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Aragón-Herrera A, Feijóo-Bandín S, Vázquez-Abuín X, Anido-Varela L, Moraña-Fernández S, Bravo SB, Tarazón E, Roselló-Lletí E, Portolés M, García-Seara J, Seijas J, Rodríguez-Penas D, Bani D, Gualillo O, González-Juanatey JR, Lago F. Human recombinant relaxin-2 (serelaxin) regulates the proteome, lipidome, lipid metabolism and inflammatory profile of rat visceral adipose tissue. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 223:116157. [PMID: 38518995 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Recombinant human relaxin-2 (serelaxin) has been widely proven as a novel drug with myriad effects at different cardiovascular levels, which support its potential therapeutic efficacy in several cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Considering these effects, together with the influence of relaxin-2 on adipocyte physiology and adipokine secretion, and the connection between visceral adipose tissue (VAT) dysfunction and the development of CVD, we could hypothesize that relaxin-2 may regulate VAT metabolism. Our objective was to evaluate the impact of a 2-week serelaxin treatment on the proteome and lipidome of VAT from Sprague-Dawley rats. We found that serelaxin increased 1 polyunsaturated fatty acid and 6 lysophosphatidylcholines and decreased 4 triglycerides in VAT employing ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS) based platforms, and that regulates 47 phosphoproteins using SWATH/MS analysis. Through RT-PCR, we found that serelaxin treatment also caused an effect on VAT lipolysis through an increase in the mRNA expression of hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) and a decrease in the expression of adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL), together with a reduction in the VAT expression of the fatty acid transporter cluster of differentiation 36 (Cd36). Serelaxin also caused an anti-inflammatory effect in VAT by the decrease in the mRNA expression of tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), chemerin, and its receptor. In conclusion, our results highlight the regulatory role of serelaxin in the VAT proteome and lipidome, lipolytic function, and inflammatory profile, suggesting the implication of several mechanisms supporting the potential benefit of serelaxin for the prevention of obesity and metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alana Aragón-Herrera
- Cellular and Molecular Cardiology Research Unit, IDIS, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Sandra Feijóo-Bandín
- Cellular and Molecular Cardiology Research Unit, IDIS, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Xocas Vázquez-Abuín
- Cellular and Molecular Cardiology Research Unit, IDIS, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Laura Anido-Varela
- Cellular and Molecular Cardiology Research Unit, IDIS, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sandra Moraña-Fernández
- Cellular and Molecular Cardiology Research Unit, IDIS, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Cardiology Group, Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, IDIS, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Susana B Bravo
- Proteomics Unit, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Estefanía Tarazón
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Cardiocirculatory Unit, Health Research Institute of La Fe University Hospital, Valencia, Spain
| | - Esther Roselló-Lletí
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Cardiocirculatory Unit, Health Research Institute of La Fe University Hospital, Valencia, Spain
| | - Manuel Portolés
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Cardiocirculatory Unit, Health Research Institute of La Fe University Hospital, Valencia, Spain
| | - Javier García-Seara
- Cellular and Molecular Cardiology Research Unit, IDIS, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Arrhytmia Unit, Cardiology Department, IDIS, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Department of Psychiatry, Radiology, Public Health, Nursing and Medicine, IDIS, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - José Seijas
- Cellular and Molecular Cardiology Research Unit, IDIS, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Cardiology Department Clinical Trial Unit, IDIS, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Diego Rodríguez-Penas
- Cellular and Molecular Cardiology Research Unit, IDIS, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Cardiology Department Clinical Trial Unit, IDIS, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Daniele Bani
- Research Unit of Histology & Embryology, Department of Experimental & Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Oreste Gualillo
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrine Interactions in Rheumatology and Inflammatory Diseases, IDIS, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - José Ramón González-Juanatey
- Cellular and Molecular Cardiology Research Unit, IDIS, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Department of Psychiatry, Radiology, Public Health, Nursing and Medicine, IDIS, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Cardiology Department, IDIS, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Francisca Lago
- Cellular and Molecular Cardiology Research Unit, IDIS, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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Acar-Sahan S, Guner O, Ates M, Kaya-Temiz T, Durmus N. In vitro effect of relaxin in the rat corpus cavernosum under hyperglycemic and normoglycemic conditions. Int J Impot Res 2024; 36:72-77. [PMID: 36509910 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-022-00653-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Relaxin, an endogenous peptide hormone, elicits vascular relaxation by its direct effect or by modulating the endothelium-dependent relaxation response and is clinically evaluated for the treatment of coronary artery disease. However, its effect on penile tissue has not been explored yet. This study aimed to investigate the effect of serelaxin, recombinant human relaxin-2, on rat corpus cavernosum (CC) under healthy and hyperglycemic conditions. Strips of CC obtained from thirty-nine male Wistar rats weighing 300-350 g were used in organ baths for isometric tension studies to investigate the serelaxin-mediated relaxation (10-12-10-7 M) under normoglycemic conditions and the effect of serelaxin on endothelium-dependent [nitric oxide (NO)- and prostacyclin-mediated] relaxation responses under hyperglycemic conditions. The in vitro hyperglycemia model was created by 3 h of incubation with 44 mM glucose monohydrate +120 μM methylglyoxal. NO-dependent relaxation responses were evaluated by cumulative acetylcholine (10-9-10-4 M) administration in the presence of indomethacin (10-6 M). Prostacyclin-mediated relaxation was evaluated by cumulative administration of iloprost (10-9-10-6 M), a prostacyclin analog. Maximum relaxation responses to serelaxin were not significantly different compared to the time-control (p = 0.480). Three hours of incubation of rat CC in hyperglycemic conditions impaired NO- and prostacyclin-mediated relaxation responses (p = 0.032 and p = 0.047, respectively). Serelaxin coincubation worsened NO-mediated relaxation responses (p = 0.016) but did not affect prostacyclin-mediated responses (p = 0.425). Together, our results demonstrate that in vitro administration of serelaxin does not cause relaxation in penile tissue and short-term in vitro serelaxin treatment in hyperglycemic conditions mimicked diabetes modulates endothelium-dependent responses by worsening NO-mediated responses. Serelaxin exerts different effects via different mechanism on endothelium-dependent responses depending on the dose and duration of exposure. Therefore, proper timing and dosing of serelaxin administration in the penile tissue need to be investigated in further studies in diabetic animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selin Acar-Sahan
- Dokuz Eylul University, Institute of Health Sciences, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Ozge Guner
- University of Health Sciences Istanbul Kanuni Sultan Süleyman Education and Research Hospital, Medical Pharmacology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Ates
- Dokuz Eylul University, Vocational School of Health Services, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Tijen Kaya-Temiz
- Izmir Katip Celebi University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Nergiz Durmus
- Dokuz Eylul University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, Izmir, Turkey.
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3
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Leo CH, Ou JLM, Ong ES, Qin CX, Ritchie RH, Parry LJ, Ng HH. Relaxin elicits renoprotective actions accompanied by increasing bile acid levels in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 162:114578. [PMID: 36996678 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The peptide hormone relaxin has potent anti-fibrotic and anti-inflammatory properties in various organs, including the kidneys. However, the protective effects of relaxin in the context of diabetic kidney complications remain controversial. Here, we aimed to evaluate the effects of relaxin treatment on key markers of kidney fibrosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation and their subsequent impact on bile acid metabolism in the streptozotocin-induced diabetes mouse model. METHODS AND RESULTS Male mice were randomly allocated to placebo-treated control, placebo-treated diabetes or relaxin-treated diabetes groups (0.5 mg/kg/d, final 2 weeks of diabetes). After 12 weeks of diabetes or sham, the kidney cortex was harvested for metabolomic and gene expression analyses. Diabetic mice exhibited significant hyperglycaemia and increased circulating levels of creatine, hypoxanthine and trimethylamine N-oxide in the plasma. This was accompanied by increased expression of key markers of oxidative stress (Txnip), inflammation (Ccl2 and Il6) and fibrosis (Col1a1, Mmp2 and Fn1) in the diabetic kidney cortex. Relaxin treatment for the final 2 weeks of diabetes significantly reduced these key markers of renal fibrosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress in diabetic mice. Furthermore, relaxin treatment significantly increased the levels of bile acid metabolites, deoxycholic acid and sodium glycodeoxycholic acid, which may in part contribute to the renoprotective action of relaxin in diabetes. CONCLUSION In summary, this study shows the therapeutic potential of relaxin and that it may be used as an adjunctive treatment for diabetic kidney complications.
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Jelinic M, Jackson KL, O'Sullivan K, Singh J, Giddy T, Deo M, Parry LJ, Ritchie RH, Woodman OL, Head GA, Leo CH, Qin CX. Endothelium-dependent relaxation is impaired in Schlager hypertensive (BPH/2J) mice by region-specific mechanisms in conductance and resistance arteries. Life Sci 2023; 320:121542. [PMID: 36871935 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Endothelial dysfunction and arterial stiffness are hallmarks of hypertension, and major risk factors for cardiovascular disease. BPH/2J (Schlager) mice are a genetic model of spontaneous hypertension, but little is known about the vascular pathophysiology of these mice and the region-specific differences between vascular beds. Therefore, this study compared the vascular function and structure of large conductance (aorta and femoral) and resistance (mesenteric) arteries of BPH/2J mice with their normotensive BPN/2J counterparts. MAIN METHODS Blood pressure was measured in BPH/2J and BPN/3J mice via pre-implanted radiotelemetry probes. At endpoint, vascular function and passive mechanical wall properties were assessed using wire and pressure myography, qPCR and histology. KEY FINDINGS Mean arterial blood pressure was elevated in BPH/2J mice compared to BPN/3J controls. Endothelium-dependent relaxation to acetylcholine was attenuated in both the aorta and mesenteric arteries of BPH/2J mice, but through different mechanisms. In the aorta, hypertension reduced the contribution of prostanoids. Conversely, in the mesenteric arteries, hypertension reduced the contribution of both nitric oxide and endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization. Hypertension reduced volume compliance in both femoral and mesenteric arteries, but hypertrophic inward remodelling was only observed in the mesenteric arteries of BPH/2J mice. SIGNIFICANCE This is the first comprehensive investigation of vascular function and structural remodelling in BPH/2J mice. Overall, hypertensive BPH/2J mice exhibited endothelial dysfunction and adverse vascular remodelling in the macro- and microvasculature, underpinned by distinct region-specific mechanisms. This highlights BPH/2J mice as a highly suitable model for evaluating novel therapeutics to treat hypertension-associated vascular dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Jelinic
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research, Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia; School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Kristy L Jackson
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Kelly O'Sullivan
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Jaideep Singh
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Thomas Giddy
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Minh Deo
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Laura J Parry
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia; School of Biological Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Rebecca H Ritchie
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Owen L Woodman
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Geoffrey A Head
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Chen Huei Leo
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia; Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, Australia; Science, Math and Technology, Singapore University of Technology & Design, Singapore.
