1
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de Jong MJM, Depuydt MAC, Schaftenaar FH, Liu K, Maters D, Wezel A, Smeets HJ, Kuiper J, Bot I, van Gisbergen K, Slütter B. Resident Memory T Cells in the Atherosclerotic Lesion Associate With Reduced Macrophage Content and Increased Lesion Stability. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2024; 44:1318-1329. [PMID: 38634281 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.123.320511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tissue resident memory T (TRM) cells are a T-cell subset that resides at the site of prior antigen recognition to protect the body against reoccurring encounters. Besides their protective function, TRM cells have also been implicated in inflammatory disorders. TRM cells are characterized by the expression of CD69 and transcription factors Hobit (homolog of Blimp-1 [B lymphocyte-induced maturation protein 1] in T cells) and Blimp-1. As the majority of T cells in the arterial intima expresses CD69, TRM cells may contribute to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis as well. Here, we aimed to assess the presence and potential role of TRM cells in atherosclerosis. METHODS To identify TRM cells in human atherosclerotic lesions, a single-cell RNA-sequencing data set was interrogated, and T-cell phenotypes were compared with that of integrated predefined TRM cells. The presence and phenotype of TRM in atherosclerotic lesions was corroborated using a mouse model that enabled tracking of Hobit-expressing TRM cells. To explore the function of TRM cells during atherogenesis, RAG1-/- (recombination activating gene 1 deficient) LDLr-/- (low-density lipoprotein receptor knockout) mice received a bone marrow transplant from HobitKO/CREBlimp-1flox/flox mice, which exhibit abrogated TRM cell formation, whereafter the mice were fed a Western-type diet for 10 weeks. RESULTS Human atherosclerotic lesions contained T cells that exhibited a TRM cell-associated gene signature. Moreover, a fraction of these T cells clustered together with predefined TRM cells upon integration. The presence of Hobit-expressing TRM cells in the atherosclerotic lesion was confirmed in mice. These lesion-derived TRM cells were characterized by the expression of CD69 and CD49α. Moreover, we demonstrated that this small T-cell subset significantly affects lesion composition, by reducing the amount of intralesional macrophages and increasing collagen content. CONCLUSIONS TRM cells, characterized by the expression of CD69 and CD49α, constitute a minor population in atherosclerotic lesions and are associated with increased lesion stability in a Hobit and Blimp-1 knockout mouse model.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Atherosclerosis/pathology
- Atherosclerosis/immunology
- Atherosclerosis/metabolism
- Atherosclerosis/genetics
- Humans
- Memory T Cells/immunology
- Memory T Cells/metabolism
- Macrophages/metabolism
- Macrophages/immunology
- Macrophages/pathology
- Disease Models, Animal
- Immunologic Memory
- Receptors, LDL/genetics
- Receptors, LDL/deficiency
- Plaque, Atherosclerotic
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice
- Male
- Mice, Knockout
- Antigens, Differentiation, T-Lymphocyte/metabolism
- Antigens, Differentiation, T-Lymphocyte/genetics
- Lectins, C-Type/metabolism
- Lectins, C-Type/genetics
- Phenotype
- Female
- Antigens, CD/metabolism
- Antigens, CD/genetics
- Aortic Diseases/pathology
- Aortic Diseases/immunology
- Aortic Diseases/genetics
- Aortic Diseases/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Maaike J M de Jong
- Division of Biotherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, the Netherlands (M.J.M.d.J., M.A.C.D., F.H.S., K.L., D.M., J.K., I.B., B.S.)
| | - Marie A C Depuydt
- Division of Biotherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, the Netherlands (M.J.M.d.J., M.A.C.D., F.H.S., K.L., D.M., J.K., I.B., B.S.)
| | - Frank H Schaftenaar
- Division of Biotherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, the Netherlands (M.J.M.d.J., M.A.C.D., F.H.S., K.L., D.M., J.K., I.B., B.S.)
| | - Kun Liu
- Division of Biotherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, the Netherlands (M.J.M.d.J., M.A.C.D., F.H.S., K.L., D.M., J.K., I.B., B.S.)
| | - David Maters
- Division of Biotherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, the Netherlands (M.J.M.d.J., M.A.C.D., F.H.S., K.L., D.M., J.K., I.B., B.S.)
| | - Anouk Wezel
- Department of Surgery, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands (A.W., H.J.S.)
| | - Harm J Smeets
- Department of Surgery, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands (A.W., H.J.S.)
| | - Johan Kuiper
- Division of Biotherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, the Netherlands (M.J.M.d.J., M.A.C.D., F.H.S., K.L., D.M., J.K., I.B., B.S.)
| | - Ilze Bot
- Division of Biotherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, the Netherlands (M.J.M.d.J., M.A.C.D., F.H.S., K.L., D.M., J.K., I.B., B.S.)
| | - Klaas van Gisbergen
- van Gisbergen Lab, Tissue Immunity, Champalimaud Research, Lisbon, Portugal (K.v.G.)
| | - Bram Slütter
- Division of Biotherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, the Netherlands (M.J.M.d.J., M.A.C.D., F.H.S., K.L., D.M., J.K., I.B., B.S.)
