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Abdelilah-Seyfried S, Ola R. Shear stress and pathophysiological PI3K involvement in vascular malformations. J Clin Invest 2024; 134:e172843. [PMID: 38747293 PMCID: PMC11093608 DOI: 10.1172/jci172843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Molecular characterization of vascular anomalies has revealed that affected endothelial cells (ECs) harbor gain-of-function (GOF) mutations in the gene encoding the catalytic α subunit of PI3Kα (PIK3CA). These PIK3CA mutations are known to cause solid cancers when occurring in other tissues. PIK3CA-related vascular anomalies, or "PIKopathies," range from simple, i.e., restricted to a particular form of malformation, to complex, i.e., presenting with a range of hyperplasia phenotypes, including the PIK3CA-related overgrowth spectrum. Interestingly, development of PIKopathies is affected by fluid shear stress (FSS), a physiological stimulus caused by blood or lymph flow. These findings implicate PI3K in mediating physiological EC responses to FSS conditions characteristic of lymphatic and capillary vessel beds. Consistent with this hypothesis, increased PI3K signaling also contributes to cerebral cavernous malformations, a vascular disorder that affects low-perfused brain venous capillaries. Because the GOF activity of PI3K and its signaling partners are excellent drug targets, understanding PIK3CA's role in the development of vascular anomalies may inform therapeutic strategies to normalize EC responses in the diseased state. This Review focuses on PIK3CA's role in mediating EC responses to FSS and discusses current understanding of PIK3CA dysregulation in a range of vascular anomalies that particularly affect low-perfused regions of the vasculature. We also discuss recent surprising findings linking increased PI3K signaling to fast-flow arteriovenous malformations in hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasias.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Roxana Ola
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim, European Center for Angioscience, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
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2
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Hu P, Du Y, Xu Y, Ye P, Xia J. The role of transcription factors in the pathogenesis and therapeutic targeting of vascular diseases. Front Cardiovasc Med 2024; 11:1384294. [PMID: 38745757 PMCID: PMC11091331 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2024.1384294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Transcription factors (TFs) constitute an essential component of epigenetic regulation. They contribute to the progression of vascular diseases by regulating epigenetic gene expression in several vascular diseases. Recently, numerous regulatory mechanisms related to vascular pathology, ranging from general TFs that are continuously activated to histiocyte-specific TFs that are activated under specific circumstances, have been studied. TFs participate in the progression of vascular-related diseases by epigenetically regulating vascular endothelial cells (VECs) and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). The Krüppel-like family (KLF) TF family is widely recognized as the foremost regulator of vascular diseases. KLF11 prevents aneurysm progression by inhibiting the apoptosis of VSMCs and enhancing their contractile function. The presence of KLF4, another crucial member, suppresses the progression of atherosclerosis (AS) and pulmonary hypertension by attenuating the formation of VSMCs-derived foam cells, ameliorating endothelial dysfunction, and inducing vasodilatory effects. However, the mechanism underlying the regulation of the progression of vascular-related diseases by TFs has remained elusive. The present study categorized the TFs involved in vascular diseases and their regulatory mechanisms to shed light on the potential pathogenesis of vascular diseases, and provide novel insights into their diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Poyi Hu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yifan Du
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ying Xu
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ping Ye
- Central Hospital of Wuhan, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiahong Xia
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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3
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Santos AB, Carona A, Ettcheto M, Camins A, Falcão A, Fortuna A, Bicker J. Krüppel-like factors: potential roles in blood-brain barrier dysfunction and epileptogenesis. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2024:10.1038/s41401-024-01285-w. [PMID: 38684799 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-024-01285-w] [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: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a chronic and debilitating neurological disorder, known for the occurrence of spontaneous and recurrent seizures. Despite the availability of antiseizure drugs, 30% of people with epilepsy experience uncontrolled seizures and drug resistance, evidencing that new therapeutic options are required. The process of epileptogenesis involves the development and expansion of tissue capable of generating spontaneous recurrent seizures, during which numerous events take place, namely blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction, and neuroinflammation. The consequent cerebrovascular dysfunction results in a lower seizure threshold, seizure recurrence, and chronic epilepsy. This suggests that improving cerebrovascular health may interrupt the pathological cycle responsible for disease development and progression. Krüppel-like factors (KLFs) are a family of zinc-finger transcription factors, encountered in brain endothelial cells, glial cells, and neurons. KLFs are known to regulate vascular function and changes in their expression are associated with neuroinflammation and human diseases, including epilepsy. Hence, KLFs have demonstrated various roles in cerebrovascular dysfunction and epileptogenesis. This review critically discusses the purpose of KLFs in epileptogenic mechanisms and BBB dysfunction, as well as the potential of their pharmacological modulation as therapeutic approach for epilepsy treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andreia Carona
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Coimbra, Portugal
- University of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Miren Ettcheto
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institute of Neuroscience, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV), Reus, Spain
| | - Antoni Camins
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institute of Neuroscience, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV), Reus, Spain
| | - Amílcar Falcão
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Coimbra, Portugal
- University of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Fortuna
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Coimbra, Portugal
- University of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Joana Bicker
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Coimbra, Portugal.
- University of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, Coimbra, Portugal.
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4
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He JY, Kim YJ, Mennillo E, Rusu I, Bain J, Rao AA, Andersen C, Law K, Yang H, Tsui J, Shen A, Davidson B, Kushnoor D, Shi Y, Fan F, Cheung A, Zhang L, Fong L, Combes AJ, Pisco AO, Kattah MG, Oh DY. Dysregulation of CD4 + and CD8 + resident memory T, myeloid, and stromal cells in steroid-experienced, checkpoint inhibitor colitis. J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e008628. [PMID: 38642938 PMCID: PMC11033653 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-008628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colitis caused by checkpoint inhibitors (CPI) is frequent and is treated with empiric steroids, but CPI colitis mechanisms in steroid-experienced or refractory disease are unclear. METHODS Using colon biopsies and blood from predominantly steroid-experienced CPI colitis patients, we performed multiplexed single-cell transcriptomics and proteomics to nominate contributing populations. RESULTS CPI colitis biopsies showed enrichment of CD4+resident memory (RM) T cells in addition to CD8+ RM and cytotoxic CD8+ T cells. Matching T cell receptor (TCR) clonotypes suggested that both RMs are progenitors that yield cytotoxic effectors. Activated, CD38+ HLA-DR+ CD4+ RM and cytotoxic CD8+ T cells were enriched in steroid-experienced and a validation data set of steroid-naïve CPI colitis, underscoring their pathogenic potential across steroid exposure. Distinct from ulcerative colitis, CPI colitis exhibited perturbed stromal metabolism (NAD+, tryptophan) impacting epithelial survival and inflammation. Endothelial cells in CPI colitis after anti-TNF and anti-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 (anti-CTLA-4) upregulated the integrin α4β7 ligand molecular vascular addressin cell adhesion molecule 1 (MAdCAM-1), which may preferentially respond to vedolizumab (anti-α4β7). CONCLUSIONS These findings nominate CD4+ RM and MAdCAM-1+ endothelial cells for targeting in specific subsets of CPI colitis patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Yan He
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Yang-Joon Kim
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Elvira Mennillo
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Iulia Rusu
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jared Bain
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Arjun A Rao
- CoLabs, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | - Karen Law
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Hai Yang
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Jessica Tsui
- CoLabs, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Alan Shen
- CoLabs, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Brittany Davidson
- CoLabs, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Divyashree Kushnoor
- CoLabs, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Yimin Shi
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Frances Fan
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Alexander Cheung
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Li Zhang
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Lawrence Fong
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Alexis J Combes
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- CoLabs, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- ImmunoX Initiative, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | - Michael G Kattah
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - David Y Oh
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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Niu XY, Xie XX, Tuo HZ, Lv CP, Huang YR, Zhu J, Liang SY, Du XY, Yang CG, Hou SJ, Sun XY, Li LJ, Cui F, Huang QX, Jia YB, Wang YJ, Liu RT. Thrombomodulin reduces α-synuclein generation and ameliorates neuropathology in a mouse model of Parkinson's disease. Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:167. [PMID: 38589400 PMCID: PMC11002034 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-01939-y] [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: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The neurotoxic α-synuclein (α-syn) oligomers play an important role in the occurrence and development of Parkinson's disease (PD), but the factors affecting α-syn generation and neurotoxicity remain unclear. We here first found that thrombomodulin (TM) significantly decreased in the plasma of PD patients and brains of A53T α-syn mice, and the increased TM in primary neurons reduced α-syn generation by inhibiting transcription factor p-c-jun production through Erk1/2 signaling pathway. Moreover, TM decreased α-syn neurotoxicity by reducing the levels of oxidative stress and inhibiting PAR1-p53-Bax signaling pathway. In contrast, TM downregulation increased the expression and neurotoxicity of α-syn in primary neurons. When TM plasmids were specifically delivered to neurons in the brains of A53T α-syn mice by adeno-associated virus (AAV), TM significantly reduced α-syn expression and deposition, and ameliorated the neuronal apoptosis, oxidative stress, gliosis and motor deficits in the mouse models, whereas TM knockdown exacerbated these neuropathology and motor dysfunction. Our present findings demonstrate that TM plays a neuroprotective role in PD pathology and symptoms, and it could be a novel therapeutic target in efforts to combat PD. Schematic representation of signaling pathways of TM involved in the expression and neurotoxicity of α-syn. A TM decreased RAGE, and resulting in the lowered production of p-Erk1/2 and p-c-Jun, and finally reduce α-syn generation. α-syn oligomers which formed from monomers increase the expression of p-p38, p53, C-caspase9, C-caspase3 and Bax, decrease the level of Bcl-2, cause mitochondrial damage and lead to oxidative stress, thus inducing neuronal apoptosis. TM can reduce intracellular oxidative stress and inhibit p53-Bax signaling by activating APC and PAR-1. B The binding of α-syn oligomers to TLR4 may induce the expression of IL-1β, which is subsequently secreted into the extracellular space. This secreted IL-1β then binds to its receptor, prompting p65 to translocate from the cytoplasm into the nucleus. This translocation downregulates the expression of KLF2, ultimately leading to the suppression of TM expression. By Figdraw.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Yun Niu
- College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xi-Xiu Xie
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hou-Zhen Tuo
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Cui-Ping Lv
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ya-Ru Huang
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Zhu
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shi-Yu Liang
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Yu Du
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Cheng-Gang Yang
- Department of BigData, Beijing Medintell Bioinformatic Technology Co., LTD, Beijing, China
| | - Sheng-Jie Hou
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Ying Sun
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ling-Jie Li
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fang Cui
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qi-Xin Huang
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ying-Bo Jia
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Jiong Wang
- College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China.
