Chentong Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Genetics of Birth Defects, Beijing Pediatric Research Institute, MOE Key Laboratory of Major Diseases in Children, Capital Medical University, Center of Rare Diseases, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Pediatric Inherited and Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou Hospital of Beijing Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Weili Yang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Pediatric Inherited and Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou Hospital of Beijing Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yaodong Zhang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Pediatric Inherited and Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou Hospital of Beijing Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Fangjie Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou Hospital of Beijing Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wei Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Genetics of Birth Defects, Beijing Pediatric Research Institute, MOE Key Laboratory of Major Diseases in Children, Capital Medical University, Center of Rare Diseases, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Pediatric Inherited and Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou Hospital of Beijing Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jun Guo
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Genetics of Birth Defects, Beijing Pediatric Research Institute, MOE Key Laboratory of Major Diseases in Children, Capital Medical University, Center of Rare Diseases, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Pediatric Inherited and Metabolic Diseases, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou Hospital of Beijing Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Jun Guo
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Wang K, Zhao J, Guo Z. Interaction of KCNA5, CX43, and CX40 proteins in the atrial muscle of patients with atrial fibrillation. Cell Biol Int 2022; 46:1834-1840. [PMID: 35870168 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Keke Wang
- Henan Medical Key Laboratory of Arrhythmia Zhengzhou No. 7 People's Hospital Zhengzhou Henan China
| | - Juntao Zhao
- Department of Cardiac Surgery Zhengzhou No. 7 People's Hospital Zhengzhou Henan China
| | - Zhikun Guo
- Henan Medical Key Laboratory of Arrhythmia Zhengzhou No. 7 People's Hospital Zhengzhou Henan China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration Xinxiang Medical University Xinxiang Henan China
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Burboa PC, Puebla M, Gaete PS, Durán WN, Lillo MA. Connexin and Pannexin Large-Pore Channels in Microcirculation and Neurovascular Coupling Function. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137303. [PMID: 35806312 PMCID: PMC9266979 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Microcirculation homeostasis depends on several channels permeable to ions and/or small molecules that facilitate the regulation of the vasomotor tone, hyperpermeability, the blood–brain barrier, and the neurovascular coupling function. Connexin (Cxs) and Pannexin (Panxs) large-pore channel proteins are implicated in several aspects of vascular physiology. The permeation of ions (i.e., Ca2+) and key metabolites (ATP, prostaglandins, D-serine, etc.) through Cxs (i.e., gap junction channels or hemichannels) and Panxs proteins plays a vital role in intercellular communication and maintaining vascular homeostasis. Therefore, dysregulation or genetic pathologies associated with these channels promote deleterious tissue consequences. This review provides an overview of current knowledge concerning the physiological role of these large-pore molecule channels in microcirculation (arterioles, capillaries, venules) and in the neurovascular coupling function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pía C. Burboa
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Neuroscience, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, 185 South Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (P.C.B.); (W.N.D.)
- Departamento de Morfología y Función, Facultad de Salud y Ciencias Sociales, Sede Santiago Centro, Universidad de las Américas, Avenue República 71, Santiago 8370040, Chile;
| | - Mariela Puebla
- Departamento de Morfología y Función, Facultad de Salud y Ciencias Sociales, Sede Santiago Centro, Universidad de las Américas, Avenue República 71, Santiago 8370040, Chile;
| | - Pablo S. Gaete
- Department of Physiology and Membrane Biology, University of California at Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA;
| | - Walter N. Durán
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Neuroscience, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, 185 South Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (P.C.B.); (W.N.D.)
- Rutgers School of Graduate Studies, 185 South Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Mauricio A. Lillo
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Neuroscience, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, 185 South Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103, USA; (P.C.B.); (W.N.D.)
- Correspondence:
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Qin X, Gao A, Hou X, Xu X, Chen L, Sun L, Hao Y, Shi Y. Connexins may play a critical role in cigarette smoke-induced pulmonary hypertension. Arch Toxicol 2022; 96:1609-1621. [PMID: 35344070 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-022-03274-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a chronic progressive disease characterized by pulmonary vasoconstriction and remodeling. It causes a gradual increase in pulmonary vascular resistance leading to right-sided heart failure, and may be fatal. Chronic exposure to cigarette smoke (CS) is an essential risk factor for PH group 3; however, smoking continues to be prevalent and smoking cessation is reported to be difficult. A majority of smokers exhibit PH, which leads to a concomitant increase in the risk of mortality. The current treatments for PH group 3 focus on vasodilation and long-term oxygen supplementation, and fail to stop or reverse PH-associated continuous vascular remodeling. Recent studies have suggested that pulmonary vascular endothelial dysfunction induced by CS exposure may be an initial event in the natural history of PH, which in turn may be associated with abnormal alterations in connexin (Cx) expression. The relationship between Cx and CS-induced PH development has not yet been directly investigated. Therefore, this review will describe the roles of CS and Cx in the development of PH and discuss the related downstream pathways. We also discuss the possible role of Cx in CS-induced PH. It is hoped that this review may provide new perspectives for early intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojiang Qin
- School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China.
- China Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China.
| | - Anqi Gao
- School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Xiaomin Hou
- Department of Pharmacology, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
- China Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Xinrong Xu
- School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Liangjin Chen
- School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Lin Sun
- School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Yuxuan Hao
- School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Yiwei Shi
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shanxi Medical University Affiliated First Hospital, 85 Jiefang South Road, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China.
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Connexin 43 and Connexin 26 Involvement in the Ponatinib-Induced Cardiomyopathy: Sex-Related Differences in a Murine Model. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115815. [PMID: 34071707 PMCID: PMC8199144 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiac connexins (Cxs) are proteins responsible for proper heart function. They form gap junctions that mediate electrical and chemical signalling throughout the cardiac system, and thus enable a synchronized contraction. Connexins can also individually participate in many signal transduction pathways, interacting with intracellular proteins at various cellular compartments. Altered connexin expression and localization have been described in diseased myocardium and the aim of this study is to assess the involvement of Cx43, Cx26, and some related molecules in ponatinib-induced cardiac toxicity. Ponatinib is a new multi-tyrosine kinase inhibitor that has been successfully used against human malignancies, but its cardiotoxicity remains worrisome. Therefore, understanding its signaling mechanism is important to adopt potential anti cardiac damage strategies. Our experiments were performed on hearts from male and female mice treated with ponatinib and with ponatinib plus siRNA-Notch1 by using immunofluorescence, Western blotting, and proteomic analyses. The altered cardiac function and the change in Cxs expression observed in mice after ponatinib treatment, were results dependent on the Notch1 pathway and sex. Females showed a lower susceptibility to ponatinib than males. The downmodulation of cardiac Cx43, Cx26 and miR-122, high pS368-Cx43 phosphorylation, cell viability and survival activation could represent some of the female adaptative/compensatory reactions to ponatinib cardiotoxicity.
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Okamura S, Onohara Y, Ochi H, Tokuyama T, Hironobe N, Okubo Y, Ikeuchi Y, Miyauchi S, Chayama K, Kihara Y, Nakano Y. Minor allele of GJA1 gene polymorphism is associated with higher heart rate during atrial fibrillation. Sci Rep 2021; 11:2549. [PMID: 33510344 PMCID: PMC7844413 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-82117-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) tachycardia causes heart failure and requires more attention. The genetic background of individual heart rate (HR) variations during AF are unclear. We hypothesized that HR-associated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) reported in Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) are also associated with HR during AF. We enrolled patients with persistent AF (311 for screening and 146 for replication) who underwent AF ablation and were genotyped for the 21 h-associated SNPs reported in GWAS. The patients underwent 24-h Holter monitoring before AF ablation and electrophysiological study after AF ablation during sinus rhythm. Only the GJA1 SNP rs1015451 (T>C) was significantly associated with total HR (TT 110,643 ± 17,542 beats/day, TC 116,350 ± 19,060 beats/day, CC 122,163 ± 25,684 beats/day, P = 8.5 × 10−4). We also confirmed this significant association in the replication set. The intra-atrial conduction was faster in AF patients with the GJA1 minor allele than in those without it. Multivariate analysis revealed the presence of a GJA1 SNP rs1015451 additive model, female gender, lower left ventricular ejection fraction, and higher 1:1 atrioventricular nodal conduction were independently associated with higher HR during AF. The GJA1 SNP might be a new genetic marker for AF tachycardia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sho Okamura
- Division of Frontier Medical Science, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Programs for Biomedical Research, Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Yuko Onohara
- Division of Frontier Medical Science, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Programs for Biomedical Research, Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Hidenori Ochi
- Department of Health Management, Hiroshima Red Cross Hospital & Atomic-Bomb Survivors Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan.,Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Higashihiroshima, Japan
| | - Takehito Tokuyama
- Division of Frontier Medical Science, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Programs for Biomedical Research, Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Naoya Hironobe
- Division of Frontier Medical Science, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Programs for Biomedical Research, Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Yosaku Okubo
- Division of Frontier Medical Science, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Programs for Biomedical Research, Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Ikeuchi
- Division of Frontier Medical Science, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Programs for Biomedical Research, Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Miyauchi
- Division of Frontier Medical Science, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Programs for Biomedical Research, Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Kazuaki Chayama
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Higashihiroshima, Japan
| | - Yasuki Kihara
- Division of Frontier Medical Science, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Programs for Biomedical Research, Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Yukiko Nakano
- Division of Frontier Medical Science, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Programs for Biomedical Research, Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan.
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Structural alterations and inflammation in the heart after multiple trauma followed by reamed versus non-reamed femoral nailing. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0235220. [PMID: 32584885 PMCID: PMC7316303 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0235220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Approximately 30,000 patients with blunt cardiac trauma are recorded each year in the United States. Blunt cardiac injuries after trauma are associated with a longer hospital stay and a poor overall outcome. Organ damage after trauma is linked to increased systemic release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and damage-associated molecular patterns. However, the interplay between polytrauma and local cardiac injury is unclear. Additionally, the impact of surgical intervention on this process is currently unknown. This study aimed to determine local cardiac immunological and structural alterations after multiple trauma. Furthermore, the impact of the chosen fracture stabilization strategy (reamed versus non-reamed femoral nailing) on cardiac alterations was studied. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH 15 male pigs were either exposed to multiple trauma (blunt chest trauma, laparotomy, liver laceration, femur fracture and haemorrhagic shock) or sham conditions. Blood samples as well as cardiac tissue were analysed 4 h and 6 h after trauma. Additionally, murine HL-1 cells were exposed to a defined polytrauma-cocktail, mimicking the pro-inflammatory conditions after multiple trauma in vitro. RESULTS After multiple trauma, cardiac structural changes were observed in the left ventricle. More specifically, alterations in the alpha-actinin and desmin protein expression were found. Cardiac structural alterations were accompanied by enhanced local nitrosative stress, increased local inflammation and elevated systemic levels of the high-mobility group box 1 protein. Furthermore, cardiac alterations were observed predominantly in pigs that were treated by non-reamed intramedullary reaming. The polytrauma-cocktail impaired the viability of HL-1 cells in vitro, which was accompanied by a release of troponin I and HFABP. DISCUSSION Multiple trauma induced cardiac structural alterations in vivo, which might contribute to the development of early myocardial damage (EMD). This study also revealed that reamed femoral nailing (reamed) is associated with more prominent immunological cardiac alterations compared to nailing without reaming (non-reamed). This suggests that the choice of the initial fracture treatment strategy might be crucial for the overall outcome as well as for any post-traumatic cardiac consequences.