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2
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Wen Z, Wang L, Ma H, Li L, Wan L, Shi L, Li H, Chen H, Hao W, Song S, Xue Q, Wei Y, Li F, Xu J, Zhang S, Wong KW, Song Y. Integrated single-cell transcriptome and T cell receptor profiling reveals defects of T cell exhaustion in pulmonary tuberculosis. J Infect 2024; 88:106158. [PMID: 38642678 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2024.106158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
Tuberculosis-affected lungs with chronic inflammation harbor abundant immunosuppressive immune cells but the nature of such inflammation is unclear. Dysfunction in T cell exhaustion, while implicated in chronic inflammatory diseases, remains unexplored in tuberculosis. Given that immunotherapy targeting exhaustion checkpoints exacerbates tuberculosis, we speculate that T cell exhaustion is dysfunctional in tuberculosis. Using integrated single-cell RNA sequencing and T cell receptor profiling we reported defects in exhaustion responses within inflamed tuberculosis-affected lungs. Tuberculosis lungs demonstrated significantly reduced levels of exhausted CD8+ T cells and exhibited diminished expression of exhaustion-related transcripts among clonally expanded CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Additionally, clonal expansion of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells bearing T cell receptors specific for CMV was observed. Expanded CD8+ T cells expressed the cytolytic marker GZMK. Hence, inflamed tuberculosis-affected lungs displayed dysfunction in T cell exhaustion. Our findings likely hold implications for understanding the reactivation of tuberculosis observed in patients undergoing immunotherapy targeting the exhaustion checkpoint.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zilu Wen
- Department of Scientific Research, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lin Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Ma
- Department of Scientific Research, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Leilei Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Laiyi Wan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Shi
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongwei Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wentao Hao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shu Song
- Department of Pathology, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qinghua Xue
- Department of Scientific Research, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yutong Wei
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng Li
- Department of Respiratory Diseases, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianqing Xu
- Department of Scientific Research, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shulin Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ka-Wing Wong
- Department of Scientific Research, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yanzheng Song
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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3
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Madaudo C, Coppola G, Parlati ALM, Corrado E. Discovering Inflammation in Atherosclerosis: Insights from Pathogenic Pathways to Clinical Practice. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6016. [PMID: 38892201 PMCID: PMC11173271 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25116016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2024] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
This comprehensive review explores the various scenarios of atherosclerosis, a systemic and chronic arterial disease that underlies most cardiovascular disorders. Starting from an overview of its insidious development, often asymptomatic until it reaches advanced stages, the review delves into the pathophysiological evolution of atherosclerotic lesions, highlighting the central role of inflammation. Insights into clinical manifestations, including heart attacks and strokes, highlight the disease's significant burden on global health. Emphasis is placed on carotid atherosclerosis, clarifying its epidemiology, clinical implications, and association with cognitive decline. Prevention strategies, lifestyle modifications, risk factor management, and nuanced antithrombotic treatment considerations are critical to managing cardiovascular complications, thus addressing a crucial aspect of cardiovascular health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Madaudo
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Cardiology Unit, University of Palermo, University Hospital P. Giaccone, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (C.M.)
| | - Giuseppe Coppola
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Cardiology Unit, University of Palermo, University Hospital P. Giaccone, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (C.M.)
| | | | - Egle Corrado
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Cardiology Unit, University of Palermo, University Hospital P. Giaccone, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (C.M.)
