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Mathew V, Mei A, Giwa H, Cheong A, Chander A, Zou A, Blanton RM, Kashpur O, Cui W, Slonim D, Mahmoud T, O'Tierney-Ginn P, Mager J, Draper I, Wallingford MC. hnRNPL expression dynamics in the embryo and placenta. Gene Expr Patterns 2023; 48:119319. [PMID: 37148985 DOI: 10.1016/j.gep.2023.119319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein L (hnRNPL) is a conserved RNA binding protein (RBP) that plays an important role in the alternative splicing of gene transcripts, and thus in the generation of specific protein isoforms. Global deficiency in hnRNPL in mice results in preimplantation embryonic lethality at embryonic day (E) 3.5. To begin to understand the contribution of hnRNPL-regulated pathways in the normal development of the embryo and placenta, we determined hnRNPL expression profile and subcellular localization throughout development. Proteome and Western blot analyses were employed to determine hnRNPL abundance between E3.5 and E17.5. Histological analyses supported that the embryo and implantation site display distinct hnRNPL localization patterns. In the fully developed mouse placenta, nuclear hnRNPL was observed broadly in trophoblasts, whereas within the implantation site a discrete subset of cells showed hnRNPL outside the nucleus. In the first-trimester human placenta, hnRNPL was detected in the undifferentiated cytotrophoblasts, suggesting a role for this factor in trophoblast progenitors. Parallel in vitro studies utilizing Htr8 and Jeg3 cell lines confirmed expression of hnRNPL in cellular models of human trophoblasts. These studies coordinated regulation of hnRNPL during the normal developmental program in the mammalian embryo and placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vineetha Mathew
- Mother Infant Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, 800 Washington St, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - Ariel Mei
- Mother Infant Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, 800 Washington St, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - Hamida Giwa
- Mother Infant Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, 800 Washington St, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - Agnes Cheong
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, 01003, USA
| | - Ashmita Chander
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, 01003, USA
| | - Aaron Zou
- Molecular Cardiology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, 800 Washington St, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - Robert M Blanton
- Molecular Cardiology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, 800 Washington St, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - Olga Kashpur
- Mother Infant Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, 800 Washington St, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - Wei Cui
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, 01003, USA
| | - Donna Slonim
- Department of Computer Science, Tufts University, 177 College Avenue, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
| | - Taysir Mahmoud
- Mother Infant Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, 800 Washington St, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - Perrie O'Tierney-Ginn
- Mother Infant Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, 800 Washington St, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - Jesse Mager
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, 01003, USA
| | - Isabelle Draper
- Molecular Cardiology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, 800 Washington St, Boston, MA, 02111, USA.
| | - Mary C Wallingford
- Mother Infant Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, 800 Washington St, Boston, MA, 02111, USA; Molecular Cardiology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, 800 Washington St, Boston, MA, 02111, USA.
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2
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Sasagawa T, Nagamatsu T, Shibuya M. CRISPR/Cas9-mediated mutations in both a cAMP response element and an ETS-binding site suppress FLT1 gene expression. Exp Cell Res 2023; 424:113500. [PMID: 36720378 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2023.113500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The Fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (FLT1) gene is expressed in various types of cells, including vascular endothelial cells and placental trophoblasts, and regulates angiogenesis, inflammation, and pregnancy. However, the basal transcriptional machinery of FLT1 is still not well understood. In this study, we first examined FLT1 promoter activity in three different types of cells, that is, trophoblast-derived cells, vascular endothelial-related cells, and HEK293 cells, using plasmid-based luciferase reporter assays, and showed that a cAMP-response element (CRE) and an ETS-binding site (EBS) are important for FLT1 expression in all cell types. To further examine the importance of these sites at the chromosomal level using HEK293 cells, we introduced CRISPR/Cas9-mediated mutations in these sites on the genomic DNA. HEK293 cells carrying these mutations clearly showed a significant decrease in endogenous FLT1 gene expression. These results suggest that CRE and EBS transcription regulatory elements are crucial for FLT1 gene expression in human tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tadashi Sasagawa
- Institute of Physiology and Medicine, Jobu University, Gunma, 370-1393, Japan
| | - Takeshi Nagamatsu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, International University of Healthcare and Welfare, Chiba, 286-8686, Japan
| | - Masabumi Shibuya
- Institute of Physiology and Medicine, Jobu University, Gunma, 370-1393, Japan.
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3
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Kremer V, Oppelaar JJ, Gimbel T, Koziarek S, Ganzevoort W, van Pampus MG, van den Born BJ, Vogt L, de Groot C, Boon RA. Neuro-oncological Ventral Antigen 2 Regulates Splicing of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor 1 and Is Required for Endothelial Function. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:678-689. [PMID: 35927413 PMCID: PMC9988812 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-01044-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Pre-eclampsia (PE) affects 2-8% of pregnancies and is responsible for significant morbidity and mortality. The maternal clinical syndrome (defined by hypertension, proteinuria, and organ dysfunction) is the result of endothelial dysfunction. The endothelial response to increased levels of soluble FMS-like Tyrosine Kinase 1 (sFLT1) is thought to play a central role. sFLT1 is released from multiple tissues and binds VEGF with high affinity and antagonizes VEGF. Expression of soluble variants of sFLT1 is a result of alternative splicing; however, the mechanism is incompletely understood. We hypothesize that neuro-oncological ventral antigen 2 (NOVA2) contributes to this. NOVA2 was inhibited in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and multiple cellular functions were assessed. NOVA2 and FLT1 expression in the placenta of PE, pregnancy-induced hypertension, and normotensive controls was measured by RT-qPCR. Loss of NOVA2 in HUVECs resulted in significantly increased levels of sFLT1, but did not affect expression of membrane-bound FLT1. NOVA2 protein was shown to directly interact with FLT1 mRNA. Loss of NOVA2 was also accompanied by impaired endothelial functions such as sprouting. We were able to restore sprouting capacity by exogenous VEGF. We did not observe statistically significant regulation of NOVA2 or sFLT1 in the placenta. However, we observed a negative correlation between sFLT1 and NOVA2 expression levels. In conclusion, NOVA2 was found to regulate FLT1 splicing in the endothelium. Loss of NOVA2 resulted in impaired endothelial function, at least partially dependent on VEGF. In PE patients, we observed a negative correlation between NOVA2 and sFLT1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veerle Kremer
- Department of Physiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, VU Medical Center, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Medical Chemistry, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Microcirculation, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jetta J Oppelaar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Nephrology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Theresa Gimbel
- Institute of Cardiovascular Regeneration, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,German Centre for Cardiovascular Research DZHK, Partner Site Frankfurt Rhein/Main, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Susanne Koziarek
- Institute of Cardiovascular Regeneration, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,German Centre for Cardiovascular Research DZHK, Partner Site Frankfurt Rhein/Main, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Wessel Ganzevoort
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, Amsterdam UMC University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Bert-Jan van den Born
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Atherosclerosis and Ischemic Syndromes, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Liffert Vogt
- Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Microcirculation, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Nephrology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Christianne de Groot
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Reinier A Boon
- Department of Physiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, VU Medical Center, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. .,Institute of Cardiovascular Regeneration, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany. .,German Centre for Cardiovascular Research DZHK, Partner Site Frankfurt Rhein/Main, Frankfurt am Main, Germany. .,Amsterdam UMC, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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4
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Lewis CTA, Mascall KS, Wilson HM, Murray F, Kerr KM, Gibson G, Buchan K, Small GR, Nixon GF. An endogenous inhibitor of angiogenesis downregulated by hypoxia in human aortic valve stenosis promotes disease pathogenesis. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2023; 174:25-37. [PMID: 36336008 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2022.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Aortic valve stenosis is the most common valve disease in the western world. Central to the pathogenesis of this disease is the growth of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) within the aortic valve allowing infiltration of immune cells and development of intra-valve inflammation. Identifying the cellular mediators involved in this angiogenesis is important as this may reveal new therapeutic targets which could ultimately prevent the progression of aortic valve stenosis. Aortic valves from patients undergoing surgery for aortic valve replacement or dilation of the aortic arch were examined both ex vivo and in vitro. We now demonstrate that the anti-angiogenic protein, soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt1), a non-signalling soluble receptor for vascular endothelial growth factor, is constitutively expressed in non-diseased valves. sFlt-1 expression was, however, significantly reduced in aortic valve tissue from patients with aortic valve stenosis while protein markers of hypoxia were simultaneously increased. Exposure of primary-cultured valve interstitial cells to hypoxia resulted in a decrease in the expression of sFlt-1. We further reveal using a bioassay that siRNA knock-down of sFlt1 in valve interstitial cells directly results in a pro-angiogenic environment. Finally, incubation of aortic valves with sphingosine 1-phosphate, a bioactive lipid-mediator, increased sFlt-1 expression and inhibited angiogenesis within valve tissue. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that sFlt1 expression is directly correlated with angiogenesis in aortic valves and the observed decrease in sFlt-1 expression in aortic valve stenosis could increase valve inflammation, promoting disease progression. This could be a viable therapeutic target in treating this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher T A Lewis
- Aberdeen Cardiovascular and Diabetes Centre, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, UK
| | - Keith S Mascall
- Aberdeen Cardiovascular and Diabetes Centre, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, UK
| | - Heather M Wilson
- Aberdeen Cardiovascular and Diabetes Centre, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, UK
| | - Fiona Murray
- Aberdeen Cardiovascular and Diabetes Centre, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, UK
| | - Keith M Kerr
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen and Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, UK
| | - George Gibson
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, UK
| | - Keith Buchan
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, UK
| | - Gary R Small
- Division of Cardiology, University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Graeme F Nixon
- Aberdeen Cardiovascular and Diabetes Centre, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, UK.
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5
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Bogias KJ, Pederson SM, Leemaqz S, Smith MD, McAninch D, Jankovic-Karasoulos T, McCullough D, Wan Q, Bianco-Miotto T, Breen J, Roberts CT. Placental Transcription Profiling in 6-23 Weeks' Gestation Reveals Differential Transcript Usage in Early Development. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094506. [PMID: 35562897 PMCID: PMC9105363 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The human placenta is a rapidly developing transient organ that is key to pregnancy success. Early development of the conceptus occurs in a low oxygen environment before oxygenated maternal blood begins to flow into the placenta at ~10-12 weeks' gestation. This process is likely to substantially affect overall placental gene expression. Transcript variability underlying gene expression has yet to be profiled. In this study, accurate transcript expression profiles were identified for 84 human placental chorionic villus tissue samples collected across 6-23 weeks' gestation. Differential gene expression (DGE), differential transcript expression (DTE) and differential transcript usage (DTU) between 6-10 weeks' and 11-23 weeks' gestation groups were assessed. In total, 229 genes had significant DTE yet no significant DGE. Integration of DGE and DTE analyses found that differential expression patterns of individual transcripts were commonly masked upon aggregation to the gene-level. Of the 611 genes that exhibited DTU, 534 had no significant DGE or DTE. The four most significant DTU genes ADAM10, VMP1, GPR126, and ASAH1, were associated with hypoxia-responsive pathways. Transcript usage is a likely regulatory mechanism in early placentation. Identification of functional roles will facilitate new insight in understanding the origins of pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos J. Bogias
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; (K.J.B.); (S.L.); (D.M.); (T.J.-K.)
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia;
| | - Stephen M. Pederson
- Dame Roma Mitchell Cancer Research Laboratories, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia;
| | - Shalem Leemaqz
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; (K.J.B.); (S.L.); (D.M.); (T.J.-K.)
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia;
- Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia; (M.D.S.); (D.M.); (Q.W.)
| | - Melanie D. Smith
- Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia; (M.D.S.); (D.M.); (Q.W.)
| | - Dale McAninch
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; (K.J.B.); (S.L.); (D.M.); (T.J.-K.)
| | - Tanja Jankovic-Karasoulos
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; (K.J.B.); (S.L.); (D.M.); (T.J.-K.)
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia;
- Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia; (M.D.S.); (D.M.); (Q.W.)
| | - Dylan McCullough
- Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia; (M.D.S.); (D.M.); (Q.W.)
| | - Qianhui Wan
- Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia; (M.D.S.); (D.M.); (Q.W.)
| | - Tina Bianco-Miotto
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia;
- School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, Waite Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - James Breen
- Indigenous Genomics, Telethon Kids Institute (Adelaide Office), Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia;
- College of Health & Medicine, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2600, Australia
| | - Claire T. Roberts
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; (K.J.B.); (S.L.); (D.M.); (T.J.-K.)
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia;
- Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia; (M.D.S.); (D.M.); (Q.W.)