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Zechariah A, Tran CHT, Hald BO, Sandow SL, Sancho M, Kim MSM, Fabris S, Tuor UI, Gordon GR, Welsh DG. Intercellular Conduction Optimizes Arterial Network Function and Conserves Blood Flow Homeostasis During Cerebrovascular Challenges. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2020; 40:733-750. [PMID: 31826653 PMCID: PMC7058668 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.119.313391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cerebral arterial networks match blood flow delivery with neural activity. Neurovascular response begins with a stimulus and a focal change in vessel diameter, which by themselves is inconsequential to blood flow magnitude, until they spread and alter the contractile status of neighboring arterial segments. We sought to define the mechanisms underlying integrated vascular behavior and considered the role of intercellular electrical signaling in this phenomenon. Approach and Results: Electron microscopic and histochemical analysis revealed the structural coupling of cerebrovascular cells and the expression of gap junctional subunits at the cell interfaces, enabling intercellular signaling among vascular cells. Indeed, robust vasomotor conduction was detected in human and mice cerebral arteries after focal vessel stimulation: a response attributed to endothelial gap junctional communication, as its genetic alteration attenuated this behavior. Conducted responses were observed to ascend from the penetrating arterioles, influencing the contractile status of cortical surface vessels, in a simulated model of cerebral arterial network. Ascending responses recognized in vivo after whisker stimulation were significantly attenuated in mice with altered endothelial gap junctional signaling confirming that gap junctional communication drives integrated vessel responses. The diminishment in vascular communication also impaired the critical ability of the cerebral vasculature to maintain blood flow homeostasis and hence tissue viability after stroke. CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight the integral role of intercellular electrical signaling in transcribing focal stimuli into coordinated changes in cerebrovascular contractile activity and expose, a hitherto unknown mechanism for flow regulation after stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anil Zechariah
- Robarts Research Institute and the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada N6A 5B7
| | - Cam Ha T. Tran
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Libin Cardiovascular Institute and the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2N 4N1
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada, USA 89557
| | - Bjorn O. Hald
- Department of Neuroscience, Translational Neurobiology, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3, DK-2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Shaun L. Sandow
- University of the Sunshine Coast, Locked Bag 4, Maroochydore DC, Queensland 4558 Australia
| | - Maria Sancho
- Robarts Research Institute and the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada N6A 5B7
| | - Michelle Sun Mi Kim
- Robarts Research Institute and the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada N6A 5B7
| | - Sergio Fabris
- Robarts Research Institute and the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada N6A 5B7
| | - Ursula I. Tuor
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Libin Cardiovascular Institute and the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2N 4N1
| | - Grant R.J. Gordon
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Libin Cardiovascular Institute and the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2N 4N1
| | - Donald G. Welsh
- Robarts Research Institute and the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada N6A 5B7
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Libin Cardiovascular Institute and the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2N 4N1
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11
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Changchien CY, Sung MH, Chang HH, Tsai WC, Peng YS, Chen Y. Uremic toxin indoxyl sulfate suppresses myocardial Cx43 assembly and expression via JNK activation. Chem Biol Interact 2020; 319:108979. [PMID: 32045570 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2020.108979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Revised: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Heart rhythm disturbances have been widely recognized as major triggers of cardiovascular (CV) mortality in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. Connexin 43 (Cx43)-composed gap junctions are essential in cardiomyocyte synchronization and may be involved in the pathological response to uremic toxins. Indoxyl sulfate (IS) is one of the most dominant uremic toxins that contribute to CKD-related cardiovascular diseases. In primary cultures of rat neonatal cardiomyocytes, we demonstrated that IS treatment decreased spontaneous contraction without impairing viability. In addition, there was disruption of gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) between cardiomyocytes after 30 min of IS stimulation. IS caused time- and dose-dependent Cx43 redistribution, and the patterns of Cx43 immunostaining returned to baseline while IS stimulation was removed. Furthermore, IS exposure downregulated Cx43 protein and mRNA levels. Elevated JNK1 and JNK2 phosphorylation was further identified after IS exposure in both rat cardiomyocytes and H9c2 cells. The above changes as well as GJIC and Cx43 suppression were reversed by pretreatment with a JNK inhibitor (SP600125). Inhibition of p-JNK attenuated IS-mediated downward trends in Cx43 transcription and translation. In cardiac muscle from nephrectomy-induced CKD mice, an alteration in Cx43 level was identified at intercalated discs. Our findings disclosed that JNK activation might participate in the remodeling of gap junction and Cx43 expression by uremic toxin-IS both in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Ying Changchien
- Department of Biology and Anatomy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of General Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Ho Sung
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Han Chang
- Department of Biology and Anatomy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Chiuan Tsai
- Department of Pathology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Sen Peng
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan; College of Electrical and Communication Engineering, Yuan Ze University, Taoyuan City, Taiwan.
| | - Ying Chen
- Department of Biology and Anatomy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan.
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12
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Pogoda K, Kameritsch P. Molecular regulation of myoendothelial gap junctions. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2019; 45:16-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2019.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Revised: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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13
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Kim NK, Santos-Miranda A, Chen H, Aoyama H, Bai D. Heterotypic docking compatibility of human connexin37 with other vascular connexins. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2019; 127:194-203. [PMID: 30594540 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2018.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2018] [Revised: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 12/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Human vascular connexins (Cx37, Cx40, Cx43, and Cx45) can form various types of gap junction channels to synchronize vasodilation/constriction to control local circulation. Most of our knowledge on heterotypic gap junctions of these vascular connexins was from studies on rodent connexins. In human vasculature, the same four homolog connexins exist, but whether these human connexins can form heterotypic GJs as those of rodents have not been fully studied. Here we used in vitro expression system to study the coupling status and GJ channel properties of human heterotypic Cx37/Cx40, Cx37/Cx43, and Cx37/Cx45 GJs. Our results showed that Cx37/Cx43 and Cx37/Cx45 GJs, but not Cx37/Cx40 GJs, were functional and each with unique rectifying channel properties. The failure of docking between Cx37 and Cx40 could be rescued by designed Cx40 variants. Characterization of the heterotypic Cx37/Cx43 and Cx37/Cx45 GJs may help us in understanding the intercellular communication at the myoendothelial junction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas K Kim
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Artur Santos-Miranda
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Honghong Chen
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hiroshi Aoyama
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Donglin Bai
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.
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14
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Pogoda K, Kameritsch P, Mannell H, Pohl U. Connexins in the control of vasomotor function. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2019; 225:e13108. [PMID: 29858558 DOI: 10.1111/apha.13108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Revised: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial cells, as well as smooth muscle cells, show heterogeneity with regard to their receptor expression and reactivity. For the vascular wall to act as a functional unit, the various cells' responses require integration. Such an integration is not only required for a homogeneous response of the vascular wall, but also for the vasomotor behaviour of consecutive segments of the microvascular arteriolar tree. As flow resistances of individual sections are connected in series, sections require synchronization and coordination to allow effective changes of conductivity and blood flow. A prerequisite for the local coordination of individual vascular cells and different sections of an arteriolar tree is intercellular communication. Connexins are involved in a dual manner in this coordination. (i) By forming gap junctions between cells, they allow an intercellular exchange of signalling molecules and electrical currents. In particular, the spread of electrical currents allows for coordination of cell responses over longer distances. (ii) Connexins are able to interact with other proteins to form signalling complexes. In this way, they can modulate and integrate individual cells' responses also in a channel-independent manner. This review outlines mechanisms allowing the vascular connexins to exert their coordinating function and to regulate the vasomotor reactions of blood vessels both locally, and in vascular networks. Wherever possible, we focus on the vasomotor behaviour of small vessels and arterioles which are the main vessels determining vascular resistance, blood pressure and local blood flow.
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Affiliation(s)
- K. Pogoda
- Walter-Brendel-Centre of Experimental Medicine; University Hospital; LMU Munich; Munich Germany
- Biomedical Center; Cardiovascular Physiology; LMU Munich; Munich Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research); Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance; Munich Germany
| | - P. Kameritsch
- Walter-Brendel-Centre of Experimental Medicine; University Hospital; LMU Munich; Munich Germany
- Biomedical Center; Cardiovascular Physiology; LMU Munich; Munich Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research); Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance; Munich Germany
| | - H. Mannell
- Walter-Brendel-Centre of Experimental Medicine; University Hospital; LMU Munich; Munich Germany
- Biomedical Center; Cardiovascular Physiology; LMU Munich; Munich Germany
| | - U. Pohl
- Walter-Brendel-Centre of Experimental Medicine; University Hospital; LMU Munich; Munich Germany
- Biomedical Center; Cardiovascular Physiology; LMU Munich; Munich Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research); Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance; Munich Germany
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy); Munich Germany
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15
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Lei C, Ruan Y, Cai C, He B, Zhao D. Role of P38 mitogen-activated protein kinase on Cx43 phosphorylation in cerebral vasospasm after subarachnoid hemorrhage. Int J Neurosci 2018; 129:461-469. [PMID: 30369282 DOI: 10.1080/00207454.2018.1538992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Chao Lei
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Medical College, Shihezi University, Xinjiang, China
| | - Yutian Ruan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and Neurosurgery, Beitun Hospital of the Ten Division of the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, Xinjiang, China
| | - Changcheng Cai
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Medical College, Shihezi University, Xinjiang, China
| | - Bao He
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Medical College, Shihezi University, Xinjiang, China
| | - Dong Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Medical College, Shihezi University, Xinjiang, China
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16
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Liu S, Zheng F, Cai Y, Zhang W, Dun Y. Effect of Long-Term Exercise Training on lncRNAs Expression in the Vascular Injury of Insulin Resistance. J Cardiovasc Transl Res 2018; 11:459-469. [DOI: 10.1007/s12265-018-9830-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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17
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Moscato S, Cabiati M, Bianchi F, Vaglini F, Morales MA, Burchielli S, Botta L, Sabbatini ARM, Falleni A, Del Ry S, Mattii L. Connexin 26 Expression in Mammalian Cardiomyocytes. Sci Rep 2018; 8:13975. [PMID: 30228305 PMCID: PMC6143590 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-32405-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Connexins are a family of membrane-spanning proteins named according to their molecular weight. They are known to form membrane channels mediating cell-cell communication, which play an essential role in the propagation of electrical activity in the heart. Cx26 has been described in a number of tissues but not in the heart, and its mutations are frequently associated with deafness and skin diseases. The aim of this study was to assess the possible Cx26 expression in heart tissues of different mammalian species and to demonstrate its localization at level of cardiomyocytes. Samples of pig, human and rat heart and H9c2 cells were used for our research. Immunohistochemical and molecular biology techniques were employed to test the expression of Cx26. Interestingly, this connexin was found in cardiomyocytes, at level of clusters scattered over the cell cytoplasm but not at level of the intercalated discs where the other cardiac connexins are usually located. Furthermore, the expression of Cx26 in H9c2 myoblast cells increased when they were differentiated into cardiac-like phenotype. To our knowledge, the expression of Cx26 in pig, human and rat has been demonstrated for the first time in the present paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Moscato
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Histology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - M Cabiati
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, Pisa, Italy
| | - F Bianchi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Histology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - F Vaglini
- Department of Translational Research and of New Surgical and Medical Technologies, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - M A Morales
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - L Botta
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Niguarda Ca' Granda Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - A R M Sabbatini
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and of Emergency Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - A Falleni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Histology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - S Del Ry
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, Pisa, Italy
| | - L Mattii
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Histology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
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18
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Molica F, Figueroa XF, Kwak BR, Isakson BE, Gibbins JM. Connexins and Pannexins in Vascular Function and Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19061663. [PMID: 29874791 PMCID: PMC6032213 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19061663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Revised: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexins (Cxs) and pannexins (Panxs) are ubiquitous membrane channel forming proteins that are critically involved in many aspects of vascular physiology and pathology. The permeation of ions and small metabolites through Panx channels, Cx hemichannels and gap junction channels confers a crucial role to these proteins in intercellular communication and in maintaining tissue homeostasis. This review provides an overview of current knowledge with respect to the pathophysiological role of these channels in large arteries, the microcirculation, veins, the lymphatic system and platelet function. The essential nature of these membrane proteins in vascular homeostasis is further emphasized by the pathologies that are linked to mutations and polymorphisms in Cx and Panx genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Molica
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Xavier F Figueroa
- Departamento de Fisiología, Faculdad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontifica Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330025, Chile.
| | - Brenda R Kwak
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Brant E Isakson
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA.
