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Van Den Heuvel LJF, Peeters S, Meester JAN, Coucke PJ, Loeys BL. An exploration of alternative therapeutic targets for aortic disease in Marfan syndrome. Drug Discov Today 2024:104023. [PMID: 38750929 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2024.104023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Marfan syndrome is a rare connective tissue disorder that causes aortic dissection-related sudden death. Current conventional treatments, beta-blockers, and type 1 angiotensin II receptor blockers are prescribed to slow down aortic aneurysm progression to delay (prophylactic) aortic surgery. However, neither of these treatments ceases aortic growth completely. This review focuses on potential alternative therapeutic leads in the field, ranging from widely used medication with beneficial effects on the aorta to experimental inhibitors with the potential to stop aortic growth in Marfan syndrome. Clinical trials are warranted to uncover their full potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lotte J F Van Den Heuvel
- Center for Medical Genetics Antwerp, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium; Center for Medical Genetics Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Silke Peeters
- Center for Medical Genetics Antwerp, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Josephina A N Meester
- Center for Medical Genetics Antwerp, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Paul J Coucke
- Center for Medical Genetics Ghent, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bart L Loeys
- Center for Medical Genetics Antwerp, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium; Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
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Zhang Y, Zhao X, Ge D, Huang Y, Yao Q. The impact and mechanism of nerve injury on bone metabolism. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 704:149699. [PMID: 38412668 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.149699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
With an increasing understanding of the mechanisms of fracture healing, it has been found that nerve injury plays a crucial role in the process, but the specific mechanism is yet to be completely revealed. To address this issue and provide novel insights for fracture treatment, we compiled this review. This review aims to study the impact of nerve injury on fracture healing, exploring the role of neurotrophic factors in the healing process. We first revisited the effects of the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS) on the skeletal system, and further explained the phenomenon of significantly accelerated fracture healing under nerve injury conditions. Then, from the perspective of neurotrophic factors, we delved into the physiological functions and mechanisms of neurotrophic factors, such as nerve growth factor (NGF), Neuropeptides (NPs), and Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), in bone metabolism. These effects include direct actions on bone cells, improvement of local blood supply, regulation of bone growth factors, control of cellular signaling pathways, promotion of callus formation and bone regeneration, and synergistic or antagonistic effects with other endocrine factors, such as Sema3A and Transforming Growth Factor β (TGF-β). Finally, we discussed the treatments of fractures with nerve injuries and the future research directions in this review, suggesting that the relationship between nerve injury and fracture healing, as well as the role of nerve injury in other skeletal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongqiang Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Digital Medicine, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Key Lab of Additive Manufacturing Technology, Institute of Digital Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Research Center of Digital Medicine and 3D Printing Technology of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiao Zhao
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Digital Medicine, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Key Lab of Additive Manufacturing Technology, Institute of Digital Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Research Center of Digital Medicine and 3D Printing Technology of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing, China
| | - Dawei Ge
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Digital Medicine, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Key Lab of Additive Manufacturing Technology, Institute of Digital Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Research Center of Digital Medicine and 3D Printing Technology of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing, China
| | - Yang Huang
- International Innovation Center for Forest Chemicals & Materials and Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing & Utilization of Forest Resources, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qingqiang Yao
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Digital Medicine, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Key Lab of Additive Manufacturing Technology, Institute of Digital Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Research Center of Digital Medicine and 3D Printing Technology of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing, China.
