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Bernardi S, Tonon F, Barbieri M, Zamagni G, Nuredini R, Perer L, Comar S, Toffoli B, Ronfani L, Ricci G, Fabris B, Stampalija T. A longitudinal study on the effect of obesity upon circulating renin-angiotensin system in normal pregnancy. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis 2024; 34:771-782. [PMID: 38161127 DOI: 10.1016/j.numecd.2023.10.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Obesity is the most common health issue in women of reproductive age, which profoundly affects maternal-fetal health. Despite progress in understanding key inflammatory and metabolic changes, the pathogenesis of the cardiovascular phenotype of obese pregnant women remains to be fully understood. This study aimed at: (i) evaluating the changes of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) throughout pregnancy in obese vs normal weight (control) women, and (ii) evaluating the presence of any associations between maternal hemodynamic status and RAS changes. METHODS AND RESULTS Thirty-eight normal weight and nineteen obese pregnant women were included. Clinical assessment, blood samples and maternal hemodynamic evaluation were performed at 12, 20, 30, and 36 weeks, while ultrasound assessment was scheduled at 20, 30, and 36 weeks of gestation. Measurements of sFlt-1, PlGF, Angiotensinogen, Renin, AngII, Ang1-7, ACE and ACE2 were performed by ELISA. Our data show that normotensive obese women had lower placental blood supply, as assessed by UV-Q and UV-Q/EFW, as compared to controls, and significantly higher levels of AngII and AngII/Ang1-7 ratio, which were inversely related to placental blood supply. CONCLUSIONS Our study shows for the first time that normotensive obese women exhibited a significant progressive increase of AngII and AngII/Ang1-7 throughout pregnancy, which were inversely related to placental blood supply as assessed by UV-Q and UV-Q/EFW. Our data shed light on the early changes in pregnant obese women and suggest that RAS dysregulation is a prerequisite rather than a consequence of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and other maternal neonatal complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella Bernardi
- Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149, Trieste, Italy; Unit of Endocrinology, ASUGI, Cattinara Teaching Hospital, 34149, Trieste, Italy.
| | - Federica Tonon
- Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149, Trieste, Italy
| | - Moira Barbieri
- Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149, Trieste, Italy
| | - Giulia Zamagni
- Clinical Epidemiology and Public Health Research Unit, Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", 34147, Trieste, Italy
| | - Roberto Nuredini
- Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149, Trieste, Italy
| | - Laura Perer
- Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149, Trieste, Italy
| | - Sarah Comar
- Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149, Trieste, Italy
| | - Barbara Toffoli
- Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149, Trieste, Italy
| | - Luca Ronfani
- Clinical Epidemiology and Public Health Research Unit, Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", 34147, Trieste, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ricci
- Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149, Trieste, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institute for Maternal and Child Health-IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", 34137, Trieste, Italy
| | - Bruno Fabris
- Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149, Trieste, Italy; Unit of Endocrinology, ASUGI, Cattinara Teaching Hospital, 34149, Trieste, Italy
| | - Tamara Stampalija
- Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149, Trieste, Italy; Unit of Fetal Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis, Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, 34137, Trieste, Italy
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Shoemaker R, Poglitsch M, Huang H, Vignes K, Srinivasan A, Cockerham C, Schadler A, Bauer JA, O’Brien JM. Activation of the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System Is Attenuated in Hypertensive Compared with Normotensive Pregnancy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12728. [PMID: 37628909 PMCID: PMC10454898 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypertension during pregnancy increases the risk of adverse maternal and fetal outcomes, but the mechanisms of pregnancy hypertension are not precisely understood. Elevated plasma renin activity and aldosterone concentrations play an important role in the normal physiologic adaptation to pregnancy. These effectors are reduced in patients with pregnancy hypertension, creating an opportunity to define the features of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) that are characteristic of this disorder. In the current study, we used a novel LC-MS/MS-based methodology to develop comprehensive profiles of RAAS peptides and effectors over gestation in a cohort of 74 pregnant women followed prospectively for the development of gestational hypertension and pre-eclampsia (HYP, 27 patients) versus those remaining normotensive (NT, 47 patients). In NT pregnancy, the plasma renin activity surrogate, (PRA-S, calculated from the sum of Angiotensin I + Angiotensin II) and aldosterone concentrations significantly increased from the first to the third trimester, accompanied by a modest increase in the concentrations of angiotensin peptide metabolites. In contrast, in HYP pregnancies, PRA-S and angiotensin peptides were largely unchanged over gestation, and third-trimester aldosterone concentrations were significantly lower compared with those in NT pregnancies. The results indicated that the predominant features of pregnancies that develop HYP are stalled or waning activation of the RAAS in the second half of pregnancy (accompanied by unchanging levels of angiotensin peptides) and the attenuated secretion of aldosterone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Shoemaker
- Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
| | | | - Hong Huang
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Katherine Vignes
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
| | - Aarthi Srinivasan
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
| | - Cynthia Cockerham
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
| | - Aric Schadler
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - John A. Bauer
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - John M. O’Brien
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
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Agostinis C, Toffoli M, Spazzapan M, Balduit A, Zito G, Mangogna A, Zupin L, Salviato T, Maiocchi S, Romano F, Crovella S, Fontana F, Braga L, Confalonieri M, Ricci G, Kishore U, Bulla R. SARS-CoV-2 modulates virus receptor expression in placenta and can induce trophoblast fusion, inflammation and endothelial permeability. Front Immunol 2022; 13:957224. [PMID: 36177036 PMCID: PMC9513489 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.957224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is a devastating virus that induces a range of immunopathological mechanisms including cytokine storm, apoptosis, inflammation and complement and coagulation pathway hyperactivation. However, how the infection impacts pregnant mothers is still being worked out due to evidence of vertical transmission of the SARS-CoV-2, and higher incidence of pre-eclampsia, preterm birth, caesarian section, and fetal mortality. In this study, we assessed the levels of the three main receptors of SARS-CoV-2 (ACE2, TMPRSS2 and CD147) in placentae derived from SARS-CoV-2 positive and negative mothers. Moreover, we measured the effects of Spike protein on placental cell lines, in addition to their susceptibility to infection. SARS-CoV-2 negative placentae showed elevated levels of CD147 and considerably low amount of TMPRSS2, making them non-permissive to infection. SARS-CoV-2 presence upregulated TMPRSS2 expression in syncytiotrophoblast and cytotrophoblast cells, thereby rendering them amenable to infection. The non-permissiveness of placental cells can be due to their less fusogenicity due to infection. We also found that Spike protein was capable of inducing pro-inflammatory cytokine production, syncytiotrophoblast apoptosis and increased vascular permeability. These events can elicit pre-eclampsia-like syndrome that marks a high percentage of pregnancies when mothers are infected with SARS-CoV-2. Our study raises important points relevant to SARS-CoV-2 mediated adverse pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Agostinis
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | - Miriam Toffoli
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Balduit
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
- *Correspondence: Andrea Balduit,
| | - Gabriella Zito
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | - Alessandro Mangogna
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | - Luisa Zupin
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | - Tiziana Salviato
- Department of Diagnostic, Clinic and Public Health Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Serena Maiocchi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- Functional Cell Biology Group, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Federico Romano
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | - Sergio Crovella
- Biological Science Program, Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Francesco Fontana
- Division of Laboratory Medicine, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Giuliano Isontina (ASU GI), Trieste, Italy
| | - Luca Braga
- Functional Cell Biology Group, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Marco Confalonieri
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Science, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ricci
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Science, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Uday Kishore
- Biosciences, College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University of London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Roberta Bulla
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
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Sharma KS, Sharma R, Nehra S, Rajpurohit NA, Bhakar K, Kumar D. COVID-19: Consequences on pregnant women and neonates. Health Sciences Review 2022; 4:100044. [PMID: 35875514 PMCID: PMC9295334 DOI: 10.1016/j.hsr.2022.100044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Human species is confronting with a gigantic global COVID-19 pandemic. Initially, it was observed in Wuhan, China, and the COVID-19 cases spread across the globe with lightning speed and resulted in the 21st century pandemic. If scientific reports are taken care of, it is noteworthy that this virus possesses more specific characteristics due to its structure. The distinctive structure has a higher binding affinity with angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) protein, and this is used as an access point to gain access to hosts. Methods A complete literature search was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, SciFinder, and deep-diving Google Search using keywords such as "Pregnancy, COVID-19, Newborn, Fetus, Coronavirus 2019, Neonate, Pregnant women, and vertical transmission". Result and discussion The SARS-CoV-2 virus is unlike its former analogs: SARS-CoV, and MERS-CoV in 2002 and 2012, respectively, or anything mankind has faced earlier concerning viciousness, global spread, and gravity of a causative agent. The current review has delved into articles published in various journals worldwide including the latest studies on the impact of COVID-19 on pregnant women and neonates and has discussed complications and challenges, psychological health, immunological response, vertical transmission, concurrent disorders, vaccine debate, management recommendations, recent news of the approval of COVID-19 vaccine for 6 months and older babies, and future perspectives.