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA.
| | - Jonathan M Gibbins
- Institute for Cardiovascular & Metabolic Research, School of Biological Sciences, Harborne Building, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6AS, UK.
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Liao J, Hong T, Xu J, Zeng E, Tang B, Lai W. Expression of Connexin43 in Cerebral Arteries of Patients with Moyamoya Disease. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2018; 27:1107-1114. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2017.11.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Revised: 10/22/2017] [Accepted: 11/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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20
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Kugler S, Nagy N, Rácz G, Tőkés AM, Dorogi B, Nemeskéri Á. Presence of cardiomyocytes exhibiting Purkinje-type morphology and prominent connexin45 immunoreactivity in the myocardial sleeves of cardiac veins. Heart Rhythm 2018; 15:258-264. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2017.09.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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21
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Wang LJ, Ma KT, Shi WY, Wang YZ, Zhao L, Chen XY, Li XZ, Jiang XW, Zhang ZS, Li L, Si JQ. Enhanced gap junctional channel activity between vascular smooth muscle cells in cerebral artery of spontaneously hypertensive rats. Clin Exp Hypertens 2017; 39:295-305. [PMID: 28513236 DOI: 10.1080/10641963.2016.1235181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study is to investigate the effects of hypertension on the gap junctions between vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) in the cerebral arteries (CAs) of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). The functions of gap junctions in the CAs of VSMCs in SHRs and control normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats were studied using whole-cell patch clamp recordings and pressure myography, and the expression levels of connexins were analyzed using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analyses. Whole-cell patch clamp measurements revealed that the membrane capacitance and conductance of in situ VSMCs in the CAs were significantly greater in SHRs than in WKY rats, suggesting that gap junction coupling is enhanced between VSMCs in the CAs of SHRs. Application of the endothelium-independent vasoconstrictors KCl or phenylephrine (PE) stimulated a greater vasoconstriction in the CAs of SHRs than in those of WKY rats. The EC50 value of KCl was 24.9 mM (n = 14) and 36.9 mM (n=12) for SHRs and WKY rats, respectively. The EC50 value of PE was 0.9 µM (n = 7) and 2.2 µM (n = 7) for SHRs and WKY rats, respectively. Gap junction inhibitors 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid (18β-GA), niflumic acid (NFA), and 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-APB) attenuated KCl-induced vasoconstriction in SHRs and WKY rats. The mRNA and protein expression levels of the gap junction protein connexin 45 (Cx45) were significantly higher in the CAs of SHRs than in those of WKY rats. Phosphorylated Cx43 protein expression was significantly higher in the CAs of SHRs than in those of WKY rats, despite the total Cx43 mRNA and protein expression levels in the cerebral artery (CA) exhibiting no significant difference between SHRs and WKY rats. Increases in the expression of Cx45 and phosphorylation of Cx43 may promote gap junction communication among VSMCs in the CAs of SHRs, which may enhance the contractile response of the CA to vasoconstrictors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Jie Wang
- a Department of Physiology , Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China
| | - Ke-Tao Ma
- a Department of Physiology , Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China.,b The Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China
| | - Wen-Yan Shi
- a Department of Physiology , Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China.,c Department of Physiology , Huazhong University of Science and Technology of Basic Medical Sciences , Wuhan , China
| | - Ying-Zi Wang
- a Department of Physiology , Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China
| | - Lei Zhao
- a Department of Physiology , Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China.,b The Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China
| | - Xin-Yan Chen
- a Department of Physiology , Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China
| | - Xin-Zhi Li
- a Department of Physiology , Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China.,b The Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China
| | - Xue-Wei Jiang
- a Department of Physiology , Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China
| | - Zhong-Shuang Zhang
- a Department of Physiology , Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China.,b The Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China
| | - Li Li
- a Department of Physiology , Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China.,b The Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China
| | - Jun-Qiang Si
- a Department of Physiology , Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China.,b The Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Medical College of Shihezi University , Shihezi , China.,c Department of Physiology , Huazhong University of Science and Technology of Basic Medical Sciences , Wuhan , China.,d Department of Physiology , Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences , Wuhan , China
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22
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Tsao DD, Wang SG, Lynn BD, Nagy JI. Immunofluorescence reveals unusual patterns of labelling for connexin43 localized to calbindin-D28K-positive interstitial cells in the pineal gland. Eur J Neurosci 2017; 45:1553-1569. [PMID: 28394432 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.13578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2016] [Revised: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 04/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Gap junctions between cells in the pineal gland have been described ultrastructurally, but their connexin constituents have not been fully characterized. We used immunofluorescence in combination with markers of pineal cells to document the cellular localization of connexin43 (Cx43). Immunofluorescence labelling of Cx43 with several different antibodies was widely distributed throughout the pineal, whereas another connexin examined, connexin26, was not found in pineal but only in surrounding leptomeninges. Labelling apparently associated with plasma membranes was visualized either as fine Cx43-puncta (1-2 μm) or as unusually large pools of Cx43 ranging up to 4-7 μm in diameter or length. These puncta and pools were highly concentrated in perivascular spaces, where they were associated with numerous cells devoid of labelling for markers of pinealocytes (e.g. tryptophan hydroxylase and serotonin), and where they were minimally associated with blood vessels and lacked association with resident macrophages. Astrocytes labelled for glial fibrillary acidic protein were largely restricted to the anterior pole of the pineal gland, where they displayed only fine and sparse Cx43-puncta along their processes. Labelling for Cx43 was localized largely though not exclusively to the somata and long processes of a subpopulation of perivascular interstitial cells that were immunopositive for calbindin-D28K. These cells were often located among dense bundles or termination areas of sympathetic fibres labelled for tyrosine hydroxylase or serotonin. The results indicate that interstitial cells form abundant gap junctions composed of Cx43, and suggest that gap junction-mediated intracellular communication by these cells supports the activities of pinealocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- D D Tsao
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, 745 Bannatyne Ave, Winnipeg, MB, R3E 0J9, Canada
| | - S G Wang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, 745 Bannatyne Ave, Winnipeg, MB, R3E 0J9, Canada
| | - B D Lynn
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, 745 Bannatyne Ave, Winnipeg, MB, R3E 0J9, Canada
| | - J I Nagy
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, 745 Bannatyne Ave, Winnipeg, MB, R3E 0J9, Canada
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Mondal A, Sachse FB, Moreno AP. Modulation of Asymmetric Flux in Heterotypic Gap Junctions by Pore Shape, Particle Size and Charge. Front Physiol 2017; 8:206. [PMID: 28428758 PMCID: PMC5382223 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2017.00206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2017] [Accepted: 03/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Gap junction channels play a vital role in intercellular communication by connecting cytoplasm of adjoined cells through arrays of channel-pores formed at the common membrane junction. Their structure and properties vary depending on the connexin isoform(s) involved in forming the full gap junction channel. Lack of information on the molecular structure of gap junction channels has limited the development of computational tools for single channel studies. Currently, we rely on cumbersome experimental techniques that have limited capabilities. We have earlier reported a simplified Brownian dynamics gap junction pore model and demonstrated that variations in pore shape at the single channel level can explain some of the differences in permeability of heterotypic channels observed in in vitro experiments. Based on this computational model, we designed simulations to study the influence of pore shape, particle size and charge in homotypic and heterotypic pores. We simulated dye diffusion under whole cell voltage clamping. Our simulation studies with pore shape variations revealed a pore shape with maximal flux asymmetry in a heterotypic pore. We identified pore shape profiles that match the in silico flux asymmetry results to the in vitro results of homotypic and heterotypic gap junction formed out of Cx43 and Cx45. Our simulation results indicate that the channel's pore-shape established flux asymmetry and that flux asymmetry is primarily regulated by the sizes of the conical and/or cylindrical mouths at each end of the pore. Within the set range of particle size and charge, flux asymmetry was found to be independent of particle size and directly proportional to charge magnitude. While particle charge was vital to creating flux asymmetry, charge magnitude only scaled the observed flux asymmetry. Our studies identified the key factors that help predict asymmetry. Finally, we suggest the role of such flux asymmetry in creating concentration imbalances of messenger molecules in cardiomyocytes. We also assess the potency of fibroblasts in aggravating such imbalances through Cx43-Cx45 heterotypic channels in fibrotic heart tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhijit Mondal
- Department of Bioengineering, University of UtahSalt Lake City, UT, USA.,Nora Eccles Harrison Cardiovascular Research and Training Institute, University of UtahSalt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Frank B Sachse
- Department of Bioengineering, University of UtahSalt Lake City, UT, USA.,Nora Eccles Harrison Cardiovascular Research and Training Institute, University of UtahSalt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Alonso P Moreno
- Department of Bioengineering, University of UtahSalt Lake City, UT, USA.,Nora Eccles Harrison Cardiovascular Research and Training Institute, University of UtahSalt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiology, University of UtahSalt Lake City, UT, USA
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Wang LJ, Zhang WW, Zhang L, Shi WY, Wang YZ, Ma KT, Liu WD, Zhao L, Li L, Si JQ. Association of connexin gene polymorphism with essential hypertension in Kazak and Han Chinese in Xinjiang, China. JOURNAL OF HUAZHONG UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY. MEDICAL SCIENCES = HUA ZHONG KE JI DA XUE XUE BAO. YI XUE YING DE WEN BAN = HUAZHONG KEJI DAXUE XUEBAO. YIXUE YINGDEWEN BAN 2017; 37:197-203. [PMID: 28397038 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-017-1715-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2016] [Revised: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Essential hypertension (EH) is affected by both genetic and environmental factors. The polymorphism of connexin (Cx) genes is found associated with the development of hypertension. However, the association of the polymorphism of Cxs with EH has not been investigated. This study aimed to investigate the association of the polymorphism of connexin (Cx) genes Cx37, Cx40, and Cx43 with EH in Kazak and Han Chinese in Xinjiang, China. Polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS) were used to analyze the polymorphism of Cx genes in Kazak and Han EH patients as well as their normotensive controls. The results showed that there were no significant differences in the frequencies of different three genotypes (A/A, A/G, and G/G) and A and G alleles of Cx40 rs35594137 and rs11552588 between EH patients and normotensive controls. However, in Kazak EH patients, the frequencies of three genotypes (A/A, A/G, and G/G) of Cx37 rs1630310 were 24.8%, 47.2% and 28.0%, respectively, which were significantly different from those in Han EH patients. In Han EH patients, the frequencies of the three genotypes (C/C, C/G and G/G) of Cx43 rs1925223 were 6.4%, 35.6% and 58.0%, respectively. Frequencies of the other four genotypes had no statistical differences among Kazak and Han EH patients and their normotensive controls. These results suggest polymorphisms of Cx37 rs1630310 and Cx43 rs1925223 genes may be associated with the pathogenesis of EH. Carrying Cx37 rs1630310-A or Cx43 rs1925223-G genotypes may protect against the development of EH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Jie Wang
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832002, China
- Department of ICU, First Affiliated Hospital of Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, 832008, China
| | - Wen-Wen Zhang
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832002, China
- The Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832002, China
| | - Liang Zhang
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832002, China
- The Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832002, China
| | - Wen-Yan Shi
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832002, China
- The Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832002, China
| | - Ying-Zi Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832002, China
| | - Ke-Tao Ma
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832002, China
- The Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832002, China
| | - Wei-Dong Liu
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832002, China
- The Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832002, China
| | - Lei Zhao
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832002, China
- The Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832002, China
| | - Li Li
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832002, China.