| | - Rui-Tian Liu
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
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Godos J, Romano GL, Gozzo L, Laudani S, Paladino N, Dominguez Azpíroz I, Martínez López NM, Giampieri F, Quiles JL, Battino M, Galvano F, Drago F, Grosso G. Resveratrol and vascular health: evidence from clinical studies and mechanisms of actions related to its metabolites produced by gut microbiota. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1368949. [PMID: 38562461 PMCID: PMC10982351 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1368949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases are among the leading causes of mortality worldwide, with dietary factors being the main risk contributors. Diets rich in bioactive compounds, such as (poly)phenols, have been shown to potentially exert positive effects on vascular health. Among them, resveratrol has gained particular attention due to its potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action. Nevertheless, the results in humans are conflicting possibly due to interindividual different responses. The gut microbiota, a complex microbial community that inhabits the gastrointestinal tract, has been called out as potentially responsible for modulating the biological activities of phenolic metabolites in humans. The present review aims to summarize the main findings from clinical trials on the effects of resveratrol interventions on endothelial and vascular outcomes and review potential mechanisms interesting the role of gut microbiota on the metabolism of this molecule and its cardioprotective metabolites. The findings from randomized controlled trials show contrasting results on the effects of resveratrol supplementation and vascular biomarkers without dose-dependent effect. In particular, studies in which resveratrol was integrated using food sources, i.e., red wine, reported significant effects although the resveratrol content was, on average, much lower compared to tablet supplementation, while other studies with often extreme resveratrol supplementation resulted in null findings. The results from experimental studies suggest that resveratrol exerts cardioprotective effects through the modulation of various antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-hypertensive pathways, and microbiota composition. Recent studies on resveratrol-derived metabolites, such as piceatannol, have demonstrated its effects on biomarkers of vascular health. Moreover, resveratrol itself has been shown to improve the gut microbiota composition toward an anti-inflammatory profile. Considering the contrasting findings from clinical studies, future research exploring the bidirectional link between resveratrol metabolism and gut microbiota as well as the mediating effect of gut microbiota in resveratrol effect on cardiovascular health is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Godos
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Lucia Gozzo
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit/Regional Pharmacovigilance Centre, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Policlinico “G. Rodolico-S. Marco”, Catania, Italy
| | - Samuele Laudani
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Nadia Paladino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Irma Dominguez Azpíroz
- Research Group on Food, Nutritional Biochemistry and Health, Universidad Europea del Atlántico, Santander, Spain
- Universidade Internacional do Cuanza, Cuito, Angola
- Universidad de La Romana, La Romana, Dominican Republic
| | - Nohora Milena Martínez López
- Research Group on Food, Nutritional Biochemistry and Health, Universidad Europea del Atlántico, Santander, Spain
- Universidad Internacional Iberoamericana, Campeche, Mexico
- Fundación Universitaria Internacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Francesca Giampieri
- Research Group on Food, Nutritional Biochemistry and Health, Universidad Europea del Atlántico, Santander, Spain
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - José L. Quiles
- Research Group on Food, Nutritional Biochemistry and Health, Universidad Europea del Atlántico, Santander, Spain
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology “José Mataix”, Biomedical Research Center, University of Granada, Parque Tecnologico de la Salud, Granada, Spain
- Research and Development Functional Food Centre (CIDAF), Health Science Technological Park, Granada, Spain
| | - Maurizio Battino
- Research Group on Food, Nutritional Biochemistry and Health, Universidad Europea del Atlántico, Santander, Spain
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
- International Joint Research Laboratory of Intelligent Agriculture and Agri-products Processing, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fabio Galvano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Grosso
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Center for Human Nutrition and Mediterranean Foods (NUTREA), University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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7
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Cao J, Zhang D, Li W, Yuan W, Luo G, Xie S. Azilsartan improves urinary albumin excretion in hypertension mice. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:4138-4148. [PMID: 38462692 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205271] [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: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Hypertension is one of the most important risk factors for chronic kidney diseases, leading to hypertensive nephrosclerosis, including excessive albuminuria. Azilsartan, an angiotensin II type 1 receptor blocker, has been widely used for the treatment of hypertension. However, the effects of Azilsartan on urinary albumin excretion in hypertension haven't been reported before. In this study, we investigated whether Azilsartan possesses a beneficial property against albuminuria in mice treated with angiotensin II and a high-salt diet (ANG/HS). Compared to the control group, the ANG/HS group had higher blood pressure, oxidative stress, and inflammatory response, all of which were rescued by Azilsartan dose-dependently. Importantly, the ANG/HS-induced increase in urinary albumin excretion and decrease in the expression of occludin were reversed by Azilsartan. Additionally, it was shown that increased fluorescence intensity of FITC-dextran, declined trans-endothelial electrical resistance (TEER) values, and reduction of occludin and krüppel-like factor 2 (KLF2) were observed in ANG/HS-treated human renal glomerular endothelial cells (HrGECs), then prevented by Azilsartan. Moreover, the regulatory effect of Azilsartan on endothelial monolayer permeability in ANG/HS-treated HrGECs was abolished by the knockdown of KLF2, indicating KLF2 is required for the effect of Azilsartan. We concluded that Azilsartan alleviated diabetic nephropathy-induced increase in Uterine artery embolization (UAE) mediated by the KLF2/occludin axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Cao
- Department of Nephrology, People’s Hospital of Ganzhou, Ganzhou 341001, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Dandan Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, People’s Hospital of Ganzhou, Ganzhou 341001, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Wenfeng Li
- Department of Nephrology, People’s Hospital of Ganzhou, Ganzhou 341001, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Wenjin Yuan
- Department of Nephrology, People’s Hospital of Ganzhou, Ganzhou 341001, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Gang Luo
- Department of Nephrology, People’s Hospital of Ganzhou, Ganzhou 341001, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Shaofeng Xie
- Department of Nephrology, People’s Hospital of Ganzhou, Ganzhou 341001, Jiangxi Province, China
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8
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Singh MK, Rallabandi HR, Zhou XJ, Qi YY, Zhao ZZ, Gan T, Zhang H, Looger LL, Nath SK. KLF2 enhancer variant rs4808485 increases lupus risk by modulating inflammasome machinery and cellular homoeostasis. Ann Rheum Dis 2024:ard-2023-224953. [PMID: 38373841 DOI: 10.1136/ard-2023-224953] [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: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A recent genome-wide association study linked KLF2 as a novel Asian-specific locus for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) susceptibility. However, the underlying causal functional variant(s), cognate target gene(s) and genetic mechanisms associated with SLE risk are unknown. METHODS We used bioinformatics to prioritise likely functional variants and validated the best candidate with diverse experimental techniques, including genome editing. Gene expression was compared between healthy controls (HCs) and patients with SLE with or without lupus nephritis (LN+, LN-). RESULTS Through bioinformatics and expression quantitative trait locus analyses, we prioritised rs4808485 in active chromatin, predicted to modulate KLF2 expression. Luciferase reporter assays and chromatin immunoprecipitation-qPCR demonstrated differential allele-specific enhancer activity and binding of active histone marks (H3K27ac, H3K4me3 and H3K4me1), Pol II, CTCF, P300 and the transcription factor PARP1. Chromosome conformation capture-qPCR revealed long-range chromatin interactions between rs4808485 and the KLF2 promoter. These were directly validated by CRISPR-based genetic and epigenetic editing in Jurkat and lymphoblastoid cells. Deleting the rs4808485 enhancer in Jurkat (KO) cells disrupted NLRP3 inflammasome machinery by reducing KLF2 and increasing CASPASE1, IL-1β and GSDMD levels. Knockout cells also exhibited higher proliferation and cell-cycle progression than wild type. RNA-seq validated interplay between KLF2 and inflammasome machinery in HC, LN+ and LN-. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrate how rs4808485 modulates the inflammasome and cellular homoeostasis through regulating KLF2 expression. This establishes mechanistic connections between rs4808485 and SLE susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manish Kumar Singh
- Arthritis and Clinical Immunology Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Harikrishna Reddy Rallabandi
- Arthritis and Clinical Immunology Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Xu-Jie Zhou
- Renal Division, Peking University Institute of Nephrology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Chronic Kidney Disease Prevention and Treatment (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Qi
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Zhan-Zheng Zhao
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Ting Gan
- Renal Division, Peking University Institute of Nephrology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, Beijing, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Renal Division, Peking University Institute of Nephrology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Renal Disease, Ministry of Health of China, Beijing, China
| | - Loren L Looger
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Swapan K Nath
- Arthritis and Clinical Immunology Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
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9
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Schnitzler GR, Kang H, Fang S, Angom RS, Lee-Kim VS, Ma XR, Zhou R, Zeng T, Guo K, Taylor MS, Vellarikkal SK, Barry AE, Sias-Garcia O, Bloemendal A, Munson G, Guckelberger P, Nguyen TH, Bergman DT, Hinshaw S, Cheng N, Cleary B, Aragam K, Lander ES, Finucane HK, Mukhopadhyay D, Gupta RM, Engreitz JM. Convergence of coronary artery disease genes onto endothelial cell programs. Nature 2024; 626:799-807. [PMID: 38326615 PMCID: PMC10921916 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07022-x] [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: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Linking variants from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) to underlying mechanisms of disease remains a challenge1-3. For some diseases, a successful strategy has been to look for cases in which multiple GWAS loci contain genes that act in the same biological pathway1-6. However, our knowledge of which genes act in which pathways is incomplete, particularly for cell-type-specific pathways or understudied genes. Here we introduce a method to connect GWAS variants to functions. This method links variants to genes using epigenomics data, links genes to pathways de novo using Perturb-seq and integrates these data to identify convergence of GWAS loci onto pathways. We apply this approach to study the role of endothelial cells in genetic risk for coronary artery disease (CAD), and discover 43 CAD GWAS signals that converge on the cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM) signalling pathway. Two regulators of this pathway, CCM2 and TLNRD1, are each linked to a CAD risk variant, regulate other CAD risk genes and affect atheroprotective processes in endothelial cells. These results suggest a model whereby CAD risk is driven in part by the convergence of causal genes onto a particular transcriptional pathway in endothelial cells. They highlight shared genes between common and rare vascular diseases (CAD and CCM), and identify TLNRD1 as a new, previously uncharacterized member of the CCM signalling pathway. This approach will be widely useful for linking variants to functions for other common polygenic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavin R Schnitzler
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Genomic Mechanisms of Disease, Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Divisions of Genetics and Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Helen Kang
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Basic Science and Engineering Initiative, Stanford Children's Health, Betty Irene Moore Children's Heart Center, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Shi Fang
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Divisions of Genetics and Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ramcharan S Angom
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Vivian S Lee-Kim
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Divisions of Genetics and Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - X Rosa Ma
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Basic Science and Engineering Initiative, Stanford Children's Health, Betty Irene Moore Children's Heart Center, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Ronghao Zhou
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Basic Science and Engineering Initiative, Stanford Children's Health, Betty Irene Moore Children's Heart Center, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Tony Zeng
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Basic Science and Engineering Initiative, Stanford Children's Health, Betty Irene Moore Children's Heart Center, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Katherine Guo
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Basic Science and Engineering Initiative, Stanford Children's Health, Betty Irene Moore Children's Heart Center, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Martin S Taylor
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shamsudheen K Vellarikkal
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Divisions of Genetics and Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Aurelie E Barry
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Divisions of Genetics and Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Oscar Sias-Garcia
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Divisions of Genetics and Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alex Bloemendal
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Genomic Mechanisms of Disease, Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Glen Munson
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | - Tung H Nguyen
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Drew T Bergman
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Stephen Hinshaw
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, ChEM-H, and Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Nathan Cheng
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Brian Cleary
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Faculty of Computing and Data Sciences, Departments of Biology and Biomedical Engineering, Biological Design Center, and Program in Bioinformatics, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Krishna Aragam
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Eric S Lander
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Biology, MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Systems Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hilary K Finucane
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Analytic and Translational Genetics Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Debabrata Mukhopadhyay
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Rajat M Gupta
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Genomic Mechanisms of Disease, Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Divisions of Genetics and Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Jesse M Engreitz
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Genomic Mechanisms of Disease, Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Basic Science and Engineering Initiative, Stanford Children's Health, Betty Irene Moore Children's Heart Center, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
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10
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He J, Blazeski A, Nilanthi U, Menéndez J, Pirani SC, Levic DS, Bagnat M, Singh MK, Raya JG, García-Cardeña G, Torres-Vázquez J. Plxnd1-mediated mechanosensing of blood flow controls the caliber of the Dorsal Aorta via the transcription factor Klf2. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.24.576555. [PMID: 38328196 PMCID: PMC10849625 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.24.576555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
The cardiovascular system generates and responds to mechanical forces. The heartbeat pumps blood through a network of vascular tubes, which adjust their caliber in response to the hemodynamic environment. However, how endothelial cells in the developing vascular system integrate inputs from circulatory forces into signaling pathways to define vessel caliber is poorly understood. Using vertebrate embryos and in vitro-assembled microvascular networks of human endothelial cells as models, flow and genetic manipulations, and custom software, we reveal that Plexin-D1, an endothelial Semaphorin receptor critical for angiogenic guidance, employs its mechanosensing activity to serve as a crucial positive regulator of the Dorsal Aorta's (DA) caliber. We also uncover that the flow-responsive transcription factor KLF2 acts as a paramount mechanosensitive effector of Plexin-D1 that enlarges endothelial cells to widen the vessel. These findings illuminate the molecular and cellular mechanisms orchestrating the interplay between cardiovascular development and hemodynamic forces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia He