| | - Cheng Xue Qin
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
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Shanmugham M, Bellanger S, Leo CH. Gut-Derived Metabolite, Trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) in Cardio-Metabolic Diseases: Detection, Mechanism, and Potential Therapeutics. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16040504. [PMID: 37111261 PMCID: PMC10142468 DOI: 10.3390/ph16040504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) is a biologically active gut microbiome-derived dietary metabolite. Recent studies have shown that high circulating plasma TMAO levels are closely associated with diseases such as atherosclerosis and hypertension, and metabolic disorders such as diabetes and hyperlipidemia, contributing to endothelial dysfunction. There is a growing interest to understand the mechanisms underlying TMAO-induced endothelial dysfunction in cardio-metabolic diseases. Endothelial dysfunction mediated by TMAO is mainly driven by inflammation and oxidative stress, which includes: (1) activation of foam cells; (2) upregulation of cytokines and adhesion molecules; (3) increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS); (4) platelet hyperreactivity; and (5) reduced vascular tone. In this review, we summarize the potential roles of TMAO in inducing endothelial dysfunction and the mechanisms leading to the pathogenesis and progression of associated disease conditions. We also discuss the potential therapeutic strategies for the treatment of TMAO-induced endothelial dysfunction in cardio-metabolic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meyammai Shanmugham
- Science, Math & Technology, Singapore University of Technology & Design, 8 Somapah Road, Singapore 487372, Singapore
| | - Sophie Bellanger
- A*STAR Skin Research Labs, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore 138648, Singapore
| | - Chen Huei Leo
- Science, Math & Technology, Singapore University of Technology & Design, 8 Somapah Road, Singapore 487372, Singapore
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +65-6434-8213
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Pressurized Hot Water Extraction of Okra Seeds Reveals Antioxidant, Antidiabetic and Vasoprotective Activities. PLANTS 2021; 10:plants10081645. [PMID: 34451690 PMCID: PMC8399463 DOI: 10.3390/plants10081645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench (okra) is a commonly consumed vegetable that consists of the seeds and peel component which are rich in polyphenolic compounds. The aim of this study is to utilize pressurized hot water extraction (PHWE) for the extraction of bioactive phytochemicals from different parts of okra. A single step PHWE was performed at various temperatures (60 °C, 80 °C, 100 °C and 120 °C) to determine which extraction temperature exhibits the optimum phytochemical profile, antioxidant and antidiabetic activities. The optimum temperature for PHWE extraction was determined at 80 °C and the biological activities of the different parts of okra (Inner Skin, Outer Skin and Seeds) were characterized using antioxidant (DPPH and ABTS), α-glucosidase and vasoprotective assays. Using PHWE, the different parts of okra displayed distinct phytochemical profiles, which consist of primarily polyphenolic compounds. The okra Seeds were shown to have the most antioxidant capacity and antidiabetic effects compared to other okra parts, likely to be attributed to their higher levels of polyphenolic compounds. Similarly, okra Seeds also reduced vascular inflammation by downregulating TNFα-stimulated VCAM-1 and SELE expression. Furthermore, metabolite profiling by LC/MS also provided evidence of the cytoprotective effect of okra Seeds in endothelial cells. Therefore, the use of PHWE may be an alternative approach for the environmentally friendly extraction and evaluation of plant extracts for functional food applications.
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Ong ES, Pek CJN, Tan JCW, Leo CH. Antioxidant and Cytoprotective Effect of Quinoa ( Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) with Pressurized Hot Water Extraction (PHWE). Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9111110. [PMID: 33187302 PMCID: PMC7697190 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9111110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Quinoa is widely noted for its nutritional value. The seed is the main edible part of the plant and exists in at least three different colors: white, red and black. This study utilized a pressurized hot water extraction (PHWE) for the extraction of phytochemicals from quinoa. Chemical fingerprints with LC/UV and LC/MS using a targeted approach and pattern recognition tools were used to evaluate the quinoa extracts. The antioxidant properties for various types of quinoa were evaluated using DPPH assay, ABTS assay and the cytoprotective effect of quinoa extracts were investigated in HMEC-1 cell line. Distinctive chemical profiles obtained from black and red quinoa were well correlated with the antioxidant activities and cytoprotective effects. The combination of PHWE, chemical standardization with LC/UV and LC/MS, pattern recognition tools and biological assay provided an approach for the evaluation and eventual production of quinoa extracts for functional food.
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Hampel U, Chinnery HR, Garreis F, Paulsen F, de Iongh R, Bui BV, Nguyen C, Parry L, Huei Leo C. Ocular Phenotype of Relaxin Gene Knockout (Rln -/-) Mice. Curr Eye Res 2020; 45:1211-1221. [PMID: 32141786 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2020.1737714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: To test if relaxin deficiency affects ocular structure and function we investigated expression of relaxin (Rln) and RXFP receptors (Rxfp1, Rxfp2), and compared ocular phenotypes in relaxin gene knockout (Rln-/- ) and wild type (Rln+/+ ) mice. Materials and Methods: Rln, Rxfp1 and Rxfp2 mRNA expression was detected in ocular tissues of Rln+/+ mice using RT-PCR. The eyes of 11 Rln-/- and 5 Rln+/+ male mice were investigated. Corneal and retinal thickness was assessed using optical coherence tomography. Intraocular pressure was measured using a rebound tonometer. Retinal, choroidal and sclera morphology and thickness were evaluated histologically. Eyes were collected and fixed for immunofluorescence staining or used for RNA extraction to evaluate mRNA expression using real-time PCR. Results: Rln mRNA was expressed only in the retina, whereas Rxfp1 transcripts were detected in the retina, cornea and sclera/choroid. Rxfp2 was only present in the cornea. None of these genes were expressed in the lacrimal gland, eyelid or lens. Intraocular pressure was higher and central cornea of Rln-/- mice was significantly thicker and had significantly larger endothelial cells and a lower endothelial cell density than Rln+/+ mice. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated no significant difference in AQP3 and AQP5 staining in the cornea or other regions between wildtype and Rln-/- mice. mRNA expression of Aqp4 was significantly higher in Rln-/- than in Rln+/+ corneas, whereas Col1a2, Mmp9, Timp1 and Timp2 were significantly decreased. Expression of Aqp1, Aqp4, Aqp5, Vim and Tjp1 was significantly decreased in Rln-/- compared to Rln+/+ uvea. No significant differences in these genes were detected in the retina. Retinal, choroidal and scleral thicknesses were not different and morphology appeared normal. Conclusion: The findings indicate that loss of Rln affects expression of several genes in the uvea and cornea and results in thicker corneas with altered endothelial cells. Many of the gene changes suggest alterations in extracellular matrix and fluid transport between cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike Hampel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz , Mainz, Germany.,Department of Anatomy II, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) , Erlangen, Germany
| | - Holly R Chinnery
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne , Parkville, Australia
| | - Fabian Garreis
- Department of Anatomy II, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) , Erlangen, Germany
| | - Friedrich Paulsen
- Department of Anatomy II, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) , Erlangen, Germany.,Department of Topographic Anatomy and Operative Surgery, Sechenov University , Moscow, Russia
| | - Robb de Iongh
- Ocular Development Laboratory, Anatomy & Neuroscience, University of Melbourne , Parkville, Australia
| | - Bang V Bui
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne , Parkville, Australia
| | - Christine Nguyen
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne , Parkville, Australia
| | - Laura Parry
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne , Parkville, Australia
| | - Chen Huei Leo
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne , Parkville, Australia.,Science & Math, Singapore University of Technology & Design , Singapore
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Altered Cerebral Blood Flow and Potential Neuroprotective Effect of Human Relaxin-2 (Serelaxin) During Hypoxia or Severe Hypovolemia in a Sheep Model. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21051632. [PMID: 32120997 PMCID: PMC7084399 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21051632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Specific neuroprotective strategies to minimize cerebral damage caused by severe hypoxia or hypovolemia are lacking. Based on previous studies showing that relaxin-2/serelaxin increases cortical cerebral blood flow, we postulated that serelaxin might provide a neuroprotective effect. Therefore, we tested serelaxin in two emergency models: hypoxia was induced via inhalation of 5% oxygen and 95% nitrogen for 12 min; thereafter, the animals were reoxygenated. Hypovolemia was induced and maintained for 20 min by removal of 50% of the total blood volume; thereafter, the animals were retransfused. In each damage model, the serelaxin group received an intravenous injection of 30 µg/kg of serelaxin in saline, while control animals received saline only. Blood gases, shock index values, heart frequency, blood pressure, and renal blood flow showed almost no significant differences between control and treatment groups in both settings. However, serelaxin significantly blunted the increase of lactate during hypovolemia. Serelaxin treatment resulted in significantly elevated cortical cerebral blood flow (CBF) in both damage models, compared with the respective control groups. Measurements of the neuroproteins S100B and neuron-specific enolase in cerebrospinal fluid revealed a neuroprotective effect of serelaxin treatment in both hypoxic and hypovolemic animals, whereas in control animals, neuroproteins increased during the experiment. Western blotting showed the expression of relaxin receptors and indicated region-specific differences in relaxin receptor-mediated signaling in cortical and subcortical brain arterioles, respectively. Our findings support the hypothesis that serelaxin is a potential neuroprotectant during hypoxia and hypovolemia. Due to its preferential improvement of cortical CBF, serelaxin might reduce cognitive impairments associated with these emergencies.