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Zelop CM, Bonney EA. COVID-19 in pregnancy: possible mechanisms not to be discounted. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2022; 35:3016-3019. [PMID: 32811230 PMCID: PMC10430893 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2020.1807508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 has infected more than 16 million people worldwide. Related complications and death from COVID-19 disease and their underlying pathophysiology are intensely investigated. Pregnant women are among the affected. Although the severity of disease in pregnancy does not appear to be increased, the effects of infection on pregnancy should not escape careful examination. The currently known receptor for the virus, ACE2, regulates the renin-angiotensin system and is increased during pregnancy. Virus-receptor interactions may have significant effects on placental function, fetal development, and maternal immunity. The manifestation of cardiovascular complications of infection produces the hypothesis that a significant effect of the virus may be its influence on the maternal vascular system. Interference with the vascular adaptations to pregnancy and the post-partum may have implications for concurrent and future pregnancies as well as for long-term cardiovascular health. We should not miss the opportunity to learn from this virus about the physiology of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn M Zelop
- The Valley Hospital, Ridgewood, Paramus, NJ, USA
- New York University New York, NY, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Bonney
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine, Burlington, VT, USA
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6
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Ayala-Ramírez P, González M, Escudero C, Quintero-Arciniegas L, Giachini FR, Alves de Freitas R, Damiano AE, García-Robles R. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Infection in Pregnancy. A Non-systematic Review of Clinical Presentation, Potential Effects of Physiological Adaptations in Pregnancy, and Placental Vascular Alterations. Front Physiol 2022; 13:785274. [PMID: 35431989 PMCID: PMC9005899 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.785274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In December 2019, the novel Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) rapidly spread to become a pandemic. To date, increasing evidence has described the potential negative impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on pregnant women. Although the pathophysiology of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is not entirely understood, there is emerging evidence that it causes a severe systemic inflammatory response associated with vascular alterations that could be of special interest considering some physiological changes in pregnancy. Additionally, these alterations may affect the physiology of the placenta and are associated with pregnancy complications and abnormal histologic findings. On the other hand, data about the vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 are limited, but the risks of administering COVID-19 vaccines during pregnancy appear to be minimal. This review summarizes the current literature on SARSCoV2 virus infection, the development of COVID-19 and its relationship with physiological changes, and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) function during pregnancy. We have particularly emphasized evidence coming from Latin American countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Ayala-Ramírez
- School of Medicine, Human Genetics Institute, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
- *Correspondence: Paola Ayala-Ramírez,
| | - Marcelo González
- Group of Research and Innovation in Vascular Health (GRIVAS Health), Chillan, Chile
- Laboratorio de Investigación Materno-Fetal (LIMaF), Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
- Marcelo González,
| | - Carlos Escudero
- Group of Research and Innovation in Vascular Health (GRIVAS Health), Chillan, Chile
- Laboratory of Vascular Physiology, Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad del Bio-Bio, Chillan, Chile
| | - Laura Quintero-Arciniegas
- Perinatal Medicine Seedbed, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
- Department of Physiological Sciences, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Fernanda R. Giachini
- Institute of Biological Sciences and Health, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Barra do Garças, Brazil
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goias, Goiânia, Brazil
| | | | - Alicia E. Damiano
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto de Fisiología y Biofísica Bernardo Houssay (IFIBIO)- CONICET- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Cátedra de Biología Celular y Molecular, Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Reggie García-Robles
- Department of Physiological Sciences, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
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Tonon F, Tornese G, Giudici F, Nicolardi F, Toffoli B, Barbi E, Fabris B, Bernardi S. Children With Short Stature Display Reduced ACE2 Expression in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:912064. [PMID: 35909539 PMCID: PMC9335146 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.912064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The cause of short stature remains often unknown. The renin-angiotensin system contributes to growth regulation. Several groups reported that angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2)-knockout mice weighed less than controls. Our case-control study aimed to investigate if children with short stature had reduced ACE2 expression as compared to controls, and its significance. MATERIALS AND METHODS children aged between 2 and 14 years were consecutively recruited in a University Hospital pediatric tertiary care center. Cases were children with short stature defined as height SD ≤ -2 diagnosed with growth hormone deficiency (GHD) or idiopathic short stature (ISS), before any treatment. Exclusion criteria were: acute diseases, kidney disease, endocrine or autoimmune disorders, precocious puberty, genetic syndromes, SGA history. ACE and ACE2 expression were measured in peripheral blood mononuclear cells, angiotensins were measured by ELISA. RESULTS Children with short stature displayed significantly lower ACE2 expression, being 0.40 fold induction (0.01-2.27) as compared to controls, and higher ACE/ACE2, with no differences between GHD and ISS. ACE2 expression was significantly and inversely associated with the risk of short stature, OR 0.26 (0.07-0.82), and it had a moderate accuracy to predict it, with an AUC of 0.73 (0.61-0.84). The cutoff of 0.45 fold induction of ACE2 expression was the value best predicting short stature, identifying correctly 70% of the children. CONCLUSIONS Our study confirms the association between the reduction of ACE2 expression and growth retardation. Further studies are needed to determine its diagnostic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Tonon
- Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, Ospedale di Cattinara, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Gianluca Tornese
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS ‘Burlo Garofolo’, Trieste, Italy
- *Correspondence: Gianluca Tornese,
| | - Fabiola Giudici
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Francesca Nicolardi
- Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, Ospedale di Cattinara, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Barbara Toffoli
- Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, Ospedale di Cattinara, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Egidio Barbi
- Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, Ospedale di Cattinara, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS ‘Burlo Garofolo’, Trieste, Italy
| | - Bruno Fabris
- Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, Ospedale di Cattinara, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- Operative Unit of Medicina Clinica, Ospedale di Cattinara, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Giuliano Isontina (ASUGI), Trieste, Italy
| | - Stella Bernardi
- Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, Ospedale di Cattinara, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- Operative Unit of Medicina Clinica, Ospedale di Cattinara, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Giuliano Isontina (ASUGI), Trieste, Italy
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Tamanna S, Lumbers ER, Morosin SK, Delforce SJ, Pringle KG. ACE2: a key modulator of the renin-angiotensin system and pregnancy. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2021; 321:R833-R843. [PMID: 34668428 PMCID: PMC8862784 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00211.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is a membrane-bound protein containing 805 amino acids. ACE2 shows approximately 42% sequence similarity to somatic ACE but has different biochemical activities. The key role of ACE2 is to catalyze the vasoconstrictor peptide angiotensin (ANG) II to Ang-(1–7), thus regulating the two major counterbalancing pathways of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). In this way, ACE2 plays a protective role in end-organ damage by protecting tissues from the proinflammatory actions of ANG II. The circulating RAS is activated in normal pregnancy and is essential for maintaining fluid and electrolyte homeostasis and blood pressure. Renin-angiotensin systems are also found in the conceptus. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the regulation and function of circulating and uteroplacental ACE2 in uncomplicated and complicated pregnancies, including those affected by preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. Since ACE2 is the receptor for SARS-CoV-2, and COVID-19 in pregnancy is associated with more severe disease and increased risk of abnormal pregnancy outcomes, we also discuss the role of ACE2 in mediating some of these adverse consequences. We propose that dysregulation of ACE2 plays a critical role in the development of preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, and COVID-19-associated pregnancy pathologies and suggest that human recombinant soluble ACE2 could be a novel therapeutic to treat and/or prevent these pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Tamanna
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia.,Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Eugenie R Lumbers
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia.,Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Saije K Morosin
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia.,Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sarah J Delforce
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia.,Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kirsty G Pringle
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia.,Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
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Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a serious respiratory disease mediated by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. The worldwide spread of COVID-19 has caused millions of confirmed cases and morbidity, and the crisis has greatly affected global economy and daily life and changed our attitudes towards life. The reproductive system, as a potential target, is at a high risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection, and females are more vulnerable to viral infection compared with males. Therefore, female fertility and associated reproductive health care in the COVID-19 era need more attention. This review summarises the mechanism of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the female reproductive system and discusses the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on female fertility. Studies have proven that COVID-19 might affect female fertility and interfere with assisted reproductive technology procedures. The side effects of vaccines against the virus on ovarian reserve and pregnancy have not yet been well investigated. In the future, the female fertility after SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination needs more attention because of the uncertainty of COVID-19.
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10
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Giordano G, Petrolini C, Corradini E, Campanini N, Esposito S, Perrone S. COVID-19 in pregnancy: placental pathological patterns and effect on perinatal outcome in five cases. Diagn Pathol 2021; 16:88. [PMID: 34602071 PMCID: PMC8487453 DOI: 10.1186/s13000-021-01148-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, is a severe systemic thrombotic syndrome that emerged in 2019, with an ensuing pandemic. To evaluate the impact of this disease on placental tissue and perinatal outcome, histological, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural analyses of placental tissue were performed for five cases of pregnant women with COVID-19. CASE REPORTS All five pregnant women in this series developed COVID-19 in late pregnancy. Two patients experienced respiratory distress, and computed tomography revealed signs of pneumonia, with bilateral involvement, multiple lobular and subsegmental areas of consolidation and ground-glass opacities. Histological studies of placental tissue revealed the presence of slight signs of maternal vascular underperfusion (MVUs) or foetal vascular underperfusion (FVUs) lesions and mild inflammatory lesions. CD15 immunoreactivity in the placental tissue was low in all cases, demonstrating that in these cases there was not severe foetal hypoxia/asphyxia risk for newborns or distal vascular immaturity. In all cases examined, ultrastructural analyses showed spherical-like coronavirus particles with an electron intermediate-density core as well as projections from the surface as spike-like structures in the syncytiotrophoblasts. At term, all of the women delivered newborns who were negative for SARS-CoV-2 by nasopharyngeal testing in their first day of life. All newborns were exclusively breastfed and were discharged on the 3rd day of life. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, placental patterns in pregnancy due to COVID-19 in the late stage of gestation indicate no evidence of vertical trans-placental SARS-CoV-2 transmission or a significant impact on the perinatal outcome of newborns, in both mild and more severe cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Giordano
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pathology Unit, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci, 14, 43126, Parma, Italy.
| | - Chiara Petrolini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Neonatology Clinic, Pietro Barilla Children's Hospital, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Emilia Corradini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pathology Unit, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci, 14, 43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Campanini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pathology Unit, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci, 14, 43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Susanna Esposito
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Paediatric Clinic Pietro Barilla Children's Hospital, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Serafina Perrone
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Neonatology Clinic, Pietro Barilla Children's Hospital, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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11
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Azinheira Nobrega Cruz N, Stoll D, Casarini D, Bertagnolli M. Role of ACE2 in pregnancy and potential implications for COVID-19 susceptibility. Clin Sci (Lond) 2021; 135:1805-1824. [PMID: 34338772 PMCID: PMC8329853 DOI: 10.1042/cs20210284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
In times of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the impact of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-coronavirus (CoV)-2 infection on pregnancy is still unclear. The presence of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) 2 (ACE2), the main receptor for SARS-CoV-2, in human placentas indicates that this organ can be vulnerable for viral infection during pregnancy. However, for this to happen, additional molecular processes are critical to allow viral entry in cells, its replication and disease manifestation, particularly in the placenta and/or feto-maternal circulation. Beyond the risk of vertical transmission, COVID-19 is also proposed to deplete ACE2 protein and its biological actions in the placenta. It is postulated that such effects may impair essential processes during placentation and maternal hemodynamic adaptations in COVID-19 pregnancy, features also observed in several disorders of pregnancy. This review gathers information indicating risks and protective features related to ACE2 changes in COVID-19 pregnancies. First, we describe the mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 infection having ACE2 as a main entry door and current evidence of viral infection in the placenta. Further, we discuss the central role of ACE2 in physiological systems such as the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and the kallikrein-kinin system (KKS), both active during placentation and hemodynamic adaptations of pregnancy. Significant knowledge gaps are also identified and should be urgently filled to better understand the fate of ACE2 in COVID-19 pregnancies and the potential associated risks. Emerging knowledge will be able to improve the early stratification of high-risk pregnancies with COVID-19 exposure as well as to guide better management and follow-up of these mothers and their children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayara Azinheira Nobrega Cruz
- Department of Medicine, Discipline of Nephrology, Federal University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Research Center of the Hospital Sacré-Coeur, CIUSSS Nord-de-l’Île-de-Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Danielle Stoll
- Department of Medicine, Discipline of Nephrology, Federal University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Dulce Elena Casarini
- Department of Medicine, Discipline of Nephrology, Federal University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mariane Bertagnolli
- Research Center of the Hospital Sacré-Coeur, CIUSSS Nord-de-l’Île-de-Montréal, Montréal, Canada
- School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