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3
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Curry T, Barrameda ME, Thomas TC, Esfandiarei M. In vivo phenotypic vascular dysfunction extends beyond the aorta in a mouse model for fibrillin-1 (Fbn1) mutation. Sci Rep 2024; 14:5779. [PMID: 38461168 PMCID: PMC10924961 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-56438-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024] Open
Abstract
In individuals with Marfan Syndrome (MFS), fibrillin-1 gene (FBN1) mutations can lead to vascular wall weakening and dysfunction. The experimental mouse model of MFS (Fbn1C1041G/+) has been advantageous in investigating MFS-associated life-threatening aortic aneurysms. It is well established that the MFS mouse model exhibits an accelerated-aging phenotype in elastic organs like the aorta, lung, and skin. However, the impact of Fbn1 mutations on the in vivo function and structure of various artery types with the consideration of sex and age, has not been adequately explored in real-time and a clinically relevant context. In this study, we investigate if Fbn1 mutation contributes to sex-dependent alterations in central and cerebral vascular function similar to phenotypic changes associated with normal aging in healthy control mice. In vivo ultrasound imaging of central and cerebral vasculature was performed in 6-month-old male and female MFS and C57BL/6 mice and sex-matched 12-month-old (middle-aged) healthy control mice. Our findings confirm aortic enlargement (aneurysm) and wall stiffness in MFS mice, but with exacerbation in male diameters. Coronary artery blood flow velocity (BFV) in diastole was not different but left pulmonary artery BFV was decreased in MFS and 12-month-old control mice regardless of sex. At 6 months of age, MFS male mice show decreased posterior cerebral artery BFV as compared to age-matched control males, with no difference observed between female cohorts. Reduced mitral valve early-filling velocities were indicated in MFS mice regardless of sex. Male MFS mice also demonstrated left ventricular hypertrophy. Overall, these results underscore the significance of biological sex in vascular function and structure in MFS mice, while highlighting a trend of pre-mature vascular aging phenotype in MFS mice that is comparable to phenotypes observed in older healthy controls. Furthermore, this research is a vital step in understanding MFS's broader implications and sets the stage for more in-depth future analyses, while providing data-driven preclinical justification for re-evaluating diagnostic approaches and therapeutic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Curry
- College of Medicine-Phoenix, University of Arizona, Phoenix, AZ, USA
- Barrow Neurological Institute at Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - M E Barrameda
- Biomedical Sciences Program, College of Graduate Studies, Midwestern University, 19555 N 59th Ave., Glendale, AZ, 85308, USA
| | - T Currier Thomas
- College of Medicine-Phoenix, University of Arizona, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
- Barrow Neurological Institute at Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
- Biomedical Sciences Program, College of Graduate Studies, Midwestern University, 19555 N 59th Ave., Glendale, AZ, 85308, USA.
- Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA.
- Phoenix VA Health Care System, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
| | - M Esfandiarei
- College of Medicine-Phoenix, University of Arizona, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
- Biomedical Sciences Program, College of Graduate Studies, Midwestern University, 19555 N 59th Ave., Glendale, AZ, 85308, USA.
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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Zheng Z, Xu J, Chen J, Jiang B, Ma H, Li L, Li Y, Dai Y, Wang B. Integrated DNA methylation analysis reveals a potential role for PTPRN2 in Marfan syndrome scoliosis. JOR Spine 2024; 7:e1304. [PMID: 38304329 PMCID: PMC10831201 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a rare genetic disorder caused by mutations in the Fibrillin-1 gene (FBN1) with significant clinical features in the skeletal, cardiopulmonary, and ocular systems. To gain deeper insights into the contribution of epigenetics in the variability of phenotypes observed in MFS, we undertook the first analysis of integrating DNA methylation and gene expression profiles in whole blood from MFS and healthy controls (HCs). Methods The Illumina 850K (EPIC) DNA methylation array was used to detect DNA methylation changes on peripheral blood samples of seven patients with MFS and five HCs. Associations between methylation levels and clinical features of MFS were analyzed. Subsequently, we conducted an integrated analysis of the outcomes of the transcriptome data to analyze the correlation between differentially methylated positions (DMPs) and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and explore the potential role of methylation-regulated DEGs (MeDEGs) in MFS scoliosis. The weighted gene co-expression network analysis was used to find gene modules with the highest correlation coefficient with target MeDEGs to annotate their functions in MFS. Results Our study identified 1253 DMPs annotated to 236 genes that were primarily associated with scoliosis, cardiomyopathy, and vital capacity. These conditions are typically associated with reduced lifespan in untreated MFS. We calculated correlations between DMPs and clinical features, such as cobb angle to evaluate scoliosis and FEV1% to assess pulmonary function. Notably, cg20223687 (PTPRN2) exhibited a positive correlation with cobb angle of scoliosis, potentially playing a role in ERKs inactivation. Conclusions Taken together, our systems-level approach sheds light on the contribution of epigenetics to MFS and offers a plausible explanation for the complex phenotypes that are linked to reduced lifespan in untreated MFS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen‐zhong Zheng
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Second Xiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
- Hunan Digital Spine Research InstituteCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Jing‐hong Xu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Second Xiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
- Hunan Digital Spine Research InstituteCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Jia‐lin Chen
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Second Xiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
- Hunan Digital Spine Research InstituteCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Bin Jiang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Second Xiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
- Hunan Digital Spine Research InstituteCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Hong Ma
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Second Xiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