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4
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Mohanta SK, Santovito D, Weber C. Cortico-limbic restructuring and atherosclerosis: a stressful liaison. Eur Heart J 2024; 45:1765-1767. [PMID: 38770964 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehae212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sarajo K Mohanta
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU), LMU University Hospital, Pettenkoferstr. 9, D-80336 Munich, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Donato Santovito
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU), LMU University Hospital, Pettenkoferstr. 9, D-80336 Munich, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
- Institute for Genetic and Biomedical Research (IRGB), Unit of Milan, National Research Council, Milan, Italy
| | - Christian Weber
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU), LMU University Hospital, Pettenkoferstr. 9, D-80336 Munich, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
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5
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Xu L, Chen F, Fan W, Saito S, Cao D. The role of γδT lymphocytes in atherosclerosis. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1369202. [PMID: 38774876 PMCID: PMC11106432 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1369202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis poses a significant threat to human health, impacting overall well-being and imposing substantial financial burdens. Current treatment strategies mainly focus on managing low-density lipids (LDL) and optimizing liver functions. However, it's crucial to recognize that Atherosclerosis involves more than just lipid accumulation; it entails a complex interplay of immune responses. Research highlights the pivotal role of lipid-laden macrophages in the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. These macrophages attract lymphocytes like CD4 and CD8 to the inflamed site, potentially intensifying the inflammatory response. γδ T lymphocytes, with their diverse functions in innate and adaptive immune responses, pathogen defense, antigen presentation, and inflammation regulation, have been implicated in the early stages of Atherosclerosis. However, our understanding of the roles of γδ T cells in Atherosclerosis remains limited. This mini-review aims to shed light on the characteristics and functions of γδ T cells in Atherosclerosis. By gaining insights into the roles of γδ T cells, we may uncover a promising strategy to mitigate plaque buildup and dampen the inflammatory response, thereby opening new avenues for effectively managing this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- LiMin Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shenzhen Entry-Exit Frontier Inspection Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Fanfan Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wei Fan
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Suguru Saito
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - DuoYao Cao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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6
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Smit V, de Mol J, Kleijn MNAB, Depuydt MAC, de Winther MPJ, Bot I, Kuiper J, Foks AC. Sexual dimorphism in atherosclerotic plaques of aged Ldlr -/- mice. Immun Ageing 2024; 21:27. [PMID: 38698438 PMCID: PMC11064395 DOI: 10.1186/s12979-024-00434-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atherosclerosis, the main underlying pathology of cardiovascular disease, is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by lipid accumulation and immune cell responses in the vascular wall, resulting in plaque formation. It is well-known that atherosclerosis prevalence and manifestation vary by sex. However, sexual dimorphism in the immune landscape of atherosclerotic plaques has up to date not been studied at high-resolution. In this study, we investigated sex-specific differences in atherosclerosis development and the immunological landscape of aortas at single-cell level in aged Ldlr-/- mice. METHODS We compared plaque morphology between aged male and female chow diet-fed Ldlr-/- mice (22 months old) with histological analysis. Using single-cell RNA-sequencing and flow cytometry on CD45+ immune cells from aortas of aged Ldlr-/- mice, we explored the immune landscape in the atherosclerotic environment in males and females. RESULTS We show that plaque volume is comparable in aged male and female mice, and that plaques in aged female mice contain more collagen and cholesterol crystals, but less necrotic core and macrophage content compared to males. We reveal increased immune cell infiltration in female aortas and found that expression of pro-atherogenic markers and inflammatory signaling pathways was enriched in plaque immune cells of female mice. Particularly, female aortas show enhanced activation of B cells (Egr1, Cd83, Cd180), including age-associated B cells, in addition to an increased M1/M2 macrophage ratio, where Il1b+ M1-like macrophages display a more pro-inflammatory phenotype (Nlrp3, Cxcl2, Mmp9) compared to males. In contrast, increased numbers of age-associated Gzmk+CD8+ T cells, dendritic cells, and Trem2+ macrophages were observed in male aortas. CONCLUSIONS Altogether, our findings highlight that sex is a variable that contributes to immunological differences in the atherosclerotic plaque environment in mice and provide valuable insights for further preclinical studies into the impact of sex on the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Smit
- LACDR, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333CC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jill de Mol
- LACDR, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333CC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Mireia N A Bernabé Kleijn
- LACDR, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333CC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Marie A C Depuydt
- LACDR, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333CC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Menno P J de Winther
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam University Medical Centers - location AMC, University of Amsterdam, Experimental Vascular Biology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ilze Bot
- LACDR, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333CC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Johan Kuiper
- LACDR, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333CC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Amanda C Foks
- LACDR, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333CC, Leiden, The Netherlands.
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7
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Snijckers RPM, Foks AC. Adaptive immunity and atherosclerosis: aging at its crossroads. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1350471. [PMID: 38686373 PMCID: PMC11056569 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1350471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Adaptive immunity plays a profound role in atherosclerosis pathogenesis by regulating antigen-specific responses, inflammatory signaling and antibody production. However, as we age, our immune system undergoes a gradual functional decline, a phenomenon termed "immunosenescence". This decline is characterized by a reduction in proliferative naïve B- and T cells, decreased B- and T cell receptor repertoire and a pro-inflammatory senescence associated secretory profile. Furthermore, aging affects germinal center responses and deteriorates secondary lymphoid organ function and structure, leading to impaired T-B cell dynamics and increased autoantibody production. In this review, we will dissect the impact of aging on adaptive immunity and the role played by age-associated B- and T cells in atherosclerosis pathogenesis, emphasizing the need for interventions that target age-related immune dysfunction to reduce cardiovascular disease risk.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amanda C. Foks
- Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
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8
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Khan A, Ley K. Immunotherapy for atherosclerosis by targeting pro-inflammatory T cells. Cell Res 2024:10.1038/s41422-024-00955-y. [PMID: 38565655 DOI: 10.1038/s41422-024-00955-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Khan
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Klaus Ley
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA.