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12
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Abbas-Hanif A, Rezai H, Ahmed SF, Ahmed A. The impact of COVID-19 on pregnancy and therapeutic drug development. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 179:2108-2120. [PMID: 34085281 PMCID: PMC8239854 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging data show that pregnant women with COVID‐19 are at significantly higher risk of severe outcomes compared with non‐pregnant women of similar age. This review discusses the invaluable insight revealed from vaccine clinical trials in women who were vaccinated and inadvertently became pregnant during the trial period. It further explores a number of clinical avenues in their management and proposes a drug development strategy in line with clinical trials for vaccines and drug treatments for the drug development community. Little is known of the long‐term effects of COVID‐19 on the mother and the baby. Our hypothesis that COVID‐19 predisposes pregnant women to pre‐eclampsia or hypertensive disorders during pregnancy is supported by a clinical study, and this may also adversely impact a woman's cardiovascular disease risk later in life. It may also increase a woman's risk of pre‐eclampsia in subsequent pregnancy. This is an ever‐evolving landscape, and early knowledge for healthcare providers and drug innovators is offered to ensure benefits outweigh the risks. COVID‐19 mRNA vaccines appear to generate robust humoral immunity in pregnant and lactating women. This novel approach to vaccination also offers new ways to therapeutically tackle disorders of many unmet medical needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allyah Abbas-Hanif
- Division of Drug Development, MirZyme Therapeutics, Birmingham, UK.,Department of Cardiology, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Homira Rezai
- Division of Drug Development, MirZyme Therapeutics, Birmingham, UK
| | - Syed Faraz Ahmed
- Division of Drug Development, MirZyme Therapeutics, Birmingham, UK
| | - Asif Ahmed
- Division of Drug Development, MirZyme Therapeutics, Birmingham, UK.,School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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13
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Kala S, Meteleva K, Serghides L. ACE2, TMPRSS2 and L-SIGN expression in placentae from HIV-positive pregnancies exposed to antiretroviral therapy-implications for SARS-CoV-2 placental infection. J Infect Dis 2021; 224:S631-S641. [PMID: 33880537 PMCID: PMC8083191 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiab166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) binding receptor ACE2 and the spike protein priming protease TMPRSS2 are coexpressed in human placentae. It is unknown whether their expression is altered in the context of HIV infection and antiretroviral therapy (ART). Methods We compared mRNA levels of SARS-CoV-2 cell-entry mediators ACE2, TMPRSS2, and L-SIGN by quantitative polymerase chain reaction in 105 placentae: 45 from pregnant women with HIV (WHIV) on protease inhibitor (PI)-based ART, 17 from WHIV on non-PI–based ART, and 43 from HIV-uninfected women. Results ACE2 levels were lower, while L-SIGN levels were higher, in placentae from WHIV on PI-based ART compared to those on non-PI–based ART and to HIV-uninfected women. TMPRSS2 levels were similar between groups. Black race was significantly associated with lower expression of ACE2 and higher expression of L-SIGN. ACE2 levels were significantly higher in placentae of female fetuses. Conclusions We identified pregnant women of black race and WHIV on PI-based ART to have relatively lower expression of placental ACE2 than those of white race and HIV-uninfected women. This may potentially contribute to altered susceptibility to COVID-19 in these women, favorably by reduced viral entry or detrimentally by loss of ACE2 protection against hyperinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Smriti Kala
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ksenia Meteleva
- Department of Immunology and Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Lena Serghides
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Immunology and Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
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14
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Nayak SK. Inhibition of S-protein RBD and hACE2 Interaction for Control of SARSCoV- 2 Infection (COVID-19). Mini Rev Med Chem 2021; 21:689-703. [PMID: 33208074 DOI: 10.2174/1389557520666201117111259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 has become a pandemic with higher morbidity and mortality rates after its start from Wuhan city of China. The infection by RNA virus, also known as SARS-CoV-2 or 2019-nCoV, from the beta class of coronaviruses, has been found to be responsible for COVID-19. Structural analysis and evidences have been indicated that interaction between a segment of receptor binding domain (RBD) from S protein of the virus and human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE2) is essential for cellular entry of the virus. OBJECTIVE The current review sheds light on structural aspects for the inhibition of RBD-hACE2 interaction mediated cellular entry of SARS-CoV-2. METHODS The present study provides a critical review of recently published information on RBDhACE2 interaction and its inhibitors to control SARS-CoV-2 infection. The review highlighted the structural aspects of the interaction between RBD-hACE2 and involved amino acid residues. RESULTS Recently, several studies are being conducted for the inhibition of the SARS-CoV-2 attachment and entry to the human cellular system. One of the important targets for viral invasion is its binding with cell surface receptor, hACE2, through RBD on S-protein. Mimicking of three residues on ACE2 (Lys31, Glu35 and Lys353 on B chain) provided a hot target directed strategy for the inhibition of early attachment of the virus to the cell. Early screening of peptidic or non-peptidic molecules for the inhibition of RBD-hACE2 interaction has raised the hope for potential therapeutics against COVID-19. The higher affinity of molecules toward RBD than ACE2 is an important factor for selectivity and minimization of ACE2 related adverse events on the cardiovascular system, brain, kidney, and foetus development during pregnancy. CONCLUSION Inhibition of RBD-hACE2 interaction by different molecular scaffolds can be used as a preferred strategy for control of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Recently, published reports pointed out Lys31, Glu35 and Lys353 on the B chain of ACE2 as crucial residues for mimicking and design of novel molecules as inhibitors SARS-CoV-2 attachment to human cells. Moreover, some recently identified RBD-hACE2 interaction inhibitors have also been described with their protein binding pattern and potencies (IC50 values), which will help for further improvement in the selectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surendra Kumar Nayak
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar- Delhi G.T. Road (NH-1), Phagwara, Punjab-144401, India
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15
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Reis FM, Reis AM. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), angiotensin-(1-7) and Mas receptor in gonadal and reproductive functions. Clin Sci (Lond) 2020; 134:2929-41. [PMID: 33196086 DOI: 10.1042/CS20200865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Angiotensin (Ang)-(1-7) is an active peptide formed from Ang I or Ang-(1-9) by multiple proteolytic steps involving angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) 1 and other peptidases, or by a single cleavage of Ang II catalyzed chiefly by ACE2. The effects of Ang-(1-7) are mediated by the G protein-coupled receptor Mas (or Mas1), encoded by the protooncogene MAS. The reproductive system expresses ACE2 quite abundantly and therefore is able to generate Ang-(1-7) using precursor peptides produced locally or taken from circulation. In several mammalian species, Ang-(1-7) stimulates ovarian follicle growth, oocyte maturation and ovulation. The peptide is found in human endometrium, mostly during the secretory phase of menstrual cycle when the uterus is receptive to embryo implantation. Rat models and human observational studies suggest that Ang-(1-7) is part of the maternal adaptive response to pregnancy and its deficiency is associated with poor circulation in the placental bed. Knockout mice revealed a relevant participation of Mas-mediated stimulus to the maintenance of normal spermatogenesis, even though the animal can still reproduce without it. In addition, the vasorelaxant effect of Ang-(1-7) participates in the physiological mechanism of corpus cavernosum blood influx and penile erection. We conclude that preclinical evidence encourages the pursuit of treatments for female and male reproductive dysfunctions based on Mas agonists, starting with its natural ligand Ang-(1-7).
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16
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Malinowska B, Baranowska-Kuczko M, Kicman A, Schlicker E. Opportunities, Challenges and Pitfalls of Using Cannabidiol as an Adjuvant Drug in COVID-19. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:1986. [PMID: 33671463 PMCID: PMC7922403 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection may lead to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) which, in turn, may be associated with multiple organ dysfunction. In this review, we present advantages and disadvantages of cannabidiol (CBD), a non-intoxicating phytocannabinoid from the cannabis plant, as a potential agent for the treatment of COVID-19. CBD has been shown to downregulate proteins responsible for viral entry and to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication. Preclinical studies have demonstrated its effectiveness against diseases of the respiratory system as well as its cardioprotective, nephroprotective, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective and anti-convulsant properties, that is, effects that may be beneficial for COVID-19. Only the latter two properties have been demonstrated in clinical studies, which also revealed anxiolytic and antinociceptive effects of CBD (given alone or together with Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol), which may be important for an adjuvant treatment to improve the quality of life in patients with COVID-19 and to limit post-traumatic stress symptoms. However, one should be aware of side effects of CBD (which are rarely serious), drug interactions (also extending to drugs acting against COVID-19) and the proper route of its administration (vaping may be dangerous). Clearly, further clinical studies are necessary to prove the suitability of CBD for the treatment of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Malinowska
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, 15-222 Białystok, Poland; (M.B.-K.); (A.K.)
| | - Marta Baranowska-Kuczko
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, 15-222 Białystok, Poland; (M.B.-K.); (A.K.)
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Medical University of Białystok, 15-222 Białystok, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Kicman
- Department of Experimental Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Białystok, 15-222 Białystok, Poland; (M.B.-K.); (A.K.)
| | - Eberhard Schlicker
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
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17
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Beyerstedt S, Casaro EB, Rangel ÉB. COVID-19: angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) expression and tissue susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2021; 40:905-919. [PMID: 33389262 PMCID: PMC7778857 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-020-04138-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 355] [Impact Index Per Article: 118.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 pandemic is caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is not only an enzyme but also a functional receptor on cell surfaces through which SARS-CoV-2 enters the host cells and is highly expressed in the heart, kidneys, and lungs and shed into the plasma. ACE2 is a key regulator of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). SARS-CoV-2 causes ACE/ACE2 balance disruption and RAAS activation, which leads ultimately to COVID-19 progression, especially in patients with comorbidities, such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular disease. Therefore, ACE2 expression may have paradoxical effects, aiding SARS-CoV-2 pathogenicity, yet conversely limiting viral infection. This article reviews the existing literature and knowledge of ACE2 in COVID-19 setting and focuses on its pathophysiologic involvement in disease progression, clinical outcomes, and therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephany Beyerstedt
- grid.413562.70000 0001 0385 1941Albert Einstein Research and Education Institute, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, 627 Albert Einstein Avenue, Building A, Morumbi, São Paulo, SP Brazil
| | - Expedito Barbosa Casaro
- grid.413562.70000 0001 0385 1941Albert Einstein Research and Education Institute, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, 627 Albert Einstein Avenue, Building A, Morumbi, São Paulo, SP Brazil
| | - Érika Bevilaqua Rangel
- grid.413562.70000 0001 0385 1941Albert Einstein Research and Education Institute, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, 627 Albert Einstein Avenue, Building A, Morumbi, São Paulo, SP Brazil ,grid.411249.b0000 0001 0514 7202Nephrology Division, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP Brazil
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18
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Widiasta A, Sribudiani Y, Nugrahapraja H, Hilmanto D, Sekarwana N, Rachmadi D. Potential role of ACE2-related microRNAs in COVID-19-associated nephropathy. Noncoding RNA Res 2020; 5:153-166. [PMID: 32923747 PMCID: PMC7480227 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2020.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 09/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which is responsible for coronavirus disease (COVID-19), potentially have severe kidney adverse effects. This organ expressed angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), the transmembrane protein which facilitate the entering of the virus into the cell. Therefore, early detection of the kidney manifestations of COVID-19 is crucial. Previous studies showed ACE2 role in various indications of this disease, especially in kidney effects. The MicroRNAs (miRNAs) in this organ affected ACE2 expression. Therefore, this review aims at summarizing the literature of a novel miRNA-based therapy and its potential applications in COVID-19-associated nephropathy. Furthermore, previous studies were analyzed for the kidney manifestations of COVID-19 and the miRNAs role that were published on the online databases, namely MEDLINE (PubMed) and Scopus. Several miRNAs, particularly miR-18 (which was upregulated in nephropathy), played a crucial role in ACE2 expression. Therefore, the antimiR-18 roles were summarized in various primate models that aided in developing the therapy for ACE2 related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmedz Widiasta
- Pediatric Nephrology Division, Child Health Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Indonesia
- Medical Genetic Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Indonesia
| | - Yunia Sribudiani
- Medical Genetic Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Indonesia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Indonesia
| | - Husna Nugrahapraja
- Life Science and Biotechnology, Bandung Institute of Technology, Indonesia
| | - Dany Hilmanto
- Pediatric Nephrology Division, Child Health Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Indonesia
| | - Nanan Sekarwana
- Pediatric Nephrology Division, Child Health Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Indonesia
| | - Dedi Rachmadi
- Pediatric Nephrology Division, Child Health Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Indonesia
- Medical Genetic Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Indonesia
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19
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Dhaundiyal A, Kumari P, Jawalekar SS, Chauhan G, Kalra S, Navik U. Is highly expressed ACE 2 in pregnant women "a curse" in times of COVID-19 pandemic? Life Sci 2020; 264:118676. [PMID: 33129880 PMCID: PMC7598563 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE 2) is a membrane-bound enzyme that cleaves angiotensin II (Ang II) into angiotensin (1-7). It also serves as an important binding site for SARS-CoV-2, thereby, facilitating viral entry into target host cells. ACE 2 is abundantly present in the intestine, kidney, heart, lungs, and fetal tissues. Fetal ACE 2 is involved in myocardium growth, lungs and brain development. ACE 2 is highly expressed in pregnant women to compensate preeclampsia by modulating angiotensin (1-7) which binds to the Mas receptor, having vasodilator action and maintain fluid homeostasis. There are reports available on Zika, H1N1 and SARS-CoV where these viruses have shown to produce fetal defects but very little is known about SARS-CoV-2 involvement in pregnancy, but it might have the potential to interact with fetal ACE 2 and enhance COVID-19 transmission to the fetus, leading to fetal morbidity and mortality. This review sheds light on a path of SARS-CoV-2 transmission risk in pregnancy and its possible link with fetal ACE 2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankit Dhaundiyal
- Senior Data Analyst at Private Organization, Gurugram, Haryana 122001,M.S. (Pharma) in Pharmacoinformatics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Sector-67, S.A.S. Nagar, Punjab 160 062, India
| | - Puja Kumari
- Principal Research Analyst at Private Organization Jaipur, Rajasthan 302021, M.S. (Pharma) in Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Sector-67, S.A.S. Nagar, Punjab 160 062, India
| | - Snehal Sainath Jawalekar
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Sector-67, S.A.S. Nagar, Punjab-160 062, India
| | - Gaurav Chauhan
- School of Engineering and Sciences, Tecnologico de Monterrey, Av. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501 Sur, 64849, Monterrey, NL, Mexico
| | - Sourav Kalra
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology (Process Chemistry), National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Sector-67, S.A.S. Nagar, Punj, ab-160 062, India.