- Correspondence:
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6
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Bakrania BA, George EM, Granger JP. Animal models of preeclampsia: investigating pathophysiology and therapeutic targets. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2022; 226:S973-S987. [PMID: 33722383 PMCID: PMC8141071 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2020.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Animal models have been critical in investigating the pathogenesis, mediators, and even therapeutic options for a number of diseases, including preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is the leading cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality worldwide. The placenta is thought to play a central role in the pathogenesis of this disease because it releases antiangiogenic and proinflammatory factors into the maternal circulation, resulting in the maternal syndrome. Despite the deleterious effects preeclampsia has been shown to have on the mother and baby during pregnancy and postpartum, there is still no effective treatment for this disease. Although clinical studies in patients are crucial to identify the involvement of pathogenic factors in preeclampsia, there are obvious limitations that prevent detailed investigation of the quantitative importance of time-dependent mechanisms involved in this syndrome. Animal models allow investigators to perform proof-of-concept studies and examine whether certain factors found in women with preeclampsia mediate hypertension and other manifestations of this disease. In this brief review, we summarize some of the more widely studied models used to investigate pathophysiological mechanisms that are thought to be involved in preeclampsia. These include models of placental ischemia, angiogenic imbalance, and maternal immune activation. Infusion of preeclampsia-related factors into animals has been widely studied to understand the specific mediators of this disease. These models have been included, in addition to a number of genetic models involved in overexpression of the renin-angiotensin system, complement activation, and trophoblast differentiation. Together, these models cover multiple mechanisms of preeclampsia from trophoblast dysfunction and impaired placental vascularization to the excess circulating placental factors and clinical manifestation of this disease. Most animal studies have been performed in rats and mice; however, we have also incorporated nonhuman primate models in this review. Preclinical animal models not only have been instrumental in understanding the pathophysiology of preeclampsia but also continue to be important tools in the search for novel therapeutic options for the treatment of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhavisha A Bakrania
- Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
| | - Eric M George
- Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
| | - Joey P Granger
- Cardiovascular-Renal Research Center, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS.
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7
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Sasagawa T, Nagamatsu T, Yanagisawa M, Fujii T, Shibuya M. Hypoxia-inducible factor-1β is essential for upregulation of the hypoxia-induced FLT1 gene in placental trophoblasts. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 27:6402014. [PMID: 34665260 PMCID: PMC8633902 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaab065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Placental hypoxia and increased levels of maternal blood anti-angiogenic protein, soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFLT1), are associated with the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia. We have demonstrated that hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-2α mediates the upregulation of the hypoxia-induced FLT1 gene in trophoblasts and their cell lines. Here, we investigated the involvement of HIF-1β, which acts as a dimerization partner for HIF-α, in the upregulation of the FLT1 gene via hypoxia. We confirmed the interactions between HIF-1β and HIF-2α in the nuclei of BeWo, JAR and JEG-3 cells under hypoxia via co-immunoprecipitation. We found that hypoxia-induced upregulation of the FLT1 gene in BeWo cells and secretion of sFLT1 in human primary trophoblasts were significantly reduced by siRNAs targeting HIF-1β. Moreover, the upregulation of the FLT1 gene in BeWo cells induced by dimethyloxaloylglycine (DMOG) was also inhibited by silencing either HIF-2α or HIF-1β mRNA. It was recently shown that DNA demethylation increases both basal and hypoxia-induced expression levels of the FLT1 gene in three trophoblast-derived cell lines. In the demethylated BeWo cells, siRNAs targeting HIF-2α and HIF-1β suppressed the further increase in the expression levels of the FLT1 gene due to hypoxia or treatment with DMOG. However, luciferase reporter assays and bisulfite sequencing revealed that a hypoxia response element (-966 to -962) of the FLT1 gene is not involved in hypoxia or DMOG-induced upregulation of the FLT1 gene. These findings suggest that HIF-1β is essential for the elevated production of sFLT1 in the hypoxic trophoblasts and that the HIF-2α/HIF-1β complex may be a crucial therapeutic target for pre-eclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tadashi Sasagawa
- Institute of Physiology and Medicine, Jobu University, Gunma 370-1393, Japan
| | - Takeshi Nagamatsu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Manami Yanagisawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Fujii
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Masabumi Shibuya
- Institute of Physiology and Medicine, Jobu University, Gunma 370-1393, Japan
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8
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Shibuya M, Matsui H, Sasagawa T, Nagamatsu T. A simple detection method for the serum sFLT1 protein in preeclampsia. Sci Rep 2021; 11:20613. [PMID: 34663835 PMCID: PMC8523687 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-00152-6] [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: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
In normal pregnancy, the soluble form of FMS-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFLT1)/ vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (sVEGFR-1), a VEGF-trapping protein, is expressed in trophoblasts of the placenta, suggesting that it plays an important role in the physiological barrier between fetal and maternal angiogenesis, when stimulated with VEGF-A. In pathological conditions such as preeclampsia (PE), sFLT1 protein is abnormally overexpressed in trophoblasts and secreted into the serum, which could cause hypertension and proteinuria on the maternal side and growth retardation on the fetal side. Detection of an abnormal increase in serum sFLT1 during the early to middle stages of PE is essential for proper initiation of medical care. To carry out this screening for sFLT1, we developed an easier and relatively low-cost sandwich-type ELISA method using a single mixture of human serum sample with an anti-FLT1 antibody and heparin-beads, namely heparin-beads-coupled ELISA (HB-ELISA). This method takes only about 2 h, and the sFLT1 values were similar levels with commercially available recent ELISA kits: the serum sFLT1 protein was approximately 4.3-fold increased in severe PE compared with those in normal pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masabumi Shibuya
- Institute of Physiology and Medicine, Jobu University, Takasaki, Gunma, Japan.
| | - Haruka Matsui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tadashi Sasagawa
- Institute of Physiology and Medicine, Jobu University, Takasaki, Gunma, Japan
| | - Takeshi Nagamatsu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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Khosla K, Heimberger S, Nieman KM, Tung A, Shahul S, Staff AC, Rana S. Long-Term Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Women After Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy: Recent Advances in Hypertension. Hypertension 2021; 78:927-935. [PMID: 34397272 PMCID: PMC8678921 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.121.16506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Patients with a history of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) suffer higher rates of long-term cardiovascular events including heart failure, coronary artery disease, and stroke. Cardiovascular changes during pregnancy can act as a natural stress test, subsequently unmasking latent cardiovascular disease in the form of HDP. Because HDP now affect 10% of pregnancies in the United States, the American Heart Association has called for physicians who provide peripartum care to promote early identification and cardiovascular risk reduction. In this review, we discuss the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and outcomes of HDP-associated cardiovascular disease. In addition, we propose a multi-pronged approach to support cardiovascular risk reduction for women with a history of HDP. Additional research is warranted to define appropriate blood pressure targets in the postpartum period, optimize the use of pregnancy history in risk stratification tools, and clarify the effectiveness of preventive interventions. The highest rates of HDP are in populations with poor access to resources and quality health care, making it a major risk for inequity of care. Interventions to decrease long-term cardiovascular disease risk in women following HDP must also target disparity reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavia Khosla
- University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, IL (K.K., S.H.)
| | - Sarah Heimberger
- University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, IL (K.K., S.H.)
| | | | - Avery Tung
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care (A.T., S.S.), University of Chicago, IL
| | - Sajid Shahul
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care (A.T., S.S.), University of Chicago, IL
| | - Anne Cathrine Staff
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway (A.C.S.)
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oslo University Hospital, Norway (A.C.S.)
| | - Sarosh Rana
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (S.R.), University of Chicago, IL
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10
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Jia T, Jacquet T, Dalonneau F, Coudert P, Vaganay E, Exbrayat-Héritier C, Vollaire J, Josserand V, Ruggiero F, Coll JL, Eymin B. FGF-2 promotes angiogenesis through a SRSF1/SRSF3/SRPK1-dependent axis that controls VEGFR1 splicing in endothelial cells. BMC Biol 2021; 19:173. [PMID: 34433435 PMCID: PMC8390225 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-021-01103-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Angiogenesis is the process by which new blood vessels arise from pre-existing ones. Fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2), a leading member of the FGF family of heparin-binding growth factors, contributes to normal as well as pathological angiogenesis. Pre-mRNA alternative splicing plays a key role in the regulation of cellular and tissular homeostasis and is highly controlled by splicing factors, including SRSFs. SRSFs belong to the SR protein family and are regulated by serine/threonine kinases such as SRPK1. Up to now, the role of SR proteins and their regulators in the biology of endothelial cells remains elusive, in particular upstream signals that control their expression. Results By combining 2D endothelial cells cultures, 3D collagen sprouting assay, a model of angiogenesis in cellulose sponges in mice and a model of angiogenesis in zebrafish, we collectively show that FGF-2 promotes proliferation, survival, and sprouting of endothelial cells by activating a SRSF1/SRSF3/SRPK1-dependent axis. In vitro, we further demonstrate that this FGF-2-dependent signaling pathway controls VEGFR1 pre-mRNA splicing and leads to the generation of soluble VEGFR1 splice variants, in particular a sVEGFR1-ex12 which retains an alternative last exon, that contribute to FGF-2-mediated angiogenic functions. Finally, we show that sVEGFR1-ex12 mRNA level correlates with that of FGF-2/FGFR1 in squamous lung carcinoma patients and that sVEGFR1-ex12 is a poor prognosis marker in these patients. Conclusions We demonstrate that FGF-2 promotes angiogenesis by activating a SRSF1/SRSF3/SRPK1 network that regulates VEGFR1 alternative splicing in endothelial cells, a process that could also contribute to lung tumor progression. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12915-021-01103-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Jia
- Institute For Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, Université Grenoble Alpes, Site Santé, Allée des Alpes, 38700, La Tronche, France.,Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Thibault Jacquet
- Institute For Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, Université Grenoble Alpes, Site Santé, Allée des Alpes, 38700, La Tronche, France
| | - Fabien Dalonneau
- Institute For Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, Université Grenoble Alpes, Site Santé, Allée des Alpes, 38700, La Tronche, France
| | - Pauline Coudert
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle de Lyon, ENS de Lyon, UMR CNRS 5242, Université Lyon 1, 46 Allée d'Italie, 69364, Lyon Cedex 07, France
| | - Elisabeth Vaganay
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle de Lyon, ENS de Lyon, UMR CNRS 5242, Université Lyon 1, 46 Allée d'Italie, 69364, Lyon Cedex 07, France
| | - Chloé Exbrayat-Héritier
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle de Lyon, ENS de Lyon, UMR CNRS 5242, Université Lyon 1, 46 Allée d'Italie, 69364, Lyon Cedex 07, France
| | - Julien Vollaire
- Institute For Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, Université Grenoble Alpes, Site Santé, Allée des Alpes, 38700, La Tronche, France
| | - Véronique Josserand
- Institute For Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, Université Grenoble Alpes, Site Santé, Allée des Alpes, 38700, La Tronche, France
| | - Florence Ruggiero
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle de Lyon, ENS de Lyon, UMR CNRS 5242, Université Lyon 1, 46 Allée d'Italie, 69364, Lyon Cedex 07, France
| | - Jean-Luc Coll
- Institute For Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, Université Grenoble Alpes, Site Santé, Allée des Alpes, 38700, La Tronche, France
| | - Béatrice Eymin
- Institute For Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, Université Grenoble Alpes, Site Santé, Allée des Alpes, 38700, La Tronche, France.
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Deshpande JS, Sundrani DP, Sahay AS, Gupte SA, Joshi SR. Unravelling the potential of angiogenic factors for the early prediction of preeclampsia. Hypertens Res 2021; 44:756-769. [PMID: 33795844 DOI: 10.1038/s41440-021-00647-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a multisystem, multiorgan hypertensive disorder of pregnancy responsible for maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality in low- and middle-income countries. The classic diagnostic features hold less specificity for preeclampsia and its associated adverse outcomes, suggesting a need for specific and reliable biomarkers for the early prediction of preeclampsia. The imbalance of pro- and antiangiogenic circulatory factors contributes to the pathophysiology of preeclampsia. Several studies have examined the profile of angiogenic factors in preeclampsia to search for a biomarker that will improve the diagnostic ability of preeclampsia and associated adverse outcomes. This may help in more efficient patient management and the reduction of associated health care costs. This article reviews the findings from previous studies published to date on angiogenic factors and suggests a need to apply a multivariable model from the beginning of pregnancy and continuing throughout gestation for the early and specific prediction of preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juilee S Deshpande
- Mother and Child Health, Interactive Research School for Health Affairs (IRSHA), Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be) University, Pune, India
| | - Deepali P Sundrani
- Mother and Child Health, Interactive Research School for Health Affairs (IRSHA), Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be) University, Pune, India
| | - Akriti S Sahay
- Mother and Child Health, Interactive Research School for Health Affairs (IRSHA), Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be) University, Pune, India
| | | | - Sadhana R Joshi
- Mother and Child Health, Interactive Research School for Health Affairs (IRSHA), Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be) University, Pune, India.