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9
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Stroope C, Nettersheim FS, Coon B, Finney AC, Schwartz MA, Ley K, Rom O, Yurdagul A. Dysregulated cellular metabolism in atherosclerosis: mediators and therapeutic opportunities. Nat Metab 2024; 6:617-638. [PMID: 38532071 PMCID: PMC11055680 DOI: 10.1038/s42255-024-01015-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence over the past decades has revealed an intricate relationship between dysregulation of cellular metabolism and the progression of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. However, an integrated understanding of dysregulated cellular metabolism in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and its potential value as a therapeutic target is missing. In this Review, we (1) summarize recent advances concerning the role of metabolic dysregulation during atherosclerosis progression in lesional cells, including endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells, macrophages and T cells; (2) explore the complexity of metabolic cross-talk between these lesional cells; (3) highlight emerging technologies that promise to illuminate unknown aspects of metabolism in atherosclerosis; and (4) suggest strategies for targeting these underexplored metabolic alterations to mitigate atherosclerosis progression and stabilize rupture-prone atheromas with a potential new generation of cardiovascular therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chad Stroope
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Felix Sebastian Nettersheim
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Brian Coon
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Cardiovascular Biology Research Program, OMRF, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Oklahoma University Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Alexandra C Finney
- Department of Pathology and Translational Pathobiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Martin A Schwartz
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Departments of Cell Biology and Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Klaus Ley
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Immunology Center of Georgia (IMMCG), Augusta University Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Oren Rom
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, USA
- Department of Pathology and Translational Pathobiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Arif Yurdagul
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, USA.
- Department of Pathology and Translational Pathobiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, USA.
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10
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Roy P, Suthahar SSA, Makings J, Ley K. Identification of apolipoprotein B-reactive CDR3 motifs allows tracking of atherosclerosis-related memory CD4 +T cells in multiple donors. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1302031. [PMID: 38571941 PMCID: PMC10988780 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1302031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Atherosclerosis is a major pathological condition that underlies many cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Its etiology involves breach of tolerance to self, leading to clonal expansion of autoreactive apolipoprotein B (APOB)-reactive CD4+T cells that correlates with clinical CVD. The T-cell receptor (TCR) sequences that mediate activation of APOB-specific CD4+T cells are unknown. Methods In a previous study, we had profiled the hypervariable complementarity determining region 3 (CDR3) of CD4+T cells that respond to six immunodominant APOB epitopes in most donors. Here, we comprehensively analyze this dataset of 149,065 APOB-reactive and 199,211 non-reactive control CDR3s from six human leukocyte antigen-typed donors. Results We identified 672 highly expanded (frequency threshold > 1.39E-03) clones that were significantly enriched in the APOB-reactive group as compared to the controls (log10 odds ratio ≥1, Fisher's test p < 0.01). Analysis of 114,755 naïve, 91,001 central memory (TCM) and 29,839 effector memory (TEM) CDR3 sequences from the same donors revealed that APOB+ clones can be traced to the complex repertoire of unenriched blood T cells. The fraction of APOB+ clones that overlapped with memory CDR3s ranged from 2.2% to 46% (average 16.4%). This was significantly higher than their overlap with the naïve pool, which ranged from 0.7% to 2% (average 1.36%). CDR3 motif analysis with the machine learning-based in-silico tool, GLIPHs (grouping of lymphocyte interactions by paratope hotspots), identified 532 APOB+ motifs. Analysis of naïve and memory CDR3 sequences with GLIPH revealed that ~40% (209 of 532) of these APOB+ motifs were enriched in the memory pool. Network analysis with Cytoscape revealed extensive sharing of the memory-affiliated APOB+ motifs across multiple donors. We identified six motifs that were present in TCM and TEM CDR3 sequences from >80% of the donors and were highly enriched in the APOB-reactive TCR repertoire. Discussion The identified APOB-reactive expanded CD4+T cell clones and conserved motifs can be used to annotate and track human atherosclerosis-related autoreactive CD4+T cells and measure their clonal expansion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Payel Roy
- Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | | | - Jeffrey Makings
- Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Klaus Ley
- Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
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11
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Khan A, Roy P, Ley K. Breaking tolerance: the autoimmune aspect of atherosclerosis. Nat Rev Immunol 2024:10.1038/s41577-024-01010-y. [PMID: 38472321 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-024-01010-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the arterial walls and is characterized by the accumulation of lipoproteins that are insufficiently cleared by phagocytes. Following the initiation of atherosclerosis, the pathological progression is accelerated by engagement of the adaptive immune system. Atherosclerosis triggers the breakdown of tolerance to self-components. This loss of tolerance is reflected in defective expression of immune checkpoint molecules, dysfunctional antigen presentation, and aberrations in T cell populations - most notably in regulatory T (Treg) cells - and in the production of autoantibodies. The breakdown of tolerance to self-proteins that is observed in ASCVD may be linked to the conversion of Treg cells to 'exTreg' cells because many Treg cells in ASCVD express T cell receptors that are specific for self-epitopes. Alternatively, or in addition, breakdown of tolerance may trigger the activation of naive T cells, resulting in the clonal expansion of T cell populations with pro-inflammatory and cytotoxic effector phenotypes. In this Perspective, we review the evidence that atherosclerosis is associated with a breakdown of tolerance to self-antigens, discuss possible immunological mechanisms and identify knowledge gaps to map out future research. Rational approaches aimed at re-establishing immune tolerance may become game changers in treating ASCVD and in preventing its downstream sequelae, which include heart attacks and strokes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Khan
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Payel Roy
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Klaus Ley
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA.