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The Novel Small-molecule Annexin-A1 Mimetic, Compound 17b, Elicits Vasoprotective Actions in Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21041384. [PMID: 32085666 PMCID: PMC7073122 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21041384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The formyl peptide receptor (FPR) family are a group of G-protein coupled receptors that play an important role in the regulation of inflammatory processes. It is well-established that activation of FPRs can have cardioprotective properties. Recently, more stable small-molecule FPR1/2 agonists have been described, including both Compound 17b (Cmpd17b) and Compound 43 (Cmpd43). Both agonists activate a range of signals downstream of FPR1/2 activation in human-engineered FPR-expressing cells, including ERK1/2 and Akt. Importantly, Cmpd17b (but not Cmpd43) favours bias away from intracellular Ca2+ mobilisation in this context, which has been associated with greater cardioprotection in response to Cmpd17b over Cmpd43. However, it is unknown whether these FPR agonists impact vascular physiology and/or elicit vasoprotective effects in the context of diabetes. First, we localized FPR1 and FPR2 receptors predominantly in vascular smooth muscle cells in the aortae of male C57BL/6 mice. We then analysed the vascular effects of Cmpd17b and Cmpd43 on the aorta using wire-myography. Cmpd17b but not Cmpd43 evoked a concentration-dependent relaxation of the mouse aorta. Removal of the endothelium or blockade of endothelium-derived relaxing factors using pharmacological inhibitors had no effect on Cmpd17b-evoked relaxation, demonstrating that its direct vasodilator actions were endothelium-independent. In aortae primed with elevated K+ concentration, increasing concentrations of CaCl2 evoked concentration-dependent contraction that is abolished by Cmpd17b, suggesting the involvement of the inhibition of Ca2+ mobilisation via voltage-gated calcium channels. Treatment with Cmpd17b for eight weeks reversed endothelial dysfunction in STZ-induced diabetic aorta through the upregulation of vasodilator prostanoids. Our data indicate that Cmpd17b is a direct endothelium-independent vasodilator, and a vasoprotective molecule in the context of diabetes.
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Qin CX, Anthonisz J, Leo CH, Kahlberg N, Velagic A, Li M, Jap E, Woodman OL, Parry LJ, Horowitz JD, Kemp-Harper BK, Ritchie RH. Nitric Oxide Resistance, Induced in the Myocardium by Diabetes, Is Circumvented by the Nitric Oxide Redox Sibling, Nitroxyl. Antioxid Redox Signal 2020; 32:60-77. [PMID: 31680536 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2018.7706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Aim: Impairment of tissue responsiveness to exogenous and endogenous nitric oxide (NO•), known as NO• resistance, occurs in many cardiovascular disease states, prominently in diabetes and especially in the presence of marked hyperglycemia. In this study, we sought to determine in moderate and severe diabetes (i) whether NO• resistance also occurs in the myocardium, and (ii) whether the NO• redox sibling nitroxyl (HNO) circumvents this. Results: The spectrum of acute NO• effects (induced by diethylamine-NONOate), including vasodilation, and enhanced myocardial contraction and relaxation were impaired by moderately diabetic rats ([blood glucose] ∼20 mM). In contrast, acute HNO effects (induced by isopropylamine-NONOate) were preserved even in more severe diabetes ([blood glucose] >28 mM). Intriguingly, the positive inotropic effects of HNO were significantly enhanced in diabetic rat hearts. Further, progressive attenuation of soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) contribution to myocardial NO• responses occurred with increasing severity of diabetes. Nevertheless, activation of sGC by HNO remained intact in the myocardium. Innovation: Diabetes is associated with marked attenuation of vascular and myocardial effects of NO and NO donors, and this NO• resistance is circumvented by HNO, suggesting potential therapeutic utility for HNO donors in cardiovascular emergencies in diabetics. Conclusion: These results provide the first evidence that NO• resistance occurs in diabetic hearts, and that HNO largely circumvents this problem. Further, the positive inotropic and lusitropic effects of HNO are enhanced in a severely diabetic myocardium, a finding that warrants further mechanistic interrogation. The results support a potential role for therapeutic HNO administration in acute treatment of ischemia and/or heart failure in diabetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Xue Qin
- Heart Failure Pharmacology, Baker Heart & Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Medicine (Central Clinical School), Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jarryd Anthonisz
- Heart Failure Pharmacology, Baker Heart & Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Medicine (Central Clinical School), Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Chen Huei Leo
- School of Biosciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia.,Science and Maths Cluster, Singapore University of Technology & Design, Singapore Singapore
| | - Nicola Kahlberg
- School of Biosciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Anida Velagic
- Heart Failure Pharmacology, Baker Heart & Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Medicine (Central Clinical School), Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mandy Li
- Heart Failure Pharmacology, Baker Heart & Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Edwina Jap
- Heart Failure Pharmacology, Baker Heart & Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Owen L Woodman
- Heart Failure Pharmacology, Baker Heart & Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Laura J Parry
- School of Biosciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - John D Horowitz
- Cardiology Unit, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Basil Hetzel Institute, The University of Adelaide, Woodville SA, Australia
| | - Barbara K Kemp-Harper
- Department of Pharmacology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Rebecca H Ritchie
- Heart Failure Pharmacology, Baker Heart & Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Medicine (Central Clinical School), Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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12
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Leo CH, Ng HH, Marshall SA, Jelinic M, Rupasinghe T, Qin C, Roessner U, Ritchie RH, Tare M, Parry LJ. Relaxin reduces endothelium-derived vasoconstriction in hypertension: Revealing new therapeutic insights. Br J Pharmacol 2019; 177:217-233. [PMID: 31479151 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Endothelium-derived vasoconstriction is a hallmark of vascular dysfunction in hypertension. In some cases, an overproduction of endothelium-derived prostacyclin (PGI2 ) can cause contraction rather than relaxation. Relaxin is well known for its vasoprotective actions, but the possibility that this peptide could also reverse endothelium-derived vasoconstriction has never been investigated. We tested the hypothesis that short-term relaxin treatment mitigates endothelium-derived vasoconstriction in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Male Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY) and SHR were subcutaneously infused with either vehicle (20 mmol·L-1 sodium acetate) or relaxin (13.3 μg·kg-1 ·hr-1 ) using osmotic minipumps for 3 days. Vascular reactivity to the endothelium-dependent agonist ACh was assessed in vitro by wire myography. Quantitative PCR and LC-MS were used to identify changes in gene expression of prostanoid pathways and PG production, respectively. KEY RESULTS Relaxin treatment ameliorated hypertension-induced endothelial dysfunction by increasing NO-dependent relaxation and reducing endothelium-dependent contraction. Notably, short-term relaxin treatment up-regulated mesenteric PGI2 receptor (IP) expression, permitting PGI2 -IP-mediated vasorelaxation. In the aorta, reversal of contraction was accompanied by suppression of the hypertension-induced increase in prostanoid-producing enzymes and reduction in PGI2 -evoked contractions. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Relaxin has region-dependent vasoprotective actions in hypertension. Specifically, relaxin has distinct effects on endothelium-derived contracting factors and their associated vasoconstrictor pathways in mesenteric arteries and the aorta. Taken together, these observations reveal the potential of relaxin as a new therapeutic agent for vascular disorders that are associated with endothelium-derived vasoconstriction including hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Huei Leo
- School of Biosciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Hooi Hooi Ng
- School of Biosciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Heart Failure Pharmacology, Baker Heart & Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Sarah A Marshall
- School of Biosciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Maria Jelinic
- School of Biosciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Thusitha Rupasinghe
- Metabolomics Australia, School of Biosciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Chengxue Qin
- Heart Failure Pharmacology, Baker Heart & Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Ute Roessner
- School of Biosciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Metabolomics Australia, School of Biosciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Rebecca H Ritchie
- Heart Failure Pharmacology, Baker Heart & Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Diabetes, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Marianne Tare
- Monash Rural Health, Monash University, Churchill, VIC, Australia.,Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Laura J Parry
- School of Biosciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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13
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Recent developments in relaxin mimetics as therapeutics for cardiovascular diseases. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2019; 45:42-48. [PMID: 31048209 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2019.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2018] [Revised: 02/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of mortality worldwide, accounting for almost 50% of all deaths globally. Vascular endothelial dysfunction and fibrosis are critical in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease. Relaxin, an insulin-like peptide, is known to have beneficial actions in the cardiovascular system through its vasoprotective and anti-fibrotic effects. However, relaxin has several limitations of peptide-based drugs such as poor oral bioavailability, laborious, and expensive to synthesize. This review will focus on recent developments in relaxin mimetics, their pharmacology, associated signalling mechanisms, and their therapeutic potential for the management and treatment of cardiovascular disease.
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14
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Marshall SA, Cox AG, Parry LJ, Wallace EM. Targeting the vascular dysfunction: Potential treatments for preeclampsia. Microcirculation 2018; 26:e12522. [PMID: 30556222 DOI: 10.1111/micc.12522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2018] [Revised: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-specific disorder, primarily characterized by new-onset hypertension in combination with a variety of other maternal or fetal signs. The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the disease are still not entirely clear. Systemic maternal vascular dysfunction underlies the clinical features of preeclampsia. It is a result of oxidative stress and the actions of excessive anti-angiogenic factors, such as soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase, soluble endoglin, and activin A, released by a dysfunctional placenta. The vascular dysfunction then leads to impaired regulation and secretion of relaxation factors and an increase in sensitivity/production of constrictors. This results in a more constricted vasculature rather than the relaxed vasodilated state associated with normal pregnancy. Currently, the only effective "treatment" for preeclampsia is delivery of the placenta and therefore the baby. Often, this means a preterm delivery to save the life of the mother, with all the attendant risks and burdens associated with fetal prematurity. To lessen this burden, there is a pressing need for more effective treatments that target the maternal vascular dysfunction that underlies the hypertension. This review details the vascular effects of key drugs undergoing clinical assessment as potential treatments for women with preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Marshall
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Medicine, School of Clinical Sciences, The Ritchie Centre, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Annie G Cox
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Medicine, School of Clinical Sciences, The Ritchie Centre, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Laura J Parry
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Euan M Wallace
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Medicine, School of Clinical Sciences, The Ritchie Centre, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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15
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Meadows KL. Ischemic stroke and select adipose-derived and sex hormones: a review. Hormones (Athens) 2018; 17:167-182. [PMID: 29876798 DOI: 10.1007/s42000-018-0034-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2017] [Accepted: 04/27/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Ischemic stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the USA and is the leading cause of serious, long-term disability worldwide. The principle sex hormones (estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone), both endogenous and exogenous, have profound effects on various stroke outcomes and have become the focus of a number of studies evaluating risk factors and treatment options for ischemic stroke. In addition, the expression of other hormones that may influence stroke outcome, including select adipose-derived hormones (adiponectin, leptin, and ghrelin), can be regulated by sex hormones and are also the focus of several ischemic stroke studies. This review aims to summarize some of the preclinical and clinical studies investigating the principle sex hormones, as well as select adipose-derived hormones, as risk factors or potential treatments for ischemic stroke. In addition, the potential for relaxin, a lesser studied sex hormone, as a novel treatment option for ischemic stroke is explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristy L Meadows
- Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, 200 Westboro Rd., North Grafton, MA, 01536, USA.