- Hunan Digital Spine Research InstituteCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Second Xiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
- Hunan Digital Spine Research InstituteCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Ya‐wei Li
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Second Xiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
- Hunan Digital Spine Research InstituteCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Yu‐liang Dai
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Second Xiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
- Hunan Digital Spine Research InstituteCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Bing Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Second Xiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
- Hunan Digital Spine Research InstituteCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
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Wang Y, Panicker IS, Anesi J, Sargisson O, Atchison B, Habenicht AJR. Animal Models, Pathogenesis, and Potential Treatment of Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:901. [PMID: 38255976 PMCID: PMC10815651 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) has a prevalence of 0.16-0.34% and an incidence of 7.6 per 100,000 person-years, accounting for 1-2% of all deaths in Western countries. Currently, no effective pharmacological therapies have been identified to slow TAA development and prevent TAA rupture. Large TAAs are treated with open surgical repair and less invasive thoracic endovascular aortic repair, both of which have high perioperative mortality risk. Therefore, there is an urgent medical need to identify the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying TAA development and rupture to develop new therapies. In this review, we summarize animal TAA models including recent developments in porcine and zebrafish models: porcine models can assess new therapeutic devices or intervention strategies in a large mammal and zebrafish models can employ large-scale small-molecule suppressor screening in microwells. The second part of the review covers current views of TAA pathogenesis, derived from recent studies using these animal models, with a focus on the roles of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ) pathway and the vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC)-elastin-contractile unit. The last part discusses TAA treatment options as they emerge from recent preclinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutang Wang
- Discipline of Life Science, Institute of Innovation, Science and Sustainability, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC 3353, Australia; (I.S.P.)
| | - Indu S. Panicker
- Discipline of Life Science, Institute of Innovation, Science and Sustainability, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC 3353, Australia; (I.S.P.)
| | - Jack Anesi
- Discipline of Life Science, Institute of Innovation, Science and Sustainability, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC 3353, Australia; (I.S.P.)
| | - Owen Sargisson
- Discipline of Life Science, Institute of Innovation, Science and Sustainability, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC 3353, Australia; (I.S.P.)
| | - Benjamin Atchison
- Discipline of Life Science, Institute of Innovation, Science and Sustainability, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC 3353, Australia; (I.S.P.)
| | - Andreas J. R. Habenicht
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU), 80336 Munich, Germany;
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Chen M, Zhao C, Li Z, Fan Q, Lu S, Tao X, Lin Y, Lin R, Wu J. Investigation of the applicability of the zebrafish model for the evaluation of aristolochic acid-related nephrotoxicity. Phytomedicine 2023; 121:155092. [PMID: 37804820 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.155092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The risk of compounds/drugs, including aristolochic acid-induced nephrotoxicity remains high and is a significant public health concern. Therefore, it is particularly important to select reasonable animal models for rapid screening and evaluation of different samples with complex chemical systems. The zebrafish (Danio rerio) has been used to study chemical-induced renal toxicity. However, most of the published literature was performed on individual components or drugs, and the key evidence confirming the applicability of zebrafish larvae for the evaluation of aristolochic acid-related nephrotoxicity in complex chemical systems, such as in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), was insufficient. METHODS High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to determine the content of aristolochic acid (AA) in herbs and Chinese patent medicines. The zebrafish larvae at 4 days post-fertilization (dpf) were used to evaluate the nephrotoxicity of various samples, respectively, based on the phenotype of the kidney and histological, and biochemical. Transcriptome technology was used to investigate the related signaling pathways and potential mechanisms after treatment with AA, which was verified by RT-PCR technology. RESULTS The results showed that the total amounts of AAI, AAII, and ALI ranged from 0.0004 to 0.1858 g·g-1( %) from different samples, including Aristolochia debilis, Fibraurea recisa, Asarum, Wantongjingu tablets, Jiuweiqianghuo granules, and Xiaoqinglong granules in descending order. Moreover, compared with the negative/blank control, substantial changes in phenotype, histomorphology and biochemical parameters of renal function were observed in the groups challenged with the sublethal concentration of drugs. The transcriptomics results showed the upregulation of most genes in PERK/ATF4/CHOP, ATM/Chk2/p53, Caspase/Bax/Bcl-2a, TGF/Smad/ERK, PI3K/Akt, induced by aristolochic acid analogues, which were essentially consistent with those of the q-RT-PCR experiments, highlighting the similar toxicity response to the previously published article with the other traditional evaluation model. CONCLUSION The stability, accuracy and feasibility of the zebrafish larval model in screening and evaluating the nephrotoxicity of TCM were validated for the first time on the AAs-related drugs in a unified manner, confirming and promoting the applicability of zebrafish in assessing nephrotoxicity of samples with complex chemical character.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meilin Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Jinjiang Municipal Hospital, Quanzhou Fujian 362200, PR China
| | - Chongjun Zhao
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, PR China
| | - Zhiqi Li
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, PR China
| | - Qiqi Fan
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, PR China
| | - Shan Lu
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, PR China
| | - Xiaoyu Tao
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, PR China
| | - Yifan Lin
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, PR China
| | - Ruichao Lin
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, PR China.