| | - Umashanker Navik
- Department of Pharmacology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punj, ab-151001, India.
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Abstract
Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) has been identified as the host entry receptor for the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. ACE2 is a regulatory enzyme of the renin-angiotensin system and has protective functions in many cardiovascular, pulmonary and metabolic diseases. This review summarizes available murine models with systemic or organ-specific deletion of ACE2, or with overexpression of murine or human ACE2. The purpose of this review is to provide researchers with the genetic tools available for further understanding of ACE2 biology and for the investigation of ACE2 in the pathogenesis and treatment of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongpeng Jia
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Xinping Yue
- Department of Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Eric Lazartigues
- Department of Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA. .,Cardiovascular Center of Excellence, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA. .,Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care Systems, New Orleans, LA, 70119, USA.
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21
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Li G, Li W, Song B, Wu H, Tang D, Wang C, He X, Cao Y. SARS-CoV-2 and the reproductive system: assessment of risk and recommendations for infection control in reproductive departments. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2020; 66:343-346. [PMID: 32938244 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2020.1817627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Guanjian Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Hefei, China
| | - Weiran Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Bin Song
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Hefei, China
| | - Huan Wu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Hefei, China
| | - Dongdong Tang
- Comprehensive Research Center for Major Infectious Diseases of Anhui Province, Hefei, China
- Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China, Hefei, China
| | - Chao Wang
- Comprehensive Research Center for Major Infectious Diseases of Anhui Province, Hefei, China
- Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaojin He
- Comprehensive Research Center for Major Infectious Diseases of Anhui Province, Hefei, China
- Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China, Hefei, China
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Hefei, China
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Hanna N, Hanna M, Sharma S. Is pregnancy an immunological contributor to severe or controlled COVID-19 disease? Am J Reprod Immunol 2020; 84:e13317. [PMID: 32757366 PMCID: PMC7435498 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Since its emergence in Wuhan as a novel coronavirus disease, it has taken only a few months since January 2020 for it to be recognized as a widespread COVID‐19 pandemic which has contributed to global health devastation. As pointed out by health experts, it is a once in a century pandemic of our times. Clinical observations so far indicate that the older population and immune compromised individuals, particularly in African American and Hispanic/Latino communities, are at much higher risk for infection with this novel coronavirus. In this regard, pregnancy offers an altered immunity scenario which may allow severe COVID‐19 disease. The literature is so far highly conflicting on this issue. This review will offer a conceptual basis for severe or controlled disease and address trepidations for pregnant women associated with COVID‐19 pandemic, particularly in the comparative context of clinical consequences of other coronaviruses such as SARS and MERS. We will highlight the possible consequences of COVID‐19 on the general health of pregnant women as well as its possible effects at the maternal‐fetal interface. For the placenta‐related pathology, we will focus our discussion on the temporal expression of ACE2 throughout gestation for possible propagation of SARS‐CoV‐2 in the placenta in infected women and ensuing consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazeeh Hanna
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, NYU Long Island School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Surendra Sharma
- Department of Pediatrics, Women and Infants Hospital of Rhode Island-Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
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Ashary N, Bhide A, Chakraborty P, Colaco S, Mishra A, Chhabria K, Jolly MK, Modi D. Single-Cell RNA-seq Identifies Cell Subsets in Human Placenta That Highly Expresses Factors Driving Pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:783. [PMID: 32974340 PMCID: PMC7466449 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Infection by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) results in the novel coronavirus disease COVID-19, which has posed a serious threat globally. Infection of SARS-CoV-2 during pregnancy is associated with complications such as preterm labor and premature rupture of membranes, and a proportion of neonates born to infected mothers are also positive for the virus. During pregnancy, the placental barrier protects the fetus from pathogens and ensures healthy development. To predict if the placenta is permissive to SARS-CoV-2, we utilized publicly available single-cell RNA-seq data to identify if the placental cells express the necessary factors required for infection. SARS-CoV-2 binding receptor ACE2 and the S protein priming protease TMPRSS2 are co-expressed by a subset of syncytiotrophoblasts (STB) in the first trimester and extravillous trophoblasts (EVT) in the second trimester human placenta. In addition, the non-canonical receptor BSG/CD147 and other proteases (CTSL, CTSB, and FURIN) are detected in most of the placental cells. Other coronavirus family receptors (ANPEP and DPP4) were also expressed in the first and second trimester placental cells. Additionally, the term placenta of multiple species including humans expressed ACE2, DPP4, and ANPEP along with the viral S protein proteases. The ACE2- and TMPRSS2-positive (ACE2 + TMPRSS2 +) placental subsets expressed mRNA for proteins involved in viral budding and replication. These cells also had the mRNA for proteins that physically interact with SARS-CoV-2 in host cells. Further, we discovered unique signatures of genes in ACE2 + TMPRSS2 + STBs and EVTs. The ACE2 + TMPRSS2 + STBs are highly differentiated cells and express genes involving mitochondrial metabolism and glucose transport. The second trimester ACE2 + TMPRSS2 + EVTs are enriched for markers of endovascular trophoblasts. Both these subtypes abundantly expressed genes in the Toll-like receptor pathway. The second trimester EVTs are also enriched for components of the JAK-STAT pathway that drives inflammation. We carried out a systematic review and identified that in 12% of pregnant women with COVID-19, the placenta was infected with SARS-CoV-2, and the virus was detected in STBs. To conclude, herein we have uncovered the cellular targets for SARS-CoV-2 entry and have shown that these cells can potentially drive viremia in the developing human placenta. Our results provide a basic framework toward understanding the paraphernalia involved in SARS-CoV-2 infections in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Ashary
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Mumbai, India
| | - Anshul Bhide
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Mumbai, India
| | - Priyanka Chakraborty
- Center for BioSystems Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, India
| | - Stacy Colaco
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Mumbai, India
| | - Anuradha Mishra
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Mumbai, India
| | - Karisma Chhabria
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Mumbai, India
| | - Mohit Kumar Jolly
- Center for BioSystems Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, India
| | - Deepak Modi
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Mumbai, India
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24
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Kreis NN, Ritter A, Louwen F, Yuan J. A Message from the Human Placenta: Structural and Immunomodulatory Defense against SARS-CoV-2. Cells 2020; 9:E1777. [PMID: 32722449 PMCID: PMC7465902 DOI: 10.3390/cells9081777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The outbreak of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused a global public health crisis. Viral infections may predispose pregnant women to a higher rate of pregnancy complications, including preterm births, miscarriage, and stillbirth. Despite reports of neonatal COVID-19, definitive proof of vertical transmission is still lacking. In this review, we summarize studies regarding the potential evidence for transplacental transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), characterize the expression of its receptors and proteases, describe the placental pathology and analyze virus-host interactions at the maternal-fetal interface. We focus on the syncytium, the barrier between mother and fetus, and describe in detail its physical and structural defense against viral infections. We further discuss the potential molecular mechanisms, whereby the placenta serves as a defense front against pathogens by regulating the interferon type III signaling, microRNA-triggered autophagy and the nuclear factor-κB pathway. Based on these data, we conclude that vertical transmission may occur but rare, ascribed to the potent physical barrier, the fine-regulated placental immune defense and modulation strategies. Particularly, immunomodulatory mechanisms employed by the placenta may mitigate violent immune response, maybe soften cytokine storm tightly associated with severely ill COVID-19 patients, possibly minimizing cell and tissue damages, and potentially reducing SARS-CoV-2 transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina-Naomi Kreis
- Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Frankfurt, J. W. Goethe-University, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, D-60590 Frankfurt, Germany; (A.R.); (F.L.)
| | | | | | - Juping Yuan
- Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Frankfurt, J. W. Goethe-University, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, D-60590 Frankfurt, Germany; (A.R.); (F.L.)