- Department of Cell Biology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Adriana Blazeski
- Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Cardiovascular Disease Initiative, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Uthayanan Nilanthi
- Programme in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857
| | - Javier Menéndez
- Department of Cell Biology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Samuel C. Pirani
- Department of Cell Biology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Daniel S. Levic
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Michel Bagnat
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Manvendra K. Singh
- Programme in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, 169857
- National Heart Research Institute Singapore, National Heart Centre Singapore, 5 Hospital Drive, Singapore, 169609
| | - José G Raya
- Department of Radiology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Guillermo García-Cardeña
- Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Cardiovascular Disease Initiative, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jesús Torres-Vázquez
- Department of Cell Biology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
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11
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Joshi D, Coon BG, Chakraborty R, Deng H, Fernandez-Tussy P, Meredith E, Traylor JG, Orr AW, Fernandez-Hernando C, Schwartz MA. Gamma protocadherins in vascular endothelial cells inhibit Klf2/4 to promote atherosclerosis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.16.575958. [PMID: 38293157 PMCID: PMC10827163 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.16.575958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is the leading cause of mortality worldwide1. Laminar shear stress (LSS) from blood flow in straight regions of arteries protects against ASCVD by upregulating the Klf2/4 anti-inflammatory program in endothelial cells (ECs)2-8. Conversely, disturbed shear stress (DSS) at curves or branches predisposes these regions to plaque formation9,10. We previously reported a whole genome CRISPR knockout screen11 that identified novel inducers of Klf2/4. Here we report suppressors of Klf2/4 and characterize one candidate, protocadherin gamma A9 (Pcdhga9), a member of the clustered protocadherin gene family12. Pcdhg deletion increases Klf2/4 levels in vitro and in vivo and suppresses inflammatory activation of ECs. Pcdhg suppresses Klf2/4 by inhibiting the Notch pathway via physical interaction of cleaved Notch1 intracellular domain (NICD Val1744) with nuclear Pcdhg C-terminal constant domain (CCD). Pcdhg inhibition by EC knockout (KO) or blocking antibody protects from atherosclerosis. Pcdhg is elevated in the arteries of human atherosclerosis. This study identifies a novel fundamental mechanism of EC resilience and therapeutic target for treating inflammatory vascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divyesh Joshi
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Brian G Coon
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Raja Chakraborty
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Hanqiang Deng
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Pablo Fernandez-Tussy
- Vascular Biology and Therapeutics Program, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Emily Meredith
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - James G Traylor
- Department of Pathology and Translational Pathobiology, LSU Health Shreveport, LA 71103, USA
| | - Anthony Wayne Orr
- Department of Pathology and Translational Pathobiology, LSU Health Shreveport, LA 71103, USA
| | | | - Martin A Schwartz
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
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12
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Payne S, Neal A, De Val S. Transcription factors regulating vasculogenesis and angiogenesis. Dev Dyn 2024; 253:28-58. [PMID: 36795082 PMCID: PMC10952167 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Transcription factors (TFs) play a crucial role in regulating the dynamic and precise patterns of gene expression required for the initial specification of endothelial cells (ECs), and during endothelial growth and differentiation. While sharing many core features, ECs can be highly heterogeneous. Differential gene expression between ECs is essential to pattern the hierarchical vascular network into arteries, veins and capillaries, to drive angiogenic growth of new vessels, and to direct specialization in response to local signals. Unlike many other cell types, ECs have no single master regulator, instead relying on differing combinations of a necessarily limited repertoire of TFs to achieve tight spatial and temporal activation and repression of gene expression. Here, we will discuss the cohort of TFs known to be involved in directing gene expression during different stages of mammalian vasculogenesis and angiogenesis, with a primary focus on development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Payne
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and GeneticsInstitute of Developmental and Regenerative Medicine, University of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Alice Neal
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and GeneticsInstitute of Developmental and Regenerative Medicine, University of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Sarah De Val
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and GeneticsInstitute of Developmental and Regenerative Medicine, University of OxfordOxfordUK
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13
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Yang X, Chang L, Liu Z, Geng X, Wang R, Yin X, Fan W, Zhao BQ. Neddylation in the chronically hypoperfused corpus callosum: MLN4924 reduces blood-brain barrier injury via ERK5/KLF2 signaling. Exp Neurol 2024; 371:114587. [PMID: 37914067 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2023.114587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Blood-brain barrier (BBB) breakdown and cerebrovascular dysfunction may contribute to the pathology in white matter lesions and consequent cognitive decline caused by cerebral hypoperfusion. Neddylation is the process of attaching a ubiquitin-like molecule NEDD8 (neuronal precursor cell-expressed developmentally downregulated protein 8) to specific targets. By modifying protein substrates, neddylation plays critical roles in various important biological processes. However, whether neddylation influences the pathogenesis of hypoperfused brain remains unclear. In the present study, cerebral hypoperfusion-induced white matter lesions were produced by bilateral common carotid artery stenosis in mice. The function of the neddylation pathway, BBB integrity, cerebrovascular dysfunction, myelin density in the corpus callosum and cognitive function were determined. We show that NEDD8 conjugation aberrantly amplified in microvascular endothelium in the corpus callosum following cerebral hypoperfusion. MLN4924, a small-molecule inhibitor of NEDD8-activating enzyme currently in clinical trials, preserved BBB integrity, attenuated glial activation and enhanced oligodendrocyte differentiation, and reduced hypoperfusion-induced white matter lesions in the corpus callosum and thus improved cognitive performance via inactivating cullin-RING E3 ligase (CRL). Administration of MLN4924 caused the accumulation of ERK5 and KLF2. The ERK5 inhibitor BIX 02189, down-regulated MLN4924-induced activation of KLF2 and reversed MLN4924-mediated increase in pericyte coverage and junctional proteins. Furthermore, BIX 02189 blocked MLN4924-afforded protection against BBB disruption and white matter lesions in the corpus callosum. Collectively, our results revealed that neddylation impairs vascular function and thus exacerbated the pathology of hypoperfused brain and that inhibition of neddylation with MLN4924 may offer novel therapeutic opportunities for cerebral hypoperfusion-associated cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Yang
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Jing'an District Centre Hospital of Shanghai, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Luping Chang
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Jing'an District Centre Hospital of Shanghai, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Zhongwang Liu
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Jing'an District Centre Hospital of Shanghai, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xue Geng
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Jing'an District Centre Hospital of Shanghai, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Ranran Wang
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Jing'an District Centre Hospital of Shanghai, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xuhui Yin
- Institute of Neuroscience and Third Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Wenying Fan
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Jing'an District Centre Hospital of Shanghai, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Bing-Qiao Zhao
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Jing'an District Centre Hospital of Shanghai, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
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14
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Kotlyarov S. Identification of Important Genes Associated with the Development of Atherosclerosis. Curr Gene Ther 2024; 24:29-45. [PMID: 36999180 DOI: 10.2174/1566523223666230330091241] [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: 09/17/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is one of the most important medical problems due to its prevalence and significant contribution to the structure of temporary and permanent disability and mortality. Atherosclerosis is a complex chain of events occurring in the vascular wall over many years. Disorders of lipid metabolism, inflammation, and impaired hemodynamics are important mechanisms of atherogenesis. A growing body of evidence strengthens the understanding of the role of genetic and epigenetic factors in individual predisposition and development of atherosclerosis and its clinical outcomes. In addition, hemodynamic changes, lipid metabolism abnormalities, and inflammation are closely related and have many overlapping links in regulation. A better study of these mechanisms may improve the quality of diagnosis and management of such patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanislav Kotlyarov
- Department of Nursing, Ryazan State Medical University Named After Academician I.P. Pavlov, Russian Federation
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15
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Peng W, Xie Y, Xia J, Qi H, Liu K, Li B, Zhang F, Wen F, Zhang L. Integrated analysis of the lncRNA-associated competing endogenous RNA network in salt sensitivity of blood pressure. Heliyon 2023; 9:e22466. [PMID: 38125519 PMCID: PMC10731005 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e22466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2023] [Revised: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence showed that competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) mechanism plays a pivotal role in salt sensitivity of blood pressure (SSBP). We constructed a ceRNA network based on SSBP-related differently expressed lncRNAs (2), mRNAs (73) and miRNAs (18). Bioinformatic analyses were utilized to analyze network and found network genes participate in biological pathways related to SSBP pathogenesis such as regulation of nitric oxide biosynthetic process (GO:0045,428) and cellular response to cytokine stimulus (GO:0071,345). Fourteen candidate ceRNA pathways were selected from network to perform qRT-PCR validation and found nine RNAs (KCNQ1OT1, SLC8A1-AS1, IL1B, BCL2L11, KCNJ15, CX3CR1, KLF2, hsa-miR-362-5p and hsa-miR-423-5p) differently expressed between salt-sensitive (SS) and salt-resistant (SR) groups (P < 0.05). Four ceRNA pathways were further validated by luciferase reporter assay and found KCNQ1OT1→hsa-miR-362-5p/hsa-miR-423-5p→IL1B pathways may influence the pathogenic mechanism of SS. Our findings suggested the ceRNA pathway and network may affect SS occurrence mainly through endothelial dysfunction and inflammatory activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjuan Peng
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, And Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, Beijing 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100015, China
| | - Yunyi Xie
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, And Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Juan Xia
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, And Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Han Qi
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, And Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Kuo Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, And Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Bingxiao Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, And Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Fengxu Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, And Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Fuyuan Wen
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, And Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Ling Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, And Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, Beijing 100069, China
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16
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Baek KI, Ryu K. Role of Flow-Sensitive Endothelial Genes in Atherosclerosis and Antiatherogenic Therapeutics Development. J Cardiovasc Transl Res 2023:10.1007/s12265-023-10463-w. [PMID: 38010480 DOI: 10.1007/s12265-023-10463-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease that is the underlying cause of cardiovascular disease which initiates from endothelial dysfunction from genetic and environmental risk factors, including biomechanical forces: blood flow. Endothelial cells (ECs) lining the inner arterial wall regions exposed to disturbed flow are prone to atherosclerosis development, whereas the straight regions exposed to stable flow are spared from the disease. These flow patterns induce genome- and epigenome-wide changes in gene expression in ECs. Through the sweeping changes in gene expression, disturbed flow reprograms ECs from athero-protected cell types under the stable flow condition to pro-atherogenic cell conditions. The pro-atherogenic changes induced by disturbed flow, in combination with additional risk factors such as hypercholesterolemia, lead to the progression of atherosclerosis. The flow-sensitive genes and proteins are critical in understanding the mechanisms and serve as novel targets for antiatherogenic therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyung In Baek
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Kitae Ryu
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Department of Biotechnology, The University of Suwon, 17, Wauan-Gil, Bongdam-Eup, Hwaseong-Si, Gyeonggi-Do, 18323, Republic of Korea.
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17
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Arduini A, Fleming SJ, Xiao L, Hall AW, Akkad AD, Chaffin M, Bendinelli KJ, Tucker NR, Papangeli I, Mantineo H, Babadi M, Stegmann CM, García-Cardeña G, Lindsay ME, Klattenhoff C, Ellinor PT. Transcriptional profile of the rat cardiovascular system at single cell resolution. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.14.567085. [PMID: 38014050 PMCID: PMC10680727 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.14.567085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Background Despite the critical role of the cardiovascular system, our understanding of its cellular and transcriptional diversity remains limited. We therefore sought to characterize the cellular composition, phenotypes, molecular pathways, and communication networks between cell types at the tissue and sub-tissue level across the cardiovascular system of the healthy Wistar rat, an important model in preclinical cardiovascular research. We obtained high quality tissue samples under controlled conditions that reveal a level of cellular detail so far inaccessible in human studies. Methods and Results We performed single nucleus RNA-sequencing in 78 samples in 10 distinct regions including the four chambers of the heart, ventricular septum, sinoatrial node, atrioventricular node, aorta, pulmonary artery, and pulmonary veins (PV), which produced an aggregate map of 505,835 nuclei. We identified 26 distinct cell types and additional subtypes, including a number of rare cell types such as PV cardiomyocytes and non-myelinating Schwann cells (NMSCs), and unique groups of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), endothelial cells (ECs) and fibroblasts (FBs), which gave rise to a detailed cell type distribution across tissues. We demonstrated differences in the cellular composition across different cardiac regions and tissue-specific differences in transcription for each cell type, highlighting the molecular diversity and complex tissue architecture of the cardiovascular system. Specifically, we observed great transcriptional heterogeneities among ECs and FBs. Importantly, several cell subtypes had a unique regional localization such as a subtype of VSMCs enriched in the large vasculature. We found the cellular makeup of PV tissue is closer to heart tissue than to the large arteries. We further explored the ligand-receptor repertoire across cell clusters and tissues, and observed tissue-enriched cellular communication networks, including heightened Nppa - Npr1 / 2 / 3 signaling in the sinoatrial node. Conclusions Through a large single nucleus sequencing effort encompassing over 500,000 nuclei, we broadened our understanding of cellular transcription in the healthy cardiovascular system. The existence of tissue-restricted cellular phenotypes suggests regional regulation of cardiovascular physiology. The overall conservation in gene expression and molecular pathways across rat and human cell types, together with our detailed transcriptional characterization of each cell type, offers the potential to identify novel therapeutic targets and improve preclinical models of cardiovascular disease.