| | - Jiarui Wu
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, PR China.
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Curry T, Barrameda ME, Currier Thomas T, Esfandiarei M. In Vivo Phenotypic Vascular Dysfunction Extends Beyond the Aorta in a Mouse Model for Fibrillin-1 ( FBN1 ) Mutation. bioRxiv 2023:2023.11.18.567641. [PMID: 38014144 PMCID: PMC10680800 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.18.567641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
In individuals with Marfan Syndrome (MFS), fibrillin-1 gene ( FBN1 ) mutations can lead to vascular wall weakening and dysfunction. The experimental mouse model of MFS ( FBN1 C1041G/+ ) has been advantageous in investigating MFS-associated life-threatening aortic aneurysms. Although the MFS mouse model presents an accelerated-aging phenotype in elastic organs (e.g., lung, skin), the impact of FBN1 mutations on other central and peripheral arteries function and structure with the consideration of the impact of sex remains underexplored. In this study, we investigate if FBN1 mutation contributes to sex-dependent alterations in central and cerebral vascular function similar to phenotypic changes associated with normal aging in healthy control mice. In vivo ultrasound imaging of central and cerebral vasculature was performed in 6-month-old male and female MFS and C57BL/6 mice and sex-matched 12-month-old (middle-aged) healthy control mice. Our findings confirm aortic enlargement (aneurysm) and wall stiffness in MFS mice, but with exacerbation in male diameters. Coronary artery blood flow velocity (BFV) in diastole was not different but left pulmonary artery BFV was decreased in MFS and 12-month-old control mice regardless of sex. At 6 months of age, MFS male mice show decreased posterior cerebral artery BFV as compared to age-matched control males, with no difference observed between female cohorts. Reduced mitral valve early-filling velocities were indicated in MFS mice regardless of sex. Male MFS mice also demonstrated left ventricular hypertrophy. Overall, these results underscore the significance of biological sex in vascular function and structure in MFS mice, while highlighting a trend of pre-mature vascular aging phenotype in MFS mice that is comparable to phenotypes observed in older healthy controls.
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Sakai LY, De Backer J. An Appealing Story of Sex Differences in Marfan Syndrome. Can J Cardiol 2023; 39:1568-1570. [PMID: 37774970 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2023.09.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lynn Y Sakai
- Department of Molecular & Medical Genetics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA.
| | - Julie De Backer
- Department of Cardiology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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Saddic L, Escopete S, Zilberberg L, Kalsow S, Gupta D, Eghbali M, Parker S. 17 β-Estradiol Impedes Aortic Root Dilation and Rupture in Male Marfan Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13571. [PMID: 37686377 PMCID: PMC10487461 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Marfan syndrome causes a hereditary form of thoracic aortic aneurysms with worse outcomes in male compared to female patients. In this study, we examine the effects of 17 β-estradiol on aortic dilation and rupture in a Marfan mouse model. Marfan male mice were administered 17 β-estradiol, and the growth in the aortic root, along with the risk of aortic rupture, was measured. Transcriptomic profiling was used to identify enriched pathways from 17 β-estradiol treatments. Aortic smooth muscle cells were then treated with cytokines to validate functional mechanisms. We show that 17 β-estradiol decreased the size and rate of aortic root dilation and improved survival from rupture. The Marfan transcriptome was enriched in inflammatory genes, and the addition of 17 β-estradiol modulated a set of genes that function through TNFα mediated NF-κB signaling. In addition, 17 β-estradiol suppressed the induction of these TNFα induced genes in aortic smooth muscle cells in vitro in an NF-κB dependent manner, and 17 β-estradiol decreased the formation of adventitial inflammatory foci in aortic roots in vivo. In conclusion, 17 β-estradiol protects against the dilation and rupture of aortic roots in Marfan male mice through the inhibition of TNFα-NF-κB signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Saddic
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA (M.E.)