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25
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Jing Y, Run-Qian L, Hao-Ran W, Hao-Ran C, Ya-Bin L, Yang G, Fei C. Potential influence of COVID-19/ACE2 on the female reproductive system. Mol Hum Reprod 2020; 26:367-373. [PMID: 32365180 PMCID: PMC7239105 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 219] [Impact Index Per Article: 54.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2020] [Revised: 04/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) appeared in December 2019 and then spread throughout the world rapidly. The virus invades the target cell by binding to angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) 2 and modulates the expression of ACE2 in host cells. ACE2, a pivotal component of the renin-angiotensin system, exerts its physiological functions by modulating the levels of angiotensin II (Ang II) and Ang-(1-7). We reviewed the literature that reported the distribution and function of ACE2 in the female reproductive system, hoping to clarify the potential harm of 2019-nCoV to female fertility. The available evidence suggests that ACE2 is widely expressed in the ovary, uterus, vagina and placenta. Therefore, we believe that apart from droplets and contact transmission, the possibility of mother-to-child and sexual transmission also exists. Ang II, ACE2 and Ang-(1-7) regulate follicle development and ovulation, modulate luteal angiogenesis and degeneration, and also influence the regular changes in endometrial tissue and embryo development. Taking these functions into account, 2019-nCoV may disturb the female reproductive functions through regulating ACE2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Jing
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, 272067 Jining, China
| | - Li Run-Qian
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, 272067 Jining, China
| | - Wang Hao-Ran
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, 272067 Jining, China
| | - Chen Hao-Ran
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, 272067 Jining, China
| | - Liu Ya-Bin
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, 272067 Jining, China
| | - Gao Yang
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, 272067 Jining, China
| | - Chen Fei
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, 272067 Jining, China
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26
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Sun B, Yeh J. Mild and Asymptomatic Covid-19 Infections: Implications for Maternal, Fetal, and Reproductive Health. Front Reprod Health 2020; 2:1. [PMID: 36304707 PMCID: PMC9580789 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2020.00001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Bei Sun
- Sackler School of Medicine, New York State/American Program of Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - John Yeh
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, UMass Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, MA, United States
- *Correspondence: John Yeh
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27
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Hitzerd E, Broekhuizen M, Neuman RI, Colafella KMM, Merkus D, Schoenmakers S, Simons SHP, Reiss IKM, Danser AHJ. Human Placental Vascular Reactivity in Health and Disease: Implications for the Treatment of Pre-eclampsia. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 25:505-527. [PMID: 30950346 DOI: 10.2174/1381612825666190405145228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Adequate development of the placenta is essential for optimal pregnancy outcome. Pre-eclampsia (PE) is increasingly recognized to be a consequence of placental dysfunction and can cause serious maternal and fetal complications during pregnancy. Furthermore, PE increases the risk of neonatal problems and has been shown to be a risk factor for cardiovascular disease of the mother later in life. Currently, there is no adequate treatment for PE, mainly because its multifactorial pathophysiology remains incompletely understood. It originates in early pregnancy with abnormal placentation and involves a cascade of dysregulated systems in the placental vasculature. To investigate therapeutic strategies it is essential to understand the regulation of vascular reactivity and remodeling of blood vessels in the placenta. Techniques using human tissue such as the ex vivo placental perfusion model provide insight in the vasoactive profile of the placenta, and are essential to study the effects of drugs on the fetal vasculature. This approach highlights the different pathways that are involved in the vascular regulation of the human placenta, changes that occur during PE and the importance of focusing on restoring these dysfunctional systems when studying treatment strategies for PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Hitzerd
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Internal Medicine; Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Michelle Broekhuizen
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Internal Medicine; Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Cardiology; Division of Experimental Cardiology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Rugina I Neuman
- Department of Internal Medicine; Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Katrina M Mirabito Colafella
- Department of Internal Medicine; Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands.,Cardiovascular Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Physiology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Daphne Merkus
- Department of Cardiology; Division of Experimental Cardiology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sam Schoenmakers
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sinno H P Simons
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Irwin K M Reiss
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - A H Jan Danser
- Department of Internal Medicine; Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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28
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Dapper C, Schuster F, Stölting I, Vogt F, Castro e Souza LA, Alenina N, Bader M, Raasch W. The antiobese effect of AT1 receptor blockade is augmented in mice lacking Mas. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2019; 392:865-877. [DOI: 10.1007/s00210-019-01643-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 03/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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29
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South AM, Shaltout HA, Washburn LK, Hendricks AS, Diz DI, Chappell MC. Fetal programming and the angiotensin-(1-7) axis: a review of the experimental and clinical data. Clin Sci (Lond) 2019; 133:55-74. [PMID: 30622158 PMCID: PMC6716381 DOI: 10.1042/cs20171550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2018] [Revised: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/03/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hypertension is the primary risk factor for cardiovascular disease that constitutes a serious worldwide health concern and a significant healthcare burden. As the majority of hypertension has an unknown etiology, considerable research efforts in both experimental models and human cohorts has focused on the premise that alterations in the fetal and perinatal environment are key factors in the development of hypertension in children and adults. The exact mechanisms of how fetal programming events increase the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease are not fully elaborated; however, the focus on alterations in the biochemical components and functional aspects of the renin-angiotensin (Ang) system (RAS) has predominated, particularly activation of the Ang-converting enzyme (ACE)-Ang II-Ang type 1 receptor (AT1R) axis. The emerging view of alternative pathways within the RAS that may functionally antagonize the Ang II axis raise the possibility that programming events also target the non-classical components of the RAS as an additional mechanism contributing to the development and progression of hypertension. In the current review, we evaluate the potential role of the ACE2-Ang-(1-7)-Mas receptor (MasR) axis of the RAS in fetal programming events and cardiovascular and renal dysfunction. Specifically, the review examines the impact of fetal programming on the Ang-(1-7) axis within the circulation, kidney, and brain such that the loss of Ang-(1-7) expression or tone, contributes to the chronic dysregulation of blood pressure (BP) and cardiometabolic disease in the offspring, as well as the influence of sex on potential programming of this pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M South
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Nephrology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, 526 Vine Street, Winston Salem, NC 27157, U.S.A
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest School of Medicine, 526 Vine Street, Winston Salem, NC 27157, U.S.A
- Cardiovascular Sciences Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, 526 Vine Street, Winston Salem, NC 27157, U.S.A
- Hypertension and Vascular Research, Wake Forest School of Medicine, 526 Vine Street, Winston Salem, NC 27157, U.S.A
| | - Hossam A Shaltout
- Cardiovascular Sciences Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, 526 Vine Street, Winston Salem, NC 27157, U.S.A
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, 526 Vine Street, Winston Salem, NC 27157, U.S.A
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, University of Alexandria, Egypt
- Hypertension and Vascular Research, Wake Forest School of Medicine, 526 Vine Street, Winston Salem, NC 27157, U.S.A
- Department of Surgery, Wake Forest School of Medicine, 526 Vine Street, Winston Salem, NC 27157, U.S.A
| | - Lisa K Washburn
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Nephrology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, 526 Vine Street, Winston Salem, NC 27157, U.S.A
- Cardiovascular Sciences Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, 526 Vine Street, Winston Salem, NC 27157, U.S.A
- Hypertension and Vascular Research, Wake Forest School of Medicine, 526 Vine Street, Winston Salem, NC 27157, U.S.A
| | - Alexa S Hendricks
- Cardiovascular Sciences Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, 526 Vine Street, Winston Salem, NC 27157, U.S.A
- Hypertension and Vascular Research, Wake Forest School of Medicine, 526 Vine Street, Winston Salem, NC 27157, U.S.A
| | - Debra I Diz
- Cardiovascular Sciences Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, 526 Vine Street, Winston Salem, NC 27157, U.S.A
- Hypertension and Vascular Research, Wake Forest School of Medicine, 526 Vine Street, Winston Salem, NC 27157, U.S.A
- Department of Surgery, Wake Forest School of Medicine, 526 Vine Street, Winston Salem, NC 27157, U.S.A
| | - Mark C Chappell
- Cardiovascular Sciences Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, 526 Vine Street, Winston Salem, NC 27157, U.S.A.
- Hypertension and Vascular Research, Wake Forest School of Medicine, 526 Vine Street, Winston Salem, NC 27157, U.S.A
- Department of Surgery, Wake Forest School of Medicine, 526 Vine Street, Winston Salem, NC 27157, U.S.A
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30
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Abstract
Genetically altered rat and mouse models have been instrumental in the functional analysis of genes in a physiological context. In particular, studies on the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) have profited from this technology in the past. In this review, we summarize the existing animal models for the protective axis of the RAS consisting of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), angiotensin-(1-7)(Ang-(1-7), and its receptor Mas. With the help of models with altered expression of the components of this axis in the brain and cardiovascular organs, its physiological and pathophysiological functions have been elucidated. Thus, novel opportunities for therapeutic interventions in cardiovascular diseases were revealed targeting ACE2 or Mas.
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31
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Santos RAS, Sampaio WO, Alzamora AC, Motta-Santos D, Alenina N, Bader M, Campagnole-Santos MJ. The ACE2/Angiotensin-(1-7)/MAS Axis of the Renin-Angiotensin System: Focus on Angiotensin-(1-7). Physiol Rev 2018; 98:505-553. [PMID: 29351514 PMCID: PMC7203574 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00023.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 673] [Impact Index Per Article: 112.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is a key player in the control of the cardiovascular system and hydroelectrolyte balance, with an influence on organs and functions throughout the body. The classical view of this system saw it as a sequence of many enzymatic steps that culminate in the production of a single biologically active metabolite, the octapeptide angiotensin (ANG) II, by the angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE). The past two decades have revealed new functions for some of the intermediate products, beyond their roles as substrates along the classical route. They may be processed in alternative ways by enzymes such as the ACE homolog ACE2. One effect is to establish a second axis through ACE2/ANG-(1-7)/MAS, whose end point is the metabolite ANG-(1-7). ACE2 and other enzymes can form ANG-(1-7) directly or indirectly from either the decapeptide ANG I or from ANG II. In many cases, this second axis appears to counteract or modulate the effects of the classical axis. ANG-(1-7) itself acts on the receptor MAS to influence a range of mechanisms in the heart, kidney, brain, and other tissues. This review highlights the current knowledge about the roles of ANG-(1-7) in physiology and disease, with particular emphasis on the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robson Augusto Souza Santos
- National Institute of Science and Technology in Nanobiopharmaceutics, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais , Belo Horizonte , Brazil ; Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Ouro Preto , Ouro Preto , Brazil ; Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC), Berlin , Germany ; Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin , Germany ; Charité - University Medicine, Berlin , Germany ; DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Berlin , Germany ; Institute for Biology, University of Lübeck , Lübeck , Germany
| | - Walkyria Oliveira Sampaio
- National Institute of Science and Technology in Nanobiopharmaceutics, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais , Belo Horizonte , Brazil ; Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Ouro Preto , Ouro Preto , Brazil ; Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC), Berlin , Germany ; Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin , Germany ; Charité - University Medicine, Berlin , Germany ; DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Berlin , Germany ; Institute for Biology, University of Lübeck , Lübeck , Germany
| | - Andreia C Alzamora
- National Institute of Science and Technology in Nanobiopharmaceutics, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais , Belo Horizonte , Brazil ; Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Ouro Preto , Ouro Preto , Brazil ; Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC), Berlin , Germany ; Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin , Germany ; Charité - University Medicine, Berlin , Germany ; DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Berlin , Germany ; Institute for Biology, University of Lübeck , Lübeck , Germany
| | - Daisy Motta-Santos
- National Institute of Science and Technology in Nanobiopharmaceutics, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais , Belo Horizonte , Brazil ; Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Ouro Preto , Ouro Preto , Brazil ; Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC), Berlin , Germany ; Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin , Germany ; Charité - University Medicine, Berlin , Germany ; DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Berlin , Germany ; Institute for Biology, University of Lübeck , Lübeck , Germany