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18
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Blazeski A, Floryan MA, Fajardo-Ramírez OR, Meibalan E, Ortiz-Urbina J, Angelidakis E, Shelton SE, Kamm RD, García-Cardeña G. Engineering microvascular networks using a KLF2 reporter to probe flow-dependent endothelial cell function. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.31.565021. [PMID: 37961543 PMCID: PMC10635035 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.31.565021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Shear stress generated by the flow of blood in the vasculature is a potent regulator of endothelial cell phenotype and vascular structure. While vascular responses to flow are complex and context-dependent, endothelial cell signaling in response to shear stress induced by laminar flows is coordinated by the transcription factor KLF2. The expression of KLF2 in endothelial cells is associated with a quiescent, anti-inflammatory phenotype and has been well characterized in two-dimensional systems, but has not been studied in three-dimensional in vitro systems. Here we develop engineered microvascular networks (MVNs) with a KLF2-based endothelial cell sensor within a microfluidic chip, apply continuous flow using an attached microfluidic pump, and study the effects of this flow on vascular structure and function. We found that culture of MVNs exposed to flow for 48 hours that resulted in increased expression of the KLF2-GFP-reporter display larger vessel diameters and decreased vascular branching and resistance. Additionally, vessel diameters after the application of flow were independent of initial MVN morphologies. Finally, we found that MVNs exposed to flow have improved vascular barrier function and decreased platelet adhesion. The MVNs with KLF2-based flow sensors represent a powerful tool for evaluating the structural and functional effects of flow on engineered three-dimensional vascular systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Blazeski
- Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Cardiovascular Disease Initiative, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Marie A. Floryan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Oscar R. Fajardo-Ramírez
- Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elamaran Meibalan
- Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jesús Ortiz-Urbina
- Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Cardiovascular Disease Initiative, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Emmanouil Angelidakis
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Sarah E. Shelton
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Roger D. Kamm
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Guillermo García-Cardeña
- Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Cardiovascular Disease Initiative, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
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19
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Tamargo IA, Baek KI, Kim Y, Park C, Jo H. Flow-induced reprogramming of endothelial cells in atherosclerosis. Nat Rev Cardiol 2023; 20:738-753. [PMID: 37225873 PMCID: PMC10206587 DOI: 10.1038/s41569-023-00883-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Atherosclerotic diseases such as myocardial infarction, ischaemic stroke and peripheral artery disease continue to be leading causes of death worldwide despite the success of treatments with cholesterol-lowering drugs and drug-eluting stents, raising the need to identify additional therapeutic targets. Interestingly, atherosclerosis preferentially develops in curved and branching arterial regions, where endothelial cells are exposed to disturbed blood flow with characteristic low-magnitude oscillatory shear stress. By contrast, straight arterial regions exposed to stable flow, which is associated with high-magnitude, unidirectional shear stress, are relatively well protected from the disease through shear-dependent, atheroprotective endothelial cell responses. Flow potently regulates structural, functional, transcriptomic, epigenomic and metabolic changes in endothelial cells through mechanosensors and mechanosignal transduction pathways. A study using single-cell RNA sequencing and chromatin accessibility analysis in a mouse model of flow-induced atherosclerosis demonstrated that disturbed flow reprogrammes arterial endothelial cells in situ from healthy phenotypes to diseased ones characterized by endothelial inflammation, endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition, endothelial-to-immune cell-like transition and metabolic changes. In this Review, we discuss this emerging concept of disturbed-flow-induced reprogramming of endothelial cells (FIRE) as a potential pro-atherogenic mechanism. Defining the flow-induced mechanisms through which endothelial cells are reprogrammed to promote atherosclerosis is a crucial area of research that could lead to the identification of novel therapeutic targets to combat the high prevalence of atherosclerotic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian A Tamargo
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Molecular and Systems Pharmacology Program, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Kyung In Baek
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Yerin Kim
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Christian Park
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Hanjoong Jo
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Molecular and Systems Pharmacology Program, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Emory University School, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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20
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Tang F, Liu D, Zhang L, Xu LY, Zhang JN, Zhao XL, Ao H, Peng C. Targeting endothelial cells with golden spice curcumin: A promising therapy for cardiometabolic multimorbidity. Pharmacol Res 2023; 197:106953. [PMID: 37804925 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
Cardiometabolic multimorbidity (CMM) is an increasingly significant global public health concern. It encompasses the coexistence of multiple cardiometabolic diseases, including hypertension, stroke, heart disease, atherosclerosis, and T2DM. A crucial component to the development of CMM is the disruption of endothelial homeostasis. Therefore, therapies targeting endothelial cells through multi-targeted and multi-pathway approaches hold promise for preventing and treatment of CMM. Curcumin, a widely used dietary supplement derived from the golden spice Carcuma longa, has demonstrated remarkable potential in treatment of CMM through its interaction with endothelial cells. Numerous studies have identified various molecular targets of curcumin (such as NF-κB/PI3K/AKT, MAPK/NF-κB/IL-1β, HO-1, NOs, VEGF, ICAM-1 and ROS). These findings highlight the efficacy of curcumin as a therapeutic agent against CMM through the regulation of endothelial function. It is worth noting that there is a close relationship between the progression of CMM and endothelial damage, characterized by oxidative stress, inflammation, abnormal NO bioavailability and cell adhesion. This paper provides a comprehensive review of curcumin, including its availability, pharmacokinetics, pharmaceutics, and therapeutic application in treatment of CMM, as well as the challenges and future prospects for its clinical translation. In summary, curcumin shows promise as a potential treatment option for CMM, particularly due to its ability to target endothelial cells. It represents a novel and natural lead compound that may offer significant therapeutic benefits in the management of CMM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Tang
- Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
| | - Dong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
| | - Li Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
| | - Li-Yue Xu
- Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
| | - Jing-Nan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
| | - Xiao-Lan Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
| | - Hui Ao
- Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China; Innovative Institute of Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
| | - Cheng Peng
- Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
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21
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Arenas GA, Valenzuela JG, Peñaloza E, Paz AA, Iturriaga R, Saez CG, Krause BJ. Transcriptional Profiling of Human Endothelial Cells Unveils PIEZO1 and Mechanosensitive Gene Regulation by Prooxidant and Inflammatory Inputs. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1874. [PMID: 37891953 PMCID: PMC10604317 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12101874] [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: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
PIEZO1 is a mechanosensitive cation channel implicated in shear stress-mediated endothelial-dependent vasorelaxation. Since altered shear stress patterns induce a pro-inflammatory endothelial environment, we analyzed transcriptional profiles of human endothelial cells to determine the effect of altered shear stress patterns and subsequent prooxidant and inflammatory conditions on PIEZO1 and mechanosensitive-related genes (MRG). In silico analyses were validated in vitro by assessing PIEZO1 transcript levels in both the umbilical artery (HUAEC) and vein (HUVEC) endothelium. Transcriptional profiling showed that PIEZO1 and some MRG associated with the inflammatory response were upregulated in response to high (15 dyn/cm2) and extremely high shear stress (30 dyn/cm2) in HUVEC. Changes in PIEZO1 and inflammatory MRG were paralleled by p65 but not KLF or YAP1 transcription factors. Similarly, PIEZO1 transcript levels were upregulated by TNF-alpha (TNF-α) in diverse endothelial cell types, and pre-treatment with agents that prevent p65 translocation to the nucleus abolished PIEZO1 induction. ChIP-seq analysis revealed that p65 bonded to the PIEZO1 promoter region, an effect increased by the stimulation with TNF-α. Altogether this data showed that NF-kappa B activation via p65 signaling regulates PIEZO1 expression, providing a new molecular link for prooxidant and inflammatory responses and mechanosensitive pathways in the endothelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- German A. Arenas
- Instituto de Ciencias de la Ingeniería, Universidad de O’Higgins, Rancagua 2841959, Chile;
| | - Jose G. Valenzuela
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile (C.G.S.)
| | - Estefanía Peñaloza
- Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de O’Higgins, Rancagua 2841959, Chile
| | - Adolfo A. Paz
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 7500000, Chile
| | - Rodrigo Iturriaga
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile;
- Centro de Investigación en Fisiología y Medicina en Altura, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta 1271155, Chile
| | - Claudia G. Saez
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile (C.G.S.)
| | - Bernardo J. Krause
- Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de O’Higgins, Rancagua 2841959, Chile
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22
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Mannion AJ, Holmgren L. Nuclear mechanosensing of the aortic endothelium in health and disease. Dis Model Mech 2023; 16:dmm050361. [PMID: 37909406 PMCID: PMC10629673 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.050361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The endothelium, the monolayer of endothelial cells that line blood vessels, is exposed to a number of mechanical forces, including frictional shear flow, pulsatile stretching and changes in stiffness influenced by extracellular matrix composition. These forces are sensed by mechanosensors that facilitate their transduction to drive appropriate adaptation of the endothelium to maintain vascular homeostasis. In the aorta, the unique architecture of the vessel gives rise to changes in the fluid dynamics, which, in turn, shape cellular morphology, nuclear architecture, chromatin dynamics and gene regulation. In this Review, we discuss recent work focusing on how differential mechanical forces exerted on endothelial cells are sensed and transduced to influence their form and function in giving rise to spatial variation to the endothelium of the aorta. We will also discuss recent developments in understanding how nuclear mechanosensing is implicated in diseases of the aorta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aarren J. Mannion
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm 171 64, Sweden
| | - Lars Holmgren
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm 171 64, Sweden
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23
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Zhao H, Wu D, Gyamfi MA, Wang P, Luecht C, Pfefferkorn AM, Ashraf MI, Kamhieh-Milz J, Witowski J, Dragun D, Budde K, Schindler R, Zickler D, Moll G, Catar R. Expanded Hemodialysis ameliorates uremia-induced impairment of vasculoprotective KLF2 and concomitant proinflammatory priming of endothelial cells through an ERK/AP1/cFOS-dependent mechanism. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1209464. [PMID: 37795100 PMCID: PMC10546407 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1209464] [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: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Aims Expanded hemodialysis (HDx) therapy with improved molecular cut-off dialyzers exerts beneficial effects on lowering uremia-associated chronic systemic microinflammation, a driver of endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in hemodialysis (HD) patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). However, studies on the underlying molecular mechanisms are still at an early stage. Here, we identify the (endothelial) transcription factor Krüppel-like factor 2 (KLF2) and its associated molecular signalling pathways as key targets and regulators of uremia-induced endothelial micro-inflammation in the HD/ESRD setting, which is crucial for vascular homeostasis and controlling detrimental vascular inflammation. Methods and results First, we found that human microvascular endothelial cells (HMECs) and other typical endothelial and kidney model cell lines (e.g. HUVECs, HREC, and HEK) exposed to uremic serum from patients treated with two different hemodialysis regimens in the Permeability Enhancement to Reduce Chronic Inflammation II (PERCI-II) crossover clinical trial - comparing High-Flux (HF) and Medium Cut-Off (MCO) membranes - exhibited strongly reduced expression of vasculoprotective KLF2 with HF dialyzers, while dialysis with MCO dialyzers led to the maintenance and restoration of physiological KLF2 levels in HMECs. Mechanistic follow-up revealed that the strong downmodulation of KLF2 in HMECs exposed to uremic serum was mediated by a dominant engagement of detrimental ERK instead of beneficial AKT signalling, with subsequent AP1-/c-FOS binding in the KLF2 promoter region, followed by the detrimental triggering of pleiotropic inflammatory mediators, while the introduction of a KLF2 overexpression plasmid could restore physiological KLF2 levels and downmodulate the detrimental vascular inflammation in a mechanistic rescue approach. Conclusion Uremia downmodulates vasculoprotective KLF2 in endothelium, leading to detrimental vascular inflammation, while MCO dialysis with the novel improved HDx therapy approach can maintain physiological levels of vasculoprotective KLF2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongfan Zhao
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Dashan Wu
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Michael Adu Gyamfi
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Pinchao Wang
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Christian Luecht
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | - Julian Kamhieh-Milz
- Institute of Transfusion Medicine, at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Janusz Witowski
- Department of Pathophysiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Duska Dragun
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Klemens Budde
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Ralf Schindler
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Daniel Zickler
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Guido Moll
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
- BIH Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT) and Berlin-Brandenburg School for Regenerative Therapies (BSRT), at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Rusan Catar
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, at Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
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24
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Resop RS, Salvatore B, Kim SJ, Gordon BR, Blom B, Vatakis DN, Uittenbogaart CH. HIV-1 Infection Results in Sphingosine-1-Phosphate Receptor 1 Dysregulation in the Human Thymus. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13865. [PMID: 37762169 PMCID: PMC10531245 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241813865] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Regeneration of functional naïve T lymphocytes following the onset of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection remains a crucial issue for people living with HIV (PLWH), even when adhering to antiretroviral therapy (ART). Thus far, reports on the impact of HIV-1 infection on the entry of thymic precursors and the egress of functional naïve T lymphocytes to and from the thymus are limited. We examined the impact of HIV-1 on Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) signaling, which governs the egress of functional naïve thymocytes from the thymus to the periphery. Using in vitro experiments with primary human thymocytes and in vivo and ex vivo studies with humanized mice, we show that HIV-1 infection results in upregulation of the expression of S1P receptor 1 (S1PR1) in the human thymus. Intriguingly, this upregulation occurs during intrathymic infection (direct infection of the human thymic implant) as well as systemic infection in humanized mice. Moreover, considering the dysregulation of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in infected thymi, the increased expression of S1PR1 in response to in vitro exposure to Interferon-Beta (IFN-β) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha (TNF-α) indicates that cytokine dysregulation following HIV infection may contribute to upregulation of S1PR1. Finally, an increased presence of CD3hiCD69- (fully mature) as well as CD3hiCD69+ (less mature) T cells in the spleen during HIV infection in humanized mice, combined with earlier expression of S1PR1 during thymocyte development, suggests that upregulation of S1PR1 may translate to increased or accelerated egress from the thymus. The egress of thymocytes that are not functionally mature from the thymus to peripheral blood and lymphoid organs may have implications for the immune function of PLWH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel S. Resop
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (R.S.R.); (B.S.); (S.J.K.)
- UCLA AIDS Institute and Center for AIDS Research, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA;
| | - Bradley Salvatore
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (R.S.R.); (B.S.); (S.J.K.)
| | - Shawn J. Kim
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (R.S.R.); (B.S.); (S.J.K.)
| | - Brent R. Gordon
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (R.S.R.); (B.S.); (S.J.K.)
| | - Bianca Blom
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Dimitrios N. Vatakis
- UCLA AIDS Institute and Center for AIDS Research, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA;
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Christel H. Uittenbogaart
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (R.S.R.); (B.S.); (S.J.K.)