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12
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Lin H, Zhang M, Hu M, Zhang Y, Jiang W, Tang W, Ouyang Y, Jiang L, Mi Y, Chen Z, He P, Zhao G, Ouyang X. Emerging applications of single-cell profiling in precision medicine of atherosclerosis. J Transl Med 2024; 22:97. [PMID: 38263066 PMCID: PMC10804726 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04629-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a chronic, progressive, inflammatory disease that occurs in the arterial wall. Despite recent advancements in treatment aimed at improving efficacy and prolonging survival, atherosclerosis remains largely incurable. In this review, we discuss emerging single-cell sequencing techniques and their novel insights into atherosclerosis. We provide examples of single-cell profiling studies that reveal phenotypic characteristics of atherosclerosis plaques, blood, liver, and the intestinal tract. Additionally, we highlight the potential clinical applications of single-cell analysis and propose that combining this approach with other techniques can facilitate early diagnosis and treatment, leading to more accurate medical interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiling Lin
- Department of Physiology, Medical College, Institute of Neuroscience Research, Hengyang Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration and Cognitive Impairment, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, China
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Affiliated Qingyuan Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University (Qingyuan People's Hospital), Qingyuan, 511518, Guangdong, China
| | - Mi Hu
- Department of Physiology, Medical College, Institute of Neuroscience Research, Hengyang Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration and Cognitive Impairment, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, China
| | - Yangkai Zhang
- Department of Physiology, Medical College, Institute of Neuroscience Research, Hengyang Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration and Cognitive Impairment, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, China
| | - WeiWei Jiang
- Department of Organ Transplantation, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Wanying Tang
- Department of Physiology, Medical College, Institute of Neuroscience Research, Hengyang Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration and Cognitive Impairment, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, China
| | - Yuxin Ouyang
- Department of Physiology, Medical College, Institute of Neuroscience Research, Hengyang Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration and Cognitive Impairment, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, China
| | - Liping Jiang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yali Mi
- Affiliated Qingyuan Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University (Qingyuan People's Hospital), Qingyuan, 511518, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhi Chen
- College of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Pingping He
- Department of Nursing, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China.
| | - Guojun Zhao
- Affiliated Qingyuan Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University (Qingyuan People's Hospital), Qingyuan, 511518, Guangdong, China.
| | - Xinping Ouyang
- Department of Physiology, Medical College, Institute of Neuroscience Research, Hengyang Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration and Cognitive Impairment, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, China.
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410081, Hunan, China.
- The Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, 410081, Hunan, Changsha, China.
- The Engineering Research Center of Reproduction and Translational Medicine of Hunan Province, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, 410081, Hunan, Changsha, China.