| | - Natalia Alenina
- National Institute of Science and Technology in Nanobiopharmaceutics, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais , Belo Horizonte , Brazil ; Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Ouro Preto , Ouro Preto , Brazil ; Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC), Berlin , Germany ; Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin , Germany ; Charité - University Medicine, Berlin , Germany ; DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Berlin , Germany ; Institute for Biology, University of Lübeck , Lübeck , Germany
| | - Michael Bader
- National Institute of Science and Technology in Nanobiopharmaceutics, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais , Belo Horizonte , Brazil ; Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Ouro Preto , Ouro Preto , Brazil ; Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC), Berlin , Germany ; Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin , Germany ; Charité - University Medicine, Berlin , Germany ; DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Berlin , Germany ; Institute for Biology, University of Lübeck , Lübeck , Germany
| | - Maria Jose Campagnole-Santos
- National Institute of Science and Technology in Nanobiopharmaceutics, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais , Belo Horizonte , Brazil ; Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Ouro Preto , Ouro Preto , Brazil ; Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC), Berlin , Germany ; Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin , Germany ; Charité - University Medicine, Berlin , Germany ; DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Berlin , Germany ; Institute for Biology, University of Lübeck , Lübeck , Germany
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32
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Liu P, Wysocki J, Souma T, Ye M, Ramirez V, Zhou B, Wilsbacher LD, Quaggin SE, Batlle D, Jin J. Novel ACE2-Fc chimeric fusion provides long-lasting hypertension control and organ protection in mouse models of systemic renin angiotensin system activation. Kidney Int 2018; 94:114-125. [PMID: 29691064 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2018.01.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2017] [Revised: 12/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is a carboxypeptidase that potently degrades angiotensin II to angiotensin 1-7. Previous studies showed that injection of the enzymatic ectodomain of recombinant ACE2 (rACE2) markedly increases circulatory levels of ACE2 activity, and effectively lowered blood pressure in angiotensin II-induced hypertension. However, due to the short plasma half-life of rACE2, its therapeutic potential for chronic use is limited. To circumvent this, we generated a chimeric fusion of rACE2 and the immunoglobulin fragment Fc segment to increase its plasma stability. This rACE2-Fc fusion protein retained full peptidase activity and exhibited greatly extended plasma half-life in mice, from less than two hours of the original rACE2, to over a week. A single 2.5 mg/kg injection of rACE2-Fc increased the overall angiotensin II-conversion activities in blood by up to 100-fold and enhanced blood pressure recovery from acute angiotensin II induced hypertension seven days after administration. To assess rACE2-Fc given weekly on cardiac protection, we performed studies in mice continuously infused with angiotensin II for 28 days and in a Renin transgenic mouse model of hypertension. The angiotensin II infused mice achieved sustained blood pressure control and reduced cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis. In chronic hypertensive transgenic mice, weekly injections of rACE2-Fc effectively lowered plasma angiotensin II and blood pressure. Additionally, rACE2-Fc ameliorated albuminuria, and reduced kidney and cardiac fibrosis. Thus, our chimeric fusion strategy for rACE2-Fc is suitable for future development of new renin angiotensin system-based inhibition therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pan Liu
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Feinberg Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Jan Wysocki
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Feinberg Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Tomokazu Souma
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Feinberg Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Minghao Ye
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Feinberg Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Veronica Ramirez
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Feinberg Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Bisheng Zhou
- Feinberg Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Lisa D Wilsbacher
- Feinberg Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Susan E Quaggin
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Feinberg Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Daniel Batlle
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Feinberg Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Jing Jin
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Feinberg Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
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Zhu Y, Zuo N, Li B, Xiong Y, Chen H, He H, Sun Z, Hu S, Cheng H, Ao Y, Wang H. The expressional disorder of the renal RAS mediates nephrotic syndrome of male rat offspring induced by prenatal ethanol exposure. Toxicology 2018; 400-401:9-19. [PMID: 29548890 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2018.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2018] [Revised: 03/03/2018] [Accepted: 03/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to prove that prenatal ethanol exposure (PEE) can induce nephrotic syndrome in male rat offspring and to explore the underlying intrauterine programming mechanisms. Pregnant Wistar rats were intragastrically administered ethanol (4 g/kg d) from gestational day (GD) 9 to GD 20, and the male fetuses were delivered by cesarean section at GD20 and the male adult offspring were euthanized at postnatal week (PW) 24. In vitro, the primary metanephric mesenchyme cells were treated with ethanol at concentrations of 15-60 mM. The results indicated that the kidneys of adult offspring in the PEE group exhibited glomerulosclerosis as well as interstitial fibrosis. The levels of serum creatinine and urine protein were elevated; the serum total cholesterol level was increased and the serum albumin concentration was reduced. In the fetal kidney, developmental retardation was presented in the PEE group via pathological examinations, accompanied by the expressional inhibition of the glial-cell-line-derived neurotrophic factor/c-ret tyrosine kinase receptor (GDNF/c-ret) signaling pathway. Although serum angiotensin II (Ang II) level and the gene expression of renal angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) were increased in the PEE group, the expression of renal angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2R) was significantly inhibited, accompanied by a reduction in the H3K27ac level on the AT2R gene promoter. In the non-classical renin-angiotensin system (RAS), the expression of renal angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and Mas receptor (MasR) were inhibited in the PEE group. The above changes of the classical and non-classical RAS all sustained from utero to adulthood. In vitro, ethanol elevated the gene expression of ACE and angiotensin II type 1a receptor (AT1aR) whereas it reduced the expression of AT2R, ACE2, and MasR, accompanied by a reduction in the H3K27ac level on AT2R gene promoter. Taken together, these results suggested that PEE can induce fetal kidney developmental retardation and adult nephrotic syndrome, and direct regulation of ethanol to the renal RAS was involved in the mechanism of nephrotic syndrome induced by PEE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Zhu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Na Zuo
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Ying Xiong
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Haiyun Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Hangyuan He
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Zhaoxia Sun
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Shuangshuang Hu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Hui Cheng
- Department of Nephrology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Ying Ao
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China; Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disorder, Wuhan, 430071, China.
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China; Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disorder, Wuhan, 430071, China.
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Ghadhanfar E, Alsalem A, Al-Kandari S, Naser J, Babiker F, Al-Bader M. The role of ACE2, angiotensin-(1-7) and Mas1 receptor axis in glucocorticoid-induced intrauterine growth restriction. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2017; 15:97. [PMID: 29321064 PMCID: PMC6389120 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-017-0316-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2017] [Accepted: 12/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plasma and urine levels of the potent vasodilator Ang-(1-7) are elevated in mid and late pregnancy and are correlated with elevated placental angiogenesis, fetal blood flow, and rapid fetal growth. We hypothesized that Ang-(1-7), its receptor (Mas1) and the enzymes involved in Ang-(1-7) production (ACE2 and Membrane metallo-endopeptidase; MME) are down regulated in response to glucocorticoid administration contributing to IUGR. METHODS Pregnant female Sprague-Dawley rats were injected with dexamethasone (DEX; 0.4 mg/kg/day) starting from 14 day gestation (dg) till sacrifice at 19 or 21 dg while control groups were injected with saline (n = 6/group). The gene and protein expression of ACE2, MME, Ang-(1-7) and Mas1 receptor in the placental labyrinth (LZ) and basal zones (BZ) were studied. RESULTS DEX administration caused a reduction in LZ weight at 19 and 21 dg (p < 0.001). IUGR, as shown by decreased fetal weights, was evident in DEX treated rats at 21 dg (p < 0.01). ACE2 gene expression was elevated in the LZ of control placentas at 21 dg (p < 0.01) compared to 19 dg and DEX prevented this rise at both gene (p < 0.01) and protein levels (p < 0.05). In addition, Ang-(1-7) protein expression in LZ was significantly reduced in DEX treated rats at 21 dg (p < 0.05). On the other hand, Mas1 and MME were upregulated in LZ at 21 dg in both groups (p < 0.05 and p < 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSION The results of this study indicate that a reduced expression of ACE2 and Ang-(1-7) in the placenta by DEX treatment may be responsible for IUGR and consequent disease programming later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Ghadhanfar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Aseel Alsalem
- Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | | | - Jumana Naser
- Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Fawzi Babiker
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Maie Al-Bader
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait.
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Yamaleyeva LM, Sun Y, Bledsoe T, Hoke A, Gurley SB, Brosnihan KB. Photoacoustic imaging for in vivo quantification of placental oxygenation in mice. FASEB J 2017; 31:5520-5529. [PMID: 28842425 PMCID: PMC5690392 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201700047rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2017] [Accepted: 08/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Accurate analysis of placental and fetal oxygenation is critical during pregnancy. Photoacoustic imaging (PAI) combines laser technology with ultrasound in real time. We tested the sensitivity and accuracy of PAI for analysis of placental and fetal oxygen saturation (sO2) in mice. The placental labyrinth (L) had a higher sO2 than the junctional zone plus decidua region (JZ+D) in C57Bl/6 mice. Changing maternal O2 from 100 to 20% in C57Bl/6 mice lowered sO2 in these regions. C57Bl/6 mice were treated with the NO synthase inhibitor L-NG-nitroarginine methyl ester (L-NAME) from gestational day (GD) 11 to GD18 to induce hypertension. L-NAME decreased sO2 in L and JZ+D at GD14 and GD18 in association with fetal growth restriction and higher blood pressure. Hypoxia-inducible factor 1α immunostaining was higher in L-NAME vs control mice at GD14. Fetal sO2 levels were similar between l-NAME and control mice at GD14 and GD18. In contrast to untreated C57Bl/6, L-NAME decreased placental sO2 at GD14 and GD18 vs GD10 or GD12. Placental sO2 was lower in fetal growth restriction in an angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 knockout mouse model characterized by placental hypoxia. On phantom studies, patterns of sO2 measured directly correlated with those measured by PAI. In summary, PAI enables the detection of placental and fetal oxygenation during normal and pathologic pregnancies in mice.-Yamaleyeva, L. M., Sun, Y., Bledsoe, T., Hoke, A., Gurley, S. B., Brosnihan, K. B. Photoacoustic imaging for in vivo quantification of placental oxygenation in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliya M Yamaleyeva
- Department of Surgery/Hypertension and Vascular Research, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA;
| | - Yao Sun
- Department of Radiology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Tiffaney Bledsoe
- Department of Surgery/Hypertension and Vascular Research, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Asia Hoke
- Department of Surgery/Hypertension and Vascular Research, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Susan B Gurley
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Durham Veterans Affairs and Duke University Medical Centers, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - K Bridget Brosnihan
- Department of Surgery/Hypertension and Vascular Research, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
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Colafella KM, Hilliard LM, Denton KM. Epochs in the depressor/pressor balance of the renin-angiotensin system. Clin Sci (Lond) 2016; 130:761-71. [PMID: 27128801 DOI: 10.1042/CS20150939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2016] [Accepted: 02/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) plays a commanding role in the regulation of extracellular fluid homoeostasis. Tigerstadt and Bergman first identified the RAS more than two centuries ago. By the 1980s a voyage of research and discovery into the mechanisms and actions of this system led to the development of drugs that block the RAS, which have become the mainstay for the treatment of cardiovascular and renal disease. In the last 25 years new components of the RAS have come to light, including the angiotensin type 2 receptor (AT2R) and the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2)/angiotensin-(1-7) [Ang(1-7)]/Mas receptor (MasR) axis. These have been shown to counter the classical actions of angiotensin II (AngII) at the predominant angiotensin type 1 receptor (AT1R). Our studies, and those of others, have demonstrated that targeting these depressor RAS pathways may be therapeutically beneficial. It is apparent that the evolution of both the pressor and depressor RAS pathways is distinct throughout life and that the depressor/pressor balance of the RAS vary between the sexes. These temporal patterns of expression suggest that therapies targeting the RAS could be optimized for discrete epochs in life.
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do Carmo e Silva C, de Almeida JF, Macedo L, Melo M, Pedrino G, dos Santos F, Biancardi M, dos Santos RS, de Carvalho AA, Mendes E, Colugnati D, Mazaro-costa R, de Castro C. Mas receptor contributes to pregnancy-induced cardiac remodelling. Clin Sci (Lond) 2016; 130:2305-16. [DOI: 10.1042/cs20160095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2016] [Revised: 09/05/2016] [Accepted: 09/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, we have showed that the Ang-(1–7)/receptor Mas axis contributes to cardiac remodelling development induced by pregnancy.