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16
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Ng HH, Leo CH, Parry LJ, Ritchie RH. Relaxin as a Therapeutic Target for the Cardiovascular Complications of Diabetes. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:501. [PMID: 29867503 PMCID: PMC5962677 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular complications are the major cause of mortality in patients with diabetes. This is closely associated with both macrovascular and microvascular complications of diabetes, which lead to organ injuries in diabetic patients. Previous studies have consistently demonstrated the beneficial effects of relaxin treatment for protection of the vasculature, with evidence of antioxidant and anti-remodeling actions. Relaxin enhances nitric oxide, prostacyclin and endothelium-derived hyperpolarization (EDH)-type-mediated relaxation in various vascular beds. These effects of relaxin on the systemic vasculature, coupled with its cardiac actions, reduce pulmonary capillary wedge pressure and pulmonary artery pressure. This results in an overall decrease in systemic and pulmonary vascular resistance in heart failure patients. The anti-fibrotic actions of relaxin are well established, a desirable property in the context of diabetes. Further, relaxin ameliorates diabetic wound healing, with accelerated angiogenesis and vasculogenesis. Relaxin-mediated stimulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and stromal cell-derived factor 1-α, as well as regulation of metalloproteinase expression, ameliorates cardiovascular fibrosis in diabetic mice. In the heart, relaxin is a cardioprotective molecule in several experimental animal models, exerting anti-fibrotic, anti-hypertrophy and anti-apoptotic effects in diabetic pathologies. Collectively, these studies provide a foundation to propose the therapeutic potential for relaxin as an adjunctive agent in the prevention or treatment of diabetes-induced cardiovascular complications. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the beneficial effects of relaxin, and identifies its therapeutic possibilities for alleviating diabetes-related cardiovascular injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hooi Hooi Ng
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Heart Failure Pharmacology, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Chen Huei Leo
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Science and Math Cluster, Singapore University of Technology and Design, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Laura J. Parry
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Rebecca H. Ritchie
- Heart Failure Pharmacology, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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17
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Aragón-Herrera A, Feijóo-Bandín S, Rodríguez-Penas D, Roselló-Lletí E, Portolés M, Rivera M, Bigazzi M, Bani D, Gualillo O, González-Juanatey JR, Lago F. Relaxin activates AMPK-AKT signaling and increases glucose uptake by cultured cardiomyocytes. Endocrine 2018; 60:103-111. [PMID: 29411306 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-018-1534-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Many evidences show that the hormone relaxin plays a pivotal role in the physiology and pathology of the cardiovascular system. This pleiotropic hormone exerts regulatory functions through specific receptors in cardiovascular tissues: in experimental animal models it was shown to induce coronary vasodilation, prevent cardiac damage induced by ischemia/reperfusion and revert cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis. A tight relationship between this hormone and important metabolic pathways has been suggested, but it is at present unknown if relaxin could regulate cardiac metabolism. Our aim was to study the possible effects of relaxin on cardiomyocyte metabolism. METHODS Neonatal rat cardiomyocytes were treated with relaxin and (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assays (MTT) were performed to assess metabolic activity; while 2-deoxy-D-[3H] glucose and BODIPY-labelled fatty acid incorporations were analyzed to measure glucose and fatty acid uptakes, and western blot was utilized to study the intracellular signaling pathways activated by the hormone. RESULTS We observed that relaxin at 10 ng/ml was able to increase the level of metabolic activity of cultured neonatal rat cardiomyocytes; the rate of 2-deoxy-D-[3H]glucose incorporation demonstrated that relaxin also induced an increase in glucose uptake. First evidence is also offered that relaxin can activate the master energy sensor and regulator AMPK in cardiomyocytes. Moreover, the treatment of cardiomyocytes with relaxin also induced dose-dependent increases in ERK1/2, AKT, and AS160 phosphorylation. That raise in AS160 phosphorylation induced by relaxin was prevented by the pretreatment with AMPK and AKT pathways inhibitors, indicating that both molecules play important roles in the relaxin effects reported. CONCLUSION Relaxin can regulate cardiomyocyte metabolism and activate AMPK, the central sensor of energy status that maintains cellular energy homeostasis, and also ERK and AKT, two molecular sensing nodes that coordinate dynamic responses of the cell's metabolic responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Aragón-Herrera
- Cellular and Molecular Cardiology Unit and Department of Cardiology, Institute of Biomedical Research (IDIS-SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - S Feijóo-Bandín
- Cellular and Molecular Cardiology Unit and Department of Cardiology, Institute of Biomedical Research (IDIS-SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
- CIBERCV, Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| | - D Rodríguez-Penas
- Cellular and Molecular Cardiology Unit and Department of Cardiology, Institute of Biomedical Research (IDIS-SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - E Roselló-Lletí
- CIBERCV, Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Cardiocirculatory Unit, Health Institute of La Fe University Hospital (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - M Portolés
- CIBERCV, Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Cardiocirculatory Unit, Health Institute of La Fe University Hospital (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - M Rivera
- CIBERCV, Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Cardiocirculatory Unit, Health Institute of La Fe University Hospital (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - M Bigazzi
- Prosperius Institute, Florence, Italy
| | - D Bani
- Prosperius Institute, Florence, Italy
| | - O Gualillo
- Neuroendocrine Interaccions in Rheumatology and Inflammatory Diseases Unit, Institute of Biomedical Research (IDIS-SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - J R González-Juanatey
- Cellular and Molecular Cardiology Unit and Department of Cardiology, Institute of Biomedical Research (IDIS-SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- CIBERCV, Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - F Lago
- Cellular and Molecular Cardiology Unit and Department of Cardiology, Institute of Biomedical Research (IDIS-SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- CIBERCV, Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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18
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Marshall SA, Senadheera SN, Jelinic M, O'Sullivan K, Parry LJ, Tare M. Relaxin Deficiency Leads to Uterine Artery Dysfunction During Pregnancy in Mice. Front Physiol 2018; 9:255. [PMID: 29623045 PMCID: PMC5874303 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.00255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The uterine vasculature undergoes profound adaptations in response to pregnancy. Augmentation of endothelial vasodilator function and reduced smooth muscle reactivity are factors contributing to uterine artery adaptation and are critical for adequate placental perfusion. The peptide hormone relaxin has an important role in mediating the normal maternal renal vascular adaptations during pregnancy through a reduction in myogenic tone and an increase in flow-mediated vasodilation. Little is known however about the influence of endogenous relaxin on the uterine artery during pregnancy. We tested the hypothesis that relaxin deficiency increases myogenic tone and impairs endothelial vasodilator function in uterine arteries of late pregnant relaxin deficient (Rln−/−) mice. Reactivity of main uterine arteries from non-pregnant and late pregnant wild-type (Rln+/+) and Rln−/− mice was studied using pressure and wire myography and changes in gene expression explored using PCR. Myogenic tone was indistinguishable in arteries from non-pregnant mice. In late pregnancy uterine artery myogenic tone was halved in Rln+/+ mice (P < 0.0001), an adaptation that failed to occur in arteries from pregnant Rln−/− mice. The role of vasodilator prostanoids in the regulation of myogenic tone was significantly reduced in arteries of pregnant Rln−/− mice (P = 0.02). Agonist-mediated endothelium-dependent vasodilation was significantly impaired in non-pregnant Rln−/− mice. With pregnancy, differences in total endothelial vasodilator function were resolved, although there remained an underlying deficiency in the role of vasodilator prostanoids and alterations to the contributions of calcium-activated K+ channels. Fetuses of late pregnant Rln−/− mice were ~10% lighter (P < 0.001) than those of Rln+/+ mice. In conclusion, relaxin deficiency is associated with failed suppression of uterine artery myogenic tone in pregnancy, which likely contributes to reduced uteroplacental perfusion and fetal growth restriction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Marshall
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Maria Jelinic
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Kelly O'Sullivan
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Laura J Parry
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Marianne Tare
- Department of Physiology and Monash Rural Health, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Abstract
PURPOSE Recently, the vasodilator relaxin 2 has been introduced as a treatment for acute heart failure. However, its role on vessels of the eye and intraocular pressure (IOP) remains unclear though it has been hypothesized to induce a decrease IOP after intramuscular injection in humans. We aimed to test whether the hormone relaxin 2 lowers IOP and dilates retinal vessels in animals. METHODS The IOP of female Sprague-Dawley rats before and after application of relaxin 2 was measured using an Icare Tonolab device calibrated for rats. Recombinant human relaxin 2 in phosphate-buffered saline with 0.1% bovine serum albumin was either applied as eye drops (1000, 2000 or 3000 ng/ml), injected intravitreally (500 ng/ml) or intravenously (13.3 μg/kg body weight). Retinal vessel thickness was monitored using infrared fundus images compiled with optical coherence tomography (Heidelberg Engineering) before and several time points after application of relaxin 2. RESULTS Neither topical nor intravitreous or intravenous application of relaxin 2 lowered the IOP or changed the arterial or venous vessel diameter after 1 or 3 h after application. DISCUSSION Now that relaxin 2 is more easily available, the hormone came again into focus as a potential glaucoma therapeutic. However, our study in rats could not support the hypothesis that relaxin 2 lowers IOP or dilates retinal vessels.