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13
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Freuchet A, Roy P, Armstrong SS, Oliaeimotlagh M, Kumar S, Orecchioni M, Ali AJ, Khan A, Makings J, Lyu Q, Winkels H, Wang E, Durant C, Ghosheh Y, Gulati R, Nettersheim F, Ley K. Identification of human exT reg cells as CD16 +CD56 + cytotoxic CD4 + T cells. Nat Immunol 2023; 24:1748-1761. [PMID: 37563308 PMCID: PMC11022744 DOI: 10.1038/s41590-023-01589-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
In atherosclerosis, some regulatory T (Treg) cells become exTreg cells. We crossed inducible Treg and exTreg cell lineage-tracker mice (FoxP3eGFP-Cre-ERT2ROSA26CAG-fl-stop-fl-tdTomato) to atherosclerosis-prone Apoe-/- mice, sorted Treg cells and exTreg cells and determined their transcriptomes by bulk RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). Genes that were differentially expressed between mouse Treg cells and exTreg cells and filtered for their presence in a human single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) panel identified exTreg cell signature genes as CST7, NKG7, GZMA, PRF1, TBX21 and CCL4. Projecting these genes onto the human scRNA-seq with CITE-seq data identified human exTreg cells as CD3+CD4+CD16+CD56+, which was validated by flow cytometry. Bulk RNA-seq of sorted human exTreg cells identified them as inflammatory and cytotoxic CD4+T cells that were significantly distinct from both natural killer and Treg cells. DNA sequencing for T cell receptor-β showed clonal expansion of Treg cell CDR3 sequences in exTreg cells. Cytotoxicity was functionally demonstrated in cell killing and CD107a degranulation assays, which identifies human exTreg cells as cytotoxic CD4+T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Payel Roy
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Sunil Kumar
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Marco Orecchioni
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Amal J Ali
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Amir Khan
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | | | - Qingkang Lyu
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Holger Winkels
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Clinic III for Internal Medicine, Cologne, Germany
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Erpei Wang
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | | | - Yanal Ghosheh
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Rishab Gulati
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | | | - Klaus Ley
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA.
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14
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Iqneibi S, Saigusa R, Khan A, Oliaeimotlagh M, Armstrong Suthahar SS, Kumar S, Alimadadi A, Durant CP, Ghosheh Y, McNamara CA, Hedrick CC, Ley K. Single cell transcriptomics reveals recent CD8T cell receptor signaling in patients with coronary artery disease. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1239148. [PMID: 37828989 PMCID: PMC10565000 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1239148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a major cause of death worldwide. The role of CD8+ T cells in CAD is unknown. Recent studies suggest a breakdown of tolerance in atherosclerosis, resulting in active T cell receptor (TCR) engagement with self-antigens. We hypothesized that TCR engagement would leave characteristic gene expression signatures. In a single cell RNA-sequencing analysis of CD8+ T cells from 30 patients with CAD and 30 controls we found significant enrichment of TCR signaling pathways in CAD+ subjects, suggesting recent TCR engagement. We also found significant enrichment of cytotoxic and exhaustion pathways in CAD cases compared to controls. Highly significant upregulation of TCR signaling in CAD indicates that CD8 T cells reactive to atherosclerosis antigens are prominent in the blood of CAD cases compared to controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahad Iqneibi
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - Ryosuke Saigusa
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Amir Khan
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | | | | | - Sunil Kumar
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - Ahmad Alimadadi
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | | | - Yanal Ghosheh
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Coleen A. McNamara
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Catherine C. Hedrick
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Klaus Ley
- Immunology Center of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Department of Physiology, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
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15
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Xu J, Yang Y, Li X, Ding S, Zheng L, Xiong C, Yang Y. Pleiotropic activities of succinate: The interplay between gut microbiota and cardiovascular diseases. IMETA 2023; 2:e124. [PMID: 38867936 PMCID: PMC10989957 DOI: 10.1002/imt2.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) continue to be a significant contributor to global mortality, imposing a substantial burden and emphasizing the urgent need for disease control to save lives and prevent disability. With advancements in technology and scientific research, novel mechanisms underlying CVDs have been uncovered, leading to the exploration of promising treatment targets aimed at reducing the global burden of the disease. One of the most intriguing findings is the relationship between CVDs and gut microbiota, challenging the traditional understanding of CVDs mechanisms and introducing the concept of the gut-heart axis. The gut microbiota, through changes in microbial compositions and functions, plays a crucial role in influencing local and systemic effects on host physiology and disease development, with its metabolites acting as key regulators. In previous studies, we have emphasized the importance of specific metabolites such as betaine, putrescine, trimethylamine oxide, and N,N,N-trimethyl-5-aminovaleric acid in the potential treatment of CVDs. Particularly noteworthy is the gut microbiota-associated metabolite succinate, which has garnered significant attention due to its involvement in various pathophysiological pathways closely related to CVDs pathogenesis, including immunoinflammatory responses, oxidative stress, and energy metabolism. Furthermore, we have identified succinate as a potential biomarker, highlighting its therapeutic feasibility in managing aortic dissection and aneurysm. This review aims to comprehensively outline the characteristics of succinate, including its biosynthetic process, summarize the current evidence linking it to CVDs causation, and emphasize the host-microbial crosstalk involved in modulating CVDs. The insights presented here offer a novel paradigm for future management and control of CVDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Xu
- Department of Cardiology, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular DiseasesChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Yicheng Yang
- Respiratory and Pulmonary Vascular Center, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular DiseasesChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Xin Li
- Respiratory and Pulmonary Vascular Center, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular DiseasesChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Shusi Ding
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Tiantan Hospital, Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain ProtectionThe Capital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Lemin Zheng
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Tiantan Hospital, Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain ProtectionThe Capital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
- The Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Institute of Systems Biomedicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Sciences of Ministry of Education, NHC Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Molecular Biology and Regulatory Peptides, Health Science CenterPeking UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Changming Xiong