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12
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McLeese RH, Zhao J, Fu D, Yu JY, Brazil DP, Lyons TJ. Effects of modified lipoproteins on human trophoblast cells: a role in pre-eclampsia in pregnancies complicated by diabetes. BMJ Open Diabetes Res Care 2021; 9:9/1/e001696. [PMID: 33504507 PMCID: PMC7843297 DOI: 10.1136/bmjdrc-2020-001696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pre-eclampsia (PE) is increased ~4-fold by maternal diabetes. Elevated plasma antiangiogenic factors, soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase (sFLT-1) and soluble endoglin (sENG), precede PE onset. We investigated whether diabetes-related stresses, modified lipoproteins and elevated glucose enhance trophoblast sFLT-1 and sENG release and/or alter placental barrier function and whether oxidized low-density lipoprotein (Ox-LDL) is in placental tissue. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS HTR8/SVneo cells were exposed to 'heavily-oxidized, glycated' LDL (HOG-LDL) versus native LDL (N-LDL) (10-200 mg protein/L) for 24 hours ±pretreatment with glucose (30 mmol/L, 72 hours). Concentrations of sFLT-1 and sENG in supernatants (by ELISA) and expressions of sFLT-1-I13 and sFLT-1-E15A isoforms, endoglin (ENG) and matrix metalloproteinase-14 (MMP-14; by RT-PCR) were quantified. For barrier studies, JAR cells were cultured in Transwell plates (12-14 days), then exposed to LDL. Transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) was measured after 6, 12 and 24 hours. In placental sections from women with and without type 1 diabetes, immunostaining of apolipoprotein B100 (ApoB, a marker of LDL), Ox-LDL and lipoxidation product 4-hydroxynonenal was performed. RESULTS HOG-LDL (50 mg/L) increased sFLT-1 (2.7-fold, p<0.01) and sENG (6.4-fold, p<0.001) in supernatants versus N-LDL. HOG-LDL increased expression of sFLT-1-I13 (twofold, p<0.05), sFLT-1-E15A (1.9-fold, p<0.05), ENG (1.6-fold, p<0.01) and MMP-14 (1.8-fold, p<0.05) versus N-LDL. High glucose did not by itself alter sFLT-1 or sENG concentrations, but potentiated effects of HOG-LDL on sFLT-1 by 1.5-fold (p<0.05) and on sENG by 1.8-fold (p<0.01). HOG-LDL (200 mg/L) induced trophoblast barrier impairment, decreasing TEER at 6 hours (p<0.01), 12 hours (p<0.01) and 24 hours (p<0.05) versus N-LDL. Immunostaining of term placental samples from women both with and without diabetes revealed presence of intravillous modified lipoproteins. CONCLUSION These findings may explain, in part, the high risk for PE in women with diabetes. The trophoblast culture model has potential for evaluating novel therapies targeting barrier dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Helen McLeese
- Division of Endocrinology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute For Experimental Medicine School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Jiawu Zhao
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute For Experimental Medicine School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Dongxu Fu
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute For Experimental Medicine School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Jeremy Y Yu
- Division of Endocrinology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute For Experimental Medicine School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Derek P Brazil
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute For Experimental Medicine School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Timothy J Lyons
- Division of Endocrinology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute For Experimental Medicine School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
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Role of Arginine Methylation in Alternative Polyadenylation of VEGFR-1 (Flt-1) pre-mRNA. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21186460. [PMID: 32899690 PMCID: PMC7554721 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Mature mRNA is generated by the 3ʹ end cleavage and polyadenylation of its precursor pre-mRNA. Eukaryotic genes frequently have multiple polyadenylation sites, resulting in mRNA isoforms with different 3ʹ-UTR lengths that often encode different C-terminal amino acid sequences. It is well-known that this form of post-transcriptional modification, termed alternative polyadenylation, can affect mRNA stability, localization, translation, and nuclear export. We focus on the alternative polyadenylation of pre-mRNA for vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (VEGFR-1), the receptor for VEGF. VEGFR-1 is a transmembrane protein with a tyrosine kinase in the intracellular region. Secreted forms of VEGFR-1 (sVEGFR-1) are also produced from the same gene by alternative polyadenylation, and sVEGFR-1 has a function opposite to that of VEGFR-1 because it acts as a decoy receptor for VEGF. However, the mechanism that regulates the production of sVEGFR-1 by alternative polyadenylation remains poorly understood. In this review, we introduce and discuss the mechanism of alternative polyadenylation of VEGFR-1 mediated by protein arginine methylation.
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Kikas T, Inno R, Ratnik K, Rull K, Laan M. C-allele of rs4769613 Near FLT1 Represents a High-Confidence Placental Risk Factor for Preeclampsia. Hypertension 2020; 76:884-891. [PMID: 32755415 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.120.15346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The variant rs4769613 T/C within the enhancer element near FLT1, an acknowledged gene in preeclampsia, was previously identified as a risk factor for preeclampsia in the genome-wide association study (GWAS) targeting placental genotypes. We aimed to test the robustness of this association in 2 Estonian cohorts. Both placental sample sets HAPPY PREGNANCY (Development of novel non-invasive biomarkers for fertility and healthy pregnancy; preeclampsia, n=44 versus nonpreeclampsia, n=1724) and REPROMETA (REPROgrammed fetal and/or maternal METAbolism; 52/277) exhibited suggestive association between rs4769613[C] variant and preeclampsia (logistic regression adjusted for gestational age and fetal sex, nominal P<0.05). Meta-analysis across 2 samples (96/2001) replicated the genome-wide association study outcome (Bonferroni corrected P=4×10-3; odds ratio, 1.75 [95% CI, 1.23-2.49]). No association was detected with gestational diabetes mellitus, preterm birth, and newborn parameters. Also, neither maternal nor paternal rs4769613 genotypes predisposed to preeclampsia. The exact role of placental rs4769613 genotype in the preeclampsia pathogenesis is to be clarified as no effect was detected on maternal baseline serum sFlt-1 (soluble fms-related receptor tyrosine kinase 1) levels. However, when placental FLT1 gene expression and maternal serum sFlt-1 measurements were stratified by placental rs4769613 genotypes, significantly higher transcript and biomarker levels were detected in preeclampsia versus nonpreeclampsia cases in the CC- and CT- (Student t test, P≤0.02), but not in the TT-genotype subgroup. We suggest that rs4769613 represents a conditional expression Quantitative Trait Locus, whereby only the enhancer with the C-allele reacts to promote the FLT1 expression in unfavorable placental conditions. The study highlighted that the placental FLT1 rs4769613 C-allele is a preeclampsia-specific risk factor. It may contribute to early identification of high-risk women, for example, when genotyped in the cffDNA available in maternal blood plasma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Triin Kikas
- From the Human Genetics Research Group, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine (T.K., R.I., K. Ratnik, K. Rull, M.L.), University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Rain Inno
- From the Human Genetics Research Group, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine (T.K., R.I., K. Ratnik, K. Rull, M.L.), University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kaspar Ratnik
- From the Human Genetics Research Group, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine (T.K., R.I., K. Ratnik, K. Rull, M.L.), University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- SYNLAB Estonia OÜ, Tallinn, Estonia (K. Ratnik)
| | - Kristiina Rull
- From the Human Genetics Research Group, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine (T.K., R.I., K. Ratnik, K. Rull, M.L.), University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (K. Rull), University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Women's Clinic, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia (K. Rull)
| | - Maris Laan
- From the Human Genetics Research Group, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine (T.K., R.I., K. Ratnik, K. Rull, M.L.), University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
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15
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Goldman-Wohl D, Greenfield C, Eisenberg-Loebl I, Denichenko P, Jbara A, Karni R, Ariel I, Yagel S. Trophoblast lineage specific expression of the alternative splicing factor RBFOX2 suggests a role in placental development. Placenta 2020; 100:142-149. [PMID: 32762877 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2020.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION RBFOX2, an RNA-binding protein, controls tissue-specific alternative splicing of exons in diverse processes of development. The progenitor cytotrophoblast of the human placenta differentiates into either the syncytiotrophoblast, formed via cell fusion, or the invasive extravillous trophoblast lineage. The placenta affords a singular system where a role for RBFOX2 in both cell invasion and cell fusion may be studied. We investigated a role for RBFOX2 in trophoblast cell differentiation, as a foundation for investigations of RBFOX2 in embryo implantation and placental development. METHODS Immunohistochemistry of RBFOX2 was performed on placental tissue sections from three trimesters of pregnancy and from pathological pregnancies. Primary trophoblast cell culture and immunofluorescence were employed to determine RBFOX2 expression upon cell fusion. Knockdown of RBFOX2 expression was performed with βhCG and syncytin-1 as molecular indicators of fusion. RESULTS In both normal and pathological placentas, RBFOX2 expression was confined to the cytotrophoblast and the extravillous trophoblast, but absent from the syncytiotrophoblast. Additionally, we showed that primary trophoblasts that spontaneously fused in cell culture downregulated RBFOX2 expression. In functional experiments, knockdown expression of RBFOX2 significantly upregulated βhCG, while the upregulation of syncytin-1 did not reach statistical significance. DISCUSSION RBFOX2, by conferring mRNA diversity, may act as a regulator switch in trophoblast differentiation to either the fusion or invasive pathways. By studying alternative splicing we further our understanding of placental development, yielding possible insights into preeclampsia, where expression of antiangiogenic isoforms produced through alternative splicing play a critical role in disease development and severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debra Goldman-Wohl
- The Magda and Richard Hoffman Center for Human Placenta Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Caryn Greenfield
- The Magda and Richard Hoffman Center for Human Placenta Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Iris Eisenberg-Loebl
- The Magda and Richard Hoffman Center for Human Placenta Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Polina Denichenko
- IMRIC Hadassah-Hebrew University School of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Amina Jbara
- IMRIC Hadassah-Hebrew University School of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Rotem Karni
- IMRIC Hadassah-Hebrew University School of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ilana Ariel
- Department of Pathology Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Simcha Yagel
- The Magda and Richard Hoffman Center for Human Placenta Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel.
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16
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Ganguly E, Hula N, Spaans F, Cooke CLM, Davidge ST. Placenta-targeted treatment strategies: An opportunity to impact fetal development and improve offspring health later in life. Pharmacol Res 2020; 157:104836. [PMID: 32344051 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.104836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Revised: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) theory states that a sub-optimal prenatal and early postnatal environment during development leads to an increased risk of long-term development of adult chronic diseases. Developmental programming of disease has the potential to greatly impact the health of our population. Therefore, research has focused on the development of primary treatment strategies and/or therapeutic interventions for individuals who are at increased risk, with the objective to reverse or prevent later life onset of chronic disease in the offspring born from complicated pregnancies. Many studies have focused on systemic treatments and/or interventions in complicated pregnancies to improve offspring outcomes. However, there are limitations to systemic maternal/prenatal treatments, as most of the treatments are able to cross the placenta and have potential adverse off-target effects on the developing fetus. The placenta serves as the primary interface between mother and fetus, and placental dysfunction in complicated pregnancies has been associated with impaired fetal development and negative impact on offspring health. Therefore, recent research has focused on treatment strategies that specifically target the placenta to improve placental function and prevent passage of prenatal therapeutics and/or treatments into the fetal circulation, thus avoiding any potential adverse off-target effects on the fetus. This article reviews the currently available knowledge on treatment strategies and/or therapeutics that specifically target the placenta with the goal of improving pregnancy outcomes with a focus on long-term health of the offspring born of complicated pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esha Ganguly
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada; Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Nataliia Hula
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada; Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Floor Spaans
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada; Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Christy-Lynn M Cooke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada; Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Sandra T Davidge
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada; Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada.
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Mtshali Z, Moodley J, Naicker T. An Insight into the Angiogenic and Lymphatic Interplay in Pre-eclampsia Comorbid with HIV Infection. Curr Hypertens Rep 2020; 22:35. [PMID: 32200445 DOI: 10.1007/s11906-020-01040-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To provide insight on the imbalance of angiogenic and lymphangiogenic factors in pre-eclampsia, as well as highlight polymorphism in genes related to angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis. RECENT FINDINGS The pregnancy-specific disorder pre-eclampsia is diagnosed by the presence of hypertension with/without proteinuria, after 20 weeks of gestation. The pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia remains ambiguous, but research over the years has identified an imbalance in maternal and foetal factors. Familial predisposition and gene variation are also linked to pre-eclampsia development. The sFlt-1/PIGF ratio has attracted great attention over the years; more recently several researchers have reported that a sFlt-1/PIGF ratio of ≤ 38 can be used to predict short-term absence of pre-eclampsia. This ratio has the potential to prevent adverse pregnancy outcomes and reduce healthcare costs significantly. Genome-wide studies have additionally identified variation in the foetal gene near Flt-1. The development of preeclampsia is not limited to the maternal interface, but foetal involvement as well as genetic interplay is associated with the disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zamahlabangane Mtshali
- Optics and Imaging Centre, Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
| | - Jagidesa Moodley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Women's Health and HIV Research Group, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Thajasvarie Naicker
- Optics and Imaging Centre, Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Sasagawa T, Jinno-Oue A, Nagamatsu T, Morita K, Tsuruga T, Mori-Uchino M, Fujii T, Shibuya M. Production of an anti-angiogenic factor sFLT1 is suppressed via promoter hypermethylation of FLT1 gene in choriocarcinoma cells. BMC Cancer 2020; 20:112. [PMID: 32041578 PMCID: PMC7011436 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-020-6598-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Soluble Fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFLT1) as an anti-angiogenic factor is abundantly expressed in placental trophoblasts. Choriocarcinoma, a malignant tumor derived from trophoblasts, is known to be highly angiogenic and metastatic. However, the molecular mechanism underlying angiogenesis in choriocarcinoma pathogenesis remains unclear. We aimed to investigate the mRNA expression and DNA methylation status of the FLT1 gene in human choriocarcinoma cells and trophoblast cells. METHODS qRT-PCR, Western blotting and ELISA were conducted to evaluate the mRNA and protein expression levels of sFLT1. 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine (5azadC) treatment and bisulfite sequencing were used to study the FLT1 gene promoter methylation. The effect of sFLT1 on choriocarcinoma growth and angiogenesis was evaluated in a xenograft mouse model. RESULTS Expression of the FLT1 gene was strongly suppressed in choriocarcinoma cell lines compared with that in the primary trophoblasts. Treatment of choriocarcinoma cell lines with 5azadC, a DNA methyltransferase inhibitor, markedly increased in mRNA expression of three FLT1 splice variants and secretion of sFLT1 proteins. Bisulfite sequencing revealed that the CpG hypermethylation was observed at the FLT1 promoter region in choriocarcinoma cell lines and a human primary choriocarcinoma tissue but not in human trophoblast cells. Interestingly, in 5azadC-treated choriocarcinoma cell lines, sFLT1 mRNA expression and sFLT1 production were further elevated by hypoxic stimulation. Finally, as expected, sFLT1-expressing choriocarcinoma cells implanted into nude mice showed significantly slower tumor growth and reduced microvessel formation compared with GFP-expressing control choriocarcinoma cells. CONCLUSIONS Inhibition of sFLT1 production by FLT1 silencing occurs via the hypermethylation of its promoter in choriocarcinoma cells. The stable expression of sFLT1 in choriocarcinoma cells resulted in the suppression of tumor growth and tumor vascularization in vivo. We suggest that the FLT1 gene may be a cell-type-specific tumor suppressor in choriocarcinoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tadashi Sasagawa
- Institute of Physiology and Medicine, Jobu University, 270-1 Shin-machi, Takasaki, Gunma, 370-1393, Japan
| | - Atsushi Jinno-Oue
- Bioresource Center, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-22 Showa-machi, Maebashi, Gunma, 371-8511, Japan
| | - Takeshi Nagamatsu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Kazuki Morita
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Tetsushi Tsuruga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Mayuyo Mori-Uchino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Fujii
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Masabumi Shibuya
- Institute of Physiology and Medicine, Jobu University, 270-1 Shin-machi, Takasaki, Gunma, 370-1393, Japan.