| | - Sean Escopete
- Department of Cardiology, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA (L.Z.); (S.K.); (D.G.)
| | - Lior Zilberberg
- Department of Cardiology, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA (L.Z.); (S.K.); (D.G.)
| | - Shannon Kalsow
- Department of Cardiology, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA (L.Z.); (S.K.); (D.G.)
| | - Divya Gupta
- Department of Cardiology, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA (L.Z.); (S.K.); (D.G.)
| | - Mansoureh Eghbali
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA (M.E.)
| | - Sarah Parker
- Department of Cardiology, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA (L.Z.); (S.K.); (D.G.)
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Rega S, Farina F, Bouhuis S, de Donato S, Chiesa M, Poggio P, Cavallotti L, Bonalumi G, Giambuzzi I, Pompilio G, Perrucci GL. Multi-omics in thoracic aortic aneurysm: the complex road to the simplification. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:131. [PMID: 37475058 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-01080-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) is a serious condition that affects the aorta, characterized by the dilation of its first segment. The causes of TAA (e.g., age, hypertension, genetic syndromes) are heterogeneous and contribute to the weakening of the aortic wall. This complexity makes treating this life-threatening aortopathy challenging, as there are currently no etiological therapy available, and pharmacological strategies, aimed at avoiding surgical aortic replacement, are merely palliative. Recent studies on novel therapies for TAA have focused on identifying biological targets and etiological mechanisms of the disease by using advanced -omics techniques, including epigenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics approaches. METHODS This review presents the latest findings from -omics approaches and underscores the importance of integrating multi-omics data to gain more comprehensive understanding of TAA. RESULTS Literature suggests that the alterations in TAA mediators frequently involve members of pro-fibrotic process (i.e., TGF-β signaling pathways) or proteins associated with cell/extracellular structures (e.g., aggrecans). Further analyses often reported the importance in TAA of processes as inflammation (PCR, CD3, leukotriene compounds), oxidative stress (chromatin OXPHOS, fatty acids), mitochondrial respiration and glycolysis/gluconeogenesis (e.g., PPARs and HIF1a). Of note, more recent metabolomics studies added novel molecular markers to the list of TAA-specific detrimental mediators (proteoglycans). CONCLUSION It is increasingly clear that integrating data from different -omics branches, along with clinical data, is essential as well as complicated both to reveal hidden relevant information and to address complex diseases such as TAA. Importantly, recent progresses in metabolomics highlighted novel potential and unprecedented marks in TAA diagnosis and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Rega
- Unit of Vascular Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Unit for the Study of Aortic, Valvular and Coronary Pathologies, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Floriana Farina
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), Ludwig-Maximillians-Universität (LMU) München, Munich, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Silvia Bouhuis
- Unit of Vascular Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia de Donato
- Unit of Vascular Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Mattia Chiesa
- Bioinformatics and Artificial Intelligence Facility, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Electronics, Information and Biomedical Engineering, Politecnico Di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Poggio
- Unit for the Study of Aortic, Valvular and Coronary Pathologies, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Cavallotti
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Giorgia Bonalumi
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Ilaria Giambuzzi
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulio Pompilio
- Unit of Vascular Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Gianluca L Perrucci
- Unit of Vascular Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, Milan, Italy.