- Respiratory and Pulmonary Vascular Center, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular DiseasesChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Yuejin Yang
- Department of Cardiology, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular DiseasesChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
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16
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Marano P, Wei J, Merz CNB. Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction: What Clinicians and Investigators Should Know. Curr Atheroscler Rep 2023; 25:435-446. [PMID: 37338666 PMCID: PMC10412671 DOI: 10.1007/s11883-023-01116-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Abnormal structure and function of the coronary microvasculature have been implicated in the pathophysiology of multiple cardiovascular disease processes. This article reviews recent research progress related to coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) and salient clinical takeaways. RECENT FINDINGS CMD is prevalent in patients with signs and symptoms of ischemia and no obstructive epicardial coronary artery disease (INOCA), particularly in women. CMD is associated with adverse outcomes, including most frequently the development of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. It is also associated with adverse outcomes in patient populations including hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, dilated cardiomyopathy, and acute coronary syndromes. In patients with INOCA, stratified medical therapy guided by invasive coronary function testing to define the subtype of CMD leads to improved symptoms. There are invasive and non-invasive methodologies to diagnose CMD that provide prognostic information and mechanistic information to direct treatment. Available treatments improve symptoms and myocardial blood flow; ongoing investigations aim to develop therapy to improve adverse outcomes related to CMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Marano
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Smidt Heart Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Janet Wei
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Smidt Heart Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Barbra Streisand Women's Heart Center, Smidt Heart Institute, 127 S. San Vicente Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, 90048, USA
| | - C Noel Bairey Merz
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Smidt Heart Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Barbra Streisand Women's Heart Center, Smidt Heart Institute, 127 S. San Vicente Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, 90048, USA.
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17
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Zhang X, Han T, Xu T, Wang H, Ma H. Uncovering Candidate mRNAs, Signaling Pathways and Immune Cells in Atherosclerotic Plaque and Ischemic Stroke. Int J Gen Med 2023; 16:2999-3012. [PMID: 37465552 PMCID: PMC10350412 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s418913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The specific molecular mechanistic link between atherosclerotic plaques and ischemic stroke (IS) is not clear. The aim of this study is to explore the potential molecular relationship between atherosclerotic plaques and IS. Methods All data were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Key hub differentially expressed mRNAs (DEmRNAs) related to atherosclerotic plaques and IS were identified by differential expression analysis and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) analysis. Subsequently, a diagnostic model was established based on the expression of key hub DEmRNAs and logistic regression. In order to understand the molecular mechanism of key hub DEmRNAs, the transcription factor (TF) regulatory network and mRNA-miRNA-lncRNA regulatory network were also constructed. In addition, functional enrichment analysis and single-sample Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (ssGSEA) analysis were also performed. Results Four key hub DEmRNAs (ADCY3, CLDN7, PPM1B and RRAS2) were identified by differential expression analysis and LASSO analysis. Moreover, the diagnostic model based on four key hub DEmRNAs has excellent diagnostic accuracy. We also found that Type 1 T helper cell may be associated with IS caused by atherosclerosis based on ssGSEA analysis. In the mRNA-miRNA-lncRNA regulatory network, we found that multiple signaling axes such as RRAS2-hsa-miR-3150b-3p-ILF3-AS1, PPM1B-hsa-miR-541-5p-LINC00294, CLDN7-hsa-miR-184-LINC00467 and ADCY3-hsa-miR-488-3p-URB1-AS1 may play an important role in the progression of IS. In addition, some signaling pathways, including chemokine signaling pathway, MAPK signaling pathway and cAMP signaling pathway, may be involved in regulating IS. Conclusion The identified key molecules, signaling pathways and immune cells may help to provide a theoretical basis for exploring the relationship between atherosclerotic plaque and the progression of IS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianjing Zhang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Taian, 271000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tingting Han
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Taian, 271000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tengxiao Xu
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Taian, 271000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Huimin Wang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Taian, 271000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Haijun Ma
- Department of Radiology, Taian Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Taian, 271000, People’s Republic of China
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18
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Abstract
The cardiovascular system is hardwired to the brain via multilayered afferent and efferent polysynaptic axonal connections. Two major anatomically and functionally distinct though closely interacting subcircuits within the cardiovascular system have recently been defined: The artery-brain circuit and the heart-brain circuit. However, how the nervous system impacts cardiovascular disease progression remains poorly understood. Here, we review recent findings on the anatomy, structures, and inner workings of the lesser-known artery-brain circuit and the better-established heart-brain circuit. We explore the evidence that signals from arteries or the heart form a systemic and finely tuned cardiovascular brain circuit: afferent inputs originating in the arterial tree or the heart are conveyed to distinct sensory neurons in the brain. There, primary integration centers act as hubs that receive and integrate artery-brain circuit-derived and heart-brain circuit-derived signals and process them together with axonal connections and humoral cues from distant brain regions. To conclude the cardiovascular brain circuit, integration centers transmit the constantly modified signals to efferent neurons which transfer them back to the cardiovascular system. Importantly, primary integration centers are wired to and receive information from secondary brain centers that control a wide variety of brain traits encoded in engrams including immune memory, stress-regulating hormone release, pain, reward, emotions, and even motivated types of behavior. Finally, we explore the important possibility that brain effector neurons in the cardiovascular brain circuit network connect efferent signals to other peripheral organs including the immune system, the gut, the liver, and adipose tissue. The enormous recent progress vis-à-vis the cardiovascular brain circuit allows us to propose a novel neurobiology-centered cardiovascular disease hypothesis that we term the neuroimmune cardiovascular circuit hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarajo K Mohanta
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Munich, Germany (S.K.M., C.Y., C.W., A.J.R.H.)