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Jia J, Shi E, Zhou X, Zhu S, Li J, Zhang J, Yu J, Wang S, Feng L. Expression of ESRP1 at human fetomaternal interface and involvement in trophoblast migration and invasion. Placenta 2020; 90:18-26. [PMID: 32056547 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2019.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2019] [Revised: 11/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Studies have reported that villous cytotrophoblasts (CTBs) undergo a partial epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) when differentiating into extravillous cytotrophoblasts (EVTs). Epithelial splicing-regulatory protein 1 (ESRP1), an alternative splicing regulator, has been demonstrated to play important roles in the EMT process. Nevertheless, the roles of ESRP1 in the placentation remain undefined. METHODS ESRP1 expression in placental tissues throughout pregnancy was determined by immunohistochemistry and western blotting. The effect of ESRP1 knockdown by using small-interfering RNAs (siRNAs) on the phenotype of trophoblast cell line (HTR-8/SVneo) and villous explants was evaluated. RESULTS ESRP1 was localized within the CTBs, trophoblast columns, and EVTs located in the decidua. ESRP1 expression was changed during pregnancy, with the highest expression level in term placentae. ESRP1 knockdown significantly increased the migration and invasion of HTR-8/SVneo cells, as well as the outgrowth of EVTs from villous explants, without affecting cell proliferation. This enhanced effect was associated with the increased expression of N-cadherin, vimentin and CD44. DISCUSSION Our results suggested an important role for ESRP1 in regulating trophoblast migration and invasion during placentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Jia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Erjiao Shi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xuan Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Shenglan Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jiaqi Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jingyi Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jun Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Shaoshuai Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
| | - Ling Feng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
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20
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Stability of placental growth factor, soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1, and soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 e15a in human serum and plasma. Placenta 2019; 86:1-3. [PMID: 31476387 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2019.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2019] [Revised: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Placental growth factor (PlGF), total soluble fms-like tyrosine-kinase 1 (sFlt-1) and its placental-specific variant, sFlt-1 e15a, show promise as biomarkers for the prediction and diagnosis of preeclampsia. This study describes the degradation of PlGF, sFlt-1 and sFlt-1 e15a within maternal serum and plasma to assist clinical implementation. Whole blood was refrigerated at 4 °C for up to 48 h prior to centrifugation for isolation of plasma and serum. PlGF and sFlt-1 were quantified using the B.R.A.H.M.S Kryptor Compact PLUS; sFlt-1 e15a via a custom ELISA. All three analytes are stable for at least 48 h at 4 °C. Serum and plasma performed comparably.
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21
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Bowler E, Oltean S. Alternative Splicing in Angiogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E2067. [PMID: 31027366 PMCID: PMC6540211 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20092067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Revised: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Alternative splicing of pre-mRNA allows the generation of multiple splice isoforms from a given gene, which can have distinct functions. In fact, splice isoforms can have opposing functions and there are many instances whereby a splice isoform acts as an inhibitor of canonical isoform function, thereby adding an additional layer of regulation to important processes. Angiogenesis is an important process that is governed by alternative splicing mechanisms. This review focuses on the alternative spliced isoforms of key genes that are involved in the angiogenesis process; VEGF-A, VEGFR1, VEGFR2, NRP-1, FGFRs, Vasohibin-1, Vasohibin-2, HIF-1α, Angiopoietin-1 and Angiopoietin-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Bowler
- Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Medical School, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4PY, UK.
| | - Sebastian Oltean
- Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Medical School, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4PY, UK.
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22
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Sasagawa T, Nagamatsu T, Morita K, Mimura N, Iriyama T, Fujii T, Shibuya M. HIF-2α, but not HIF-1α, mediates hypoxia-induced up-regulation of Flt-1 gene expression in placental trophoblasts. Sci Rep 2018; 8:17375. [PMID: 30478339 PMCID: PMC6255857 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-35745-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 11/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Placental hypoxia and elevated levels of circulating soluble Fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1), an anti-angiogenic factor, are closely related to the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. Although sFlt-1 secretion from the placental trophoblasts is increased under hypoxic conditions, the underlying molecular mechanism remains unclear. Previously, an authentic hypoxia response element in the Flt-1 gene promoter was shown to be a potential binding site for hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs). Here, we investigated the roles of HIF-1α and HIF-2α in Flt-1 gene expression in trophoblast-derived choriocarcinoma cell lines and cytotrophoblasts exposed to hypoxic conditions. In the cell lines, increased expression of sFlt-1 splice variants and nuclear accumulation of HIF-1α and HIF-2α were observed after hypoxic stimulation. A specific small interfering RNA or an inhibitor molecule targeting HIF-2α decreased hypoxia-induced up-regulation of Flt-1 gene expression. Moreover, in cytotrophoblasts, increased sFlt-1 mRNA expression and elevated sFlt-1 production were induced by hypoxic stimulation. Notably, hypoxia-induced elevation of sFlt-1 secretion from the cytotrophoblasts was inhibited by silencing the HIF-2α, but not HIF-1α mRNA. These findings suggest that hypoxia-induced activation of HIF-2α is essential for the increased production of sFlt-1 proteins in trophoblasts. Targeting the HIF-2α may be a novel strategy for the treatment of preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tadashi Sasagawa
- Institute of Physiology and Medicine, Jobu University, Gunma, Japan
| | - Takeshi Nagamatsu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuki Morita
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nobuko Mimura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takayuki Iriyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Fujii
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masabumi Shibuya
- Institute of Physiology and Medicine, Jobu University, Gunma, Japan.
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23
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Turanov AA, Lo A, Hassler MR, Makris A, Ashar-Patel A, Alterman JF, Coles AH, Haraszti RA, Roux L, Godinho BMDC, Echeverria D, Pears S, Iliopoulos J, Shanmugalingam R, Ogle R, Zsengeller ZK, Hennessy A, Karumanchi SA, Moore MJ, Khvorova A. RNAi modulation of placental sFLT1 for the treatment of preeclampsia. Nat Biotechnol 2018; 36:nbt.4297. [PMID: 30451990 PMCID: PMC6526074 DOI: 10.1038/nbt.4297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a placentally induced hypertensive disorder of pregnancy that is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality to mothers and fetuses. Clinical manifestations of preterm preeclampsia result from excess circulating soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor FLT1 (sFLT1 or sVEGFR1) of placental origin. Here we identify short interfering RNAs (siRNAs) that selectively silence the three sFLT1 mRNA isoforms primarily responsible for placental overexpression of sFLT1 without reducing levels of full-length FLT1 mRNA. Full chemical stabilization in the context of hydrophobic modifications enabled productive siRNA accumulation in the placenta (up to 7% of injected dose) and reduced circulating sFLT1 in pregnant mice (up to 50%). In a baboon preeclampsia model, a single dose of siRNAs suppressed sFLT1 overexpression and clinical signs of preeclampsia. Our results demonstrate RNAi-based extrahepatic modulation of gene expression with nonformulated siRNAs in nonhuman primates and establish a path toward a new treatment paradigm for patients with preterm preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anton A Turanov
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Agnes Lo
- Center for Vascular Biology Research, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Matthew R Hassler
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Angela Makris
- Heart Research Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Renal Department, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ami Ashar-Patel
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Julia F Alterman
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Andrew H Coles
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Reka A Haraszti
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Loic Roux
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Bruno M D C Godinho
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Dimas Echeverria
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Suzanne Pears
- Heart Research Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jim Iliopoulos
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Renuka Shanmugalingam
- Heart Research Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Renal Department, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Robert Ogle
- Women's and Babies, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Zsuzsanna K Zsengeller
- Center for Vascular Biology Research, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Annemarie Hennessy
- Heart Research Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - S Ananth Karumanchi
- Center for Vascular Biology Research, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Melissa J Moore
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
- Moderna Therapeutics, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Anastasia Khvorova
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
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24
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Lacal PM, Graziani G. Therapeutic implication of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (VEGFR-1) targeting in cancer cells and tumor microenvironment by competitive and non-competitive inhibitors. Pharmacol Res 2018; 136:97-107. [PMID: 30170190 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2018.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Revised: 08/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (VEGFR-1) is a tyrosine kinase receptor for VEGF-A, VEGF-B, and placental growth factor (PlGF) ligands that is expressed in endothelial, myelomonocytic and tumor cells. VEGF-B and PlGF exclusively bind to VEGFR-1, whereas VEGF-A also binds to VEGFR-2. At variance with VEGFR-2, VEGFR-1 does not play a relevant role in physiological angiogenesis in the adult, while it is important in tumor-associated angiogenesis. VEGFR-1 and PlGF are expressed in a variety of tumors, promote invasiveness and contribute to resistance to anti-VEGF-A therapy. The currently approved antiangiogenic therapies for the treatment of a variety of solid tumors hamper VEGF-A signaling mediated by both VEGFR-2 and VEGFR-1 [i.e., the monoclonal antibody (mAb) anti-VEGF-A bevacizumab, the chimeric molecule aflibercept and several small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors] or exclusively by VEGFR-2 (i.e., the mAb anti-VEGFR-2 ramucirumab). However, molecules that interfere with VEGF-A/VEGFR-2 signaling determine severe adverse effects due to inhibition of physiological angiogenesis and their efficacy is hampered by tumor infiltration of protumoral myeloid cells. Blockade of VEGFR-1 may exert anti-tumor activity by multiple mechanisms: a) inhibition of tumor-associated angiogenesis; b) reduction of myeloid progenitor mobilization and tumor infiltration by VEGFR-1 expressing M2 macrophages, which contribute to tumor progression and spreading; c) inhibition of invasiveness, vasculogenic mimicry and survival of VEGFR-1 positive tumor cells. As a consequence of these properties, molecules targeting VEGFR-1 are expected to produce less adverse effects and to counteract resistance towards anti-VEGF-A therapies. More interestingly, selective VEGFR-1 inhibition might enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors. In this review, we will examine the experimental evidence available so far that supports targeting VEGFR-1 signal transduction pathway for cancer treatment by competitive inhibitors that prevent growth factor interaction with the receptor and non-competitive inhibitors that hamper receptor activation without affecting ligand binding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Miguel Lacal
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Istituto Dermopatico dell'Immacolata, IDI-IRCCS, Via Monti di Creta 104, 00167 Rome, Italy.
| | - Grazia Graziani
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy.
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25
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Eddy AC, Bidwell GL, George EM. Pro-angiogenic therapeutics for preeclampsia. Biol Sex Differ 2018; 9:36. [PMID: 30144822 PMCID: PMC6109337 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-018-0195-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-induced hypertensive disorder resulting from abnormal placentation, which causes factors such as sFlt-1 to be released into the maternal circulation. Though anti-hypertensive drugs and magnesium sulfate can be given in an effort to moderate symptoms, the syndrome is not well controlled. A hallmark characteristic of preeclampsia, especially early-onset preeclampsia, is angiogenic imbalance resulting from an inappropriately upregulated sFlt-1 acting as a decoy receptor binding vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and placental growth factor (PlGF), reducing their bioavailability. Administration of sFlt-1 leads to a preeclamptic phenotype, and several models of preeclampsia also have elevated levels of plasma sFlt-1, demonstrating its role in driving the progression of this disease. Treatment with either VEGF or PlGF has been effective in attenuating hypertension and proteinuria in multiple models of preeclampsia. VEGF, however, may have overdose toxicity risks that have not been observed in PlGF treatment, suggesting that PlGF is a potentially safer therapeutic option. This review discusses angiogenic balance as it relates to preeclampsia and the studies which have been performed in order to alleviate the imbalance driving the maternal syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian C Eddy
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, 2500 N State St, Jackson, MS, 39216, USA
| | - Gene L Bidwell
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, 2500 N State St, Jackson, MS, 39216, USA.,Department of Neurology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 N State St, Jackson, MS, 39216, USA
| | - Eric M George
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, 2500 N State St, Jackson, MS, 39216, USA. .,Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, 2500 N State St, Jackson, MS, 39216, USA.