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Wang H, Sun X, Chou J, Lin M, Ferrario CM, Zapata-Sudo G, Groban L. Cardiomyocyte-specific deletion of the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) leads to left ventricular dysfunction and adverse remodeling: A sex-specific gene profiling analysis. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2016; 1863:1870-1882. [PMID: 27725247 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2016.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2016] [Revised: 09/13/2016] [Accepted: 10/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Activation of G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) by its agonist, G1, protects the heart from stressors such as pressure-overload, ischemia, a high-salt diet, estrogen loss, and aging, in various male and female animal models. Due to nonspecific effects of G1, the exact functions of cardiac GPER cannot be concluded from studies using systemic G1 administration. Moreover, global knockdown of GPER affects glucose homeostasis, blood pressure, and many other cardiovascular-related systems, thereby confounding interpretation of its direct cardiac actions. We generated a cardiomyocyte-specific GPER knockout (KO) mouse model to specifically investigate the functions of GPER in cardiomyocytes. Compared to wild type mice, cardiomyocyte-specific GPER KO mice exhibited adverse alterations in cardiac structure and impaired systolic and diastolic function, as measured by echocardiography. Gene deletion effects on left ventricular dimensions were more profound in male KO mice compared to female KO mice. Analysis of DNA microarray data from isolated cardiomyocytes of wild type and KO mice revealed sex-based differences in gene expression profiles affecting multiple transcriptional networks. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) revealed that mitochondrial genes are enriched in GPER KO females, whereas inflammatory response genes are enriched in GPER KO males, compared to their wild type counterparts of the same sex. The cardiomyocyte-specific GPER KO mouse model provides us with a powerful tool to study the functions of GPER in cardiomyocytes. The gene expression profiles of the GPER KO mice provide foundational information for further study of the mechanisms underlying sex-specific cardioprotection by GPER.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Female
- Gene Deletion
- Gene Expression Profiling
- Gene Expression Regulation
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Knockout
- Myocytes, Cardiac/metabolism
- Myocytes, Cardiac/pathology
- Receptors, Estrogen/genetics
- Receptors, Estrogen/metabolism
- Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/genetics
- Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/metabolism
- Sex Characteristics
- Ventricular Dysfunction, Left/genetics
- Ventricular Dysfunction, Left/metabolism
- Ventricular Dysfunction, Left/pathology
- Ventricular Remodeling/genetics
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Blvd., Winston-Salem, NC 27157-1009, USA; Internal Medicine/Molecular Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Blvd., Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA.
| | - Xuming Sun
- Department of Anesthesiology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Blvd., Winston-Salem, NC 27157-1009, USA
| | - Jeff Chou
- Public Health Sciences, Section on Biostatistical Sciences, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Blvd., Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | - Marina Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Blvd., Winston-Salem, NC 27157-1009, USA
| | - Carlos M Ferrario
- Department of Surgery, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Blvd., Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA; Department of Internal Medicine/Nephrology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Blvd., Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | - Gisele Zapata-Sudo
- Department of Anesthesiology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Blvd., Winston-Salem, NC 27157-1009, USA; Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Drug Development Program, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Leanne Groban
- Department of Anesthesiology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Blvd., Winston-Salem, NC 27157-1009, USA; Internal Medicine/Molecular Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Blvd., Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA; Cardiovascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Blvd., Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA; Sticht Center on Aging, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Blvd., Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157, USA.
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Motta-santos D, dos Santos RAS, Oliveira M, Qadri F, Poglitsch M, Mosienko V, Kappes Becker L, Campagnole-santos MJ, M Penninger J, Alenina N, Bader M. Effects of ACE2 deficiency on physical performance and physiological adaptations of cardiac and skeletal muscle to exercise. Hypertens Res 2016; 39:506-12. [DOI: 10.1038/hr.2016.28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Revised: 02/21/2016] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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Chen YP, Lu YP, Li J, Liu ZW, Chen WJ, Liang XJ, Chen X, Wen WR, Xiao XM, Reichetzeder C, Hocher B. Fetal and maternal angiotensin (1-7) are associated with preterm birth. J Hypertens 2014; 32:1833-41. [PMID: 24979298 DOI: 10.1097/HJH.0000000000000251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies show that preterm birth is associated with hypertension in later life. The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) during pregnancy influences fetal growth and development. In the current study, we investigated the impact of fetal as well as maternal angiotensin (1-7) [Ang (1-7)] and angiotensin II (Ang II) plasma concentrations on the risk of preterm birth. METHODS Three hundred and nine pregnant women were prospectively included into the study. The pregnant women were divided into two groups, for example, preterm birth of lower than 37 gestational weeks (n = 17) and full-term birth of 37 gestational weeks or more (n = 292). Maternal and neonatal plasma Ang (1-7) and Ang II concentrations were analyzed at birth from maternal venous blood and umbilical cord blood, respectively. Risk factors for premature birth were determined by multiple logistic regression analysis. RESULTS Fetal and maternal plasma Ang (1-7) concentrations in the preterm group were lower than those of the term group fetal Ang (1-7) preterm birth: 486.15 ± 337.34 ng/l and fetal Ang (1-7) term birth: 833.84 ± 698.12 ng/l and maternal Ang (1-7) preterm birth: 399.86 ± 218.93 ng/l; maternal Ang (1-7) term birth: 710.34 ± 598.22 ng/l. Multiple logistic regression analysis considering confounding factors revealed that preeclampsia (P < 0.001), premature rupture of membranes (P = 0.001), lower concentration of maternal Ang (1-7) (P = 0.013) and fetal plasma Ang (1-7) (P = 0.032) were independently associated with preterm birth. We could furthermore demonstrate that the maternal Ang (1-7)/Ang II ratio is independently associated with gestational hypertension or preeclampsia, factors causing preterm birth. CONCLUSIONS Lower concentrations of maternal and fetal Ang (1-7) are independently associated with preterm birth - a risk factor of hypertension in later life.
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Shoemaker R, Yiannikouris F, Thatcher S, Cassis L. ACE2 deficiency reduces β-cell mass and impairs β-cell proliferation in obese C57BL/6 mice. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2015; 309:E621-31. [PMID: 26389599 PMCID: PMC4593774 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00054.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2015] [Accepted: 07/31/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Drugs that inhibit the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) decrease the onset of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Pancreatic islets express RAS components, including angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), which cleaves angiotensin II (Ang II) to angiotensin-(1-7) [Ang-(1-7)]. Overexpression of ACE2 in pancreas of diabetic mice improved glucose homeostasis. The purpose of this study was to determine if deficiency of endogenous ACE2 contributes to islet dysfunction and T2D. We hypothesized that ACE2 deficiency potentiates the decline in β-cell function and augments the development of diet-induced T2D. Male Ace2(+/y) or Ace2(-/y) mice were fed a low-fat (LF) or high-fat (HF) diet for 1 or 4 mo. A subset of 1-mo HF-fed mice were infused with Sal (Sal), losartan (Los), or Ang-(1-7). At 4 mo, while both genotypes of HF-fed mice developed a similar level of insulin resistance, adaptive hyperinsulinemia was reduced in Ace2(-/y) vs. Ace2(+/y) mice. Similarly, in vivo glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) was reduced in 1-mo HF-fed Ace2(-/y) compared with Ace2(+/y) mice, resulting in augmented hyperglycemia. The average islet area was significantly smaller in both LF- and HF-fed Ace2(-/y) vs. Ace2(+/y) mice. Additionally, β-cell mass and proliferation were reduced significantly in HF-fed Ace2(-/y) vs. Ace2(+/y) mice. Neither infusion of Los nor Ang-(1-7) was able to correct impaired in vivo GSIS of HF-fed ACE2-deficient mice. These results demonstrate a critical role for endogenous ACE2 in the adaptive β-cell hyperinsulinemic response to HF feeding through regulation of β-cell proliferation and growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Shoemaker
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Frederique Yiannikouris
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Sean Thatcher
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Lisa Cassis
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
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Vaswani K, Chan HW, Verma P, Dekker Nitert M, Peiris HN, Wood-Bradley RJ, Armitage JA, Rice GE, Mitchell MD. The rat placental renin-angiotensin system - a gestational gene expression study. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2015; 13:89. [PMID: 26260700 PMCID: PMC4532142 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-015-0088-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2015] [Accepted: 08/03/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The placenta is an essential organ that provides nutrients and oxygen to the developing fetus and removes toxic waste products from the fetal circulation. Maintaining placental blood osmotic pressure and blood flow is crucial for viable offspring. The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in the placenta is a key player in the regulation of maternal-fetal blood flow during pregnancy. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine if RAS genes are differentially expressed in mid to late gestation in rat placenta. METHODS Whole placental tissue samples from pregnant Sprague Dawley rats at embryonic (E) days 14.25, 15.25, 17.25 and 20 (n = 6 for each gestational age) were used for genome-wide gene expression by microarray. RAS genes with expression differences of >2 fold were further analyzed. Quantitative Real-Time PCR (qPCR) was performed on independent samples to confirm and validate microarray data. Immunohistochemisty and Western blotting were performed on a differentially expressed novel RAS pathway gene (ANPEP). RESULTS Six out of 17 genes of the RAS pathway were differentially expressed at different gestational ages. Gene expression of four genes (Angiotensin converting enzyme (Ace), angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (Ace2), membrane metalloendopeptidase (Mme) and angiotensin II receptor 1A (Agtr1a)) were significantly upregulated at E20 whereas two others (Thimet oligopeptidase 1 (Thop1) and Alanyl aminopeptidase (Anpep)) were downregulated at E20 prior to the onset of labour. These changes were confirmed by qPCR. Western blots revealed no overall differences in ANPEP protein expression in the placentae. Immunohistochemical studies, however, indicated that the localization of ANPEP differed at E17.25 and E20 as ANPEP localization in the giant trophoblast cell of the junctional zone was no longer detectable at E20. CONCLUSIONS The current study investigated the expression of members of the RAS pathway in rat placentae and observed significantly altered expression of 6 RAS genes at 4 gestational ages. These findings present the need for further comprehensive investigation of RAS genes in normal and complicated pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanchan Vaswani
- Centre for Clinical Diagnostics, University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital Campus, Building 71/918, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, QLD, 4029, Australia.
| | - Hsiu-Wen Chan
- Centre for Clinical Diagnostics, University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital Campus, Building 71/918, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, QLD, 4029, Australia.
| | - Pali Verma
- Centre for Clinical Diagnostics, University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital Campus, Building 71/918, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, QLD, 4029, Australia.
| | - Marloes Dekker Nitert
- Centre for Clinical Diagnostics, University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital Campus, Building 71/918, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, QLD, 4029, Australia.
| | - Hassendrini N Peiris
- Centre for Clinical Diagnostics, University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital Campus, Building 71/918, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, QLD, 4029, Australia.
| | - Ryan J Wood-Bradley
- Department of Anatomy & Developmental Biology Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia.
- School of Medicine (Optometry), Deakin University, Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, VIC, 3800, Australia.
| | - James A Armitage
- Department of Anatomy & Developmental Biology Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia.
- School of Medicine (Optometry), Deakin University, Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, VIC, 3800, Australia.
| | - Gregory E Rice
- Centre for Clinical Diagnostics, University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital Campus, Building 71/918, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, QLD, 4029, Australia.
| | - Murray D Mitchell
- Centre for Clinical Diagnostics, University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital Campus, Building 71/918, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, QLD, 4029, Australia.