- UCLA AIDS Institute and Center for AIDS Research, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA;
- Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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25
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Luo JY, Cheng CK, Gou L, He L, Zhao L, Zhang Y, Wang L, Lau CW, Xu A, Chen AF, Huang Y. Induction of KLF2 by Exercise Activates eNOS to Improve Vasodilatation in Diabetic Mice. Diabetes 2023; 72:1330-1342. [PMID: 37347764 DOI: 10.2337/db23-0070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
Diabetic endothelial dysfunction associated with diminished endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase (eNOS) activity accelerates the development of atherosclerosis and cardiomyopathy. However, the approaches to restore eNOS activity and endothelial function in diabetes remain limited. The current study shows that enhanced expression of Krüppel-like factor 2 (KLF2), a shear stress-inducible transcription factor, effectively improves endothelial function through increasing NO bioavailability. KLF2 expression is suppressed in diabetic mouse aortic endothelium. Running exercise and simvastatin treatment induce endothelial KLF2 expression in db/db mice. Adenovirus-mediated endothelium-specific KLF2 overexpression enhances both endothelium-dependent relaxation and flow-mediated dilatation, while it attenuates oxidative stress in diabetic mouse arteries. KLF2 overexpression increases the phosphorylation of eNOS at serine 1177 and eNOS dimerization. RNA-sequencing analysis reveals that KLF2 transcriptionally upregulates genes that are enriched in the cyclic guanosine monophosphate-protein kinase G-signaling pathway, cAMP-signaling pathway, and insulin-signaling pathway, all of which are the upstream regulators of eNOS activity. Activation of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase-Akt pathway and Hsp90 contributes to KLF2-induced increase of eNOS activity. The present results suggest that approaches inducing KLF2 activation, such as physical exercise, are effective to restore eNOS activity against diabetic endothelial dysfunction. ARTICLE HIGHLIGHTS Exercise and statins restore the endothelial expression of Krüppel-like factor 2 (KLF2), which is diminished in diabetic db/db mice. Endothelium-specific overexpression of KLF2 improves endothelium-dependent relaxation and flow-mediated dilation through increasing nitric oxide bioavailability. KLF2 promotes endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) coupling and phosphorylation in addition to its known role in eNOS transcription. KLF2 upregulates the expression of several panels of genes that regulate eNOS activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiang-Yun Luo
- Institute for Developmental and Regenerative Cardiovascular Medicine, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Shenzhen Research Institute, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Chak Kwong Cheng
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Lingshan Gou
- Center for Genetic Medicine, Xuzhou Maternity and Health Care Hospital, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lei He
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Lei Zhao
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Shenzhen Research Institute, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong, China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Chi Wai Lau
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Shenzhen Research Institute, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Aimin Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Alex F Chen
- Institute for Developmental and Regenerative Cardiovascular Medicine, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Huang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
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26
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He T, d’Uscio LV, Katusic ZS. BACE2 deficiency impairs expression and function of endothelial nitric oxide synthase in brain endothelial cells. J Neurochem 2023; 166:928-942. [PMID: 37547981 PMCID: PMC10599353 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15929] [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: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Beta-site amyloid precursor protein (APP)-cleaving enzyme 2 (BACE2) is highly expressed in cerebrovascular endothelium. Notably, BACE2 is one of the most downregulated genes in cerebrovascular endothelium derived from patients with Alzheimer's disease. The present study was designed to determine the role of BACE2 in control of expression and function of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). Genetic downregulation of BACE2 with small interfering RNA (BACE2siRNA) in human brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) significantly decreased expression of eNOS and elevated levels of eNOS phosphorylated at threonine residue Thr495, thus leading to reduced production of nitric oxide (NO). BACE2siRNA also suppressed expression of APP and decreased production and release of soluble APPα (sAPPα). In contrast, adenovirus-mediated overexpression of APP increased expression of eNOS. Consistent with these observations, nanomolar concentrations of sAPPα and APP 17mer peptide (derived from sAPPα) augmented eNOS expression. Further analysis established that γ-aminobutyric acid type B receptor subunit 1 and Krüppel-like factor 2 may function as downstream molecular targets significantly contributing to BACE2/APP/sAPPα-induced up-regulation of eNOS. In agreement with studies on cultured human endothelium, endothelium-dependent relaxations to acetylcholine and basal production of cyclic GMP were impaired in cerebral arteries of BACE2-deficient mice. We propose that in the brain blood vessels, BACE2 may function as a vascular protective protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tongrong He
- Departments of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Livius V. d’Uscio
- Departments of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Zvonimir S. Katusic
- Departments of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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Hwang JH, Heo W, Park JI, Kim KM, Oh HT, Yoo GD, Park J, Shin S, Do Y, Jeong MG, Hwang ES, Hong JH. Endothelial TAZ inhibits capillarization of liver sinusoidal endothelium and damage-induced liver fibrosis via nitric oxide production. Theranostics 2023; 13:4182-4196. [PMID: 37554269 PMCID: PMC10405847 DOI: 10.7150/thno.83714] [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: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Endothelial dysfunction is a systemic disorder and is involved in the pathogenesis of several human diseases. Hemodynamic shear stress plays an important role in vascular homeostasis including nitric oxide (NO) production. Impairment of NO production in endothelial cells stimulates the capillarization of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, followed by hepatic stellate cell activation, inducing liver fibrosis. However, the detailed mechanism underlying NO production is not well understood. In hepatocytes, transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) has been reported to be involved in liver fibrosis. However, the role of endothelial TAZ in liver fibrosis has not been investigated. In this study, we uncovered the role TAZ in endothelial cell NO production, and its subsequent effects on liver fibrosis. Methods: TAZ-floxed mice were crossed with Tie2-cre transgenic mice, to generate endothelium-specific TAZ-knockout (eKO) mice. To induce liver damage, a 3,5-diethoxycarboncyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine, methionine-choline-deficient diet, or partial hepatectomy was applied. Liver fibrosis and endothelial dysfunction were analyzed in wild-type and eKO mice after liver damage. In addition, liver sinusoidal endothelial cell (LSEC) was used for in vitro assays of protein and mRNA levels. To study transcriptional regulation, chromatin immunoprecipitation and luciferase reporter assays were performed. Results: In liver of eKO mice, LSEC capillarization was observed, evidenced by loss of fenestrae and decreased LSEC-specific marker gene expression. LSEC capillarization of eKO mouse is caused by downregulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase expression and subsequent decrease in NO concentration, which is transcriptionally regulated by TAZ-KLF2 binding to Nos3 promoter. Diminished NO concentration by TAZ knockout in endothelium accelerates liver fibrosis induced by liver damages. Conclusions: Endothelial TAZ inhibits damage-induced liver fibrosis via NO production. This highlights an unappreciated role of TAZ in vascular health and liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Ha Hwang
- Division of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Woong Heo
- Division of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Jung Il Park
- Division of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Kyung Min Kim
- Division of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Ho Taek Oh
- Division of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Gi Don Yoo
- Division of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Jeekeon Park
- Division of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Somin Shin
- Division of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Youjin Do
- Division of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Mi Gyeong Jeong
- College of Pharmacy and Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Korea
| | - Eun Sook Hwang
- College of Pharmacy and Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Korea
| | - Jeong-Ho Hong
- Division of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
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Chen XQ, Ma J, Xu D, Xiang ZL. Comprehensive analysis of KLF2 as a prognostic biomarker associated with fibrosis and immune infiltration in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. BMC Bioinformatics 2023; 24:270. [PMID: 37386390 PMCID: PMC10308631 DOI: 10.1186/s12859-023-05391-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Most Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients are in advanced or metastatic stage at the time of diagnosis. Prognosis for advanced HCC patients is dismal. This study was based on our previous microarray results, and aimed to explore the promising diagnostic and prognostic markers for advanced HCC by focusing on the important function of KLF2. METHODS The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Cancer Genome Consortium database (ICGC), and the Gene Expression Comprehensive Database (GEO) provided the raw data of this study research. The cBioPortal platform, CeDR Atlas platform, and the Human Protein Atlas (HPA) website were applied to analyze the mutational landscape and single-cell sequencing data of KLF2. Basing on the results of single-cell sequencing analyses, we further explored the molecular mechanism of KLF2 regulation in the fibrosis and immune infiltration of HCC. RESULTS Decreased KLF2 expression was discovered to be mainly regulated by hypermethylation, and indicated a poor prognosis of HCC. Single-cell level expression analyses revealed KLF2 was highly expressed in immune cells and fibroblasts. The function enrichment analysis of KLF2 targets indicated the crucial association between KLF2 and tumor matrix. 33-genes related with cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) were collected to identify the significant association of KLF2 with fibrosis. And SPP1 was validated as a promising prognostic and diagnostic marker for advanced HCC patients. CXCR6 CD8+ T cells were noted as a predominant proportion in the immune microenvironment, and T cell receptor CD3D was discovered to be a potential therapeutic biomarker for HCC immunotherapy. CONCLUSION This study identified that KLF2 is an important factor promoting HCC progression by affecting the fibrosis and immune infiltration, highlighting its great potential as a novel prognostic biomarker for advanced HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Qin Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200120, China
| | - Jie Ma
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200120, China
| | - Di Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200120, China
| | - Zuo-Lin Xiang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200120, China.
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai East Hospital Ji'an hospital, Jiangxi, 343000, China.
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Airola C, Pallozzi M, Cerrito L, Santopaolo F, Stella L, Gasbarrini A, Ponziani FR. Microvascular Thrombosis and Liver Fibrosis Progression: Mechanisms and Clinical Applications. Cells 2023; 12:1712. [PMID: 37443746 PMCID: PMC10341358 DOI: 10.3390/cells12131712] [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: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is an unavoidable consequence of chronic inflammation. Extracellular matrix deposition by fibroblasts, stimulated by multiple pathways, is the first step in the onset of chronic liver disease, and its propagation promotes liver dysfunction. At the same time, chronic liver disease is characterized by alterations in primary and secondary hemostasis but unlike previously thought, these changes are not associated with an increased risk of bleeding complications. In recent years, the role of coagulation imbalance has been postulated as one of the main mechanisms promoting hepatic fibrogenesis. In this review, we aim to investigate the function of microvascular thrombosis in the progression of liver disease and highlight the molecular and cellular networks linking hemostasis to fibrosis in this context. We analyze the predictive and prognostic role of coagulation products as biomarkers of liver decompensation (ascites, variceal hemorrhage, and hepatic encephalopathy) and liver-related mortality. Finally, we evaluate the current evidence on the application of antiplatelet and anticoagulant therapies for prophylaxis of hepatic decompensation or prevention of the progression of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Airola
- Hepatology Unit, CEMAD Centro Malattie dell'Apparato Digerente, Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (C.A.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (A.G.)
| | - Maria Pallozzi
- Hepatology Unit, CEMAD Centro Malattie dell'Apparato Digerente, Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (C.A.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (A.G.)
| | - Lucia Cerrito
- Hepatology Unit, CEMAD Centro Malattie dell'Apparato Digerente, Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (C.A.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (A.G.)
| | - Francesco Santopaolo
- Hepatology Unit, CEMAD Centro Malattie dell'Apparato Digerente, Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (C.A.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (A.G.)
| | - Leonardo Stella
- Hepatology Unit, CEMAD Centro Malattie dell'Apparato Digerente, Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (C.A.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (A.G.)
| | - Antonio Gasbarrini
- Hepatology Unit, CEMAD Centro Malattie dell'Apparato Digerente, Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (C.A.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (A.G.)
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Romana Ponziani
- Hepatology Unit, CEMAD Centro Malattie dell'Apparato Digerente, Medicina Interna e Gastroenterologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (C.A.); (M.P.); (L.C.); (F.S.); (L.S.); (A.G.)
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
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Qiu D, Xu K, Chung N, Robbins J, Luo R, Lawrence M, He A, Yu F, Alt A, Miller MM, Hangeland J, Feder JN, Seiffert D, Arey BJ. Identification and validation of G protein-coupled receptors modulating flow-dependent signaling pathways in vascular endothelial cells. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1198079. [PMID: 37363403 PMCID: PMC10285409 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1198079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial cells are exposed to mechanical forces due to their presence at the interface between the vessel wall and flowing blood. The patterns of these mechanical forces (laminar vs. turbulent) regulate endothelial cell function and play an important role in determining endothelial phenotype and ultimately cardiovascular health. One of the key transcriptional mediators of the positive effects of laminar flow patterns on endothelial cell phenotype is the zinc-finger transcription factor, krüppel-like factor 2 (KLF2). Given its importance in maintaining a healthy endothelium, we sought to identify endothelial regulators of the KLF2 transcriptional program as potential new therapeutic approaches to treating cardiovascular disease. Using an approach that utilized both bioinformatics and targeted gene knockdown, we identified endothelial GPCRs capable of modulating KLF2 expression. Genetic screening using siRNAs directed to these GPCRs identified 12 potential GPCR targets that could modulate the KLF2 program, including a subset capable of regulating flow-induced KLF2 expression in primary endothelial cells. Among these targets, we describe the ability of several GPCRs (GPR116, SSTR3, GPR101, LGR4) to affect KLF2 transcriptional activation. We also identify these targets as potential validated targets for the development of novel treatments targeting the endothelium. Finally, we highlight the initiation of drug discovery efforts for LGR4 and report the identification of the first known synthetic ligands to this receptor as a proof-of-concept for pathway-directed phenotypic screening to identify novel drug targets.