- The Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832002, China.
| | - Jun-Qiang Si
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832002, China.
- The Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, 832002, China.
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
- Department of Physiology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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Chua S, Lee FY, Chiang HJ, Chen KH, Lu HI, Chen YT, Yang CC, Lin KC, Chen YL, Kao GS, Chen CH, Chang HW, Yip HK. The cardioprotective effect of melatonin and exendin-4 treatment in a rat model of cardiorenal syndrome. J Pineal Res 2016; 61:438-456. [PMID: 27465663 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2016] [Accepted: 07/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the cardioprotective effect of melatonin (Mel) and exendin-4 (Ex4) treatment in a rat model of cardiorenal syndrome (CRS). Adult male SD rats (n=48) were randomly and equally divided into sham control (SC), dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) (doxorubicin 7 mg/kg i.p. every five days/4 doses), CRS (defined as DCM+CKD) only, CRS-Mel (20 mg/kg/d), CRS-Ex4 (10 μg/kg/d), and CRS-Mel-Ex4 groups. In vitro results showed protein expressions of oxidative stress (NOX-1/NOX-2/oxidized protein), DNA/mitochondrial damage (γ-H2AX/cytosolic cytochrome c), apoptosis (cleaved caspase-3/PARP), and senescence (β-galactosidase cells) biomarkers were upregulated, whereas mitochondrial ATP level was decreased in doxorubicin/p-cresol-treated H9c2 cells that were revised by Mel and Ex4 treatments (all P<.001). By day 60, LVEF was highest in the SC and lowest in the CRS, significantly lower in the DCM than in other treatment groups, lower in the CRS-Mel and CRS-Ex4 than in the CRS-Mel-Ex4, and lower in the CRS-Mel than in the CRS-Ex4, whereas LV chamber size and histopathology score showed a pattern opposite to that of LVEF among all groups (all P<.001). Plasma creatinine level was highest in the CRS and lowest in the SC and progressively decreased from the CRS-Mel, CRS-Ex4, CRS-Mel-Ex4 to DCM (P<.0001). Protein expressions of inflammation (TNF-α/NF-κB/MMP-2/MMP-9/IL-1β), apoptosis/DNA damage (Bax/c-caspase-3/c-PARP/γ-H2AX), fibrosis (Smad3/TGF-β), oxidative stress (NOX-1/NOX-2/NOX-4/oxidized protein), cardiac hypertrophy/pressure overload (BNP/β-MHC), and cardiac integrity (Cx43/α-MHC) biomarkers in LV myocardium showed an opposite pattern compared to that of LVEF among all groups (all P<.001). Fibrotic area, DNA damage (γ-H2AX+ /53BP1+ CD90+ /XRCC1+ CD90+ ), and inflammation (CD14+ /CD68+ ) biomarkers in LV myocardium displayed a pattern opposite to that of LVEF among all groups (all P<.001). Combined melatonin and exendin-4 treatment suppressed CRS-induced deterioration of LVEF and LV remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Chua
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
| | - Fan-Yen Lee
- Division of thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Ju Chiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Hung Chen
- Department of Biological Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hung-I Lu
- Division of thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Ta Chen
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Chao Yang
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Kun-Chen Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ling Chen
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Gour-Shenq Kao
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Hung Chen
- Divisions of General Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hsueh-Wen Chang
- Department of Biological Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hon-Kan Yip
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
- Institute for Translational Research in Biomedicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
- Center for Shockwave Medicine and Tissue Engineering, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
- Department of Nursing, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan.
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26
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Wang LJ, Liu WD, Zhang L, Ma KT, Zhao L, Shi WY, Zhang WW, Wang YZ, Li L, Si JQ. Enhanced expression of Cx43 and gap junction communication in vascular smooth muscle cells of spontaneously hypertensive rats. Mol Med Rep 2016; 14:4083-4090. [PMID: 27748857 PMCID: PMC5101886 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2016.5783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2015] [Accepted: 08/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Niflumic acid (NFA) is a novel gap junction (GJ) inhibitor. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of NFA on GJ communication and the expression of connexin (Cx) in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) of mesenteric arterioles of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Whole-cell patch clamp recording demonstrated that NFA at 1×10–4 M significantly inhibited the inward current and its effect was reversible. The time for charging and discharging of cell membrane capacitance (Cinput) reduced from 9.73 to 0.48 ms (P<0.05; n=6). Pressure myograph measurement showed that NFA at 3×10-4 M fully neutralized the contraction caused by phenylephrine. The relaxation responses of normotensive control Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats were significantly higher, compared with those of the SHRs (P<0.05; n=6). Western blot and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction analyses showed that the mRNA and protein expression levels of Cx43 of the third-level branch of mesenteric arterioles of the SHRs and WKY rats were higher, compared with those of the first-level branch. The mRNA and protein expression levels of Cx43 of the primary and third-level branches of the mesenteric arterioles in the SHRs were higher, compared with those in the WKY rats (P<0.05; n=6). The mRNA levels of Cx43 in the mesenteric arterioles were significantly downregulated by NFA in a concentration-dependent manner (P<0.01; n=6). The protein levels of Cx43 in primary cultured VSMCs isolated from the mesenteric arterioles were also significantly downregulated by NFA in a concentration-dependent manner (P<0.01; n=6). These results showed that the vasorelaxatory effects of GJ inhibitors were reduced in the SHRs, which was associated with a higher protein expression level of Cx43 in the mesenteric arterioles of the SHRs. NFA also relaxed the mesenteric arterioles by reducing the expression of Cx43, which decreased blood pressure. Therefore, regulation of the expression of GJs may be a therapeutic target for the treatment of hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Jie Wang
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang 832002, P.R. China
| | - Wei-Dong Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, Xinjiang 830001, P.R. China
| | - Liang Zhang
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang 832002, P.R. China
| | - Ke-Tao Ma
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang 832002, P.R. China
| | - Lei Zhao
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang 832002, P.R. China
| | - Wen-Yan Shi
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang 832002, P.R. China
| | - Wen-Wen Zhang
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang 832002, P.R. China
| | - Ying-Zi Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang 832002, P.R. China
| | - Li Li
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang 832002, P.R. China
| | - Jun-Qiang Si
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang 832002, P.R. China
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Sala G, Badalamenti S, Ponticelli C. The Renal Connexome and Possible Roles of Connexins in Kidney Diseases. Am J Kidney Dis 2015; 67:677-87. [PMID: 26613807 DOI: 10.1053/j.ajkd.2015.09.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2015] [Accepted: 09/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Connexins are membrane-spanning proteins that allow for the formation of cell-to-cell channels and cell-to-extracellular space hemichannels. Many connexin subtypes are expressed in kidney cells. Some mutations in connexin genes have been linked to various human pathologies, including cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, lung, and skin diseases, but the exact role of connexins in kidney disease remains unclear. Some hypotheses about a connection between genetic mutations, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and the unfolded protein response (UPR) in kidney pathology have been explored. The potential relationship of kidney disease to abnormal production of connexin proteins, mutations in their genes together with ER stress, or the UPR is still a matter of debate. In this scenario, it is tantalizing to speculate about a possible role of connexins in the setting of kidney pathologies that are thought to be caused by a deregulated podocyte protein expression, the so-called podocytopathies. In this article, we give examples of the roles of connexins in kidney (patho)physiology and propose avenues for further research concerning connexins, ER stress, and UPR in podocytopathies that may ultimately help refine drug treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Sala
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Humanitas Clinical Research Center, Rozzano (Milano), Italy.
| | - Salvatore Badalamenti
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Humanitas Clinical Research Center, Rozzano (Milano), Italy
| | - Claudio Ponticelli
- Nephrology and Dialysis Unit, Humanitas Clinical Research Center, Rozzano (Milano), Italy
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Yiqihuoxuejiedu Formula Restrains Vascular Remodeling by Reducing the Inflammation Reaction and Cx43 Expression in the Adventitia after Balloon Injury. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2015; 2015:904273. [PMID: 26557868 PMCID: PMC4629035 DOI: 10.1155/2015/904273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2015] [Revised: 07/30/2015] [Accepted: 08/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Vascular remodeling is closely related to hypertension, atherosclerosis, and restenosis after PCI. Considerable evidence indicates that the activation and proliferation of adventitial fibroblasts play key roles in vessel injury. The inflammatory response and high expression of connexins contribute to adventitial remodeling. Therefore, reducing inflammation reaction and connexins expression in adventitia may become a new target to prevent vascular remodeling. Yiqihuoxuejiedu formula, composed of TCM therapeutic principle of supplementing qi, activating blood and detoxification, can inhibit restenosis after intimal injury. To further investigate the effect of Yiqihuoxuejiedu formula on inflammation and connexins, we established a carotid artery injury model. In model rats, hyperplasia in the intima was mild but obvious in the adventitia; CRP heightened; expressions of MCP-1, CD68, and Cx43 increased. Yiqihuoxuejiedu formula relieved intimal hyperplasia and adventitial area, obviously diminished the expressions of CD68 and Cx43 in the adventitia, and reduced CRP but did not lower MCP-1. These results indicated that Yiqihuoxuejiedu formula inhibited vascular remodeling especially adventitial hyperplasia by reducing the inflammation reaction including lowering macrophages infiltration and systemic nonspecific inflammatory response and also restraining gap junction connexins leading to less communication among cells. This study provides new ideas and methods for the prevention and treatment of vascular remodeling.
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Relating specific connexin co-expression ratio to connexon composition and gap junction function. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2015; 89:195-202. [PMID: 26550940 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2015.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2015] [Revised: 10/05/2015] [Accepted: 11/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac connexin 43 (Cx43), Cx40 and Cx45 are co-expressed at distinct ratios in myocytes. This pattern is considered a key factor in regulating the gap junction channels composition, properties and function and remains poorly understood. This work aims to correlate gap junction function with the connexin composition of the channels at accurate ratios Cx43:Cx40 and Cx43:Cx45. Rat liver epithelial cells that endogenously express Cx43 were stably transfected to induce expression of accurate levels of Cx40 or Cx45 that may be present in various areas of the heart (e.g. atria and ventricular conduction system). Induction of Cx40 does not increase the amounts of junctional connexins (Cx43 and Cx40), whereas induction of Cx45 increases the amounts of junctional connexins (Cx43 and Cx45). Interestingly, the non-junctional fraction of Cx43 remains unaffected upon induction of Cx40 and Cx45. Co-immunoprecipitation studies show low level of Cx40/Cx43 heteromerisation and undetectable Cx45/Cx43 heteromerisation. Functional characterisation shows that induction of Cx40 and Cx45 decreases Lucifer Yellow transfer. Electrical coupling is decreased by Cx45 induction, whereas it is decreased at low induction of Cx40 and increased at high induction. These data indicate a fine regulation of the gap junction channel make-up in function of the type and the ratio of co-expressed Cxs that specifically regulates chemical and electrical coupling. This reflects specific gap junction function in regulating impulse propagation in the healthy heart, and a pro-arrhythmic potential of connexin remodelling in the diseased heart.