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20
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Shao W, Rosales CB, Gonzalez C, Prieto MC, Navar LG. Effects of serelaxin on renal microcirculation in rats under control and high-angiotensin environments. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2018; 314:F70-F80. [PMID: 28978531 DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00201.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Serelaxin is a novel recombinant human relaxin-2 that has been investigated for the treatment of acute heart failure. However, its effects on renal function, especially on the renal microcirculation, remain incompletely characterized. Our immunoexpression studies localized RXFP1 receptors on vascular smooth muscle cells and endothelial cells of afferent arterioles and on principal cells of collecting ducts. Clearance experiments were performed in male and female normotensive rats and Ang II-infused male rats. Serelaxin increased mean arterial pressure slightly and significantly increased renal blood flow, urine flow, and sodium excretion rate. Group analysis of all serelaxin infusion experiments showed significant increases in GFR. During infusion with subthreshold levels of Ang II, serelaxin did not alter mean arterial pressure, renal blood flow, GFR, urine flow, or sodium excretion rate. Heart rates were elevated during serelaxin infusion alone (37 ± 5%) and in Ang II-infused rats (14 ± 2%). In studies using the in vitro isolated juxtamedullary nephron preparation, superfusion with serelaxin alone (40 ng/ml) significantly dilated afferent arterioles (10.8 ± 1.2 vs. 13.5 ± 1.1 µm) and efferent arterioles (9.9 ± 0.9 vs. 11.9 ± 1.0 µm). During Ang II superfusion, serelaxin did not alter afferent or efferent arteriolar diameters. During NO synthase inhibition (l-NNA), afferent arterioles also did not show any vasodilation during serelaxin infusion. In conclusion, serelaxin increased overall renal blood flow, urine flow, GFR, and sodium excretion and dilated the afferent and efferent arterioles in control conditions, but these effects were attenuated or prevented in the presence of exogenous Ang II and NO synthase inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weijian Shao
- Department of Physiology, Tulane Hypertension and Renal Center of Excellence, Tulane University School of Medicine , New Orleans, Louisiana
| | - Carla B Rosales
- Department of Physiology, Tulane Hypertension and Renal Center of Excellence, Tulane University School of Medicine , New Orleans, Louisiana
| | - Camila Gonzalez
- Department of Physiology, Tulane Hypertension and Renal Center of Excellence, Tulane University School of Medicine , New Orleans, Louisiana
| | - Minolfa C Prieto
- Department of Physiology, Tulane Hypertension and Renal Center of Excellence, Tulane University School of Medicine , New Orleans, Louisiana
| | - L Gabriel Navar
- Department of Physiology, Tulane Hypertension and Renal Center of Excellence, Tulane University School of Medicine , New Orleans, Louisiana
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Feijóo-Bandín S, Aragón-Herrera A, Rodríguez-Penas D, Portolés M, Roselló-Lletí E, Rivera M, González-Juanatey JR, Lago F. Relaxin-2 in Cardiometabolic Diseases: Mechanisms of Action and Future Perspectives. Front Physiol 2017; 8:599. [PMID: 28868039 PMCID: PMC5563388 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2017.00599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2017] [Accepted: 08/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the great effort of the medical community during the last decades, cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death worldwide, increasing their prevalence every year mainly due to our new way of life. In the last years, the study of new hormones implicated in the regulation of energy metabolism and inflammation has raised a great interest among the scientific community regarding their implications in the development of cardiometabolic diseases. In this review, we will summarize the main actions of relaxin, a pleiotropic hormone that was previously suggested to improve acute heart failure and that participates in both metabolism and inflammation regulation at cardiovascular level, and will discuss its potential as future therapeutic target to prevent/reduce cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Feijóo-Bandín
- Cellular and Molecular Cardiology Research Unit, Institute of Biomedical Research and University Clinical HospitalSantiago de Compostela, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades CardiovascularesMadrid, Spain
| | - Alana Aragón-Herrera
- Cellular and Molecular Cardiology Research Unit, Institute of Biomedical Research and University Clinical HospitalSantiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Diego Rodríguez-Penas
- Cellular and Molecular Cardiology Research Unit, Institute of Biomedical Research and University Clinical HospitalSantiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Manuel Portolés
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades CardiovascularesMadrid, Spain
- Cardiocirculatory Unit, Health Research Institute of La Fe University HospitalValencia, Spain
| | - Esther Roselló-Lletí
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades CardiovascularesMadrid, Spain
- Cardiocirculatory Unit, Health Research Institute of La Fe University HospitalValencia, Spain
| | - Miguel Rivera
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades CardiovascularesMadrid, Spain
- Cardiocirculatory Unit, Health Research Institute of La Fe University HospitalValencia, Spain
| | - José R. González-Juanatey
- Cellular and Molecular Cardiology Research Unit, Institute of Biomedical Research and University Clinical HospitalSantiago de Compostela, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades CardiovascularesMadrid, Spain
| | - Francisca Lago
- Cellular and Molecular Cardiology Research Unit, Institute of Biomedical Research and University Clinical HospitalSantiago de Compostela, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades CardiovascularesMadrid, Spain
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Marshall SA, O'Sullivan K, Ng H, Bathgate RA, Parry LJ, Hossain MA, Leo CH. B7-33 replicates the vasoprotective functions of human relaxin-2 (serelaxin). Eur J Pharmacol 2017; 807:190-197. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2017.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2017] [Revised: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 05/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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Leo CH, Fernando DT, Tran L, Ng HH, Marshall SA, Parry LJ. Serelaxin Treatment Reduces Oxidative Stress and Increases Aldehyde Dehydrogenase-2 to Attenuate Nitrate Tolerance. Front Pharmacol 2017; 8:141. [PMID: 28377719 PMCID: PMC5359255 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Accepted: 03/07/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) is a commonly prescribed treatment for acute heart failure patients. However, prolonged GTN treatment induces tolerance, largely due to increased oxidative stress and reduced aldehyde dehydrogenase-2 (ALDH-2) expression. Serelaxin has several vasoprotective properties, which include reducing oxidative stress and augmenting endothelial function. We therefore tested the hypothesis in rodents that serelaxin treatment could attenuate low-dose GTN-induced tolerance. Methods and Results: Co-incubation of mouse aortic rings ex vivo with GTN (10 μM) and serelaxin (10 nM) for 1 h, restored GTN responses, suggesting that serelaxin prevented the development of GTN tolerance. Male Wistar rats were subcutaneously infused with ethanol (control), low-dose GTN+placebo or low-dose GTN+serelaxin via osmotic minipumps for 3 days. Aortic vascular function and superoxide levels were assessed using wire myography and lucigenin-enhanced chemiluminescence assay respectively. Changes in aortic ALDH-2 expression were measured by qPCR and Western blot respectively. GTN+placebo infusion significantly increased superoxide levels, decreased ALDH-2 and attenuated GTN-mediated vascular relaxation. Serelaxin co-treatment with GTN significantly enhanced GTN-mediated vascular relaxation, reduced superoxide levels and increased ALDH-2 expression compared to GTN+placebo-treated rats. Conclusion: Our data demonstrate that a combination of serelaxin treatment with low dose GTN attenuates the development of GTN-induced tolerance by reducing superoxide production and increasing ALDH-2 expression in the rat aorta. We suggest that serelaxin may improve nitrate efficacy in a clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Huei Leo
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville VIC, Australia
| | | | - Lillie Tran
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville VIC, Australia
| | - Hooi Hooi Ng
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville VIC, Australia
| | - Sarah A Marshall
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville VIC, Australia
| | - Laura J Parry
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville VIC, Australia
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Serelaxin treatment reverses vascular dysfunction and left ventricular hypertrophy in a mouse model of Type 1 diabetes. Sci Rep 2017; 7:39604. [PMID: 28067255 PMCID: PMC5220363 DOI: 10.1038/srep39604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2016] [Accepted: 11/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Serelaxin prevents endothelial dysfunction in the mouse aorta ex vivo and inhibits apoptosis in cardiomyocytes under acute hyperglycaemia. Less is known about the effects of serelaxin in an in vivo mouse model of diabetes. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis in streptozotocin (STZ)-treated mice that serelaxin is able to reverse diabetes-induced vascular dysfunction and cardiac remodelling. Mice were divided into citrate buffer + placebo, STZ + placebo and STZ + serelaxin (0.5 mg/kg/d, 2 weeks) groups. After 12 weeks of diabetes, sensitivity to the endothelium-dependent agonist acetylcholine (ACh) was reduced in the mesenteric artery. This was accompanied by an enhanced vasoconstrictor prostanoid contribution and a decrease in endothelium-derived hyperpolarisation (EDH)-mediated relaxation. Serelaxin restored endothelial function by increasing nitric oxide (NO)-mediated relaxation but not EDH. It also normalised the contribution of vasoconstrictor prostanoids to endothelial dysfunction and suppressed diabetes-induced hyper-responsiveness of the mesenteric artery to angiotensin II. Similarly, diabetes reduced ACh-evoked NO-mediated relaxation in the aorta which was reversed by serelaxin. In the left ventricle, diabetes promoted apoptosis, hypertrophy and fibrosis; serelaxin treatment reversed this ventricular apoptosis and hypertrophy, but had no effect on fibrosis. In summary, serelaxin reversed diabetes-induced endothelial dysfunction by enhancing NO-mediated relaxation in the mouse vasculature and attenuating left ventricular hypertrophy and apoptosis.