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance (S.K.M., C.W., A.J.R.H.)
| | - Changjun Yin
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Munich, Germany (S.K.M., C.Y., C.W., A.J.R.H.)
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China (C.Y.)
| | - Christian Weber
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Munich, Germany (S.K.M., C.Y., C.W., A.J.R.H.)
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance (S.K.M., C.W., A.J.R.H.)
| | - Cristina Godinho-Silva
- Champalimaud Research, Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, Lisbon, Portugal (C.G.-S., H.V.-F.)
| | | | - Qian J Xu
- Department of Neuroscience, Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT (Q.J.X., R.B.C.)
| | - Rui B Chang
- Department of Neuroscience, Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT (Q.J.X., R.B.C.)
| | - Andreas J R Habenicht
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Munich, Germany (S.K.M., C.Y., C.W., A.J.R.H.)
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance (S.K.M., C.W., A.J.R.H.)
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19
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Weber C, Habenicht AJR, von Hundelshausen P. Novel mechanisms and therapeutic targets in atherosclerosis: inflammation and beyond. Eur Heart J 2023:7175015. [PMID: 37210082 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehad304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023] Open
Abstract
This review based on the ESC William Harvey Lecture in Basic Science 2022 highlights recent experimental and translational progress on the therapeutic targeting of the inflammatory components in atherosclerosis, introducing novel strategies to limit side effects and to increase efficacy. Since the validation of the inflammatory paradigm in CANTOS and COLCOT, efforts to control the residual risk conferred by inflammation have centred on the NLRP3 inflammasome-driven IL-1β-IL6 axis. Interference with the co-stimulatory dyad CD40L-CD40 and selective targeting of tumour necrosis factor-receptor associated factors (TRAFs), namely the TRAF6-CD40 interaction in macrophages by small molecule inhibitors, harbour intriguing options to reduce established atherosclerosis and plaque instability without immune side effects. The chemokine system crucial for shaping immune cell recruitment and homoeostasis can be fine-tuned and modulated by its heterodimer interactome. Structure-function analysis enabled the design of cyclic, helical, or linked peptides specifically targeting or mimicking these interactions to limit atherosclerosis or thrombosis by blunting myeloid recruitment, boosting regulatory T cells, inhibiting platelet activity, or specifically blocking the atypical chemokine MIF without notable side effects. Finally, adventitial neuroimmune cardiovascular interfaces in advanced atherosclerosis show robust restructuring of innervation from perivascular ganglia and employ sensory neurons of dorsal root ganglia to enter the central nervous system and to establish an atherosclerosis-brain circuit sensor, while sympathetic and vagal efferents project to the celiac ganglion to create an atherosclerosis-brain circuit effector. Disrupting this circuitry by surgical or chemical sympathectomy limited disease progression and enhanced plaque stability, opening exciting perspectives for selective and tailored intervention beyond anti-inflammatory strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Weber
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Pettenkoferstraße 9, 80336 München, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Pettenkoferstraße 9, 80336 München, Germany
- Department of Biochemistry, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, Universiteitssingel 50, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
| | - Andreas J R Habenicht
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Pettenkoferstraße 9, 80336 München, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Pettenkoferstraße 9, 80336 München, Germany
| | - Philipp von Hundelshausen
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Pettenkoferstraße 9, 80336 München, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Munich Heart Alliance, Pettenkoferstraße 9, 80336 München, Germany
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