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Lungkaphin A, Pongchaidecha A, Palee S, Arjinajarn P, Pompimon W, Chattipakorn N. Pinocembrin reduces cardiac arrhythmia and infarct size in rats subjected to acute myocardial ischemia/reperfusion. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2015; 40:1031-7. [DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2015-0108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Oxidative stress plays an important role in the pathogenesis of ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury induced by cardiac dysfunction. Pinocembrin (5,7-dihydroxyflavanone) is a flavonoid found in propolis and in rhizomes of fingerroot (Boesenbergia pandurata) that is reported to have pharmacological properties including antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. The cardioprotective effects of pinocembrin in an I/R model were investigated in this study. Male Wistar rats (n = 20) were randomly divided into 2 groups to receive either pinocembrin (30 mg/kg body weight) or the vehicle intravenously. Thirty minutes later, the left anterior descending coronary artery of each rat was ligated for 30 min, and then reperfusion was allowed for 120 min. Cardiac function improved in the pinocembrin-treated group: the time to first ventricular fibrillation (VF) was significantly longer in the treated group (550 ± 54 s) than in the vehicle-only control group (330 ± 27 s) (p < 0.05). VF incidence and arrhythmia score were lower and infarcts were 49% smaller in the pinocembrin-treated group than in the control group (p < 0.05). In the pinocembrin-treated group, malondialdehyde levels and Bax/Bcl-2 ratios decreased, and the ratio of phosphorylated connexin 43 (phospho-Cx43) to total Cx43 increased in infarcted tissues compared with the non-infarcted area (p < 0.05). Pinocembrin exhibited cardioprotective effects during I/R, evidenced by improved cardiac function, fewer arrhythmias, and smaller infarcts in treated hearts than in controls. These benefits may be due to pinocembrin’s antiapoptotic and anti-oxidative stress effects and its ability to increase the phosphorylation of Cx43 in ischemic myocardium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anusorn Lungkaphin
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Anchalee Pongchaidecha
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Siripong Palee
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- School of Medicine, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand
| | - Phatchawan Arjinajarn
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Wilart Pompimon
- Department of Chemistry and Center of Excellence for Innovation in Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Lampang Rajabhat University, Lampang, Thailand
| | - Nipon Chattipakorn
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology Research, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
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HAN XIAOJIAN, HE DAN, XU LIANGJING, CHEN MIN, WANG YIQI, FENG JIUGENG, WEI MINJUN, HONG TAO, JIANG LIPING. Knockdown of connexin 43 attenuates balloon injury-induced vascular restenosis through the inhibition of the proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells. Int J Mol Med 2015; 36:1361-8. [DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2015.2346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2015] [Accepted: 08/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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32
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Del Ry S, Moscato S, Bianchi F, Morales MA, Dolfi A, Burchielli S, Cabiati M, Mattii L. Altered expression of connexin 43 and related molecular partners in a pig model of left ventricular dysfunction with and without dipyrydamole therapy. Pharmacol Res 2015; 95-96:92-101. [PMID: 25836920 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2015.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2014] [Revised: 03/23/2015] [Accepted: 03/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Gap junctions (GJ) mediate electrical coupling between cardiac myocytes, allowing the spreading of the electrical wave responsible for synchronized contraction. GJ function can be regulated by modulation of connexon densities on membranes, connexin (Cx) phosphorylation, trafficking and degradation. Recent studies have shown that adenosine (A) involves Cx43 turnover in A1 receptor-dependent manner, and dipyridamole increases GJ coupling and amount of Cx43 in endothelial cells. As the abnormalities in GJ organization and regulation have been described in diseased myocardium, the aim of the present study was to assess the regional expression of molecules involved in GJ regulation in a model of left ventricular dysfunction (LVD). For this purpose the distribution and quantitative expression of Cx43, its phosphorylated form pS368-Cx43, PKC phosphorylated substrates, RhoA and A receptors, were investigated in experimental models of right ventricular-pacing induced LVD, undergoing concomitant dipyridamole therapy or placebo, and compared with those obtained in the myocardium from sham-operated minipigs. Results demonstrate that an altered pattern of factors involved in Cx43-made GJ regulation is present in myocardium of a dysfunctioning left ventricle. Furthermore, dipyridamole treatment, which shows a mild protective role on left ventricular function, seems to act through modulating the expression and activation of these factors as confirmed by in vitro experiments on cardiomyoblastic cell line H9c2 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Del Ry
- CNR Institute of Clinical Physiology, Laboratory Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, CNR, Italy Clinical Physiology, Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefania Moscato
- Department of Clinic and Experimental Medicine, Section Histology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesco Bianchi
- Department of Clinic and Experimental Medicine, Section Histology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Maria Aurora Morales
- CNR Institute of Clinical Physiology, Laboratory Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, CNR, Italy Clinical Physiology, Pisa, Italy
| | - Amelio Dolfi
- Department of Clinic and Experimental Medicine, Section Histology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Manuela Cabiati
- CNR Institute of Clinical Physiology, Laboratory Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, CNR, Italy Clinical Physiology, Pisa, Italy
| | - Letizia Mattii
- Department of Clinic and Experimental Medicine, Section Histology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
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Han XJ, Chen M, Hong T, Zhu LY, He D, Feng JG, Jiang LP. Lentivirus-mediated RNAi knockdown of the gap junction protein, Cx43, attenuates the development of vascular restenosis following balloon injury. Int J Mol Med 2015; 35:885-92. [PMID: 25625334 PMCID: PMC4356439 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2015.2078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2014] [Accepted: 01/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Percutaneous coronary intervention [PCI or percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA)] has been developed into a mature interventional treatment for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. However, the long-term therapeutic effect is compromised by the high incidence of vascular restenosis following angioplasty, and the underlying mechanisms of vascular restenosis have not yet been fully elucidated. In the present study, we investigated the role of the gap junction (GJ) protein, connexin 43 (Cx43), in the development of vascular restenosis. To establish vascular restenosis, rat carotid arteries were subjected to balloon angioplasty injury. At 0, 7, 14 and 2 days following balloon injury, the arteries were removed, and the intimal/medial area of the vessels was measured to evaluate the degree of restenosis. We found that the intimal area gradually increased following balloon injury. Intimal hyperplasia and restenosis were particularly evident at 14 and 28 days after injury. In addition, the mRNA and protein expression of Cx43 was temporarily decreased at 7 days, and subsequently increased at 14 and 28 days following balloon injury, as shown by RT-PCR and western blot analysis. To determine the involvement of Cx43 in vascular restenosis, the lentivirus vector expressing shRNA targeting Cx43, Cx43-RNAi-LV, was used to silence Cx43 in the rat carotid arteries. The knockdown of Cx43 effectively attenuated the development of intimal hyperplasia and vascular restenosis following balloon injury. Thus, our data indicate the vital role of the GJ protein, Cx43, in the development of vascular restenosis, and provide new insight into the pathogenesis of vascular reste-nosis. Cx43 may prove to be a novel potential pharmacological target for the prevention of vascular restenosis following PCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Jian Han
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Min Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Tao Hong
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Ling-Yu Zhu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Dan He
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Jiu-Geng Feng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Li-Ping Jiang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
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Fry CH, Gray RP, Dhillon PS, Jabr RI, Dupont E, Patel PM, Peters NS. Architectural correlates of myocardial conduction: changes to the topography of cellular coupling, intracellular conductance, and action potential propagation with hypertrophy in Guinea-pig ventricular myocardium. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol 2014; 7:1198-204. [PMID: 25313260 DOI: 10.1161/circep.114.001471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We tested the hypothesis that alterations to action potential conduction velocity (CV) and conduction anisotropy in left ventricular hypertrophy are associated with topographical changes to gap-junction coupling and intracellular conductance by measuring these variables in the same preparations. METHODS AND RESULTS Left ventricular papillary muscles were excised from aortic-banded or sham-operated guinea-pig hearts. With intracellular stimulating and recording microelectrodes, CV was measured in 3 dimensions with simultaneous conductance mapping with subthreshold stimuli and correlated with quantitative histomorphometry of myocardial architecture and connexin 43 distribution. In hypertrophied myocardium, CV in the longitudinal axis was smaller and transverse velocity was greater compared with control; associated with similar differences of intracellular conductance, consistent with more cell contacts per cell (5.7 ± 0.2 versus 8.1 ± 0.5; control versus hypertrophy), and more intercalated disks mediating side-to-side coupling (8.2 ± 0.2 versus 10.2 ± 0.4 per cell). Intercalated disk morphology and connexin 43 immunolabelling were not different in hypertrophy. Hypertrophied preparations showed local submillimeter (≈250 μm) regions with slow conduction and low intracellular conductance, which, although not affecting CV on the millimeter scale, were consistent with discontinuities from increased microscopical connective tissue content. CONCLUSIONS With myocardial hypertrophy, altered longitudinal and transverse CV, and greater nonuniformity of CV anisotropy correspond to changes of intracellular conductance. These are associated with alteration of myocardial architecture, specifically the topography of cell-cell coupling and gap-junction connectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher H Fry
- From the School of Physiology, Pharmacology, and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom (C.H.F.); Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Whittington Hospital, London, United Kingdom (R.P.G.); Department of Cardiology, Ashford and St Peter's NHS Foundation Trust, Chertsey, United Kingdom (P.S.D.); Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, University of Surrey, Surrey, United Kingdom (R.I.J.); and Myocardial Function Section, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom (E.D., P.M.P., N.S.P.).
| | - Rosaire P Gray
- From the School of Physiology, Pharmacology, and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom (C.H.F.); Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Whittington Hospital, London, United Kingdom (R.P.G.); Department of Cardiology, Ashford and St Peter's NHS Foundation Trust, Chertsey, United Kingdom (P.S.D.); Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, University of Surrey, Surrey, United Kingdom (R.I.J.); and Myocardial Function Section, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom (E.D., P.M.P., N.S.P.)
| | - Paramdeep S Dhillon
- From the School of Physiology, Pharmacology, and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom (C.H.F.); Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Whittington Hospital, London, United Kingdom (R.P.G.); Department of Cardiology, Ashford and St Peter's NHS Foundation Trust, Chertsey, United Kingdom (P.S.D.); Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, University of Surrey, Surrey, United Kingdom (R.I.J.); and Myocardial Function Section, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom (E.D., P.M.P., N.S.P.)
| | - Rita I Jabr
- From the School of Physiology, Pharmacology, and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom (C.H.F.); Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Whittington Hospital, London, United Kingdom (R.P.G.); Department of Cardiology, Ashford and St Peter's NHS Foundation Trust, Chertsey, United Kingdom (P.S.D.); Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, University of Surrey, Surrey, United Kingdom (R.I.J.); and Myocardial Function Section, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom (E.D., P.M.P., N.S.P.)
| | - Emmanuel Dupont
- From the School of Physiology, Pharmacology, and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom (C.H.F.); Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Whittington Hospital, London, United Kingdom (R.P.G.); Department of Cardiology, Ashford and St Peter's NHS Foundation Trust, Chertsey, United Kingdom (P.S.D.); Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, University of Surrey, Surrey, United Kingdom (R.I.J.); and Myocardial Function Section, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom (E.D., P.M.P., N.S.P.)
| | - Pravina M Patel
- From the School of Physiology, Pharmacology, and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom (C.H.F.); Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Whittington Hospital, London, United Kingdom (R.P.G.); Department of Cardiology, Ashford and St Peter's NHS Foundation Trust, Chertsey, United Kingdom (P.S.D.); Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, University of Surrey, Surrey, United Kingdom (R.I.J.); and Myocardial Function Section, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom (E.D., P.M.P., N.S.P.)
| | - Nicholas S Peters
- From the School of Physiology, Pharmacology, and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom (C.H.F.); Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Whittington Hospital, London, United Kingdom (R.P.G.); Department of Cardiology, Ashford and St Peter's NHS Foundation Trust, Chertsey, United Kingdom (P.S.D.); Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, University of Surrey, Surrey, United Kingdom (R.I.J.); and Myocardial Function Section, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom (E.D., P.M.P., N.S.P.)