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Lam M, Royce SG, Donovan C, Jelinic M, Parry LJ, Samuel CS, Bourke JE. Serelaxin Elicits Bronchodilation and Enhances β-Adrenoceptor-Mediated Airway Relaxation. Front Pharmacol 2016; 7:406. [PMID: 27833558 PMCID: PMC5081476 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2016.00406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2016] [Accepted: 10/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment with β-adrenoceptor agonists does not fully overcome the symptoms associated with severe asthma. Serelaxin elicits potent uterine and vascular relaxation via its cognate receptor, RXFP1, and nitric oxide (NO) signaling, and is being clinically evaluated for the treatment of acute heart failure. However, its direct bronchodilator efficacy has yet to be explored. Tracheal rings were prepared from male Sprague-Dawley rats (250–350 g) and tricolor guinea pigs, and precision cut lung slices (PCLSs) containing intrapulmonary airways were prepared from rats only. Recombinant human serelaxin (rhRLX) alone and in combination with rosiglitazone (PPARγ agonist; recently described as a novel dilator) or β-adrenoceptor agonists (isoprenaline, salbutamol) were added either to pre-contracted airways, or before contraction with methacholine or endothelin-1. Regulation of rhRLX responses by epithelial removal, indomethacin (cyclooxygenase inhibitor), L-NAME (nitric oxide synthase inhibitor), SQ22536 (adenylate cyclase inhibitor) and ODQ (guanylate cyclase inhibitor) were also evaluated. Immunohistochemistry was used to localize RXFP1 to airway epithelium and smooth muscle. rhRLX elicited relaxation in rat trachea and PCLS, more slowly than rosiglitazone or isoprenaline, but potentiated relaxation to both these dilators. It markedly increased β-adrenoceptor agonist potency in guinea pig trachea. rhRLX, rosiglitazone, and isoprenaline pretreatment also inhibited the development of rat tracheal contraction. Bronchoprotection by rhRLX increased with longer pre-incubation time, and was partially reduced by epithelial removal, indomethacin and/or L-NAME. SQ22536 and ODQ also partially inhibited rhRLX-mediated relaxation in both intact and epithelial-denuded trachea. RXFP1 expression in the airways was at higher levels in epithelium than smooth muscle. In summary, rhRLX elicits large and small airway relaxation via epithelial-dependent and -independent mechanisms, likely via RXFP1 activation and generation of NO, prostaglandins and cAMP/cGMP. rhRLX also enhanced responsiveness to other dilators, suggesting its potential as an alternative or add-on therapy for severe asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maggie Lam
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton VIC, Australia
| | - Simon G Royce
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton VIC, Australia
| | - Chantal Donovan
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, ClaytonVIC, Australia; Department of Pharmacology, Lung Health Research Centre, The University of Melbourne, ParkvilleVIC, Australia
| | - Maria Jelinic
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville VIC, Australia
| | - Laura J Parry
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville VIC, Australia
| | - Chrishan S Samuel
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton VIC, Australia
| | - Jane E Bourke
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, ClaytonVIC, Australia; Department of Pharmacology, Lung Health Research Centre, The University of Melbourne, ParkvilleVIC, Australia
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Leo CH, Jelinic M, Ng HH, Marshall SA, Novak J, Tare M, Conrad KP, Parry LJ. Vascular actions of relaxin: nitric oxide and beyond. Br J Pharmacol 2016; 174:1002-1014. [PMID: 27590257 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2016] [Revised: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 08/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The peptide hormone relaxin regulates the essential maternal haemodynamic adaptations in early pregnancy through direct actions on the renal and systemic vasculature. These vascular actions of relaxin occur mainly through endothelium-derived NO-mediated vasodilator pathways and improvements in arterial compliance in small resistance-size arteries. This work catalysed a plethora of studies which revealed quite heterogeneous responses across the different regions of the vasculature, and also uncovered NO-independent mechanisms of relaxin action. In this review, we first describe the role of endogenous relaxin in maintaining normal vascular function, largely referring to work in pregnant and male relaxin-deficient animals. We then discuss the diversity of mechanisms mediating relaxin action in different vascular beds, including the involvement of prostanoids, VEGF, endothelium-derived hyperpolarisation and antioxidant activity in addition to the classic NO-mediated vasodilatory pathway. We conclude the review with current perspectives on the vascular remodelling capabilities of relaxin. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Recent Progress in the Understanding of Relaxin Family Peptides and their Receptors. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v174.10/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- C H Leo
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - M Jelinic
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - H H Ng
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - S A Marshall
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - J Novak
- Division of Mathematics and Science, Walsh University, North Canton, OH, USA
| | - M Tare
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,School of Rural Health, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - K P Conrad
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - L J Parry
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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Kahlberg N, Qin CX, Anthonisz J, Jap E, Ng HH, Jelinic M, Parry LJ, Kemp-Harper BK, Ritchie RH, Leo CH. Adverse vascular remodelling is more sensitive than endothelial dysfunction to hyperglycaemia in diabetic rat mesenteric arteries. Pharmacol Res 2016; 111:325-335. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2016.06.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2016] [Revised: 06/15/2016] [Accepted: 06/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Abstract
Despite advances in therapy, patients with heart failure (HF) continue to experience unacceptably high rates of hospitalization and death, as well as poor quality of life. As a consequence, there is an urgent need for new treatments that can improve the clinical course of the growing worldwide population of HF patients. Serelaxin and ularatide, both based on naturally occurring peptides, have potent vasodilatory as well as other effects on the heart and kidneys. For both agents, phase 3 studies that are designed to determine whether they improve outcomes in patients with acute HF have completed enrollment. TRV027, a biased ligand for the type 1 angiotensin receptor with effects that extend beyond traditional angiotensin-receptor blockers is also being studied in the acute HF population. Omecamtiv mecarbil, an inotropic agent that improves myocardial contractility by a novel mechanism, and vericiguat, a drug that stimulates soluble guanylate cyclase, are both being developed to treat patients with chronic HF. Finally, despite the negative results of the CUPID study, gene transfer therapy continues to be explored as a means of improving the function of the failing heart. The basis for the use of these drugs and their current status in clinical trials are discussed. (Circ J 2016; 80: 1882-1891).
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Sarwar M, Du XJ, Dschietzig TB, Summers RJ. The actions of relaxin on the human cardiovascular system. Br J Pharmacol 2016; 174:933-949. [PMID: 27239943 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2016] [Revised: 04/01/2016] [Accepted: 04/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The insulin-like peptide relaxin, originally identified as a hormone of pregnancy, is now known to exert a range of pleiotropic effects including vasodilatory, anti-fibrotic, angiogenic, anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory effects in both males and females. Relaxin produces these effects by binding to a cognate receptor RXFP1 and activating a variety of signalling pathways including cAMP, cGMP and MAPKs as well as by altering gene expression of TGF-β, MMPs, angiogenic growth factors and endothelin receptors. The peptide has been shown to be effective in halting or reversing many of the adverse effects including fibrosis in animal models of cardiovascular disease including ischaemia/reperfusion injury, myocardial infarction, hypertensive heart disease and cardiomyopathy. Relaxin given to humans is safe and produces favourable haemodynamic changes. Serelaxin, the recombinant form of relaxin, is now in extended phase III clinical trials for the treatment of acute heart failure. Previous clinical studies indicated that a 48 h infusion of relaxin improved 180 day mortality, yet the mechanism underlying this effect is not clear. This article provides an overview of the cellular mechanism of effects of relaxin and summarizes its beneficial actions in animal models and in the clinic. We also hypothesize potential mechanisms for the clinical efficacy of relaxin, identify current knowledge gaps and suggest new ways in which relaxin could be useful therapeutically. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Recent Progress in the Understanding of Relaxin Family Peptides and their Receptors. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v174.10/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsin Sarwar
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Parkville, Australia
| | - Xiao-Jun Du
- Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Thomas B Dschietzig
- Immundiagnostik AG, Bensheim, Germany.,Campus Mitte, Medical Clinic for Cardiology and Angiology, Charité-University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Relaxera Pharmazeutische Gesellschaft mbH & Co. KG, Bensheim, Germany
| | - Roger J Summers
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Parkville, Australia
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Bischoff SJ, Schmidt M, Lehmann T, Irintchev A, Schubert H, Jung C, Schwab M, Huber O, Matziolis G, Schiffner R. Increase of cortical cerebral blood flow and further cerebral microcirculatory effects of Serelaxin in a sheep model. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2016; 311:H613-20. [PMID: 27402664 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00118.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2016] [Accepted: 07/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Serelaxin, recombinant human relaxin-2, modulates endothelial vasodilatory functionality and is under evaluation for treatment of acute heart failure. Little is known about acute effects on cerebral perfusion. We tested the hypothesis that Serelaxin might also have effects on the cerebral microcirculation in a sheep model, which resembles human brain structure quite well. We used laser Doppler flowmetry and sidestream dark-field (SDF) imaging techniques, which are reliable tools to continuously assess dynamic changes in cerebral perfusion. Laser Doppler flowmetry shows that bolus injection of 30 μg Serelaxin/kg body wt induces an increase (P = 0.006) to roughly 150% of cortical cerebral blood flow (CBF), whereas subcortical CBF remains unchanged (P = 0.688). The effects on area-dependent CBF were significantly different after the bolus injection (P = 0.042). Effects on cortical CBF were further confirmed by SDF imaging. The bolus injection of Serelaxin increased total vessel density to 127% (P = 0.00046), perfused vessel density to 145% (P = 0.024), and perfused capillary density to 153% (P = 0.024). Western blotting confirmed the expression of relaxin receptors RXFP1 and truncated RXFP2-variants in the respective brain regions, suggesting a possible contribution of RXFP1 on the effects of Serelaxin. In conclusion, the injection of a high dose of Serelaxin exerts quick effects on the cerebral microcirculation. Therefore, Serelaxin might be suitable to improve cortical microcirculation and exert neuroprotective effects in clinically relevant scenarios that involve cortical hypoperfusion. These findings need to be confirmed in relevant experimental settings involving cerebral cortical hypoperfusion and can possibly be translated into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine J Bischoff
- Institute for Laboratory Animal Science and Welfare, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Martin Schmidt
- Institute for Biochemistry II, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Thomas Lehmann
- Institute of Medical Statistics, Computer Sciences and Documentation Science, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Andrey Irintchev
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Harald Schubert
- Institute for Laboratory Animal Science and Welfare, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Christian Jung