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26
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Raikwar NS, Shibuya M, Thomas CP. VEGF-A selectively inhibits FLT1 ectodomain shedding independent of receptor activation and receptor endocytosis. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2018; 315:C214-C224. [PMID: 29719170 PMCID: PMC6139503 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00247.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2017] [Revised: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Ectodomain shedding and regulated intracellular proteolysis can determine the fate or function of cell surface proteins. Fms-related tyrosine kinase (FLT) or VEGF receptor 1 is a high-affinity cell surface VEGF-A receptor tyrosine kinase that is constitutively cleaved to release an NH2-terminal VEGF-A binding ectodomain that, once shed, can antagonize the effects of VEGF-A in the extracellular milieu. We evaluated the effect of VEGF-A on FLT1 cleavage in native cells and in transient and stable expression systems. We demonstrate that VEGF-A inhibits FLT1 ectodomain cleavage in a time- and dose-dependent manner, whereas VEGF-A knockdown in HEK293 cells increases ectodomain shedding. Although kinase insert domain receptor (KDR) or VEGF receptor 2, analogous to FLT1, is also subject to extracellular and intracellular cleavage, VEGF-A does not inhibit KDR cleavage. VEGF-A inhibition of FLT1 cleavage is not dependent on FLT1 tyrosine kinase activity or the intracellular FLT1 residues. N-acetylleucylleucylnorleucinal (ALLN), a proteasomal inhibitor; bafilomycin A, an inhibitor of endosomal acidification; and dynasore, a dynamin inhibitor, all increase the abundance of FLT1 and the shed ectodomain, indicating that FLT1 is subject to dynamin-mediated endocytosis and susceptible to proteasomal and lysosomal degradation. VEGF-A inhibition of cleavage is not reversed by ALLN, bafilomycin A, or dynasore. However, a 30 AA deletion in the extracellular immunoglobulin 7 domain leads to enhanced cleavage of Flt1 with a significant reduction of the VEGF inhibitory effect. Our results indicate that the inhibition of FLT1 ectodomain cleavage by VEGF-A is dependent neither on receptor activation nor on internalization nor a consequence of receptor degradation and likely represents a direct inhibitory effect on receptor cleavage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nandita S Raikwar
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine , Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Masabumi Shibuya
- Institute of Physiology and Medicine, Jobu University, Takasaki, Gunma, Japan
| | - Christie P Thomas
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine , Iowa City, Iowa
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine , Iowa City, Iowa
- Department of Obstetrics, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine , Iowa City, Iowa
- Graduate Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine , Iowa City, Iowa
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center , Iowa City, Iowa
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27
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Palmer KR, Tong S, Kaitu'u-Lino TJ. Placental-specific sFLT-1: role in pre-eclamptic pathophysiology and its translational possibilities for clinical prediction and diagnosis. Mol Hum Reprod 2018; 23:69-78. [PMID: 27986932 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaw077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2016] [Accepted: 12/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pre-eclampsia is a common obstetric complication globally responsible for a significant burden of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Central to its pathophysiology is the anti-angiogenic protein, soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFLT-1). sFLT-1 is released from a range of tissues into the circulation, where it antagonizes the activity of vascular endothelial growth factor and placental growth factor leading to endothelial dysfunction. It is this widespread endothelial dysfunction that produces the clinical features of pre-eclampsia including hypertension and proteinuria. There are multiple splice variants of sFLT-1. One, known as sFLT-1 e15a, evolved quite recently and is only present in humans and higher order primates. This sFLT-1 variant is also the main sFLT-1 secreted from the placenta. Recent work has shown that sFLT-1 e15a is significantly elevated in the placenta and circulation of women with pre-eclampsia. It is also biologically active, capable of causing endothelial dysfunction and the end-organ dysfunction seen in pre-eclampsia. Indeed, the over-expression of sFLT-1 e15a in mice recapitulates the pre-eclamptic phenotype in pregnancy. Therefore, here we propose that sFLT-1 e15a may be the sFLT-1 variant primarily responsible for pre-eclampsia, a uniquely human disease. Furthermore, this placental-specific sFLT-1 variant provides promise for use as an accurate biomarker in the prediction or diagnosis of pre-eclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- K R Palmer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Monash Medical Centre, 246 Clayton Rd, Clayton, 3168 Victoria, Australia.,Translational Obstetric Group, University of Melbourne, Mercy Hospital for Women, 163 Studley Rd, Heidelberg, 3084 Victoria, Australia
| | - S Tong
- Translational Obstetric Group, University of Melbourne, Mercy Hospital for Women, 163 Studley Rd, Heidelberg, 3084 Victoria, Australia
| | - T J Kaitu'u-Lino
- Translational Obstetric Group, University of Melbourne, Mercy Hospital for Women, 163 Studley Rd, Heidelberg, 3084 Victoria, Australia
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28
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Palmer K. Assessing the Circulating Placental-Specific Anti-angiogenic Protein sFLT-1 e15a in Preeclampsia. Methods Mol Biol 2018; 1710:27-37. [PMID: 29196992 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7498-6_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a common obstetric complication globally responsible for a significant burden of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. The anti-angiogenic protein, sFLT-1, plays a central role in its pathophysiology. sFLT-1 is released from a range of tissues into the circulation, where it antagonizes the activity of vascular endothelial growth factor and placental growth factor leading to endothelial dysfunction. The resulting widespread endothelial dysfunction produces the clinical features of preeclampsia including hypertension and proteinuria. Multiple splice variants of sFLT-1 have been identified, with one, known as sFLT-1 e15a, present only in humans and higher-order primates. This sFLT-1 variant is also the main form of sFLT-1 produced by the placenta. Recent work has shown that sFLT-1 e15a is significantly elevated in the placenta and circulation of women with preeclampsia. It is also biologically active, capable of causing endothelial dysfunction and end-organ dysfunction seen in preeclampsia. Indeed, overexpression of sFLT-1 e15a in mice recapitulates the preeclamptic phenotype in pregnancy. No commercial assay currently exists to analyze sFLT-1 e15a protein levels. Here, a new ELISA method to determine circulating sFLT-1 variant levels is described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten Palmer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Level 5, 246 Clayton Rd, Clayton, 3168, VIC, Australia.
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29
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Yu J, Jia J, Guo X, Chen R, Feng L. Modulating circulating sFlt1 in an animal model of preeclampsia using PAMAM nanoparticles for siRNA delivery. Placenta 2017; 58:1-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2017.07.360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2017] [Revised: 07/21/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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30
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Ermini L, Ausman J, Melland-Smith M, Yeganeh B, Rolfo A, Litvack ML, Todros T, Letarte M, Post M, Caniggia I. A Single Sphingomyelin Species Promotes Exosomal Release of Endoglin into the Maternal Circulation in Preeclampsia. Sci Rep 2017; 7:12172. [PMID: 28939895 PMCID: PMC5610344 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-12491-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2017] [Accepted: 09/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE), an hypertensive disorder of pregnancy, exhibits increased circulating levels of a short form of the auxillary TGF-beta (TGFB) receptor endoglin (sENG). Until now, its release and functionality in PE remains poorly understood. Here we show that ENG selectively interacts with sphingomyelin(SM)-18:0 which promotes its clustering with metalloproteinase 14 (MMP14) in SM-18:0 enriched lipid rafts of the apical syncytial membranes from PE placenta where ENG is cleaved by MMP14 into sENG. The SM-18:0 enriched lipid rafts also contain type 1 and 2 TGFB receptors (TGFBR1 and TGFBR2), but not soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFLT1), another protein secreted in excess in the circulation of women with PE. The truncated ENG is then released into the maternal circulation via SM-18:0 enriched exosomes together with TGFBR1 and 2. Such an exosomal TGFB receptor complex could be functionally active and block the vascular effects of TGFB in the circulation of PE women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Ermini
- Program in Translational Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Jonathan Ausman
- The Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1X5, Canada.,Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Megan Melland-Smith
- The Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1X5, Canada.,Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Behzad Yeganeh
- Program in Translational Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Alessandro Rolfo
- The Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1X5, Canada
| | - Michael L Litvack
- Program in Translational Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Tullia Todros
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Turin, Turin, 10126, Italy
| | - Michelle Letarte
- Program in Molecular Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1X8, Canada.,Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Martin Post
- Program in Translational Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1X8, Canada. .,Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada. .,Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada. .,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada.
| | - Isabella Caniggia
- The Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1X5, Canada.,Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada.,Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A8, Canada
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Ashar-Patel A, Kaymaz Y, Rajakumar A, Bailey JA, Karumanchi SA, Moore MJ. FLT1 and transcriptome-wide polyadenylation site (PAS) analysis in preeclampsia. Sci Rep 2017; 7:12139. [PMID: 28939845 PMCID: PMC5610261 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-11639-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Accepted: 08/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal symptoms of preeclampsia (PE) are primarily driven by excess anti-angiogenic factors originating from the placenta. Chief among these are soluble Flt1 proteins (sFlt1s) produced from alternatively polyadenylated mRNA isoforms. Here we used polyadenylation site sequencing (PAS-Seq) of RNA from normal and PE human placentae to interrogate transcriptome-wide gene expression and alternative polyadenylation signatures associated with early-onset PE (EO-PE; symptom onset < 34 weeks) and late-onset PE (LO-PE; symptom onset > 34 weeks) cohorts. While we observed no general shift in alternative polyadenylation associated with PE, the EO-PE and LO-PE cohorts do exhibit gene expression profiles distinct from both each other and from normal placentae. The only two genes upregulated across all transcriptome-wide PE analyses to date (microarray, RNA-Seq and PAS-Seq) are NRIP1 (RIP140), a transcriptional co-regulator linked to metabolic syndromes associated with obesity, and Flt1. Consistent with sFlt1 overproduction being a significant driver of clinical symptoms, placental Flt1 mRNA levels strongly correlate with maternal blood pressure. For Flt1, just three mRNA isoforms account for > 94% of all transcripts, with increased transcription of the entire locus driving Flt1 upregulation in both EO-PE and LO-PE. These three isoforms thus represent potential targets for therapeutic RNA interference (RNAi) in both early and late presentations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ami Ashar-Patel
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Yasin Kaymaz
- Program in Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Augustine Rajakumar
- Departments of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University, Atlanta, USA.,Departments of Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology and Center for Vascular Biology Research, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Bailey
- Program in Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Division of Transfusion Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - S Ananth Karumanchi
- Departments of Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology and Center for Vascular Biology Research, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Melissa J Moore
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
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Abou-Fayçal C, Hatat AS, Gazzeri S, Eymin B. Splice Variants of the RTK Family: Their Role in Tumour Progression and Response to Targeted Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18020383. [PMID: 28208660 PMCID: PMC5343918 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18020383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2016] [Revised: 01/24/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) belong to a family of transmembrane receptors that display tyrosine kinase activity and trigger the activation of downstream signalling pathways mainly involved in cell proliferation and survival. RTK amplification or somatic mutations leading to their constitutive activation and oncogenic properties have been reported in various tumour types. Numerous RTK-targeted therapies have been developed to counteract this hyperactivation. Alternative splicing of pre-mRNA has recently emerged as an important contributor to cancer development and tumour maintenance. Interestingly, RTKs are alternatively spliced. However, the biological functions of RTK splice variants, as well as the upstream signals that control their expression in tumours, remain to be understood. More importantly, it remains to be determined whether, and how, these splicing events may affect the response of tumour cells to RTK-targeted therapies, and inversely, whether these therapies may impact these splicing events. In this review, we will discuss the role of alternative splicing of RTKs in tumour progression and response to therapies, with a special focus on two major RTKs that control proliferation, survival, and angiogenesis, namely, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (VEGFR1).
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Affiliation(s)
- Cherine Abou-Fayçal
- Team RNA Splicing, Cell Signaling and Response to Therapies, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, University Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble 38702, France.
| | - Anne-Sophie Hatat
- Team RNA Splicing, Cell Signaling and Response to Therapies, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, University Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble 38702, France.
| | - Sylvie Gazzeri
- Team RNA Splicing, Cell Signaling and Response to Therapies, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, University Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble 38702, France.
| | - Beatrice Eymin
- Team RNA Splicing, Cell Signaling and Response to Therapies, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, University Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble 38702, France.
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Kedia K, Smith SF, Wright AH, Barnes JM, Tolley HD, Esplin MS, Graves SW. Global "omics" evaluation of human placental responses to preeclamptic conditions. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2016; 215:238.e1-238.e20. [PMID: 26970495 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2016.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2016] [Revised: 02/29/2016] [Accepted: 03/02/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preeclampsia (PE) is a leading cause of maternal death. Its cause is still debated but there is general agreement that the placenta plays a central role. Perhaps the most commonly proposed contributors to PE include placental hypoxia, oxidative stress, and increased proinflammatory cytokines. How the placenta responds to these abnormalities has been considered but not as part of a comprehensive analysis of low-molecular-weight biomolecules and their responses to these accepted PE conditions. OBJECTIVE Using a peptidomic approach, we sought to identify a set of molecules exhibiting differential expression in consequence of provocative agents/chemical mediators of PE applied to healthy human placental tissue. STUDY DESIGN Known PE conditions were imposed on normal placental tissue from 13 uncomplicated pregnancies and changes in the low-molecular-weight peptidome were evaluated. A t test was used to identify potential markers for each imposed stress. These markers were then submitted to a least absolute shrinkage and selection operator multinomial logistic regression model to identify signatures specific to each stressor. Estimates of model performance on external data were obtained through internal validation. RESULTS A total of 146 markers were increased/decreased as a consequence of exposure to proposed mediators of PE. Of these 75 changed with hypoxia; 23 with hypoxia-reoxygenation/oxidative stress and 48 from exposure to tumor necrosis factor-α. These markers were chemically characterized using tandem mass spectrometry. Identification rates were: hypoxia, 34%; hypoxia-reoxygenation, 60%; and tumor necrosis factor-α, 50%. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator modeling specified 16 markers that effectively distinguished all groups, ie, the 3 abnormal conditions and control. Bootstrap estimates of misclassification rates, multiclass area under the curve, and Brier score were 0.108, 0.944, and 0.160, respectively. CONCLUSION Using this approach we found previously unknown molecular changes in response to individual PE conditions that allowed development biomolecular signatures for exposure to each accepted pathogenic condition.