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Parab S, Setten E, Astanina E, Bussolino F, Doronzo G. The tissue-specific transcriptional landscape underlines the involvement of endothelial cells in health and disease. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 246:108418. [PMID: 37088448 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108418] [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: 11/05/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Endothelial cells (ECs) that line vascular and lymphatic vessels are being increasingly recognized as important to organ function in health and disease. ECs participate not only in the trafficking of gases, metabolites, and cells between the bloodstream and tissues but also in the angiocrine-based induction of heterogeneous parenchymal cells, which are unique to their specific tissue functions. The molecular mechanisms regulating EC heterogeneity between and within different tissues are modeled during embryogenesis and become fully established in adults. Any changes in adult tissue homeostasis induced by aging, stress conditions, and various noxae may reshape EC heterogeneity and induce specific transcriptional features that condition a functional phenotype. Heterogeneity is sustained via specific genetic programs organized through the combinatory effects of a discrete number of transcription factors (TFs) that, at the single tissue-level, constitute dynamic networks that are post-transcriptionally and epigenetically regulated. This review is focused on outlining the TF-based networks involved in EC specialization and physiological and pathological stressors thought to modify their architecture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sushant Parab
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, IT, Italy; Candiolo Cancer Institute-IRCCS-FPO, Candiolo, Torino, IT, Italy
| | - Elisa Setten
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, IT, Italy; Candiolo Cancer Institute-IRCCS-FPO, Candiolo, Torino, IT, Italy
| | - Elena Astanina
- Candiolo Cancer Institute-IRCCS-FPO, Candiolo, Torino, IT, Italy
| | - Federico Bussolino
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, IT, Italy; Candiolo Cancer Institute-IRCCS-FPO, Candiolo, Torino, IT, Italy.
| | - Gabriella Doronzo
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, IT, Italy; Candiolo Cancer Institute-IRCCS-FPO, Candiolo, Torino, IT, Italy
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SenthilKumar G, Katunaric B, Bordas-Murphy H, Sarvaideo J, Freed JK. Estrogen and the Vascular Endothelium: The Unanswered Questions. Endocrinology 2023; 164:bqad079. [PMID: 37207450 PMCID: PMC10230790 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqad079] [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: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Premenopausal women have a lower incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) compared with their age-matched male counterparts; however, this discrepancy is abolished following the transition to menopause or during low estrogen states. This, combined with a large amount of basic and preclinical data indicating that estrogen is vasculoprotective, supports the concept that hormone therapy could improve cardiovascular health. However, clinical outcomes in individuals undergoing estrogen treatment have been highly variable, challenging the current paradigm regarding the role of estrogen in the fight against heart disease. Increased risk for CVD correlates with long-term oral contraceptive use, hormone replacement therapy in older, postmenopausal cisgender females, and gender affirmation treatment for transgender females. Vascular endothelial dysfunction serves as a nidus for the development of many cardiovascular diseases and is highly predictive of future CVD risk. Despite preclinical studies indicating that estrogen promotes a quiescent, functional endothelium, it still remains unclear why these observations do not translate to improved CVD outcomes. The goal of this review is to explore our current understanding of the effect of estrogen on the vasculature, with a focus on endothelial health. Following a discussion regarding the influence of estrogen on large and small artery function, critical knowledge gaps are identified. Finally, novel mechanisms and hypotheses are presented that may explain the lack of cardiovascular benefit in unique patient populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gopika SenthilKumar
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
- Cardiovasular Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee WI 53226, USA
| | - Boran Katunaric
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee WI 53226, USA
| | - Henry Bordas-Murphy
- Cardiovasular Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee WI 53226, USA
| | - Jenna Sarvaideo
- Divison of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Julie K Freed
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
- Cardiovasular Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee WI 53226, USA
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Kotlyarov S, Kotlyarova A. Participation of Krüppel-like Factors in Atherogenesis. Metabolites 2023; 13:metabo13030448. [PMID: 36984888 PMCID: PMC10052737 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13030448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is an important problem in modern medicine, the keys to understanding many aspects of which are still not available to clinicians. Atherosclerosis develops as a result of a complex chain of events in which many cells of the vascular wall and peripheral blood flow are involved. Endothelial cells, which line the vascular wall in a monolayer, play an important role in vascular biology. A growing body of evidence strengthens the understanding of the multifaceted functions of endothelial cells, which not only organize the barrier between blood flow and tissues but also act as regulators of hemodynamics and play an important role in regulating the function of other cells in the vascular wall. Krüppel-like factors (KLFs) perform several biological functions in various cells of the vascular wall. The large family of KLFs in humans includes 18 members, among which KLF2 and KLF4 are at the crossroads between endothelial cell mechanobiology and immunometabolism, which play important roles in both the normal vascular wall and atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanislav Kotlyarov
- Department of Nursing, Ryazan State Medical University, 390026 Ryazan, Russia
| | - Anna Kotlyarova
- Department of Pharmacy Management and Economics, Ryazan State Medical University, 390026 Ryazan, Russia
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Cheremkhina M, Klein S, Babendreyer A, Ludwig A, Schmitz-Rode T, Jockenhoevel S, Cornelissen CG, Thiebes AL. Influence of Aerosolization on Endothelial Cells for Efficient Cell Deposition in Biohybrid and Regenerative Applications. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:575. [PMID: 36984982 PMCID: PMC10053765 DOI: 10.3390/mi14030575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The endothelialization of gas exchange membranes can increase the hemocompatibility of extracorporeal membrane oxygenators and thus become a long-term lung replacement option. Cell seeding on large or uneven surfaces of oxygenator membranes is challenging, with cell aerosolization being a possible solution. In this study, we evaluated the endothelial cell aerosolization for biohybrid lung application. A Vivostat® system was used for the aerosolization of human umbilical vein endothelial cells with non-sprayed cells serving as a control. The general suitability was evaluated using various flow velocities, substrate distances and cell concentrations. Cells were analyzed for survival, apoptosis and necrosis levels. In addition, aerosolized and non-sprayed cells were cultured either static or under flow conditions in a dynamic microfluidic model. Evaluation included immunocytochemistry and gene expression via quantitative PCR. Cell survival for all tested parameters was higher than 90%. No increase in apoptosis and necrosis levels was seen 24 h after aerosolization. Spraying did not influence the ability of the endothelial cells to form a confluent cell layer and withstand shear stresses in a dynamic microfluidic model. Immunocytochemistry revealed typical expression of CD31 and von Willebrand factor with cobble-stone cell morphology. No change in shear stress-induced factors after aerosolization was reported by quantitative PCR analysis. With this study, we have shown the feasibility of endothelial cell aerosolization with no significant changes in cell behavior. Thus, this technique could be used for efficient the endothelialization of gas exchange membranes in biohybrid lung applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Cheremkhina
- Department of Biohybrid & Medical Textiles (BioTex), AME-Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute Aachen, RWTH Aachen University, Forckenbeckstraße 55, 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Aachen-Maastricht Institute for Biobased Materials, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Maastricht University, Brightlands Chemelot Campus, Urmonderbaan 22, 6167 RD Geleen, The Netherlands
| | - Sarah Klein
- Department of Biohybrid & Medical Textiles (BioTex), AME-Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute Aachen, RWTH Aachen University, Forckenbeckstraße 55, 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Aachen-Maastricht Institute for Biobased Materials, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Maastricht University, Brightlands Chemelot Campus, Urmonderbaan 22, 6167 RD Geleen, The Netherlands
| | - Aaron Babendreyer
- Institute of Molecular Pharmacology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Wendlingweg 2, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Andreas Ludwig
- Institute of Molecular Pharmacology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Wendlingweg 2, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Thomas Schmitz-Rode
- Department of Biohybrid & Medical Textiles (BioTex), AME-Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute Aachen, RWTH Aachen University, Forckenbeckstraße 55, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Stefan Jockenhoevel
- Department of Biohybrid & Medical Textiles (BioTex), AME-Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute Aachen, RWTH Aachen University, Forckenbeckstraße 55, 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Aachen-Maastricht Institute for Biobased Materials, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Maastricht University, Brightlands Chemelot Campus, Urmonderbaan 22, 6167 RD Geleen, The Netherlands
| | - Christian G. Cornelissen
- Department of Biohybrid & Medical Textiles (BioTex), AME-Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute Aachen, RWTH Aachen University, Forckenbeckstraße 55, 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Department of Pneumology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, Medical Clinic V, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Anja Lena Thiebes
- Department of Biohybrid & Medical Textiles (BioTex), AME-Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute Aachen, RWTH Aachen University, Forckenbeckstraße 55, 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Aachen-Maastricht Institute for Biobased Materials, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Maastricht University, Brightlands Chemelot Campus, Urmonderbaan 22, 6167 RD Geleen, The Netherlands
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Sweet DR, Padmanabhan R, Liao X, Dashora HR, Tang X, Nayak L, Jain R, De Val S, Vinayachandran V, Jain MK. Krüppel-Like Factors Orchestrate Endothelial Gene Expression Through Redundant and Non-Redundant Enhancer Networks. J Am Heart Assoc 2023; 12:e024303. [PMID: 36789992 PMCID: PMC10111506 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.121.024303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Background Proper function of endothelial cells is critical for vascular integrity and organismal survival. Studies over the past 2 decades have identified 2 members of the KLF (Krüppel-like factor) family of proteins, KLF2 and KLF4, as nodal regulators of endothelial function. Strikingly, inducible postnatal deletion of both KLF2 and KLF4 resulted in widespread vascular leak, coagulopathy, and rapid death. Importantly, while transcriptomic studies revealed profound alterations in gene expression, the molecular mechanisms underlying these changes remain poorly understood. Here, we seek to determine mechanisms of KLF2 and KLF4 transcriptional control in multiple vascular beds to further understand their roles as critical endothelial regulators. Methods and Results We integrate chromatin occupancy and transcription studies from multiple transgenic mouse models to demonstrate that KLF2 and KLF4 have overlapping yet distinct binding patterns and transcriptional targets in heart and lung endothelium. Mechanistically, KLFs use open chromatin regions in promoters and enhancers and bind in context-specific patterns that govern transcription in microvasculature. Importantly, this occurs during homeostasis in vivo without additional exogenous stimuli. Conclusions Together, this work provides mechanistic insight behind the well-described transcriptional and functional heterogeneity seen in vascular populations, while also establishing tools into exploring microvascular endothelial dynamics in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R Sweet
- Case Cardiovascular Research Institute, Case Western Reserve University, and Harrington Heart and Vascular Institute University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center Cleveland OH.,Department of Pathology Case Western Reserve University Cleveland OH
| | - Roshan Padmanabhan
- Case Cardiovascular Research Institute, Case Western Reserve University, and Harrington Heart and Vascular Institute University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center Cleveland OH
| | - Xudong Liao
- Case Cardiovascular Research Institute, Case Western Reserve University, and Harrington Heart and Vascular Institute University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center Cleveland OH
| | - Himanshu R Dashora
- Case Cardiovascular Research Institute, Case Western Reserve University, and Harrington Heart and Vascular Institute University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center Cleveland OH
| | - Xinmiao Tang
- Case Cardiovascular Research Institute, Case Western Reserve University, and Harrington Heart and Vascular Institute University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center Cleveland OH
| | - Lalitha Nayak
- Division of Hematology and Oncology University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center Cleveland OH
| | - Rajan Jain
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia PA
| | - Sarah De Val
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics University of Oxford UK
| | - Vinesh Vinayachandran
- Case Cardiovascular Research Institute, Case Western Reserve University, and Harrington Heart and Vascular Institute University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center Cleveland OH
| | - Mukesh K Jain
- Case Cardiovascular Research Institute, Case Western Reserve University, and Harrington Heart and Vascular Institute University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center Cleveland OH.,Division of Biology and Medicine Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University Providence RI
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The Involvement of Krüppel-like Factors in Cardiovascular Diseases. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13020420. [PMID: 36836777 PMCID: PMC9962890 DOI: 10.3390/life13020420] [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: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Krüppel-like factors (KLFs) are a set of DNA-binding proteins belonging to a family of zinc-finger transcription factors, which have been associated with many biological processes related to the activation or repression of genes, inducing cell growth, differentiation, and death, and the development and maintenance of tissues. In response to metabolic alterations caused by disease and stress, the heart will undergo cardiac remodeling, leading to cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). KLFs are among the transcriptional factors that take control of many physiological and, in this case, pathophysiological processes of CVD. KLFs seem to be associated with congenital heart disease-linked syndromes, malformations because of autosomal diseases, mutations that relate to protein instability, and/or loss of functions such as atheroprotective activities. Ischemic damage also relates to KLF dysregulation because of the differentiation of cardiac myofibroblasts or a modified fatty acid oxidation related to the formation of a dilated cardiomyopathy, myocardial infarctions, left ventricular hypertrophy, and diabetic cardiomyopathies. In this review, we describe the importance of KLFs in cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, left ventricle hypertrophy, stroke, diabetic cardiomyopathy, and congenital heart diseases. We further discuss microRNAs that have been involved in certain regulatory loops of KLFs as they may act as critical in CVDs.
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Effects of shear stress on vascular endothelial functions in atherosclerosis and potential therapeutic approaches. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 158:114198. [PMID: 36916427 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.114198] [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: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Different blood flow patterns in the arteries can alter the adaptive phenotype of vascular endothelial cells (ECs), thereby affecting the functions of ECs and are directly associated with the occurrence of lesions in the early stages of atherosclerosis (AS). Atherosclerotic plaques are commonly found at curved or bifurcated arteries, where the blood flow pattern is dominated by oscillating shear stress (OSS). OSS can induce ECs to transform into pro-inflammatory phenotypes, increase cellular inflammation, oxidative stress response, mitochondrial dysfunction, metabolic abnormalities and endothelial permeability, thereby promoting the progression of AS. On the other hand, the straight artery has a stable laminar shear stress (LSS), which promotes the transformation of ECs into an anti-inflammatory phenotype, improves endothelial cell function, thereby inhibits atherosclerotic progression. ECs have the ability to actively sense, integrate, and convert mechanical stimuli by shear stress into biochemical signals that further induces intracellular changes (such as the opening and closing of ion channels, activation and transcription of signaling pathways). Here we not only outline the relationship between functions of vascular ECs and different forms of fluid shear stress in AS, but also aim to provide new solutions for potential atherosclerotic therapies targeting intracellular mechanical transductions.