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Yamaleyeva LM, Pulgar VM, Lindsey SH, Yamane L, Varagic J, McGee C, daSilva M, Lopes Bonfa P, Gurley SB, Brosnihan KB. Uterine artery dysfunction in pregnant ACE2 knockout mice is associated with placental hypoxia and reduced umbilical blood flow velocity. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2015; 309:E84-94. [PMID: 25968580 PMCID: PMC4490333 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00596.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2014] [Accepted: 05/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) knockout is associated with reduced fetal weight at late gestation; however, whether uteroplacental vascular and/or hemodynamic disturbances underlie this growth-restricted phenotype is unknown. Uterine artery reactivity and flow velocities, umbilical flow velocities, trophoblast invasion, and placental hypoxia were determined in ACE2 knockout (KO) and C57Bl/6 wild-type (WT) mice at day 14 of gestation. Although systolic blood pressure was higher in pregnant ACE2 KO vs. WT mice (102.3 ± 5.1 vs. 85.1 ± 1.9 mmHg, n = 5-6), the magnitude of difference was similar to that observed in nonpregnant ACE2 KO vs. WT mice. Maternal urinary protein excretion, serum creatinine, and kidney or heart weights were not different in ACE2 KO vs. WT. Fetal weight and pup-to-placental weight ratio were lower in ACE2 KO vs. WT mice. A higher sensitivity to Ang II [pD2 8.64 ± 0.04 vs. 8.5 ± 0.03 (-log EC50)] and greater maximal contraction to phenylephrine (169.0 ± 9.0 vs. 139.0 ± 7.0% KMAX), were associated with lower immunostaining for Ang II receptor 2 and fibrinoid content of the uterine artery in ACE2 KO mice. Uterine artery flow velocities and trophoblast invasion were similar between study groups. In contrast, umbilical artery peak systolic velocities (60.2 ± 4.5 vs. 75.1 ± 4.5 mm/s) and the resistance index measured using VEVO 2100 ultrasound were lower in the ACE2 KO vs. WT mice. Immunostaining for pimonidazole, a marker of hypoxia, and hypoxia-inducible factor-2α were higher in the trophospongium and placental labyrinth of the ACE2 KO vs. WT. In summary, placental hypoxia and uterine artery dysfunction develop before major growth of the fetus occurs and may explain the fetal growth restricted phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliya M Yamaleyeva
- The Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina;
| | - Victor M Pulgar
- The Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Sarah H Lindsey
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana; and
| | - Larissa Yamane
- The Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Jasmina Varagic
- The Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Carolynne McGee
- The Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Mauro daSilva
- The Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Paula Lopes Bonfa
- The Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Susan B Gurley
- Department of Medicine, Duke University and Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Centers, Durham, North Carolina
| | - K Bridget Brosnihan
- The Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
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Wang Y, Shoemaker R, Thatcher SE, Batifoulier-Yiannikouris F, English VL, Cassis LA. Administration of 17β-estradiol to ovariectomized obese female mice reverses obesity-hypertension through an ACE2-dependent mechanism. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2015; 308:E1066-75. [PMID: 26078188 PMCID: PMC4469807 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00030.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2015] [Accepted: 04/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
We recently demonstrated that female mice are resistant to the development of obesity-induced hypertension through a sex hormone-dependent mechanism that involved adipose angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). In this study, we hypothesized that provision of 17β-estradiol (E2) to ovariectomized (OVX) high-fat (HF)-fed female hypertensive mice would reverse obesity-hypertension through an ACE2-dependent mechanism. Pilot studies defined dose-dependent effects of E2 in OVX female mice on serum E2 concentrations and uterine weights. An E2 dose of 36 μg/ml restored normal serum E2 concentrations and uterine weights. Therefore, HF-fed OVX female Ace2(+/+) and Ace2(-/-) mice were administered vehicle or E2 (36 μg/ml) for 16 wk. E2 administration significantly decreased body weights of HF-fed OVX female Ace2(+/+) and Ace2(-/-) mice of either genotype. At 15 wk, E2 administration decreased systolic blood pressure (SBP) of OVX HF-fed Ace2(+/+) but not Ace2(-/-) females during the light but not the dark cycle. E2-mediated reductions in SBP in Ace2(+/+) females were associated with significant elevations in adipose ACE2 mRNA abundance and activity and reduced plasma ANG II concentrations. In contrast to females, E2 administration had no effect on any parameter quantified in HF-fed male hypertensive mice. In 3T3-L1 adipocytes, E2 promoted ACE2 mRNA abundance through effects at estrogen receptor-α (ERα) and resulted in ERα-mediated binding at the ACE2 promoter. These results demonstrate that E2 administration to OVX females reduces obesity-induced elevations in SBP (light cycle) through an ACE2-dependent mechanism. Beneficial effects of E2 to decrease blood pressure in OVX obese females may result from stimulation of adipose ACE2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Robin Shoemaker
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Sean E Thatcher
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | | | - Victoria L English
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Lisa A Cassis
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
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Wang L, Liang J, Leung PS. The ACE2/Ang-(1-7)/Mas Axis Regulates the Development of Pancreatic Endocrine Cells in Mouse Embryos. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0128216. [PMID: 26029927 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0128216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2015] [Accepted: 04/24/2015] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), its product Angiotensin-(1-7) [Ang-(1-7)], and Ang-(1-7) receptor Mas, have been shown to regulate organogenesis during embryonic development in various species. However, it is not known whether a local ACE2/Ang-(1-7)/Mas axis is present in the fetal pancreas. It is hypothesized that there is a local ACE2/Ang-(1-7)/Mas axis in the embryonic pancreas in mice that is involved in regulating islet cell development. To address this issue, the endogenous expression profile of axis constituents in embryonic mouse pancreata was examined. Involvement of the ACE2 axis in the regulation of pancreatic development was also examined. The present experiments showed in an in vivo animal model that endogenous expression levels of ACE2 and the Mas receptor were upregulated in mouse pancreata in late embryogenesis, peaking on embryonic day E16.5, when it reached 3 folds compared to that seen at E12.5. Consistently, endogenous expression of Ang-(1-7) also peaked at E16.5. Treatment with the ACE2 inhibitor DX600 did not alter islet development. However, prenatal treatment with A779, a Mas receptor antagonist, reduced the β-cell to α-cell ratio in neonatal islets, impaired islet insulin secretory function, and impaired the pups' glucose tolerance. In ex vivo pancreas explant cultures, A779 again decreased the β-cell to α-cell ratio, apparently through its effects on β-cell proliferation (reduced proliferation shown with Ki67 staining), and also decreased Insulin and Ngn3 mRNA expression. Furthermore, treatment of explant cultures with Ang-(1-7) increased mRNA levels of Insulin and pancreatic progenitor marker Ngn3, as well as Nox4, the ROS generation enzyme; these stimulatory effects were attenuated by co-treatment with A779, suggesting that Ang-(1-7), via Mas receptor signaling, may promote differentiation of pancreatic progenitors into insulin-producing cells via modulation of reactive oxygen species. These data together suggest that a Mas receptor-mediated mechanism may stimulate pancreatic cell development.
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Xie P, Kadegowda AKG, Ma Y, Guo F, Han X, Wang M, Groban L, Xue B, Shi H, Li H, Yu L. Muscle-specific deletion of comparative gene identification-58 (CGI-58) causes muscle steatosis but improves insulin sensitivity in male mice. Endocrinology 2015; 156:1648-58. [PMID: 25751639 PMCID: PMC4398773 DOI: 10.1210/en.2014-1892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Intramyocellular accumulation of lipids is often associated with insulin resistance. Deficiency of comparative gene identification-58 (CGI-58) causes cytosolic deposition of triglyceride (TG)-rich lipid droplets in most cell types, including muscle due to defective TG hydrolysis. It was unclear, however, whether CGI-58 deficiency-induced lipid accumulation in muscle influences insulin sensitivity. Here we show that muscle-specific CGI-58 knockout mice relative to their controls have increased glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity on a Western-type high-fat diet, despite TG accumulation in both heart and oxidative skeletal muscle and cholesterol deposition in heart. Although the intracardiomyocellular lipid deposition results in cardiac ventricular fibrosis and systolic dysfunction, muscle-specific CGI-58 knockout mice show increased glucose uptake in heart and soleus muscle, improved insulin signaling in insulin-sensitive tissues, and reduced plasma concentrations of glucose, insulin, and cholesterol. Hepatic contents of TG and cholesterol are also decreased in these animals. Cardiac steatosis is attributable, at least in part, to decreases in cardiac TG hydrolase activity and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α/peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1-dependent mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation. In conclusion, muscle CGI-58 deficiency causes cardiac dysfunction and fat deposition in oxidative muscles but induces a series of favorable metabolic changes in mice fed a high-fat diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Xie
- Departments of Biochemistry (P.X., Y.M., F.G., L.Y.) and Anesthesiology (L.G.), Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157; Department of Animal and Avian Sciences (A.K.G.G., Y.M., L.Y.), University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742; Diabetes and Obesity Research Center (X.H., M.W.), Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute, Orlando, Florida 32827; Department of Biology (B.X., H.S.), Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia 30303; and The Key Laboratory of Remodeling-Related Cardiovascular Diseases (H.L.), Capital Medical University, Ministry of Education, Beijing Institute of Heart, Lung, and Blood Vessel Diseases, Beijing Anzhen Hospital Affiliated the Capital Medical University, Beijing 100029, People's Republic of China
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Rabelo LA, Nunes-souza V, Bader M. Animal Models with a Genetic Alteration of the ACE2/Ang-(1-7)/Mas Axis. The Protective Arm of the Renin Angiotensin System (RAS) 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-801364-9.00022-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this chapter is to describe the animal models generated by transgenic technology for the functional analysis of the protective axis of the renin–angiotensin system, consisting of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), angiotensin (Ang)-(1-7), and Mas. Transgenic overexpression of the components of this axis in general led to an ameliorated cardiac and vascular damage in disease states and to an improved metabolic profile. Knockout models for ACE2 and Mas, however, show aggravated cardiovascular pathologies and a metabolic syndrome-like state. In particular, the local production of Ang-(1-7) in the vascular wall, in the heart, and in the brain was found to be of high physiological relevance by the use of transgenic animals overexpressing ACE2 or Ang-(1-7) in these tissues.
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Cuffe J, Walton S, Steane S, Singh R, Simmons D, Moritz K. The effects of gestational age and maternal hypoxia on the placental renin angiotensin system in the mouse. Placenta 2014; 35:953-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2014.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2014] [Revised: 09/01/2014] [Accepted: 09/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Ibrahim HS, Froemming GRA, Omar E, Singh HJ. ACE2 activation by xanthenone prevents leptin-induced increases in blood pressure and proteinuria during pregnancy in Sprague-Dawley rats. Reprod Toxicol 2014; 49:155-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2014.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2014] [Revised: 08/04/2014] [Accepted: 08/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Verdonk K, Visser W, Van Den Meiracker AH, Danser AH. The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in pre-eclampsia: the delicate balance between good and bad. Clin Sci (Lond) 2014; 126:537-44. [PMID: 24400721 DOI: 10.1042/CS20130455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Pregnancy demands major changes of the cardiovascular system, and this involves, among others, activation of the RAAS (renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system), allowing an aldosterone-dependent increase in volume. Remarkably, a relative resistance to the pressor response of AngII (angiotensin II) develops simultaneously to prevent the increase in blood pressure that would normally accompany RAAS activation. The increase in volume, the degree of RAAS activation and the diminished pressor response to AngII are less pronounced in pre-eclampsia. However, animal models displaying excessive RAAS activation also result in a pre-eclampsia-like syndrome, and the aldosterone/renin ratio is elevated in pre-eclampsia compared with a normal pregnancy. New insights into the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia have revealed a major role for VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor), VEGF-inactivating sFlt-1 (soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1) and AT1 (angiotensin II type 1) receptor autoantibodies. The last mentioned activate AT(1) receptors, thereby potentially suppressing circulating renin and aldosterone. VEGF, both directly and indirectly (by increasing capillary density), affects adrenal aldosterone synthesis. The present review summarizes all of the recent findings regarding RAAS regulation in pre-eclampsia compared with normal pregnancy, concluding that factors such as sFlt-1 and AT(1) receptor autoantibodies disturb the delicate balance that normally results in a volume increase and a diminished vasoconstrictor response to AngII in pregnant women. It is possible that there are non-parallel changes in the circulating and renal RAAS in pre-eclampsia, which are potentially reflected by the urinary levels of renin.
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