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Seno A, Takeda Y, Matsui M, Okuda A, Nakano T, Nakada Y, Kumazawa T, Nakagawa H, Nishida T, Onoue K, Somekawa S, Watanabe M, Kawata H, Kawakami R, Okura H, Uemura S, Saito Y. Suppressed Production of Soluble Fms-Like Tyrosine Kinase-1 Contributes to Myocardial Remodeling and Heart Failure. Hypertension 2016; 68:678-87. [PMID: 27480835 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.116.07371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2016] [Accepted: 06/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1), an endogenous inhibitor of vascular endothelial growth factor and placental growth factor, is involved in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease. However, the significance of sFlt-1 in heart failure has not been fully elucidated. We found that sFlt-1 is decreased in renal failure and serves as a key molecule in atherosclerosis. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of the decreased sFlt-1 production in heart failure, using sFlt-1 knockout mice. sFlt-1 knockout mice and wild-type mice were subjected to transverse aortic constriction and evaluated after 7 days. The sFlt-1 knockout mice had significantly higher mortality (52% versus 15%; P=0.0002) attributable to heart failure and showed greater cardiac hypertrophy (heart weight to body weight ratio, 8.95±0.45 mg/g in sFlt-1 knockout mice versus 6.60±0.32 mg/g in wild-type mice; P<0.0001) and cardiac dysfunction, which was accompanied by a significant increase in macrophage infiltration and cardiac fibrosis, than wild-type mice after transverse aortic constriction. An anti-placental growth factor-neutralizing antibody prevented pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis, and cardiac dysfunction. Moreover, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 expression was significantly increased in the hypertrophied hearts of sFlt-1 knockout mice compared with wild-type mice. Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 inhibition with neutralizing antibody ameliorated maladaptive cardiac remodeling in sFlt-1 knockout mice after transverse aortic constriction. In conclusion, decreased sFlt-1 production plays a key role in the aggravation of cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure through upregulation of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 expression in pressure-overloaded heart.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayako Seno
- From the First Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (A.S., Y.T., M.M., A.O., T. Nakano, Y.N., T.K., H.N., T. Nishida, K.O., S.S., M.W., H.K., R.K., H.O., S.U., Y.S.); and Department of Regulatory Medicine for Blood Pressure, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (T.K., Y.S.)
| | - Yukiji Takeda
- From the First Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (A.S., Y.T., M.M., A.O., T. Nakano, Y.N., T.K., H.N., T. Nishida, K.O., S.S., M.W., H.K., R.K., H.O., S.U., Y.S.); and Department of Regulatory Medicine for Blood Pressure, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (T.K., Y.S.)
| | - Masaru Matsui
- From the First Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (A.S., Y.T., M.M., A.O., T. Nakano, Y.N., T.K., H.N., T. Nishida, K.O., S.S., M.W., H.K., R.K., H.O., S.U., Y.S.); and Department of Regulatory Medicine for Blood Pressure, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (T.K., Y.S.)
| | - Aya Okuda
- From the First Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (A.S., Y.T., M.M., A.O., T. Nakano, Y.N., T.K., H.N., T. Nishida, K.O., S.S., M.W., H.K., R.K., H.O., S.U., Y.S.); and Department of Regulatory Medicine for Blood Pressure, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (T.K., Y.S.)
| | - Tomoya Nakano
- From the First Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (A.S., Y.T., M.M., A.O., T. Nakano, Y.N., T.K., H.N., T. Nishida, K.O., S.S., M.W., H.K., R.K., H.O., S.U., Y.S.); and Department of Regulatory Medicine for Blood Pressure, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (T.K., Y.S.)
| | - Yasuki Nakada
- From the First Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (A.S., Y.T., M.M., A.O., T. Nakano, Y.N., T.K., H.N., T. Nishida, K.O., S.S., M.W., H.K., R.K., H.O., S.U., Y.S.); and Department of Regulatory Medicine for Blood Pressure, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (T.K., Y.S.)
| | - Takuya Kumazawa
- From the First Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (A.S., Y.T., M.M., A.O., T. Nakano, Y.N., T.K., H.N., T. Nishida, K.O., S.S., M.W., H.K., R.K., H.O., S.U., Y.S.); and Department of Regulatory Medicine for Blood Pressure, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (T.K., Y.S.)
| | - Hitoshi Nakagawa
- From the First Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (A.S., Y.T., M.M., A.O., T. Nakano, Y.N., T.K., H.N., T. Nishida, K.O., S.S., M.W., H.K., R.K., H.O., S.U., Y.S.); and Department of Regulatory Medicine for Blood Pressure, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (T.K., Y.S.)
| | - Taku Nishida
- From the First Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (A.S., Y.T., M.M., A.O., T. Nakano, Y.N., T.K., H.N., T. Nishida, K.O., S.S., M.W., H.K., R.K., H.O., S.U., Y.S.); and Department of Regulatory Medicine for Blood Pressure, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (T.K., Y.S.)
| | - Kenji Onoue
- From the First Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (A.S., Y.T., M.M., A.O., T. Nakano, Y.N., T.K., H.N., T. Nishida, K.O., S.S., M.W., H.K., R.K., H.O., S.U., Y.S.); and Department of Regulatory Medicine for Blood Pressure, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (T.K., Y.S.)
| | - Satoshi Somekawa
- From the First Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (A.S., Y.T., M.M., A.O., T. Nakano, Y.N., T.K., H.N., T. Nishida, K.O., S.S., M.W., H.K., R.K., H.O., S.U., Y.S.); and Department of Regulatory Medicine for Blood Pressure, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (T.K., Y.S.)
| | - Makoto Watanabe
- From the First Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (A.S., Y.T., M.M., A.O., T. Nakano, Y.N., T.K., H.N., T. Nishida, K.O., S.S., M.W., H.K., R.K., H.O., S.U., Y.S.); and Department of Regulatory Medicine for Blood Pressure, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (T.K., Y.S.)
| | - Hiroyuki Kawata
- From the First Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (A.S., Y.T., M.M., A.O., T. Nakano, Y.N., T.K., H.N., T. Nishida, K.O., S.S., M.W., H.K., R.K., H.O., S.U., Y.S.); and Department of Regulatory Medicine for Blood Pressure, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (T.K., Y.S.)
| | - Rika Kawakami
- From the First Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (A.S., Y.T., M.M., A.O., T. Nakano, Y.N., T.K., H.N., T. Nishida, K.O., S.S., M.W., H.K., R.K., H.O., S.U., Y.S.); and Department of Regulatory Medicine for Blood Pressure, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (T.K., Y.S.)
| | - Hiroyuki Okura
- From the First Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (A.S., Y.T., M.M., A.O., T. Nakano, Y.N., T.K., H.N., T. Nishida, K.O., S.S., M.W., H.K., R.K., H.O., S.U., Y.S.); and Department of Regulatory Medicine for Blood Pressure, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (T.K., Y.S.)
| | - Shiro Uemura
- From the First Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (A.S., Y.T., M.M., A.O., T. Nakano, Y.N., T.K., H.N., T. Nishida, K.O., S.S., M.W., H.K., R.K., H.O., S.U., Y.S.); and Department of Regulatory Medicine for Blood Pressure, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (T.K., Y.S.)
| | - Yoshihiko Saito
- From the First Department of Internal Medicine, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (A.S., Y.T., M.M., A.O., T. Nakano, Y.N., T.K., H.N., T. Nishida, K.O., S.S., M.W., H.K., R.K., H.O., S.U., Y.S.); and Department of Regulatory Medicine for Blood Pressure, Kashihara, Nara, Japan (T.K., Y.S.).
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Palmer KR, Kaitu’u-Lino TJ, Cannon P, Tuohey L, De Silva MS, Varas-Godoy M, Acuña S, Galaz J, Tong S, Illanes SE. Maternal plasma concentrations of the placental specific sFLT-1 variant, sFLT-1 e15a, in fetal growth restriction and preeclampsia. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2016; 30:635-639. [DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2016.1182975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten R. Palmer
- Translational Obstetric Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mercy Hospital for Women, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia,
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash Health, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia,
| | - Tu’uhevaha J. Kaitu’u-Lino
- Translational Obstetric Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mercy Hospital for Women, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia,
| | - Ping Cannon
- Translational Obstetric Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mercy Hospital for Women, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia,
| | - Laura Tuohey
- Translational Obstetric Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mercy Hospital for Women, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia,
| | | | - Manuel Varas-Godoy
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Universidad de Los Andes, Santiago, Chile
| | - Stephanie Acuña
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Universidad de Los Andes, Santiago, Chile
| | - José Galaz
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Universidad de Los Andes, Santiago, Chile
| | - Stephen Tong
- Translational Obstetric Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mercy Hospital for Women, The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia,
| | - Sebastián E. Illanes
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Universidad de Los Andes, Santiago, Chile
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Triggianese P, Perricone C, Chimenti MS, De Carolis C, Perricone R. Innate Immune System at the Maternal-Fetal Interface: Mechanisms of Disease and Targets of Therapy in Pregnancy Syndromes. Am J Reprod Immunol 2016; 76:245-57. [PMID: 27108670 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The maternal-fetal interface is an immunologically unique site that allows the tolerance to the allogenic fetus and maintains host defense against possible pathogens. Balanced immune responses are required for the maintenance of successful pregnancy. It has been demonstrated that innate immune disturbances may be responsible for some adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preeclampsia (PE); hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, low platelets (HELLP) syndrome; intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR); and recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA). Observational studies suggest that immunomodulatory treatments in pregnancy-specific complications may improve both the hematological/biochemical features in the mother and the perinatal outcomes. The following review will discuss how recent and relevant findings in the field of the innate immunity have advanced our understanding of the role of inflammation and innate immune system in the pathogenesis of pregnancy failure and will discuss the therapeutic outcomes of the existing studies and clinical trials in light of these new insights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Triggianese
- Rheumatology, Allergology and Clinical Immunology, Department of 'Medicina dei Sistemi', University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Perricone
- Reumatologia, Dipartimento di Medicina Interna e Specialità Mediche, Sapienza Università di Roma, Rome, Italy.
| | - Maria Sole Chimenti
- Rheumatology, Allergology and Clinical Immunology, Department of 'Medicina dei Sistemi', University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Caterina De Carolis
- Past Head of Obstetrics and Gynecology II, San Giovanni Addolorata Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Perricone
- Rheumatology, Allergology and Clinical Immunology, Department of 'Medicina dei Sistemi', University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
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Ectodomain cleavage of FLT1 regulates receptor activation and function and is not required for its downstream intracellular cleavage. Exp Cell Res 2016; 344:103-111. [PMID: 27017929 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2016.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2016] [Revised: 03/18/2016] [Accepted: 03/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
FLT1 is a cell surface VEGF receptor which is cleaved to release an N-terminal ectodomain which binds VEGF and PlGF and can antagonize the effects of VEGF in the extracellular milieu. To further evaluate FLT1 processing we expressed tagged FLT1 constructs in HEK293 and COS7 cells where we demonstrate, by deletion mapping, that the cleavage site is immediately adjacent to the transmembrane domain (TMD) between residues 759 and 763. Cleavage reciprocally regulates free VEGF in conditioned media and we show that the cleavage site is also transferable to another transmembrane receptor. A second cleavage event downstream of the ectodomain cleavage releases a cytosolic C-terminal FLT1 fragment and this intracellular cleavage of FLT1 is not catalyzed or regulated by the upstream ectodomain cleavage since abolition of the ectodomain cleavage has no impact on the downstream cleavage event. The downstream cleavage event is not susceptible to γ-secretase inhibitors and overexpression of presenilin 1, the catalytic subunit of γ-secretase did not change the downstream intracellular cleavage event. Furthermore, this cleavage did not occur via a previously published valine residue (767V) in the TMD of FLT1, indicating the existence of another cleavage pathway. We tested the impact of the ectodomain cleavage on p44/42 MAP kinase activation and demonstrate that compared to wild type FLT1, cleavage resistant FLT1 constructs failed to stimulate p44/42 MAP kinase activation. Our results indicate that FLT1 ectodomain cleavage not only regulates the availability of free VEGF in the extracellular milieu but also regulates cellular signaling via the ERK kinase pathway.