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Samak M, Kues A, Kaltenborn D, Klösener L, Mietsch M, Germena G, Hinkel R. Dysregulation of Krüppel-like Factor 2 and Myocyte Enhancer Factor 2D Drive Cardiac Microvascular Inflammation and Dysfunction in Diabetes. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:2482. [PMID: 36768805 PMCID: PMC9916909 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular complications are the main cause of morbidity and mortality from diabetes. Herein, vascular inflammation is a major pathological manifestation. We previously characterized the cardiac microvascular inflammatory phenotype in diabetic patients and highlighted micro-RNA 92a (miR-92a) as a driver of endothelial dysfunction. In this article, we further dissect the molecular underlying of these findings by addressing anti-inflammatory Krüppel-like factors 2 and 4 (KLF2 and KLF4). We show that KLF2 dysregulation in diabetes correlates with greater monocyte adhesion as well as migratory defects in cardiac microvascular endothelial cells. We also describe, for the first time, a role for myocyte enhancer factor 2D (MEF2D) in cardiac microvascular dysfunction in diabetes. We show that both KLFs 2 and 4, as well as MEF2D, are dysregulated in human and porcine models of diabetes. Furthermore, we prove a direct interaction between miR-92a and all three targets. Altogether, our data strongly qualify miR-92a as a potential therapeutic target for diabetes-associated cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Samak
- Laboratory Animal Science Unit, Leibniz-Institut für Primatenforschung, Deutsches Primatenzentrum GmbH, Kellnerweg 4, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Andreas Kues
- Laboratory Animal Science Unit, Leibniz-Institut für Primatenforschung, Deutsches Primatenzentrum GmbH, Kellnerweg 4, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Diana Kaltenborn
- Laboratory Animal Science Unit, Leibniz-Institut für Primatenforschung, Deutsches Primatenzentrum GmbH, Kellnerweg 4, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Lina Klösener
- Laboratory Animal Science Unit, Leibniz-Institut für Primatenforschung, Deutsches Primatenzentrum GmbH, Kellnerweg 4, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
- Institute for Animal Hygiene, Animal Welfare and Farm Animal Behaviour, University of Veterinary Medicine, 30173 Hannover, Germany
| | - Matthias Mietsch
- Laboratory Animal Science Unit, Leibniz-Institut für Primatenforschung, Deutsches Primatenzentrum GmbH, Kellnerweg 4, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Giulia Germena
- Laboratory Animal Science Unit, Leibniz-Institut für Primatenforschung, Deutsches Primatenzentrum GmbH, Kellnerweg 4, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Rabea Hinkel
- Laboratory Animal Science Unit, Leibniz-Institut für Primatenforschung, Deutsches Primatenzentrum GmbH, Kellnerweg 4, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
- Institute for Animal Hygiene, Animal Welfare and Farm Animal Behaviour, University of Veterinary Medicine, 30173 Hannover, Germany
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Meijer EM, Koch SE, van Dijk CGM, Maas RGC, Chrifi I, Szymczyk W, Besseling PJ, Pomp L, Koomen VJCH, Buikema JW, Bouten CVC, Verhaar MC, Smits AIPM, Cheng C. 3D Human iPSC Blood Vessel Organoids as a Source of Flow-Adaptive Vascular Cells for Creating a Human-Relevant 3D-Scaffold Based Macrovessel Model. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2023; 7:e2200137. [PMID: 36300913 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202200137] [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: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
3D-scaffold based in vitro human tissue models accelerate disease studies and screening of pharmaceutics while improving the clinical translation of findings. Here is reported the use of human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived vascular organoid cells as a new cell source for the creation of an electrospun polycaprolactone-bisurea (PCL-BU) 3D-scaffold-based, perfused human macrovessel model. A separation protocol is developed to obtain monocultures of organoid-derived endothelial cells (ODECs) and mural cells (ODMCs) from hiPSC vascular organoids. Shear stress responses of ODECs versus HUVECs and barrier function (by trans endothelial electrical resistance) are measured. PCL-BU scaffolds are seeded with ODECs and ODMCs, and tissue organization and flow adaptation are evaluated in a perfused bioreactor system. ODECs and ODMCs harvested from vascular organoids can be cryopreserved and expanded without loss of cell purity and proliferative capacity. ODECs are shear stress responsive and establish a functional barrier that self-restores after the thrombin challenge. Static bioreactor culture of ODECs/ODMCs seeded scaffolds results in a biomimetic vascular bi-layer hierarchy, which is preserved under laminar flow similar to scaffolds seeded with primary vascular cells. HiPSC-derived vascular organoids can be used as a source of functional, flow-adaptive vascular cells for the creation of 3D-scaffold based human macrovascular models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elana M Meijer
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Division of Internal Medicine and Dermatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584CX, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584CT, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Suzanne E Koch
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, 5612AZ, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, 5612AZ, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Christian G M van Dijk
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Division of Internal Medicine and Dermatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584CX, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584CT, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Renee G C Maas
- Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584CX, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ihsan Chrifi
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Division of Internal Medicine and Dermatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584CX, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584CT, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Wojciech Szymczyk
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, 5612AZ, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Paul J Besseling
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Division of Internal Medicine and Dermatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584CX, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584CT, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lisa Pomp
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, 5612AZ, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Vera J C H Koomen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, 5612AZ, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Willem Buikema
- Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584CX, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Carlijn V C Bouten
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, 5612AZ, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, 5612AZ, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Marianne C Verhaar
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Division of Internal Medicine and Dermatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584CX, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584CT, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Anthal I P M Smits
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, 5612AZ, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, 5612AZ, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Caroline Cheng
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Division of Internal Medicine and Dermatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584CX, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584CT, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Experimental Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, Thoraxcenter Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Balarastaghi S, Rezaee R, Hayes AW, Yarmohammadi F, Karimi G. Mechanisms of Arsenic Exposure-Induced Hypertension and Atherosclerosis: an Updated Overview. Biol Trace Elem Res 2023; 201:98-113. [PMID: 35167029 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-022-03153-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Arsenic is an abundant element in the earth's crust. In the environment and within the human body, this toxic element can be found in both organic and inorganic forms. Chronic exposure to arsenic can predispose humans to cardiovascular diseases including hypertension, stroke, atherosclerosis, and blackfoot disease. Oxidative damage induced by reactive oxygen species is a major player in arsenic-induced toxicity, and it can affect genes expression, inflammatory responses, and/or nitric oxide homeostasis. Exposure to arsenic in drinking water can lead to vascular endothelial dysfunction which is reflected by an imbalance between vascular relaxation and contraction. Arsenic has been shown to inactivate endothelial nitric oxide synthase leading to a reduction of the generation and bioavailability of nitric oxide. Ultimately, these effects increase the risk of vascular diseases such as hypertension and atherosclerosis. The present article reviews how arsenic exposure contributes to hypertension and atherosclerosis development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soudabeh Balarastaghi
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Ramin Rezaee
- International UNESCO Center for Health-Related Basic Sciences and Human Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - A Wallace Hayes
- Center for Environmental Occupational Risk Analysis and Management, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Fatemeh Yarmohammadi
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Karimi
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Daghestani MH, Alqahtani HA, AlBakheet A, Al Deery M, Awartani KA, Daghestani MH, Kaya N, Warsy A, Coskun S, Colak D. Global Transcriptional Profiling of Granulosa Cells from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Patients: Comparative Analyses of Patients with or without History of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome Reveals Distinct Biomarkers and Pathways. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11236941. [PMID: 36498516 PMCID: PMC9740016 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11236941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is often a complication of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), the most frequent disorder of the endocrine system, which affects women in their reproductive years. The etiology of OHSS is multifactorial, though the factors involved are not apparent. In an attempt to unveil the molecular basis of OHSS, we conducted transcriptome analysis of total RNA extracted from granulosa cells from PCOS patients with a history of OHSS (n = 6) and compared them to those with no history of OHSS (n = 18). We identified 59 significantly dysregulated genes (48 down-regulated, 11 up-regulated) in the PCOS with OHSS group compared to the PCOS without OHSS group (p-value < 0.01, fold change >1.5). Functional, pathway and network analyses revealed genes involved in cellular development, inflammatory and immune response, cellular growth and proliferation (including DCN, VIM, LIFR, GRN, IL33, INSR, KLF2, FOXO1, VEGF, RDX, PLCL1, PAPPA, and ZFP36), and significant alterations in the PPAR, IL6, IL10, JAK/STAT and NF-κB signaling pathways. Array findings were validated using quantitative RT-PCR. To the best of our knowledge, this is the largest cohort of Saudi PCOS cases (with or without OHSS) to date that was analyzed using a transcriptomic approach. Our data demonstrate alterations in various gene networks and pathways that may be involved in the pathophysiology of OHSS. Further studies are warranted to confirm the findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maha H. Daghestani
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: (M.H.D.); (D.C.)
| | - Huda A. Alqahtani
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
| | - AlBandary AlBakheet
- Department of Translational Genomics, Center for Genomic Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mashael Al Deery
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalid A. Awartani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mazin H. Daghestani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Umm-Al-Qura University, Makkah 24382, Saudi Arabia
| | - Namik Kaya
- Department of Translational Genomics, Center for Genomic Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Arjumand Warsy
- Central Laboratory, Center for Women Scientific and Medical Studies, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Serdar Coskun
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Dilek Colak
- Department of Molecular Oncology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: (M.H.D.); (D.C.)
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Pernaa N, Keskitalo S, Chowdhury I, Nissinen A, Glumoff V, Keski-Filppula R, Junttila J, Eklund KK, Santaniemi W, Siitonen S, Seppänen MRJ, Vähäsalo P, Varjosalo M, Åström P, Hautala T. Heterozygous premature termination in zinc-finger domain of Krüppel-like factor 2 gene associates with dysregulated immunity. Front Immunol 2022; 13:819929. [DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.819929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Krüppel-like factor 2 (KLF2) is a transcription factor with significant roles in development, maturation, differentiation, and proliferation of several cell types. In immune cells, KLF2 regulates maturation and trafficking of lymphocytes and monocytes. KLF2 participates in regulation of the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) pathway. Although pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) related to KLF2 genetic variant has been suggested, genetic role of KLF2 associated with immune dysregulation has not been described. We identified a family whose members suffered from lymphopenia, autoimmunity, and malignancy. Whole exome sequencing revealed a KLF2 p.(Glu318Argfs*87) mutation disrupting the highly conserved zinc finger domain. We show a reduced amount of KLF2 protein, defective nuclear localization and altered protein-protein interactome. The phenotypically variable positive cases presented with B and T cell lymphopenia and abnormalities in B and T cell maturation including low naive T cell counts and low CD27+IgD-IgM- switched memory B cells. KLF2 target gene (CD62L) expression was affected. Although the percentage of (CD25+FOXP3+, CD25+CD127-) regulatory T cells (Treg) was high, the naive Treg cells (CD45RA+) were absent. Serum IgG1 levels were low and findings in one case were consistent with common variable immunodeficiency (CVID). Transcription of NF-κβ pathway genes and p65/RelA phosphorylation were not significantly affected. Inflammasome activity, transcription of genes related with JAK/STAT pathway and interferon signature were also comparable to controls. Evidence of PAH was not found. In conclusion, KLF2 variant may be associated with familial immune dysregulation. Although the KLF2 deficient family members in our study suffered from lymphopenia, autoimmunity or malignancy, additional study cohorts are required to confirm our observations.