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Functional Role of Connexins and Pannexins in the Interaction Between Vascular and Nervous System. J Cell Physiol 2014; 229:1336-45. [DOI: 10.1002/jcp.24563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2013] [Accepted: 01/16/2014] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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Pogoda K, Füller M, Pohl U, Kameritsch P. NO, via its target Cx37, modulates calcium signal propagation selectively at myoendothelial gap junctions. Cell Commun Signal 2014; 12:33. [PMID: 24885166 PMCID: PMC4036488 DOI: 10.1186/1478-811x-12-33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2013] [Accepted: 05/03/2014] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gap junctional calcium signal propagation (transfer of calcium or a calcium releasing messenger via gap junctions) between vascular cells has been shown to be involved in the control of vascular tone. We have shown before that nitric oxide (NO) inhibits gap junctional communication in HeLa cells exclusively expressing connexin 37 (HeLa-Cx37) but not in HeLa-Cx40 or HeLa-Cx43. Here we studied the effect of NO on the gap junctional calcium signal propagation in endothelial cells which, in addition to Cx37, also express Cx40 and Cx43. Furthermore, we analyzed the impact of NO on intermuscle and on myoendothelial gap junction-dependent calcium signal propagation. Since specific effects of NO at one of these three junctional areas (interendothelial/ myoendothelial/ intermuscle) may depend on a differential membrane localization of the connexins, we also studied the distribution of the vascular connexins in small resistance arteries. RESULTS In endothelial (HUVEC) or smooth muscle cells (HUVSMC) alone, NO did not affect gap junctional Ca2+ signal propagation as assessed by analyzing the spread of Ca2+ signals after mechanical stimulation of a single cell. In contrast, at myoendothelial junctions, it decreased Ca2+ signal propagation in both directions by about 60% (co-cultures of HUVEC and HUVSMC). This resulted in a longer maintenance of calcium elevation at the endothelial side and a faster calcium signal propagation at the smooth muscle side, respectively. Immunohistochemical stainings (confocal and two-photon-microscopy) of cells in co-cultures or of small arteries revealed that Cx37 expression was relatively higher in endothelial cells adjoining smooth muscle (culture) or in potential areas of myoendothelial junctions (arteries). Accordingly, Cx37 - in contrast to Cx40 - was not only expressed on the endothelial surface of small arteries but also in deeper layers (corresponding to the internal elastic lamina IEL). Holes of the IEL where myoendothelial contacts can only occur, stained significantly more frequently for Cx37 and Cx43 than for Cx40 (endothelium) or Cx45 (smooth muscle). CONCLUSION NO modulates the calcium signal propagation specifically between endothelial and smooth muscle cells. The effect is due to an augmented distribution of Cx37 towards myoendothelial contact areas and potentially counteracts endothelial Ca2+ signal loss from endothelial to smooth muscle cells. This targeted effect of NO may optimize calcium dependent endothelial vasomotor function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Pogoda
- Walter Brendel Centre of Experimental Medicine, Munich Heart Alliance, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre of Cardiovascular Research), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Marchioninistr. 27, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Monika Füller
- Walter Brendel Centre of Experimental Medicine, Munich Heart Alliance, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Ulrich Pohl
- Walter Brendel Centre of Experimental Medicine, Munich Heart Alliance, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre of Cardiovascular Research), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Marchioninistr. 27, 81377 Munich, Germany
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergY), Munich, Germany
| | - Petra Kameritsch
- Walter Brendel Centre of Experimental Medicine, Munich Heart Alliance, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre of Cardiovascular Research), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Marchioninistr. 27, 81377 Munich, Germany
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Cell communication in a coculture system consisting of outgrowth endothelial cells and primary osteoblasts. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:320123. [PMID: 24967356 PMCID: PMC4016919 DOI: 10.1155/2014/320123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2013] [Revised: 01/29/2014] [Accepted: 03/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Bone tissue is a highly vascularized and dynamic system with a complex construction. In order to develop a construct for implant purposes in bone tissue engineering, a proper understanding of the complex dependencies between different cells and cell types would provide further insight into the highly regulated processes during bone repair, namely, angiogenesis and osteogenesis, and might result in sufficiently equipped constructs to be beneficial to patients and thereby accomplish their task. This study is based on an in vitro coculture model consisting of outgrowth endothelial cells and primary osteoblasts and is currently being used in different studies of bone repair processes with special regard to angiogenesis and osteogenesis. Coculture systems of OECs and pOBs positively influence the angiogenic potential of endothelial cells by inducing the formation of angiogenic structures in long-term cultures. Although many studies have focused on cell communication, there are still numerous aspects which remain poorly understood. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate certain growth factors and cell communication molecules that are important during bone repair processes. Selected growth factors like VEGF, angiopoietins, BMPs, and IGFs were investigated during angiogenesis and osteogenesis and their expression in the cultures was observed and compared after one and four weeks of cultivation. In addition, to gain a better understanding on the origin of different growth factors, both direct and indirect coculture strategies were employed. Another important focus of this study was to investigate the role of “gap junctions,” small protein pores which connect adjacent cells. With these bridges cells are able to exchange signal molecules, growth factors, and other important mediators. It could be shown that connexins, the gap junction proteins, were located around cell nuclei, where they await their transport to the cell membrane. In addition, areas in which two cells formed gap junctions were found.
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Koval M, Molina SA, Burt JM. Mix and match: investigating heteromeric and heterotypic gap junction channels in model systems and native tissues. FEBS Lett 2014; 588:1193-204. [PMID: 24561196 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2014.02.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2014] [Revised: 02/12/2014] [Accepted: 02/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
This review is based in part on a roundtable discussion session: "Physiological roles for heterotypic/heteromeric channels" at the 2013 International Gap Junction Conference (IGJC 2013) in Charleston, South Carolina. It is well recognized that multiple connexins can specifically co-assemble to form mixed gap junction channels with unique properties as a means to regulate intercellular communication. Compatibility determinants for both heteromeric and heterotypic gap junction channel formation have been identified and associated with specific connexin amino acid motifs. Hetero-oligomerization is also a regulated process; differences in connexin quality control and monomer stability are likely to play integral roles to control interactions between compatible connexins. Gap junctions in oligodendrocyte:astrocyte communication and in the cardiovascular system have emerged as key systems where heterotypic and heteromeric channels have unique physiologic roles. There are several methodologies to study heteromeric and heterotypic channels that are best applied to either heterologous expression systems, native tissues or both. There remains a need to use and develop different experimental approaches in order to understand the prevalence and roles for mixed gap junction channels in human physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Koval
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States; Department of Cell Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States.
| | - Samuel A Molina
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Janis M Burt
- Department of Physiology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
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Bautista W, Rash JE, Vanderpool KG, Yasumura T, Nagy JI. Re-evaluation of connexins associated with motoneurons in rodent spinal cord, sexually dimorphic motor nuclei and trigeminal motor nucleus. Eur J Neurosci 2013; 39:757-70. [PMID: 24313680 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.12450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2013] [Revised: 11/06/2013] [Accepted: 11/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Electrical synapses formed by neuronal gap junctions composed of connexin36 (Cx36) are a common feature in mammalian brain circuitry, but less is known about their deployment in spinal cord. It has been reported based on connexin mRNA and/or protein detection that developing and/or mature motoneurons express a variety of connexins, including Cx26, Cx32, Cx36 and Cx43 in trigeminal motoneurons, Cx36, Cx37, Cx40, Cx43 and Cx45 in spinal motoneurons, and Cx32 in sexually dimorphic motoneurons. We re-examined the localization of these connexins during postnatal development and in adult rat and mouse using immunofluorescence labeling for each connexin. We found Cx26 in association only with leptomeninges in the trigeminal motor nucleus (Mo5), Cx32 only with oligodendrocytes and myelinated fibers among motoneurons in this nucleus and in the spinal cord, and Cx37, Cx40 and Cx45 only with blood vessels in the ventral horn of spinal cord, including those among motoneurons. By freeze-fracture replica immunolabeling, > 100 astrocyte gap junctions but no neuronal gap junctions were found based on immunogold labeling for Cx43, whereas 16 neuronal gap junctions at postnatal day (P)4, P7 and P18 were detected based on Cx36 labeling. Punctate labeling for Cx36 was localized to the somatic and dendritic surfaces of peripherin-positive motoneurons in the Mo5, motoneurons throughout the spinal cord, and sexually dimorphic motoneurons at lower lumbar levels. In studies of electrical synapses and electrical transmission between developing and between adult motoneurons, our results serve to focus attention on mediation of this transmission by gap junctions composed of Cx36.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Bautista
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
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40
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Shimamura N, Ohkuma H. Phenotypic transformation of smooth muscle in vasospasm after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. Transl Stroke Res 2013; 5:357-64. [PMID: 24323729 DOI: 10.1007/s12975-013-0310-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2013] [Revised: 10/24/2013] [Accepted: 11/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Differentiated smooth muscle cells (SMC) control vasoconstriction and vasodilation, but they can undergo transformation, proliferate, secret cytokines, and migrate into the subendotherial layer with adverse consequences. In this review, we discuss the phenotypic transformation of SMC in cerebral vasospasm after subarachnoid hemorrhage. Phenotypic transformation starts with an insult as caused by aneurysm rupture: Elevation of intracranial and blood pressure, secretion of norepinephrine, and mechanical force on an artery are factors that can cause aneurysm. The phenotypic transformation of SMC is accelerated by inflammation, thrombin, and growth factors. A wide variety of cytokines (e.g., interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-33, matrix metalloproteinases, nitric oxidase synthases, endothelins, thromboxane A2, mitogen-activated protein kinase, platelet-derived vascular growth factors, and vascular endothelial factor) all play roles in cerebral vasospasm (CVS). We summarize the correlations between various factors and the phenotypic transformation of SMC. A new target of this study is the transient receptor potential channel in CVS. Statin together with fasdil prevents phenotypic transformation of SMC in an animal model. Clazosentan prevents CVS and improves outcome in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage in a dose-dependent manner. Clinical trials of cilostazol for the prevention of phenotypic transformation of SMC have been reported, along with requisite experimental evidence. To conquer CVS in its complexity, we will ultimately need to elucidate its general, underlying mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norihito Shimamura
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hirosaki University School of Medicine, 5-Zaihuchou, Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture, 036-8562, Japan,
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Dobrzynski H, Anderson RH, Atkinson A, Borbas Z, D'Souza A, Fraser JF, Inada S, Logantha SJRJ, Monfredi O, Morris GM, Moorman AFM, Nikolaidou T, Schneider H, Szuts V, Temple IP, Yanni J, Boyett MR. Structure, function and clinical relevance of the cardiac conduction system, including the atrioventricular ring and outflow tract tissues. Pharmacol Ther 2013; 139:260-88. [PMID: 23612425 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2013.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2013] [Accepted: 03/28/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
It is now over 100years since the discovery of the cardiac conduction system, consisting of three main parts, the sinus node, the atrioventricular node and the His-Purkinje system. The system is vital for the initiation and coordination of the heartbeat. Over the last decade, immense strides have been made in our understanding of the cardiac conduction system and these recent developments are reviewed here. It has been shown that the system has a unique embryological origin, distinct from that of the working myocardium, and is more extensive than originally thought with additional structures: atrioventricular rings, a third node (so called retroaortic node) and pulmonary and aortic sleeves. It has been shown that the expression of ion channels, intracellular Ca(2+)-handling proteins and gap junction channels in the system is specialised (different from that in the ordinary working myocardium), but appropriate to explain the functioning of the system, although there is continued debate concerning the ionic basis of pacemaking. We are beginning to understand the mechanisms (fibrosis and remodelling of ion channels and related proteins) responsible for dysfunction of the system (bradycardia, heart block and bundle branch block) associated with atrial fibrillation and heart failure and even athletic training. Equally, we are beginning to appreciate how naturally occurring mutations in ion channels cause congenital cardiac conduction system dysfunction. Finally, current therapies, the status of a new therapeutic strategy (use of a specific heart rate lowering drug) and a potential new therapeutic strategy (biopacemaking) are reviewed.