- Division of Cardiology, Pulmonology and Vascular Medicine, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Matthias Schwab
- Department of Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany; and
| | - Otmar Huber
- Institute for Biochemistry II, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Georg Matziolis
- Orthopaedic Department, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - René Schiffner
- Department of Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany; and Orthopaedic Department, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
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Conrad KP. G-Protein-coupled receptors as potential drug candidates in preeclampsia: targeting the relaxin/insulin-like family peptide receptor 1 for treatment and prevention. Hum Reprod Update 2016; 22:647-64. [PMID: 27385360 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmw021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2016] [Accepted: 05/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Important roles for G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) have been identified in the maternal physiological adaptations to pregnancy and in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. On this basis, GPCRs are potential therapeutic targets for preeclampsia. OBJECTIVES AND RATIONALE In this review, vasopressin and apelin are initially considered in this context before the focus on the hormone relaxin and its cognate receptor, the relaxin/insulin-like family peptide receptor 1 (RXFP1). Based on both compelling scientific rationale and a promising safety profile, the relaxin ligand-receptor system is comprehensively evaluated as a potential therapeutic endpoint in preeclampsia. SEARCH METHODS The published literature relating to the topic was searched through January 2016 using PubMed. OUTCOMES Relaxin is a peptide hormone secreted by the corpus luteum; it circulates in the luteal phase and during pregnancy. Activation of RXFP1 is vasodilatory; thus, relaxin supplementation is expected to at least partly restore the fundamental vasodilatory changes of normal pregnancy, thereby alleviating maternal organ hypoperfusion, which is a major pathogenic manifestation of severe preeclampsia. Specifically, by exploiting its pleiotropic hemodynamic attributes in preeclampsia, relaxin administration is predicted to (i) reverse robust arterial myogenic constriction; (ii) blunt systemic and renal vasoconstriction in response to activation of the angiotensin II receptor, type 1; (iii) mollify the action of endogenous vasoconstrictors on uterine spiral arteries with failed remodeling and retained smooth muscle; (iv) increase arterial compliance; (v) enhance insulin-mediated glucose disposal by promoting skeletal muscle vasodilation and (vi) mobilize and activate bone marrow-derived angiogenic progenitor cells, thereby repairing injured endothelium and improving maternal vascularity in organs such as breast, uterus, pancreas, skin and fat. By exploiting its pleiotropic molecular attributes in preeclampsia, relaxin supplementation is expected to (i) enhance endothelial nitric oxide synthesis and bioactivity, as well as directly reduce vascular smooth muscle cytosolic calcium, thus promoting vasodilation; (ii) improve the local angiogenic balance by augmenting arterial vascular endothelial and placental growth factor (VEGF and PLGF) activities; (iii) ameliorate vascular inflammation; (iv) enhance placental peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma, coactivator 1 alpha (PCG1α) expression, and hence, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) activity and (v) confer cytotrophoblast and endothelial cytoprotection. Insofar as impaired endometrial maturation (decidualization) predisposes to the development of preeclampsia, relaxin administration in the late secretory phase and during early pregnancy would be anticipated to improve decidualization, and hence trophoblast invasion and spiral artery remodeling, thereby reducing the risk of preeclampsia. Relaxin has a favorable safety profile both in the non-pregnant condition and during pregnancy. WIDER IMPLICATIONS There is a strong scientific rationale for RXFP1 activation in severe preeclampsia by administration of relaxin, relaxin analogs or small molecule mimetics, in order to mollify the disease pathogenesis for safe prolongation of pregnancy, thus allowing time for more complete fetal maturation, which is a primary therapeutic endpoint in treating the disease. In light of recent data implicating deficient or defective decidualization as a potential etiological factor in preeclampsia and the capacity of relaxin to promote endometrial maturation, the prophylactic application of relaxin to reduce the risk of preeclampsia is a plausible therapeutic approach to consider. Finally, given its pleiotropic and beneficial attributes particularly in the cardiovascular system, relaxin, although traditionally considered as a 'pregnancy' hormone, is likely to prove salutary for several disease indications in the non-pregnant population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirk P Conrad
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, D.H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, 1600 SW Archer Road, PO Box 100274 M522, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
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Tran HA, Lin F, Greenberg BH. Potential new drug treatments for congestive heart failure. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2016; 25:811-26. [DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2016.1181749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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Marshall SA, Leo CH, Senadheera SN, Girling JE, Tare M, Parry LJ. Relaxin deficiency attenuates pregnancy-induced adaptation of the mesenteric artery to angiotensin II in mice. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2016; 310:R847-57. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00506.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2015] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Pregnancy is associated with reduced peripheral vascular resistance, underpinned by changes in endothelial and smooth muscle function. Failure of the maternal vasculature to adapt correctly leads to serious pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia. The peptide hormone relaxin regulates the maternal renal vasculature during pregnancy; however, little is known about its effects in other vascular beds. This study tested the hypothesis that functional adaptation of the mesenteric and uterine arteries during pregnancy will be compromised in relaxin-deficient ( Rln−/−) mice. Smooth muscle and endothelial reactivity were examined in small mesenteric and uterine arteries of nonpregnant (estrus) and late-pregnant ( day 17.5) wild-type ( Rln+/+) and Rln−/− mice using wire myography. Pregnancy per se was associated with significant reductions in contraction to phenylephrine, endothelin-1, and ANG II in small mesenteric arteries, while sensitivity to endothelin-1 was reduced in uterine arteries of Rln+/+ mice. The normal pregnancy-associated attenuation of ANG II-mediated vasoconstriction in mesenteric arteries did not occur in Rln−/− mice. This adaptive failure was endothelium-independent and did not result from altered expression of ANG II receptors or regulator of G protein signaling 5 ( Rgs5) or increases in reactive oxygen species generation. Inhibition of nitric oxide synthase with l-NAME enhanced ANG II-mediated contraction in mesenteric arteries of both genotypes, whereas blockade of prostanoid production with indomethacin only increased ANG II-induced contraction in arteries of pregnant Rln+/+ mice. In conclusion, relaxin deficiency prevents the normal pregnancy-induced attenuation of ANG II-mediated vasoconstriction in small mesenteric arteries. This is associated with reduced smooth muscle-derived vasodilator prostanoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A. Marshall
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Chen Huei Leo
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Jane E. Girling
- Gynaecology Research Centre, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne and Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; and
| | - Marianne Tare
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Victoria, Australia; and
- School of Rural Health, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Laura J. Parry
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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34
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Serelaxin: A Novel Therapeutic for Vascular Diseases. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2016; 37:498-507. [PMID: 27130518 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2016.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2016] [Revised: 03/31/2016] [Accepted: 04/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Vascular dysfunction is an important hallmark of cardiovascular disease. It is characterized by increased sensitivity to vasoconstrictors, decreases in the endothelium-derived vasodilators nitric oxide (NO) and prostacyclin (PGI2), and endothelium-derived hyperpolarization (EDH). Serelaxin (recombinant human relaxin) has gained considerable attention as a new vasoactive drug, largely through its beneficial therapeutic effects in acute heart failure. In this review we first describe the contribution of endogenous relaxin to vascular homeostasis. We then provide a comprehensive overview of the novel mechanisms of serelaxin action in blood vessels that differentiate it from other vasodilator drugs and explain how this peptide could be used more widely as a therapeutic to alleviate vascular dysfunction in several cardiovascular diseases.
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35
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Ng HH, Leo CH, Parry LJ. Serelaxin (recombinant human relaxin-2) prevents high glucose-induced endothelial dysfunction by ameliorating prostacyclin production in the mouse aorta. Pharmacol Res 2016; 107:220-228. [PMID: 26993102 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2016.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2015] [Revised: 02/22/2016] [Accepted: 03/11/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Diabetes-induced endothelial dysfunction is a critical initiating factor in the development of cardiovascular complications. Treatment with relaxin improves tumour necrosis factor α-induced endothelial dysfunction by enhancing endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activity and restoring superoxide dismutase 1 protein in rat aortic rings ex vivo. It is, therefore, possible that relaxin treatment could alleviate endothelial dysfunction in diabetes. This study aimed to test the hypothesis that serelaxin (recombinant human relaxin-2) prevents high glucose-induced vascular dysfunction in the mouse aorta. Abdominal aortae were isolated from C57BL/6 male mice and incubated in M199 media for 3days with either normal glucose (5.5mM) or high glucose (30mM), and co-incubated with placebo (20mM sodium acetate) or 10nM serelaxin at 37°C in 5% CO2. Vascular function was analysed using wire-myography. High glucose significantly reduced the sensitivity to the endothelium-dependent agonist, acetylcholine (ACh) (pEC50; normal glucose=7.66±0.10 vs high glucose=7.29±0.10, n=11-12, P<0.05) and the contraction induced by NOS inhibitor, L-NAME (200μM) (normal glucose=59.9±8.3% vs high glucose=38.7±4.3%, n=6, P<0.05), but had no effect on the endothelium-independent agonist, sodium nitroprusside (SNP)-mediated relaxation. Treatment with serelaxin restored endothelial function (pEC50; 7.83±0.11, n=11) but not NO availability. The presence of the cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor, indomethacin (1μM) (pEC50; control=7.29±0.10 vs indo=7.74±0.18, n=6-12, P<0.05) and a superoxide dismutase mimetic, tempol (10μM) (pEC50; control=7.29±0.10 vs tempol=7.82±0.05, n=6-12, P<0.01) significantly improved sensitivity to ACh in high glucose treated aortae, but had no effect in serelaxin treated aortae. This suggests that high glucose incubation alters the superoxide and COX-sensitive pathway, which was normalized by co-incubation with serelaxin. Neither high glucose incubation nor serelaxin treatment had an effect on cyclooxygenase 1 and 2 (Ptgs1, Ptgs2), prostacyclin synthase (PTGIS) and receptor (Ptgir) as well as thromboxane A2 receptor (Tbxa2r) mRNA expression. Importantly, production of prostacyclin was significantly (P<0.05) attenuated in high glucose treated aortae, which was prevented by serelaxin treatment. Our data show that serelaxin treatment for 3 days restores high glucose-induced endothelial dysfunction by ameliorating vasodilator prostacyclin production and possibly through the reduction of superoxide in the mouse aorta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hooi Hooi Ng
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia.
| | - Chen Huei Leo
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia.
| | - Laura J Parry
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia.