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Manz XD, Bogaard HJ, Aman J. Regulation of VWF (Von Willebrand Factor) in Inflammatory Thrombosis. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2022; 42:1307-1320. [PMID: 36172866 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.122.318179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Increasing evidence indicates that inflammation promotes thrombosis via a VWF (von Willebrand factor)-mediated mechanism. VWF plays an essential role in maintaining the balance between blood coagulation and bleeding, and inflammation can lead to aberrant regulation. VWF is regulated on a transcriptional and (post-)translational level, and its secretion into the circulation captures platelets upon endothelial activation. The significant progress that has been made in understanding transcriptional and translational regulation of VWF is described in this review. First, we describe how VWF is regulated at the transcriptional and post-translational level with a specific focus on the influence of inflammatory and immune responses. Next, we describe how changes in regulation are linked with various cardiovascular diseases. Recent insights from clinical diseases provide evidence for direct molecular links between inflammation and thrombosis, including atherosclerosis, chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension, and COVID-19. Finally, we will briefly describe clinical implications for antithrombotic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue D Manz
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences (ACS), the Netherlands
| | - Harm Jan Bogaard
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences (ACS), the Netherlands
| | - Jurjan Aman
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences (ACS), the Netherlands
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Demos C, Johnson J, Andueza A, Park C, Kim Y, Villa-Roel N, Kang DW, Kumar S, Jo H. Sox13 is a novel flow-sensitive transcription factor that prevents inflammation by repressing chemokine expression in endothelial cells. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:979745. [PMID: 36247423 PMCID: PMC9561411 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.979745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease and occurs preferentially in arterial regions exposed to disturbed blood flow (d-flow) while the stable flow (s-flow) regions are spared. D-flow induces endothelial inflammation and atherosclerosis by regulating endothelial gene expression partly through the flow-sensitive transcription factors (FSTFs). Most FSTFs, including the well-known Kruppel-like factors KLF2 and KLF4, have been identified from in vitro studies using cultured endothelial cells (ECs). Since many flow-sensitive genes and pathways are lost or dysregulated in ECs during culture, we hypothesized that many important FSTFs in ECs in vivo have not been identified. We tested the hypothesis by analyzing our recent gene array and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) and chromatin accessibility sequencing (scATACseq) datasets generated using the mouse partial carotid ligation model. From the analyses, we identified 30 FSTFs, including the expected KLF2/4 and novel FSTFs. They were further validated in mouse arteries in vivo and cultured human aortic ECs (HAECs). These results revealed 8 FSTFs, SOX4, SOX13, SIX2, ZBTB46, CEBPβ, NFIL3, KLF2, and KLF4, that are conserved in mice and humans in vivo and in vitro. We selected SOX13 for further studies because of its robust flow-sensitive regulation, preferential expression in ECs, and unknown flow-dependent function. We found that siRNA-mediated knockdown of SOX13 increased endothelial inflammatory responses even under the unidirectional laminar shear stress (ULS, mimicking s-flow) condition. To understand the underlying mechanisms, we conducted an RNAseq study in HAECs treated with SOX13 siRNA under shear conditions (ULS vs. oscillatory shear mimicking d-flow). We found 94 downregulated and 40 upregulated genes that changed in a shear- and SOX13-dependent manner. Several cytokines, including CXCL10 and CCL5, were the most strongly upregulated genes in HAECs treated with SOX13 siRNA. The robust induction of CXCL10 and CCL5 was further validated by qPCR and ELISA in HAECs. Moreover, the treatment of HAECs with Met-CCL5, a specific CCL5 receptor antagonist, prevented the endothelial inflammation responses induced by siSOX13. In addition, SOX13 overexpression prevented the endothelial inflammation responses. In summary, SOX13 is a novel conserved FSTF, which represses the expression of pro-inflammatory chemokines in ECs under s-flow. Reduction of endothelial SOX13 triggers chemokine expression and inflammatory responses, a major proatherogenic pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Demos
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Janie Johnson
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Aitor Andueza
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Christian Park
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Yerin Kim
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Nicolas Villa-Roel
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Dong-Won Kang
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Sandeep Kumar
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Hanjoong Jo
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
- *Correspondence: Hanjoong Jo,
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Ramchandran R. Endothelial cells and their role in the vasculature: Past, present and future. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:994133. [PMID: 36187473 PMCID: PMC9520988 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.994133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
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Luo JY, Cheng CK, He L, Pu Y, Zhang Y, Lin X, Xu A, Lau CW, Tian XY, Ma RCW, Jo H, Huang Y. Endothelial UCP2 Is a Mechanosensitive Suppressor of Atherosclerosis. Circ Res 2022; 131:424-441. [PMID: 35899624 PMCID: PMC9390236 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.122.321187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inflamed endothelial cells (ECs) trigger atherogenesis, especially at arterial regions experiencing disturbed blood flow. UCP2 (Uncoupling protein 2), a key mitochondrial antioxidant protein, improves endothelium-dependent relaxation in obese mice. However, whether UCP2 can be regulated by shear flow is unknown, and the role of endothelial UCP2 in regulating inflammation and atherosclerosis remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the mechanoregulation of UCP2 expression in ECs and the effect of UCP2 on endothelial inflammation and atherogenesis. METHODS In vitro shear stress simulation system was used to investigate the regulation of UCP2 expression by shear flow. EC-specific Ucp2 knockout mice were used to investigate the role of UCP2 in flow-associated atherosclerosis. RESULTS Shear stress experiments showed that KLF2 (Krüppel-like factor 2) mediates fluid shear stress-dependent regulation of UCP2 expression in human aortic and human umbilical vein ECs. Unidirectional shear stress, statins, and resveratrol upregulate whereas oscillatory shear stress and proinflammatory stimuli inhibit UCP2 expression through altered KLF2 expression. KLF2 directly binds to UCP2 promoter to upregulate its transcription in human umbilical vein ECs. UCP2 knockdown induced expression of genes involved in proinflammatory and profibrotic signaling, resulting in a proatherogenic endothelial phenotype. EC-specific Ucp2 deletion promotes atherogenesis and collagen production. Additionally, we found endothelial Ucp2 deficiency aggravates whereas adeno-associated virus-mediated EC-Ucp2 overexpression inhibits carotid atherosclerotic plaque formation in disturbed flow-enhanced atherosclerosis mouse model. RNA-sequencing analysis revealed FoxO1 (forkhead box protein O1) as the major proinflammatory transcriptional regulator activated by UCP2 knockdown, and FoxO1 inhibition reduced vascular inflammation and disturbed flow-enhanced atherosclerosis. We showed further that UCP2 level is critical for phosphorylation of AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase), which is required for UCP2-induced inhibition of FoxO1. CONCLUSIONS Altogether, our studies uncover that UCP2 is novel mechanosensitive gene under the control of fluid shear stress and KLF2 in ECs. UCP2 expression is critical for endothelial proinflammatory response and atherogenesis. Therapeutic strategies enhancing UCP2 level may have therapeutic potential against atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiang-Yun Luo
- Institute for Cardiovascular Development and Regenerative Medicine, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, China (J.-Y.L.)
- Heart and Vascular Institute, Shenzhen Research Institute and School of Biomedical Sciences (J.-Y.L., C.K.C., L.H., Y.P., C.W.L., X.Y.T.), Chinese University of Hong Kong, China
| | - Chak Kwong Cheng
- Heart and Vascular Institute, Shenzhen Research Institute and School of Biomedical Sciences (J.-Y.L., C.K.C., L.H., Y.P., C.W.L., X.Y.T.), Chinese University of Hong Kong, China
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, China (C.K.C., L.H., Y.P., Y.H.)
| | - Lei He
- Heart and Vascular Institute, Shenzhen Research Institute and School of Biomedical Sciences (J.-Y.L., C.K.C., L.H., Y.P., C.W.L., X.Y.T.), Chinese University of Hong Kong, China
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, China (C.K.C., L.H., Y.P., Y.H.)
| | - Yujie Pu
- Heart and Vascular Institute, Shenzhen Research Institute and School of Biomedical Sciences (J.-Y.L., C.K.C., L.H., Y.P., C.W.L., X.Y.T.), Chinese University of Hong Kong, China
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, China (C.K.C., L.H., Y.P., Y.H.)
| | - Yang Zhang
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong, China (Y.Z.)
| | - Xiao Lin
- School of Life Sciences (X.L.), Chinese University of Hong Kong, China
| | - Aimin Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, China (A.X.)
| | - Chi Wai Lau
- Heart and Vascular Institute, Shenzhen Research Institute and School of Biomedical Sciences (J.-Y.L., C.K.C., L.H., Y.P., C.W.L., X.Y.T.), Chinese University of Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiao Yu Tian
- Heart and Vascular Institute, Shenzhen Research Institute and School of Biomedical Sciences (J.-Y.L., C.K.C., L.H., Y.P., C.W.L., X.Y.T.), Chinese University of Hong Kong, China
| | - Ronald Ching Wan Ma
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics (R.C.W.M.), Chinese University of Hong Kong, China
| | - Hanjoong Jo
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta (H.J.)
| | - Yu Huang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, China (C.K.C., L.H., Y.P., Y.H.)
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Genetic and Epigenetic Regulation of Lipoxygenase Pathways and Reverse Cholesterol Transport in Atherogenesis. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13081474. [PMID: 36011386 PMCID: PMC9408222 DOI: 10.3390/genes13081474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is one of the most important medical and social problems of modern society. Atherosclerosis causes a large number of hospitalizations, disability, and mortality. A considerable amount of evidence suggests that inflammation is one of the key links in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Inflammation in the vascular wall has extensive cross-linkages with lipid metabolism, and lipid mediators act as a central link in the regulation of inflammation in the vascular wall. Data on the role of genetics and epigenetic factors in the development of atherosclerosis are of great interest. A growing body of evidence is strengthening the understanding of the significance of gene polymorphism, as well as gene expression dysregulation involved in cross-links between lipid metabolism and the innate immune system. A better understanding of the genetic basis and molecular mechanisms of disease pathogenesis is an important step towards solving the problems of its early diagnosis and treatment.
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48
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Impact of Non-Pharmacological Interventions on the Mechanisms of Atherosclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169097. [PMID: 36012362 PMCID: PMC9409393 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis remains the leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide characterized by the deposition of lipids and fibrous elements in the form of atheroma plaques in vascular areas which are hemodynamically overloaded. The global burden of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is steadily increasing and is considered the largest known non-infectious pandemic. The management of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is increasing the cost of health care worldwide, which is a concern for researchers and physicians and has caused them to strive to find effective long-term strategies to improve the efficiency of treatments by managing conventional risk factors. Primary prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is the preferred method to reduce cardiovascular risk. Fasting, a Mediterranean diet, and caloric restriction can be considered useful clinical tools. The protective impact of physical exercise over the cardiovascular system has been studied in recent years with the intention of explaining the mechanisms involved; the increase in heat shock proteins, antioxidant enzymes and regulators of cardiac myocyte proliferation concentration seem to be the molecular and biochemical shifts that are involved. Developing new therapeutic strategies such as vagus nerve stimulation, either to prevent or slow the disease’s onset and progression, will surely have a profound effect on the lives of millions of people.
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Zheng Q, Zou Y, Teng P, Chen Z, Wu Y, Dai X, Li X, Hu Z, Wu S, Xu Y, Zou W, Song H, Ma L. Mechanosensitive Channel PIEZO1 Senses Shear Force to Induce KLF2/4 Expression via CaMKII/MEKK3/ERK5 Axis in Endothelial Cells. Cells 2022; 11:cells11142191. [PMID: 35883633 PMCID: PMC9317998 DOI: 10.3390/cells11142191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Shear stress exerted by the blood stream modulates endothelial functions through altering gene expression. KLF2 and KLF4, the mechanosensitive transcription factors, are promoted by laminar flow to maintain endothelial homeostasis. However, how the expression of KLF2/4 is regulated by shear stress is poorly understood. Here, we showed that the activation of PIEZO1 upregulates the expression of KLF2/4 in endothelial cells. Mice with endothelial-specific deletion of Piezo1 exhibit reduced KLF2/4 expression in thoracic aorta and pulmonary vascular endothelial cells. Mechanistically, shear stress activates PIEZO1, which results in a calcium influx and subsequently activation of CaMKII. CaMKII interacts with and activates MEKK3 to promote MEKK3/MEK5/ERK5 signaling and ultimately induce the transcription of KLF2/4. Our data provide the molecular insight into how endothelial cells sense and convert mechanical stimuli into a biological response to promote KLF2/4 expression for the maintenance of endothelial function and homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zheng
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310009, China; (Q.Z.); (P.T.); (Z.C.); (X.D.); (S.W.)
| | - Yonggang Zou
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; (Y.Z.); (Y.W.); (X.L.); (Z.H.); (Y.X.)
| | - Peng Teng
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310009, China; (Q.Z.); (P.T.); (Z.C.); (X.D.); (S.W.)
| | - Zhenghua Chen
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310009, China; (Q.Z.); (P.T.); (Z.C.); (X.D.); (S.W.)
| | - Yuefeng Wu
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; (Y.Z.); (Y.W.); (X.L.); (Z.H.); (Y.X.)
| | - Xiaoyi Dai
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310009, China; (Q.Z.); (P.T.); (Z.C.); (X.D.); (S.W.)
| | - Xiya Li
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; (Y.Z.); (Y.W.); (X.L.); (Z.H.); (Y.X.)
| | - Zonghao Hu
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; (Y.Z.); (Y.W.); (X.L.); (Z.H.); (Y.X.)
| | - Shengjun Wu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310009, China; (Q.Z.); (P.T.); (Z.C.); (X.D.); (S.W.)
| | - Yanhua Xu
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; (Y.Z.); (Y.W.); (X.L.); (Z.H.); (Y.X.)
| | - Weiguo Zou
- CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
- Correspondence: (W.Z.); (H.S.); (L.M.)
| | - Hai Song
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; (Y.Z.); (Y.W.); (X.L.); (Z.H.); (Y.X.)
- Correspondence: (W.Z.); (H.S.); (L.M.)
| | - Liang Ma
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310009, China; (Q.Z.); (P.T.); (Z.C.); (X.D.); (S.W.)
- Correspondence: (W.Z.); (H.S.); (L.M.)
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50
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Abstract
Since its discovery as a mechanosensitive transcription factor in endothelial networks, Klf2's varying expression levels under different blood flow patterns remained a mystery. In this study, Coon et al. (2022. J. Cell Biol.https://doi.org/10.1083/jcb.202109144) discover a connection between sustained laminar shear stress and mitochondrial flux that contributes to Klf2's transcriptional dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emir Bora Akmeriç
- Integrative Vascular Biology, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Germany
| | - Holger Gerhardt
- Integrative Vascular Biology, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Germany
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