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Majima T, Takeuchi K, Sano K, Hirashima M, Zankov DP, Tanaka-Okamoto M, Ishizaki H, Miyoshi J, Ogita H. An Adaptor Molecule Afadin Regulates Lymphangiogenesis by Modulating RhoA Activity in the Developing Mouse Embryo. PLoS One 2013; 8:e68134. [PMID: 23840823 PMCID: PMC3694064 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0068134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2013] [Accepted: 05/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Afadin is an intracellular binding partner of nectins, cell-cell adhesion molecules, and plays important roles in the formation of cell-cell junctions. Afadin-knockout mice show early embryonic lethality, therefore little is known about the function of afadin during organ development. In this study, we generated mice lacking afadin expression in endothelial cells, and found that the majority of these mice were embryonically lethal as a result of severe subcutaneous edema. Defects in the lymphatic vessels of the skin were observed, although the morphology in the blood vessels was almost normal. Severe disruption of VE-cadherin-mediated cell-cell junctions occurred only in lymphatic endothelial cells, but not in blood endothelial cells. Knockout of afadin did not affect the differentiation and proliferation of lymphatic endothelial cells. Using in vitro assays with blood and lymphatic microvascular endothelial cells (BMVECs and LMVECs, respectively), knockdown of afadin caused elongated cell shapes and disruption of cell-cell junctions among LMVECs, but not BMVECs. In afadin-knockdown LMVECs, enhanced F-actin bundles at the cell periphery and reduced VE-cadherin immunostaining were found, and activation of RhoA was strongly increased compared with that in afadin-knockdown BMVECs. Conversely, inhibition of RhoA activation in afadin-knockdown LMVECs restored the cell morphology. These results indicate that afadin has different effects on blood and lymphatic endothelial cells by controlling the levels of RhoA activation, which may critically regulate the lymphangiogenesis of mouse embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Majima
- Department of Molecular Biology, Osaka Medical Center for Cancer and Cardiovascular Disease, Osaka, Japan
| | - Keisuke Takeuchi
- Division of Molecular Medical Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Shiga, Japan
| | - Keigo Sano
- Division of Vascular Biology, Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Masanori Hirashima
- Division of Vascular Biology, Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Dimitar P. Zankov
- Division of Molecular Medical Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Shiga, Japan
| | - Miki Tanaka-Okamoto
- Department of Molecular Biology, Osaka Medical Center for Cancer and Cardiovascular Disease, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hiroyoshi Ishizaki
- Department of Molecular Biology, Osaka Medical Center for Cancer and Cardiovascular Disease, Osaka, Japan
| | - Jun Miyoshi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Osaka Medical Center for Cancer and Cardiovascular Disease, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hisakazu Ogita
- Division of Molecular Medical Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Shiga, Japan
- * E-mail:
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Chaston DJ, Baillie BK, Grayson TH, Courjaret RJ, Heisler JM, Lau KA, Machaca K, Nicholson BJ, Ashton A, Matthaei KI, Hill CE. Polymorphism in endothelial connexin40 enhances sensitivity to intraluminal pressure and increases arterial stiffness. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2013; 33:962-70. [PMID: 23471232 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.112.300957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether impairment of endothelial connexin40 (Cx40), an effect that can occur in hypertension and aging, contributes to the arterial dysfunction and stiffening in these conditions. APPROACH AND RESULTS A new transgenic mouse strain, expressing a mutant Cx40, (Cx40T202S), specifically in the vascular endothelium, has been developed and characterized. This mutation produces nonfunctional hemichannels, whereas gap junctions containing the mutant are electrically, but not chemically, patent. Mesenteric resistance arteries from Cx40T202S mice showed increased sensitivity of the myogenic response to intraluminal pressure in vitro, compared with wild-type mice, whereas transgenic mice overexpressing native Cx40 (Cx40Tg) showed reduced sensitivity. In control and Cx40Tg mice, the sensitivity to pressure of myogenic constriction was modulated by both NO and endothelium-derived hyperpolarization; however, the endothelium-derived hyperpolarization component was absent in Cx40T202S arteries. Analysis of passive mechanical properties revealed that arterial stiffness was enhanced in vessels from Cx40T202S mice, but not in wild-type or Cx40Tg mice. CONCLUSIONS Introduction of a mutant form of Cx40 in the endogenous endothelial Cx40 population prevents endothelium-derived hyperpolarization activation during myogenic constriction, enhancing sensitivity to intraluminal pressure and increasing arterial stiffness. We conclude that genetic polymorphisms in endothelial Cx40 can contribute to the pathogenesis of arterial disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Chaston
- John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Bldg 131 Garran Rd, Acton Australian Capital Territory 0200 Australia.
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Blanke K, Dähnert I, Salameh A. Role of connexins in infantile hemangiomas. Front Pharmacol 2013; 4:41. [PMID: 23596415 PMCID: PMC3627141 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2013.00041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2013] [Accepted: 03/25/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The circulatory system is one of the first systems that develops during embryogenesis. Angiogenesis describes the formation of blood vessels as a part of the circulatory system and is essential for organ growth in embryogenesis as well as repair in adulthood. A dysregulation of vessel growth contributes to the pathogenesis of many disorders. Thus, an imbalance between pro- and antiangiogenic factors could be observed in infantile hemangioma (IH). IH is the most common benign tumor during infancy, which appears during the first month of life. These vascular tumors are characterized by rapid proliferation and subsequently slower involution. Most IHs regress spontaneously, but in some cases they cause disfigurement and systemic complications, which requires immediate treatment. Recently, a therapeutic effect of propranolol on IH has been demonstrated. Hence, this non-selective β-blocker became the first-line therapy for IH. Over the last years, our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of IH has been improved and possible mechanisms of action of propranolol in IH have postulated. Previous studies revealed that gap junction proteins, the connexins (Cx), might also play a role in the pathogenesis of IH. Therefore, affecting gap junctional intercellular communication is suggested as a novel therapeutic target of propranolol in IH. In this review we summarize the current knowledge of the molecular processes, leading to IH and provide new insights of how Cxs might be involved in the development of these vascular tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja Blanke
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Heart Center Leipzig, University of Leipzig Germany
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Curcumin ameliorates methylglyoxal-induced alterations of cellular morphology and hyperpermeability in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. J Funct Foods 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2013.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
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Morioka T, Okada S, Nameta M, Kamal F, Yanakieva-Georgieva NT, Yao J, Sato A, Piao H, Oite T. Glomerular expression of connexin 40 and connexin 43 in rat experimental glomerulonephritis. Clin Exp Nephrol 2013; 17:191-204. [PMID: 22945766 DOI: 10.1007/s10157-012-0687-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2012] [Accepted: 08/10/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gap junctional intercellular communication is thought to play an important role in the maintenance of cell differentiation and homeostasis. Gap junctions connect glomerular mesangial cells to each other. In this study, we examined the glomerular expression of connexins (Cxs) 40 and 43 at both the protein and transcript levels in anti-Thy1.1 glomerulonephritis (GN). METHODS Anti-Thy1.1 GN was induced by intravenous injection of anti-Thy1.1 monoclonal antibody 1-22-3. Cx protein expression was examined by immunofluorescence, immunoelectron microscopy, and Western blotting. Changes in mRNA levels were detected by real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS Cx40 was detected in mesangial cells in normal rat glomeruli; its expression was reduced on days 3 and 7 and recovered to normal on day 14 following GN induction. Cx43 was detected in mesangial cells and podocytes in normal rat glomeruli, and its expression did not change during the disease course of GN. Expression of Cx40 and Cx43 was also detected in extraglomerular mesangial cells; this expression did not change during the disease course. Opposing patterns of expression between Cx40 and smooth muscle actin (SMA) were observed with double-immunofluorescence labeling. SMA is a differentiation marker of mesangial cells; it is often expressed during proliferation but not under physiological conditions. CONCLUSION These results suggest that Cx40 expression in mesangial cells is related to mesangial cell regeneration. Thus, Cx expression regulation could be a therapeutic target for glomerular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetsuo Morioka
- Department of Cellular Physiology, Institute of Nephrology, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan.
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Li YY, Qian Y, Zhou CW. Lack of association between the connexin 37 C1019T gene polymorphism and coronary artery disease in a Chinese population: Meta-analysis of 2,206 subjects. Biomed Rep 2013; 1:464-468. [PMID: 24648969 DOI: 10.3892/br.2013.90] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2013] [Accepted: 03/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The connexin 37 (Cx37) C1019T gene polymorphism has been suggested to be correlated with increased coronary artery disease (CAD) risk, but research results remain inconsistent. To explore the relationship between the Cx37 C1019T gene polymorphism and CAD in a Chinese population, the current meta-analysis of 6 individual studies involving 1,244 CAD patients and 962 controls was conducted. The pooled odds ratios (ORs) as well as the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using a random- or fixed-effect model. No significant association was found between Cx37 C1019T gene polymorphism and CAD in the Chinese population under the allelic (OR=0.96; 95% CI=0.59-1.56, P=0.87), recessive (OR=0.77, 95% CI=0.28-2.08, P=0.60), dominant (OR=0.990, 95% CI=0.773-1.266, P=0.934), additive (OR=1.000, 95% CI=0.736-1.359, P=1.000), homozygous (OR=1.062, 95% CI=0.598-1.887, P=0.836) or heterozygous (OR=1.017, 95% CI=0.802-1.291, P=0.888) genetic models. Cx37 C1019T gene polymorphism was not suggested to be associated with CAD susceptibility in the Chinese population. In conclusion, no association was found between Cx37 C1019T gene polymorphism and CAD in the Chinese population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Yan Li
- Department of Geriatrics, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China
| | - Yun Qian
- Department of Geriatrics, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China
| | - Chuan-Wei Zhou
- Department of Geriatrics, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China
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Kline CF, Mohler PJ. Evolving form to fit function: cardiomyocyte intercalated disc and transverse-tubule membranes. CURRENT TOPICS IN MEMBRANES 2013; 72:121-58. [PMID: 24210429 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-417027-8.00004-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The vertebrate cardiac myocyte has evolved a highly organized cellular membrane architecture and cell-cell contacts in order to effectively transmit precisely timed and homogeneous depolarizing waves without failure (>2 billion times/human life span). Two unique specialized membrane domains, the intercalated disc and the transverse tubule (T-tubule), function to ensure the rapid and coordinated propagation of the action potential throughout the heart. Based on their critical roles in structure, signaling, and electric inter- and intracellular communication, it is not surprising that dysfunction in these membrane structures is associated with aberrant vertebrate physiology, resulting in potentially fatal congenital and acquired disease. This chapter will review the fundamental components of cardiomyocyte intercalated disc and transverse-tubule membranes with a focus on linking dysfunction in these membranes with human cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Crystal F Kline
- The Dorothy M. Davis Heart & Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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49
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Wang L, Yin J, Nickles HT, Ranke H, Tabuchi A, Hoffmann J, Tabeling C, Barbosa-Sicard E, Chanson M, Kwak BR, Shin HS, Wu S, Isakson BE, Witzenrath M, de Wit C, Fleming I, Kuppe H, Kuebler WM. Hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction requires connexin 40-mediated endothelial signal conduction. J Clin Invest 2012; 122:4218-30. [PMID: 23093775 PMCID: PMC3484430 DOI: 10.1172/jci59176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2011] [Accepted: 08/30/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (HPV) is a physiological mechanism by which pulmonary arteries constrict in hypoxic lung areas in order to redirect blood flow to areas with greater oxygen supply. Both oxygen sensing and the contractile response are thought to be intrinsic to pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells. Here we speculated that the ideal site for oxygen sensing might instead be at the alveolocapillary level, with subsequent retrograde propagation to upstream arterioles via connexin 40 (Cx40) endothelial gap junctions. HPV was largely attenuated by Cx40-specific and nonspecific gap junction uncouplers in the lungs of wild-type mice and in lungs from mice lacking Cx40 (Cx40-/-). In vivo, hypoxemia was more severe in Cx40-/- mice than in wild-type mice. Real-time fluorescence imaging revealed that hypoxia caused endothelial membrane depolarization in alveolar capillaries that propagated to upstream arterioles in wild-type, but not Cx40-/-, mice. Transformation of endothelial depolarization into vasoconstriction involved endothelial voltage-dependent α1G subtype Ca2+ channels, cytosolic phospholipase A2, and epoxyeicosatrienoic acids. Based on these data, we propose that HPV originates at the alveolocapillary level, from which the hypoxic signal is propagated as endothelial membrane depolarization to upstream arterioles in a Cx40-dependent manner.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Calcium Channels/metabolism
- Connexins/genetics
- Connexins/metabolism
- Endothelium, Vascular/metabolism
- Endothelium, Vascular/pathology
- Endothelium, Vascular/physiopathology
- Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells
- Humans
- Hypoxia/genetics
- Hypoxia/metabolism
- Hypoxia/pathology
- Hypoxia/physiopathology
- Lung/blood supply
- Lung/metabolism
- Lung/pathology
- Lung/physiopathology
- Mice
- Mice, Knockout
- Muscle, Smooth/metabolism
- Muscle, Smooth/pathology
- Muscle, Smooth/physiopathology
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/metabolism
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/pathology
- Phospholipases A2, Cytosolic/metabolism
- Pulmonary Artery/metabolism
- Pulmonary Artery/pathology
- Pulmonary Artery/physiopathology
- Signal Transduction
- Vasoconstriction
- Gap Junction alpha-5 Protein
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Affiliation(s)
- Liming Wang
- The Keenan Research Centre at the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Institute of Physiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany.
Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated People′s Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.
German Heart Institute, Berlin, Germany.
Division of Infectious Diseases and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany.
Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.
Laboratory of Clinical Investigation III, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève (HUG), and
Department of Pathology and Immunology, Université de Genève, Genève, Switzerland.
Center for Neural Science, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama, USA.
Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
Institute of Physiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
Department of Surgery and Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jun Yin
- The Keenan Research Centre at the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Institute of Physiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany.
Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated People′s Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.
German Heart Institute, Berlin, Germany.
Division of Infectious Diseases and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany.
Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.
Laboratory of Clinical Investigation III, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève (HUG), and
Department of Pathology and Immunology, Université de Genève, Genève, Switzerland.
Center for Neural Science, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama, USA.
Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
Institute of Physiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
Department of Surgery and Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hannah T. Nickles
- The Keenan Research Centre at the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Institute of Physiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany.
Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated People′s Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.
German Heart Institute, Berlin, Germany.
Division of Infectious Diseases and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany.
Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.
Laboratory of Clinical Investigation III, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève (HUG), and
Department of Pathology and Immunology, Université de Genève, Genève, Switzerland.
Center for Neural Science, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama, USA.
Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
Institute of Physiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
Department of Surgery and Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hannes Ranke
- The Keenan Research Centre at the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Institute of Physiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany.
Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated People′s Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.
German Heart Institute, Berlin, Germany.
Division of Infectious Diseases and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany.
Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.
Laboratory of Clinical Investigation III, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève (HUG), and
Department of Pathology and Immunology, Université de Genève, Genève, Switzerland.
Center for Neural Science, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama, USA.
Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
Institute of Physiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
Department of Surgery and Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Arata Tabuchi
- The Keenan Research Centre at the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Institute of Physiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany.
Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated People′s Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.
German Heart Institute, Berlin, Germany.
Division of Infectious Diseases and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany.
Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.
Laboratory of Clinical Investigation III, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève (HUG), and
Department of Pathology and Immunology, Université de Genève, Genève, Switzerland.
Center for Neural Science, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama, USA.
Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
Institute of Physiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
Department of Surgery and Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Julia Hoffmann
- The Keenan Research Centre at the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Institute of Physiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany.
Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated People′s Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.
German Heart Institute, Berlin, Germany.
Division of Infectious Diseases and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany.
Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.
Laboratory of Clinical Investigation III, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève (HUG), and
Department of Pathology and Immunology, Université de Genève, Genève, Switzerland.
Center for Neural Science, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama, USA.
Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
Institute of Physiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
Department of Surgery and Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christoph Tabeling
- The Keenan Research Centre at the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Institute of Physiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany.
Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated People′s Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.
German Heart Institute, Berlin, Germany.
Division of Infectious Diseases and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany.
Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.
Laboratory of Clinical Investigation III, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève (HUG), and
Department of Pathology and Immunology, Université de Genève, Genève, Switzerland.
Center for Neural Science, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama, USA.
Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
Institute of Physiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
Department of Surgery and Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Eduardo Barbosa-Sicard
- The Keenan Research Centre at the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Institute of Physiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany.
Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated People′s Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.
German Heart Institute, Berlin, Germany.
Division of Infectious Diseases and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany.
Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.
Laboratory of Clinical Investigation III, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève (HUG), and
Department of Pathology and Immunology, Université de Genève, Genève, Switzerland.
Center for Neural Science, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama, USA.
Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
Institute of Physiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
Department of Surgery and Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marc Chanson
- The Keenan Research Centre at the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Institute of Physiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany.
Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated People′s Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.
German Heart Institute, Berlin, Germany.
Division of Infectious Diseases and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany.
Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.
Laboratory of Clinical Investigation III, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève (HUG), and
Department of Pathology and Immunology, Université de Genève, Genève, Switzerland.
Center for Neural Science, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama, USA.
Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
Institute of Physiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
Department of Surgery and Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brenda R. Kwak
- The Keenan Research Centre at the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Institute of Physiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany.
Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated People′s Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.
German Heart Institute, Berlin, Germany.
Division of Infectious Diseases and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany.
Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.
Laboratory of Clinical Investigation III, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève (HUG), and
Department of Pathology and Immunology, Université de Genève, Genève, Switzerland.
Center for Neural Science, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama, USA.
Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
Institute of Physiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
Department of Surgery and Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hee-Sup Shin
- The Keenan Research Centre at the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Institute of Physiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany.
Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated People′s Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.
German Heart Institute, Berlin, Germany.
Division of Infectious Diseases and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany.
Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.
Laboratory of Clinical Investigation III, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève (HUG), and
Department of Pathology and Immunology, Université de Genève, Genève, Switzerland.
Center for Neural Science, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama, USA.
Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
Institute of Physiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
Department of Surgery and Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Songwei Wu
- The Keenan Research Centre at the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Institute of Physiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany.
Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated People′s Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.
German Heart Institute, Berlin, Germany.
Division of Infectious Diseases and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany.
Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.
Laboratory of Clinical Investigation III, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève (HUG), and
Department of Pathology and Immunology, Université de Genève, Genève, Switzerland.
Center for Neural Science, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama, USA.
Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
Institute of Physiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
Department of Surgery and Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brant E. Isakson
- The Keenan Research Centre at the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Institute of Physiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany.
Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated People′s Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.
German Heart Institute, Berlin, Germany.
Division of Infectious Diseases and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany.
Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.
Laboratory of Clinical Investigation III, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève (HUG), and
Department of Pathology and Immunology, Université de Genève, Genève, Switzerland.
Center for Neural Science, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama, USA.
Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
Institute of Physiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
Department of Surgery and Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Martin Witzenrath
- The Keenan Research Centre at the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Institute of Physiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany.
Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated People′s Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.
German Heart Institute, Berlin, Germany.
Division of Infectious Diseases and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany.
Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.
Laboratory of Clinical Investigation III, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève (HUG), and
Department of Pathology and Immunology, Université de Genève, Genève, Switzerland.
Center for Neural Science, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama, USA.
Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
Institute of Physiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
Department of Surgery and Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Cor de Wit
- The Keenan Research Centre at the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Institute of Physiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany.
Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated People′s Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.
German Heart Institute, Berlin, Germany.
Division of Infectious Diseases and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany.
Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.
Laboratory of Clinical Investigation III, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève (HUG), and
Department of Pathology and Immunology, Université de Genève, Genève, Switzerland.
Center for Neural Science, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama, USA.
Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
Institute of Physiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
Department of Surgery and Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ingrid Fleming
- The Keenan Research Centre at the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Institute of Physiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany.
Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated People′s Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.
German Heart Institute, Berlin, Germany.
Division of Infectious Diseases and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany.
Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.
Laboratory of Clinical Investigation III, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève (HUG), and
Department of Pathology and Immunology, Université de Genève, Genève, Switzerland.
Center for Neural Science, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama, USA.
Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
Institute of Physiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
Department of Surgery and Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hermann Kuppe
- The Keenan Research Centre at the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Institute of Physiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany.
Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated People′s Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.
German Heart Institute, Berlin, Germany.
Division of Infectious Diseases and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany.
Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.
Laboratory of Clinical Investigation III, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève (HUG), and
Department of Pathology and Immunology, Université de Genève, Genève, Switzerland.
Center for Neural Science, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama, USA.
Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
Institute of Physiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
Department of Surgery and Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Wolfgang M. Kuebler
- The Keenan Research Centre at the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Institute of Physiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany.
Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Affiliated People′s Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.
German Heart Institute, Berlin, Germany.
Division of Infectious Diseases and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany.
Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.
Laboratory of Clinical Investigation III, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève (HUG), and
Department of Pathology and Immunology, Université de Genève, Genève, Switzerland.
Center for Neural Science, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama, USA.
Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
Institute of Physiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
Department of Surgery and Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Kar R, Batra N, Riquelme MA, Jiang JX. Biological role of connexin intercellular channels and hemichannels. Arch Biochem Biophys 2012; 524:2-15. [PMID: 22430362 PMCID: PMC3376239 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2012.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2011] [Revised: 02/16/2012] [Accepted: 03/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Gap junctions (GJ) and hemichannels (HC) formed from the protein subunits called connexins are transmembrane conduits for the exchange of small molecules and ions. Connexins and another group of HC-forming proteins, pannexins comprise the two families of transmembrane proteins ubiquitously distributed in vertebrates. Most cell types express more than one connexin or pannexin. While connexin expression and channel activity may vary as a function of physiological and pathological states of the cell and tissue, only a few studies suggest the involvement of pannexin HC in acquired pathological conditions. Importantly, genetic mutations in connexin appear to interfere with GJ and HC function which results in several diseases. Thus connexins could serve as potential drug target for therapeutic intervention. Growing evidence suggests that diseases resulting from HC dysfunction might open a new direction for development of specific HC reagents. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current studies of GJ and HC formed by connexins and pannexins in various tissue and organ systems including heart, central nervous system, kidney, mammary glands, ovary, testis, lens, retina, inner ear, bone, cartilage, lung and liver. In addition, present knowledge of the role of GJ and HC in cell cycle progression, carcinogenesis and stem cell development is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Manuel A Riquelme
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229-3900
| | - Jean X. Jiang
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229-3900
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