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Podocyte directed therapy of nephrotic syndrome-can we bring the inside out? Pediatr Nephrol 2016; 31:393-405. [PMID: 25939817 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-015-3116-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2014] [Revised: 04/08/2015] [Accepted: 04/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Several of the drugs currently used for the treatment of glomerular diseases are prescribed for their immunotherapeutic or anti-inflammatory properties, based on the current understanding that glomerular diseases are mediated by immune responses. In recent years our understanding of podocytic signalling pathways and the crucial role of genetic predispositions in the pathology of glomerular diseases has broadened. Delineation of those signalling pathways supports the hypothesis that several of the medications and immunosuppressive agents used to treat glomerular diseases directly target glomerular podocytes. Several central downstream signalling pathways merge into regulatory pathways of the podocytic actin cytoskeleton and its connection to the slit diaphragm. The slit diaphragm and the cytoskeleton of the foot process represent a functional unit. A breakdown of the cytoskeletal backbone of the foot processes leads to internalization of slit diaphragm molecules, and internalization of slit diaphragm components in turn negatively affects cytoskeletal signalling pathways. Podocytes display a remarkable ability to recover from complete effacement and to re-form interdigitating foot processes and intact slit diaphragms after pharmacological intervention. This ability indicates an active inside-out signalling machinery which stabilizes integrin complex formations and triggers the recycling of slit diaphragm molecules from intracellular compartments to the cell surface. In this review we summarize current evidence from patient studies and model organisms on the direct impact of immunosuppressive and supportive drugs on podocyte signalling pathways. We highlight new therapeutic targets that may open novel opportunities to enhance and stabilize inside-out pathways in podocytes.
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Jeong SK, Hancock WS, Paik YK. GenomewidePDB 2.0: A Newly Upgraded Versatile Proteogenomic Database for the Chromosome-Centric Human Proteome Project. J Proteome Res 2015; 14:3710-9. [PMID: 26272709 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.5b00541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Since the launch of the Chromosome-centric Human Proteome Project (C-HPP) in 2012, the number of "missing" proteins has fallen to 2932, down from ∼5932 since the number was first counted in 2011. We compared the characteristics of missing proteins with those of already annotated proteins with respect to transcriptional expression pattern and the time periods in which newly identified proteins were annotated. We learned that missing proteins commonly exhibit lower levels of transcriptional expression and less tissue-specific expression compared with already annotated proteins. This makes it more difficult to identify missing proteins as time goes on. One of the C-HPP goals is to identify alternative spliced product of proteins (ASPs), which are usually difficult to find by shot-gun proteomic methods due to their sequence similarities with the representative proteins. To resolve this problem, it may be necessary to use a targeted proteomics approach (e.g., selected and multiple reaction monitoring [S/MRM] assays) and an innovative bioinformatics platform that enables the selection of target peptides for rarely expressed missing proteins or ASPs. Given that the success of efforts to identify missing proteins may rely on more informative public databases, it was necessary to upgrade the available integrative databases. To this end, we attempted to improve the features and utility of GenomewidePDB by integrating transcriptomic information (e.g., alternatively spliced transcripts), annotated peptide information, and an advanced search interface that can find proteins of interest when applying a targeted proteomics strategy. This upgraded version of the database, GenomewidePDB 2.0, may not only expedite identification of the remaining missing proteins but also enhance the exchange of information among the proteome community. GenomewidePDB 2.0 is available publicly at http://genomewidepdb.proteomix.org/.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seul-Ki Jeong
- Yonsei Proteome Research Center and Biomedical Proteome Research Center , 50 Yonsei-Ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 120-749, Korea
| | - William S Hancock
- Barnett Institute and Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University , 12 Oxford Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Young-Ki Paik
- Yonsei Proteome Research Center and Biomedical Proteome Research Center , 50 Yonsei-Ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 120-749, Korea.,Department of Biochemistry, Department of Integrated Omics for Biomedical Science (World Class University Graduate Program), Yonsei University , 50 Yonsei-Ro, Sudaemoon-ku, Seoul 120-749, Korea
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Souders CA, Maynard SE, Yan J, Wang Y, Boatright NK, Sedan J, Balyozian D, Cheslock PS, Molrine DC, Simas TAM. Circulating Levels of sFlt1 Splice Variants as Predictive Markers for the Development of Preeclampsia. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:12436-53. [PMID: 26042465 PMCID: PMC4490453 DOI: 10.3390/ijms160612436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2015] [Revised: 05/06/2015] [Accepted: 05/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenic biomarkers, including soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt1), are thought to be predictors of preeclampsia onset; however, improvement is needed before a widespread diagnostic test can be utilized. Here we describe the development and use of diagnostic monoclonal antibodies specific to the two main splice variants of sFlt1, sFlt1-1 and sFlt1-14. These antibodies were selected for their sensitivity and specificity to their respective sFlt1 isoform in a capture ELISA format. Data from this pilot study suggest that sFlt1-1 may be more predictive of preeclampsia than total sFlt1. It may be possible to improve current diagnostic platforms if more specific antibodies are utilized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colby A Souders
- MassBiologics of the University of Massachusetts Medical School, Boston, MA 02126, USA.
| | - Sharon E Maynard
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, Lehigh Valley Health Network, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Allentown, PA 18105, USA.
| | - Jing Yan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA.
| | - Yang Wang
- MassBiologics of the University of Massachusetts Medical School, Boston, MA 02126, USA.
| | - Naomi K Boatright
- MassBiologics of the University of Massachusetts Medical School, Boston, MA 02126, USA.
| | - Jessica Sedan
- MassBiologics of the University of Massachusetts Medical School, Boston, MA 02126, USA.
| | - David Balyozian
- MassBiologics of the University of Massachusetts Medical School, Boston, MA 02126, USA.
| | - Peter S Cheslock
- MassBiologics of the University of Massachusetts Medical School, Boston, MA 02126, USA.
| | - Deborah C Molrine
- MassBiologics of the University of Massachusetts Medical School, Boston, MA 02126, USA.
| | - Tiffany A Moore Simas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Massachusetts Medical School/ UMass Memorial Health Care, Worcester, MA 01605, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA.
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Jardim LL, Rios DRA, Perucci LO, de Sousa LP, Gomes KB, Dusse LMS. Is the imbalance between pro-angiogenic and anti-angiogenic factors associated with preeclampsia? Clin Chim Acta 2015; 447:34-8. [PMID: 25982781 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2015.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2015] [Revised: 05/06/2015] [Accepted: 05/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preeclampsia (PE) is a multisystem disease characterized by the development of hypertension and proteinuria. Although PE etiology is not fully known, the placenta seems to play a central role in the development of disease. The inadequate placentation process results in a change in angiogenic factors levels, such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), placental growth factor (PlGF), soluble form of endoglin (s-Eng) and soluble form of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor type 1 (sFlt-1). OBJECTIVE The aim of this review was to clarify if the imbalance between pro-angiogenic and anti-angiogenic factors is associated with PE. CONCLUSION It is known that inadequate placentation process is the primary mechanism suggested for PE occurrence and angiogenic factors are involved in this process. The state-of-the-art suggests that progress in grasp the imbalance of pro-angiogenic and anti-angiogenic factors is essential for the improvement of knowledge about PE. The development of prospective, longitudinal studies with serial determinations of these factors throughout pregnancy is needed to better assess the relevance of these markers for understanding the etiology, prevention, diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of this challenging disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Letícia Lemos Jardim
- Departamento de Clínica Médica, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Luíza Oliveira Perucci
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Lirlândia Pires de Sousa
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Karina Braga Gomes
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Luci Maria S Dusse
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil.
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Szalai G, Romero R, Chaiworapongsa T, Xu Y, Wang B, Ahn H, Xu Z, Chiang PJ, Sundell B, Wang R, Jiang Y, Plazyo O, Olive M, Tarca AL, Dong Z, Qureshi F, Papp Z, Hassan SS, Hernandez-Andrade E, Than NG. Full-length human placental sFlt-1-e15a isoform induces distinct maternal phenotypes of preeclampsia in mice. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0119547. [PMID: 25860260 PMCID: PMC4393117 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0119547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2014] [Accepted: 01/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Most anti-angiogenic preeclampsia models in rodents utilized the overexpression of a truncated soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) not expressed in any species. Other limitations of mouse preeclampsia models included stressful blood pressure measurements and the lack of postpartum monitoring. We aimed to 1) develop a mouse model of preeclampsia by administering the most abundant human placental sFlt-1 isoform (hsFlt-1-e15a) in preeclampsia; 2) determine blood pressures in non-stressed conditions; and 3) develop a survival surgery that enables the collection of fetuses and placentas and postpartum (PP) monitoring. METHODS Pregnancy status of CD-1 mice was evaluated with high-frequency ultrasound on gestational days (GD) 6 and 7. Telemetry catheters were implanted in the carotid artery on GD7, and their positions were verified by ultrasound on GD13. Mice were injected through tail-vein with adenoviruses expressing hsFlt-1-e15a (n = 11) or green fluorescent protein (GFP; n = 9) on GD8/GD11. Placentas and pups were delivered by cesarean section on GD18 allowing PP monitoring. Urine samples were collected with cystocentesis on GD6/GD7, GD13, GD18, and PPD8, and albumin/creatinine ratios were determined. GFP and hsFlt-1-e15a expression profiles were determined by qRT-PCR. Aortic ring assays were performed to assess the effect of hsFlt-1-e15a on endothelia. RESULTS Ultrasound predicted pregnancy on GD7 in 97% of cases. Cesarean section survival rate was 100%. Mean arterial blood pressure was higher in hsFlt-1-e15a-treated than in GFP-treated mice (∆MAP = 13.2 mmHg, p = 0.00107; GD18). Focal glomerular changes were found in hsFlt-1-e15a -treated mice, which had higher urine albumin/creatinine ratios than controls (109.3 ± 51.7 μg/mg vs. 19.3 ± 5.6 μg/mg, p = 4.4 x 10(-2); GD18). Aortic ring assays showed a 46% lesser microvessel outgrowth in hsFlt-1-e15a-treated than in GFP-treated mice (p = 1.2 x 10(-2)). Placental and fetal weights did not differ between the groups. One mouse with liver disease developed early-onset preeclampsia-like symptoms with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). CONCLUSIONS A mouse model of late-onset preeclampsia was developed with the overexpression of hsFlt-1-e15a, verifying the in vivo pathologic effects of this primate-specific, predominant placental sFlt-1 isoform. HsFlt-1-e15a induced early-onset preeclampsia-like symptoms associated with IUGR in a mouse with a liver disease. Our findings support that hsFlt-1-e15a is central to the terminal pathway of preeclampsia, and it can induce the full spectrum of symptoms in this obstetrical syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabor Szalai
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Roberto Romero
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Tinnakorn Chaiworapongsa
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Yi Xu
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Bing Wang
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Hyunyoung Ahn
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Zhonghui Xu
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Po Jen Chiang
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Birgitta Sundell
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Rona Wang
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Yang Jiang
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Olesya Plazyo
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Mary Olive
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Pharmacology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Adi L. Tarca
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Computer Science, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Zhong Dong
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Faisal Qureshi
- Department of Pathology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Zoltan Papp
- Maternity Private Department, Kutvolgyi Clinical Block, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Sonia S. Hassan
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Edgar Hernandez-Andrade
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Nandor Gabor Than
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, and Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
- Maternity Private Department, Kutvolgyi Clinical Block, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Institute of Enzymology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
- First Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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Murphy SR, Cockrell K. Regulation of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 production in response to placental ischemia/hypoxia: role of angiotensin II. Physiol Rep 2015; 3:3/2/e12310. [PMID: 25716926 PMCID: PMC4393214 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.12310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
While soluble fms-like tyrosine-1 (sFlt-1) is implicated in the pathogenesis of hypertension during preeclampsia, the mechanisms leading to the enhanced sFlt-1 production remain unclear. A recent report suggests exogenous angiotensin II (ANGII) stimulates sFlt-1 production in pregnant rats, however, the role of endogenous ANGII in mediating the placental production of sFlt-1 in response to placental ischemia remains unknown. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the role of endogenous ANGII in mediating the placental production of sFlt-1 in response to placental ischemia in pregnant Sprague–Dawley rats. To this end we compared sFlt-1 and ANGII levels from placental explants collected from normal pregnant (NP) and Reduced Uterine Perfusion Pressure (RUPP) rats. sFlt-1 (3271 ± 264 vs. 2228 ± 324 pg/mL, P < 0.05) and ANGII levels (43.2 ± 2.8 vs. 26.7 ± 1.9 pg/mL, P < 0.05) were higher in placental explants from RUPP rats versus NP rats. Administration of Losartan, an angiotensin type 1 (AT1) receptor antagonist, (10 mg/day for 5 days) to RUPP rats significantly reduced plasma levels of sFlt-1 (1432 ± 255 pg/mL, P < 0.05) when compared with untreated control rats (3431 ± 454 pg/mL). In addition, RUPP-induced hypertension was significantly reduced (113 ± 2 mmHg vs. 139 ± 2 mmHg, P < 0.05). In conclusion, placental sFlt-1 and ANGII production are significantly elevated in response to placental ischemia in pregnant rats. In addition, AT1 receptor activation, by endogenous ANGII, appears to play an important role in mediating the placental production of sFlt-1 in response to placental ischemia in pregnant rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney R Murphy
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Kathy Cockrell
- Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
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Hansson SR, Nääv Å, Erlandsson L. Oxidative stress in preeclampsia and the role of free fetal hemoglobin. Front Physiol 2015; 5:516. [PMID: 25628568 PMCID: PMC4292435 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2014.00516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2014] [Accepted: 12/16/2014] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a leading cause of pregnancy complications and affects 3-7% of pregnant women. This review summarizes the current knowledge of a new potential etiology of the disease, with a special focus on hemoglobin-induced oxidative stress. Furthermore, we also suggest hemoglobin as a potential target for therapy. Gene and protein profiling studies have shown increased expression and accumulation of free fetal hemoglobin in the preeclamptic placenta. Predominantly due to oxidative damage to the placental barrier, fetal hemoglobin leaks over to the maternal circulation. Free hemoglobin and its metabolites are toxic in several ways; (a) ferrous hemoglobin (Fe(2+)) binds strongly to the vasodilator nitric oxide (NO) and reduces the availability of free NO, which results in vasoconstriction, (b) hemoglobin (Fe(2+)) with bound oxygen spontaneously generates free oxygen radicals, and (c) the heme groups create an inflammatory response by inducing activation of neutrophils and cytokine production. The endogenous protein α1-microglobulin, with radical and heme binding properties, has shown both ex vivo and in vivo to have the ability to counteract free hemoglobin-induced placental and kidney damage. Oxidative stress in general, and more specifically fetal hemoglobin-induced oxidative stress, could play a key role in the pathology of preeclampsia seen both in the placenta and ultimately in the maternal endothelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan R. Hansson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute for Clinical Sciences, Lund UniversityLund, Sweden
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Szalai G, Xu Y, Romero R, Chaiworapongsa T, Xu Z, Chiang PJ, Ahn H, Sundell B, Plazyo O, Jiang Y, Olive M, Wang B, Jacques SM, Qureshi F, Tarca AL, Erez O, Dong Z, Papp Z, Hassan SS, Hernandez-Andrade E, Than NG. In vivo experiments reveal the good, the bad and the ugly faces of sFlt-1 in pregnancy. PLoS One 2014; 9:e110867. [PMID: 25393290 PMCID: PMC4230935 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0110867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2014] [Accepted: 09/23/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase (sFlt)-1-e15a, a primate-specific sFlt-1-isoform most abundant in the human placenta in preeclampsia, can induce preeclampsia in mice. This study compared the effects of full-length human (h)sFlt-1-e15a with those of truncated mouse (m)sFlt-1(1-3) used in previous preeclampsia studies on pregnancy outcome and clinical symptoms in preeclampsia. Methods Mice were injected with adenoviruses or fiber-mutant adenoviruses overexpressing hsFlt-1-e15a, msFlt-1(1-3) or control GFP under the CMV or CYP19A1 promoters on gestational day 8 (GD8) and GD11. Placentas and pups were delivered by cesarean section, and dams were monitored postpartum. Blood pressure was telemetrically recorded. Urine samples were collected with cystocentesis and examined for albumin/creatinine ratios. Tissue specimens were evaluated for transgene as well as endogenous mFlt-1 and msFlt-1-i13 expression. H&E-, Jones- and PAS-stained kidney sections were histopathologically examined. Placental GFP expression and aortic ring assays were investigated with confocal microscopy. Results Mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) was elevated before delivery in hsFlt-1-e15a-treated mice compared to controls (GD18: ΔMAP = 7.8 mmHg, p = 0.009), while ΔMAP was 12.8 mmHg (GD18, p = 0.005) in msFlt-1(1-3)-treated mice. Urine albumin/creatinine ratio was higher in hsFlt-1-e15a-treated mice than in controls (GD18, p = 0.04; PPD8, p = 0.03), and msFlt-1(1-3)-treated mice had marked proteinuria postpartum (PPD8, p = 4×10−5). Focal glomerular changes were detected in hsFlt-1-e15a and msFlt-1(1-3)-treated mice. Aortic ring microvessel outgrowth was decreased in hsFlt-1-e15a (p = 0.007) and msFlt-1(1-3)-treated (p = 0.02) mice. Full-length msFlt-1-i13 expression was unique for the placenta. In hsFlt-1-e15a-treated mice, the number of pups (p = 0.046), total weight of living pups (p = 0.04) and maternal weights (p = 0.04) were higher than in controls. These differences were not observed in truncated msFlt-1(1-3)-treated mice. Conclusions Truncated msFlt-1(1-3) simulated the preeclampsia-promoting effects of full-length hsFlt-1. MsFlt-1(1-3) had strong effect on maternal endothelium but not on placentas and embryos. In contrast, hsFlt-1-e15a induced preeclampsia-like symptoms; however, it also increased litter size. In accord with the predominant placental expression of hsFlt-1-e15a and msFlt-1-i13, full-length sFlt-1 may have a role in the regulation of embryonic development. These observations point to the difference in the biological effects of full-length and truncated sFlt-1 and the changes in the effect of full-length sFlt-1 during pregnancy, and may have important implications in the management of preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabor Szalai
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Yi Xu
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Roberto Romero
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
- * E-mail: (RR); (NGT)
| | - Tinnakorn Chaiworapongsa
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Zhonghui Xu
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Po Jen Chiang
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Hyunyoung Ahn
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Birgitta Sundell
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Olesya Plazyo
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Yang Jiang
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Mary Olive
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
- Department of Pharmacology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Bing Wang
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Suzanne M. Jacques
- Department of Pathology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Faisal Qureshi
- Department of Pathology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Adi L. Tarca
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
- Department of Computer Science, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, United States of America
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Offer Erez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Soroka University Medical Center, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Zhong Dong
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Zoltan Papp
- Maternity Private Department, Kutvolgyi Clinical Block, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Sonia S. Hassan
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Edgar Hernandez-Andrade
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Nandor Gabor Than
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, United States of America
- Maternity Private Department, Kutvolgyi Clinical Block, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Institute of Enzymology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
- * E-mail: (RR); (NGT)
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Nevo O, Lee DK, Caniggia I. Attenuation of VEGFR-2 expression by sFlt-1 and low oxygen in human placenta. PLoS One 2013; 8:e81176. [PMID: 24260556 PMCID: PMC3834253 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0081176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2013] [Accepted: 10/10/2013] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR-2), the primary receptor for VEGF, is crucial for normal endothelial function. sFlt-1, a truncated and soluble form of VEGFR-1 which binds and inhibits VEGF, is increased in preeclampsia and is positively regulated by low oxygen. Here, we investigated the effects of sFlt-1 and hypoxia on VEGFR-2 expression and signaling in the human placenta. VEGFR-2 transcript and protein levels were significantly decreased in preeclamptic placentae compared to controls (1.82 and 1.85 fold, respectively). An inverse correlation was observed for VEGFR-2 and sFlt-1 levels in both singleton and twin placentae from patients with preeclampsia. Immunofluorescence analyses revealed co-localization of VEGFR-2 and sFlt-1 in placental vasculature and co-immunoprecipitation analyses confirmed VEGFR-2 and sFlt-1 interaction only in preeclamptic placentae compared to age-matched controls. VEGFR-2 transcript and protein levels from explants cultured in 3% O2 were significantly decreased compared to those incubated at 20% O2 (5.9 and 12.47 fold, respectively). Also, VEGFR-2 transcript levels were significantly decreased in early first trimester placentae (low oxygen environment) compared to late first trimester placentae (2.05 fold). We next explored whether sFlt-1 directly affects VEGFR-2 expression. Treatment of first trimester placental explants with sFlt-1 resulted in significantly decreased levels of VEGFR-2 (2.03 fold) and downstream signaling proteins phospho-ERK (1.60 fold) and phospho-Akt (1.64 fold). Our findings show a novel hypoxia-induced and PE-related down-regulation of VEGFR-2 in the human placenta. sFlt-1, which is known to be increased in hypoxic conditions and PE, directly attenuates VEGFR-2 expression and signaling. A direct interaction between sFlt-1 and VEGFR-2 may represent an important mechanism in VEGFR-2 regulation, inhibition of VEGFR-2-mediated processes in placentation and a novel platform to examine the onset of preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ori Nevo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- * E-mail:
| | - Dennis K. Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Isabella Caniggia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mount Sinai Hospital, Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Conti E, Zezza L, Ralli E, Caserta D, Musumeci MB, Moscarini M, Autore C, Volpe M. Growth factors in preeclampsia: a vascular disease model. A failed vasodilation and angiogenic challenge from pregnancy onwards? Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2013; 24:411-25. [PMID: 23800655 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2013.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2013] [Revised: 04/30/2013] [Accepted: 05/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia is the major cause of maternofetal and neonatal morbi-mortality including intrauterine growth retardation, miscarriages and stillbirths. Inadequate vascular dilation and angiogenesis represent the crucial underlying defect of gravidic hypertension, denoting a failed response to the vasodilatory and pro-angiogenic challenge imposed by pregnancy, especially if multifetal. A similar pathogenesis appears involved in gestational diabetes. In this review we aimed to provide a hint on understanding the deeply involved angiogenic disorders which eventually culminate in utero-placental failure. The key players in these complex processes may be found in an intricate network of growth factors (GFs) and GF inhibitors, controlled by several vascular risk factors modulated by environment and genes, which eventually impact on early and late cardiovascular outcomes of mother and fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Conti
- Cardiology, Clinical and Molecular Medicine Department, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Italy.
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49
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Sundrani DP, Reddy US, Joshi AA, Mehendale SS, Chavan-Gautam PM, Hardikar AA, Chandak GR, Joshi SR. Differential placental methylation and expression of VEGF, FLT-1 and KDR genes in human term and preterm preeclampsia. Clin Epigenetics 2013; 5:6. [PMID: 23621880 PMCID: PMC3640948 DOI: 10.1186/1868-7083-5-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2012] [Accepted: 04/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Preeclampsia, a pregnancy complication of placental origin is associated with altered expression of angiogenic factors and their receptors. Recently, there is considerable interest in understanding the role of adverse intrauterine conditions in placental dysfunction and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Since we have observed changes in placental global DNA methylation levels in preeclampsia, this study was undertaken to examine gene promoter CpG methylation and expression of several angiogenic genes. We recruited 139 women comprising, 46 normotensive women with term delivery (≥37 weeks), 45 women with preeclampsia delivering preterm (<37 weeks) and 48 women with preeclampsia delivering at term. Expression levels and promoter CpG methylation of VEGF, FLT-1 and KDR genes in placentae from respective groups were determined by Taqman-based quantitative real time PCR and by the Sequenom® EpiTYPER™ technology respectively. Results We observed several differentially methylated CpG sites in the promoter regions of VEGF, FLT-1 and KDR between the normotensive and preeclampsia groups. We specifically observed hypomethylated CpGs in the promoter region and an increased expression of VEGF gene between term and preterm preeclampsia. However, mean promoter CpG methylation could not account for the higher expression of FLT-1 and KDR in preterm preeclampsia as compared to normotensive group. Conclusions Our data indicates altered DNA methylation patterns in the VEGF, FLT-1 and KDR genes in preeclampsia as compared to the normotensive group, which could be involved in the pathophysiology of preeclampsia. Hypomethylation of VEGF promoter and consequent upregulation of VEGF mRNA levels could be a compensatory mechanism to restore normal angiogenesis and blood flow in preterm preeclampsia. This study suggests a role of altered DNA methylation in placental angiogenesis and in determining adverse pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepali P Sundrani
- Department of Nutritional Medicine, Interactive Research School for Health Affairs, Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Pune, 411043, India
| | - Umakar S Reddy
- Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Hyderabad, 500007, India
| | - Asmita A Joshi
- Department of Nutritional Medicine, Interactive Research School for Health Affairs, Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Pune, 411043, India
| | - Savita S Mehendale
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bharati Medical College and Hospital, Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Pune, 411043, India
| | - Preeti M Chavan-Gautam
- Department of Nutritional Medicine, Interactive Research School for Health Affairs, Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Pune, 411043, India
| | - Anandwardhan A Hardikar
- Diabetes and Islet-biology Group, NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, 2050, Australia
| | - Giriraj R Chandak
- Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Hyderabad, 500007, India
| | - Sadhana R Joshi
- Department of Nutritional Medicine, Interactive Research School for Health Affairs, Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Pune, 411043, India
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Basile DP, Zeng P, Friedrich JL, Leonard EC, Yoder MC. Low proliferative potential and impaired angiogenesis of cultured rat kidney endothelial cells. Microcirculation 2013; 19:598-609. [PMID: 22612333 DOI: 10.1111/j.1549-8719.2012.00193.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE CKD is histologically characterized by interstitial fibrosis, which may be driven by peritubular capillary dropout and hypoxia. Surprisingly, peritubular capillaries have little repair capacity. We sought to establish long-term cultures of rat kidney endothelial cells to investigate their growth regulatory properties. METHODS AKEC or YKEC were isolated using CD31-based isolation techniques and sustained in long-term cultures. RESULTS Although YKEC grew slightly better than AKEC, both performed poorly compared with endothelial cells of the rat adult PMVEC, PAEC, or HUVEC cells. PMVEC and PAEC contained a large percentage of cells with high colony-forming potential. In contrast, KECs were incapable of forming large colonies and most remained as single nondividing cells. KEC expressed high levels of mRNA for VEGF receptors, but were surprisingly insensitive to VEGF stimulation. KEC did not form branching structures on Matrigel when cultured alone, but in mixed cultures, KEC incorporated into branching structures with PMVEC. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that the intrinsic growth of rat kidney endothelial cells is limited by unknown mechanisms. The low growth rate may be related to the minimal intrinsic regenerative capacity of renal capillaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- David P Basile
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, Indiana University, Indianapolis 46202, USA.
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