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Leo CH, Jelinic M, Ng HH, Tare M, Parry LJ. Time-dependent activation of prostacyclin and nitric oxide pathways during continuous i.v. infusion of serelaxin (recombinant human H2 relaxin). Br J Pharmacol 2016; 173:1005-17. [PMID: 26660642 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2015] [Revised: 12/02/2015] [Accepted: 12/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE In the RELAX-AHF trial, a 48 h i.v. serelaxin infusion reduced systemic vascular resistance in patients with acute heart failure. Consistent with preclinical studies, serelaxin augments endothelial vasodilator function in rat mesenteric arteries. Little is known about the contribution of endothelium-derived relaxing factors after a longer duration of continuous serelaxin treatment. Here we have assessed vascular reactivity and mechanistic pathways in mesenteric arteries and veins and the aorta after 48 or 72 h continuous i.v. infusion of serelaxin. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Male rats were infused with either placebo or serelaxin (13.3 μg·kg(-1) ·h(-1) ) via the jugular vein using osmotic minipumps. Vascular function was assessed using wire myography. Changes in gene and protein expression and 6-keto PGF1α levels were determined by quantitative PCR, Western blot and ELISA respectively. KEY RESULTS Continuous i.v. serelaxin infusion augmented endothelium-dependent relaxation in arteries (mesenteric and aorta) but not in mesenteric veins. In mesenteric arteries, 48 h i.v. serelaxin infusion increased basal NOS activity, associated with increased endothelial NOS (eNOS) expression. Interestingly, phosphorylated-eNOS(Ser1177) , eNOS and basal NOS activity were reduced in mesenteric arteries following 72 h serelaxin treatment. At 72 h, serelaxin treatment improved bradykinin-mediated relaxation through COX2-derived PGI2 production. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Continuous i.v. serelaxin infusion enhanced endothelial vasodilator function in arteries but not in veins. The underlying mediator at 48 h was NO but there was a transition to PGI2 by 72 h. Activation of the PGI2 -dependent pathway is key to the prolonged vascular response to serelaxin treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- C H Leo
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic, Australia
| | - M Jelinic
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic, Australia
| | - H H Ng
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic, Australia
| | - M Tare
- Department of Physiology and School of Rural Health, Monash University, Parkville, Vic, Australia
| | - L J Parry
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic, Australia
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Sarwar M, Samuel CS, Bathgate RA, Stewart DR, Summers RJ. Enhanced serelaxin signalling in co-cultures of human primary endothelial and smooth muscle cells. Br J Pharmacol 2016; 173:484-96. [PMID: 26493539 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2014] [Revised: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 10/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE In the phase III clinical trial, RELAX-AHF, serelaxin caused rapid and long-lasting haemodynamic changes. However, the cellular mechanisms involved are unclear in humans. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH This study examined the effects of serelaxin in co-cultures of human primary endothelial cells (ECs) and smooth muscle cells (SMCs) on cAMP and cGMP signalling. KEY RESULTS Stimulation of HUVECs or human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAECs) with serelaxin, concentration-dependently increased cGMP accumulation in co-cultured SMCs to a greater extent than in monocultures of either cell type. This was not observed in human umbilical artery endothelial cells (HUAECs) that do not express the relaxin receptor, RXFP1. Treatment of ECs with l-N(G) -nitro arginine (NOARG; 30 μM, 30 min) inhibited serelaxin-mediated (30 nM) cGMP accumulation in HUVECs, HCAECs and co-cultured SMCs. In HCAECs, but not HUVECs, pre-incubation with indomethacin (30 μM, 30 min) also inhibited cGMP accumulation in SMCs. Pre-incubation of SMCs with the guanylate cyclase inhibitor ODQ (1 μM, 30 min) had no effect on serelaxin-mediated (30 nM) cGMP accumulation in HUVECs and HCAECs but inhibited cGMP accumulation in SMCs. Serelaxin stimulation of HCAECs, but not HUVECs, increased cAMP accumulation concentration-dependently in SMCs. Pre-incubation of HCAECs with indomethacin, but not l-NOARG, abolished cAMP accumulation in co-cultured SMCs, suggesting involvement of prostanoids. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS In co-cultures, treatment of ECs with serelaxin caused marked cGMP accumulation in SMCs and with HCAEC also cAMP accumulation. Responses involved EC-derived NO and with HCAEC prostanoid production. Thus, serelaxin differentially modulates vascular tone in different vascular beds.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Sarwar
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmacology, Monash University, Australia
| | - C S Samuel
- Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Australia
| | - R A Bathgate
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health and the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - R J Summers
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmacology, Monash University, Australia
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Díez J, Ruilope LM. Serelaxin for the treatment of acute heart failure: a review with a focus on end-organ protection. EUROPEAN HEART JOURNAL. CARDIOVASCULAR PHARMACOTHERAPY 2015; 2:119-30. [PMID: 27418970 PMCID: PMC4853824 DOI: 10.1093/ehjcvp/pvv046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2015] [Accepted: 10/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Acute heart failure (AHF) is a complex clinical syndrome characterized by fluid overload and haemodynamic abnormalities (short-term clinical consequences) and the development of end-organ damage (long-term consequences). Current therapies for the treatment of AHF, such as loop diuretics and vasodilators, help to relieve haemodynamic imbalance and congestion, but have not been shown to prevent (and may even contribute to) end-organ damage, or to provide long-term clinical benefit. Serelaxin is the recombinant form of human relaxin-2, a naturally occurring hormone involved in mediating haemodynamic changes during pregnancy. Preclinical and clinical studies have investigated the effects mediated by serelaxin and the suitability of this agent for the treatment of patients with AHF. Data suggest that serelaxin acts via multiple pathways to improve haemodynamics at the vascular, cardiac, and renal level and provide effective congestion relief. In addition, this novel agent may protect the heart, kidneys, and liver from damage by inhibiting inflammation, oxidative stress, cell death, and tissue fibrosis, and stimulating angiogenesis. Serelaxin may therefore improve both short- and long-term outcomes in patients with AHF. In this review, we examine the unique mechanisms underlying the potential benefits of serelaxin for the treatment of AHF, in particular, those involved in mediating end-organ protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Díez
- Program of Cardiovascular Diseases, Centre for Applied Medical Research and Department of Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, University of Navarra Clinic, University of Navarra, Av. Pío XII 55, Pamplona 31008, Spain
| | - Luis M Ruilope
- Research Institute, Hypertension Unit, Hospital 12 de Octubre and Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, University Autónoma, Madrid, Spain
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Tietjens J, Teerlink JR. Serelaxin and acute heart failure. Heart 2015; 102:95-9. [DOI: 10.1136/heartjnl-2014-306786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Accepted: 10/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
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Ng HH, Jelinic M, Parry LJ, Leo CH. Increased superoxide production and altered nitric oxide-mediated relaxation in the aorta of young but not old male relaxin-deficient mice. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2015; 309:H285-96. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00786.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2014] [Accepted: 05/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The vascular effects of exogenous relaxin (Rln) treatment are well established and include decreased myogenic reactivity and enhanced relaxation responses to vasodilators in small resistance arteries. These vascular responses are reduced in older animals, suggesting that Rln is less effective in mediating arterial function with aging. The present study investigated the role of endogenous Rln in the aorta and the possibility that vascular dysfunction occurs more rapidly with aging in Rln-deficient ( Rln−/−) mice. We compared vascular function and underlying vasodilatory pathways in the aorta of male wild-type ( Rln+/+) and Rln−/− mice at 4 and 16 mo of age using wire myography. Superoxide production, but not nitrotyrosine or NADPH oxidase expression, was significantly increased in the aorta of young Rln−/− mice, whereas endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase and basal NO availability were both significantly decreased compared with Rln+/+ mice. In the presence of the cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin, sensitivity to ACh was significantly decreased in young Rln−/− mice, demonstrating altered NO-mediated relaxation that was normalized in the presence of a membrane-permeable SOD or ROS scavenger. These vascular phenotypes were not exacerbated in old Rln−/− mice and, in most cases, did not differ significantly from old Rln+/+ mice. Despite the vascular phenotypes in Rln−/− mice, endothelium-dependent and -independent vasodilation were not adversely affected. Our data show a role for endogenous Rln in reducing superoxide production and maintaining NO availability in the aorta but also demonstrate that Rln deficiency does not compromise vascular function in this artery or exacerbate endothelial dysfunction associated with aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hooi H. Ng
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Maria Jelinic
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Laura J. Parry
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Chen-Huei Leo
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Varr BC, Maurer MS. Emerging role of serelaxin in the therapeutic armamentarium for heart failure. Curr Atheroscler Rep 2015; 16:447. [PMID: 25108571 DOI: 10.1007/s11883-014-0447-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Acute heart failure (AHF) remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality, with an increasing prevalence anticipated over the next few decades as the population ages, heightening already significant health and economic burdens to society. New therapies for AHF have stalled over the past decade for a multitude of reasons, principal among them the heterogeneous population of patients affected with potentially multiple operative pathophysiologic mechanisms making a single targeted therapy a challenge. Serelaxin, a recombinant form of human relaxin-2, mediates adaptive cardiovascular effects during pregnancy that could be beneficial in the AHF population, primarily through nitric oxide-mediated vasodilation. Serelaxin is a novel therapeutic agent that has shown promise in the treatment of AHF in predefined subpopulations, though studies powered for "hard" outcomes are still pending. In this review, we examine the clinical investigations to date involving serelaxin in patients with heart failure and its possible emerging role in the future therapy of AHF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon C Varr
- Division of Cardiology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA,
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Lim SL, Lam CSP, Segers VFM, Brutsaert DL, De Keulenaer GW. Cardiac endothelium-myocyte interaction: clinical opportunities for new heart failure therapies regardless of ejection fraction. Eur Heart J 2015; 36:2050-2060. [PMID: 25911648 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehv132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2014] [Accepted: 04/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Heart failure (HF) is an important global health problem with great socioeconomic burden. Outcomes remain sub-optimal. Endothelium-cardiomyocyte interactions play essential roles in cardiovascular homeostasis, and deranged endothelium-related signalling pathways have been implicated in the pathophysiology of HF. In particular, disturbances in nitric oxide (NO)-mediated pathway and neuregulin-mediated pathway have been shown to contribute to the development of HF. These signalling pathways hold the potential as pathophysiological targets for new HF therapies, and may aid in patient selection for future HF trials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Vincent F M Segers
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology (Building T2), University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
| | - Dirk L Brutsaert
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology (Building T2), University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
| | - Gilles W De Keulenaer
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology (Building T2), University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
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Leo CH, Jelinic M, Gooi JH, Tare M, Parry LJ. A vasoactive role for endogenous relaxin in mesenteric arteries of male mice. PLoS One 2014; 9:e107382. [PMID: 25243460 PMCID: PMC4171481 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0107382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2014] [Accepted: 08/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The peptide hormone relaxin has striking effects on the vascular system. Specifically, endogenous relaxin treatment reduces myogenic reactivity through nitric oxide (NO)-mediated vasorelaxation and increases arterial compliance in small resistance arteries. However, less is known about the vascular roles of endogenous relaxin, particularly in males. Therefore, we used male wild-type (Rln+/+) and relaxin knockout (Rln−/−) mice to test the hypothesis that passive wall properties and vascular reactivity in mesenteric arteries would be compromised in Rln−/− mice. Passive compliance was determined in arteries (n = 8–9) mounted on a pressure myograph and in Ca2+-free Krebs containing 2 mM EGTA. Passive volume compliance was significantly (P = 0.01) decreased in the mesenteric arteries of Rln−/− mice. Vascular reactivity was assessed using wire myography. In mesenteric arteries (n = 5) of Rln−/− mice, there was a significant (P<0.03) increase in sensitivity to the vasoconstrictors phenylephrine and thromboxane-mimetic U41669. This enhanced responsiveness to vasoconstrictors was abolished by endothelial denudation, and attributed to impaired NO and prostanoid pathways in Rln−/− mice. Sensitivity to the endothelial agonist acetylcholine was significantly (n = 7–9, P≤0.03) decreased, and this was abolished in the presence of the cyclooxygenase inhibitor, indomethacin (2 µM). This indicates that prostanoid vasoconstrictor pathways were upregulated in the mesenteric arteries of Rln−/− mice. In summary, we demonstrate endothelial dysfunction and impaired arterial wall remodeling in male mice deficient in relaxin. Thus, our results highlight a role for endogenous relaxin in the maintenance of normal mesenteric artery structure and function in males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Huei Leo
- Department of Zoology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Maria Jelinic
- Department of Zoology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Jon H. Gooi
- Department of Zoology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Marianne Tare
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Laura J. Parry
- Department of Zoology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- * E-mail:
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