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11
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Nakamura K, Dalal AR, Yokoyama N, Pedroza AJ, Kusadokoro S, Mitchel O, Gilles C, Masoudian B, Leipzig M, Casey KM, Hiesinger W, Uchida T, Fischbein MP. Lineage-Specific Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Smooth Muscle Cell Modeling Predicts Integrin Alpha-V Antagonism Reduces Aortic Root Aneurysm Formation in Marfan Syndrome Mice. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2023; 43:1134-1153. [PMID: 37078287 PMCID: PMC10330156 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.122.318448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of increased smooth muscle cell (SMC) integrin αv signaling in Marfan syndrome (MFS) aortic aneurysm remains unclear. Herein, we examine the mechanism and potential efficacy of integrin αv blockade as a therapeutic strategy to reduce aneurysm progression in MFS. METHODS Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) were differentiated into aortic SMCs of the second heart field (SHF) and neural crest (NC) lineages, enabling in vitro modeling of MFS thoracic aortic aneurysms. The pathological role of integrin αv during aneurysm formation was confirmed by blockade of integrin αv with GLPG0187 in Fbn1C1039G/+ MFS mice. RESULTS iPSC-derived MFS SHF SMCs overexpress integrin αv relative to MFS NC and healthy control SHF cells. Furthermore, integrin αv downstream targets (FAK [focal adhesion kinase]/AktThr308/mTORC1 [mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1]) were activated, especially in MFS SHF. Treatment of MFS SHF SMCs with GLPG0187 reduced p-FAK/p-AktThr308/mTORC1 activity back to control SHF levels. Functionally, MFS SHF SMCs had increased proliferation and migration compared to MFS NC SMCs and control SMCs, which normalized with GLPG0187 treatment. In the Fbn1C1039G/+ MFS mouse model, integrin αv, p-AktThr308, and downstream targets of mTORC1 proteins were elevated in the aortic root/ascending segment compared to littermate wild-type control. Mice treated with GLPG0187 (age 6-14 weeks) had reduced aneurysm growth, elastin fragmentation, and reduction of the FAK/AktThr308/mTORC1 pathway. GLPG0187 treatment reduced the amount and severity of SMC modulation assessed by single-cell RNA sequencing. CONCLUSIONS The integrin αv-FAK-AktThr308 signaling pathway is activated in iPSC SMCs from MFS patients, specifically from the SHF lineage. Mechanistically, this signaling pathway promotes SMC proliferation and migration in vitro. As biological proof of concept, GLPG0187 treatment slowed aneurysm growth and p-AktThr308 signaling in Fbn1C1039G/+ mice. Integrin αv blockade via GLPG0187 may be a promising therapeutic approach to inhibit MFS aneurysmal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ken Nakamura
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine. Stanford CA, USA
| | - Alex R. Dalal
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine. Stanford CA, USA
| | - Nobu Yokoyama
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine. Stanford CA, USA
| | - Albert J. Pedroza
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine. Stanford CA, USA
| | - Sho Kusadokoro
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine. Stanford CA, USA
| | - Olivia Mitchel
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine. Stanford CA, USA
| | - Casey Gilles
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine. Stanford CA, USA
| | - Bahar Masoudian
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine. Stanford CA, USA
| | - Matthew Leipzig
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine. Stanford CA, USA
| | - Kerriann M. Casey
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine. Stanford CA, USA
| | - William Hiesinger
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine. Stanford CA, USA
| | - Tetsuro Uchida
- Second Department of Surgery, Yamagata University Faculty of Medicine. Yamagata, Japan
| | - Michael P. Fischbein
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine. Stanford CA, USA
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12
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Saddic L, Escopete S, Zilberberg L, Kalsow S, Gupta D, Egbhali M, Parker S. 17 β-estradiol impedes aortic root dilation and rupture in male Marfan mice. bioRxiv 2023:2023.05.09.540071. [PMID: 37215011 PMCID: PMC10197695 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.09.540071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Marfan syndrome causes a hereditary form of thoracic aortic aneurysms with dilation of the aortic root. Human and animal models suggest a worse phenotype for males compared to females with respect to aneurysm size and risk of dissection. In this study we examine the effects of 17 β-estradiol on aortic dilation and rupture in a Marfan mouse model. Marfan male mice were administered 17 β-estradiol and the growth in aortic root size along with the risk of aortic rupture or dissection with the addition of angiotensin II was measured. Transcriptomic profiling was used to identify enriched pathways from 17 β-estradiol treatment. Aortic smooth muscle cells were then treated with cytokines in order to validate the mechanism of 17 β-estradiol protection. We show that 17 β-estradiol decreased the size and rate of aortic root dilation and improved survival from rupture and dissection after treatment with angiotensin II. The Marfan transcriptome was enriched in inflammatory genes and the addition of 17 β-estradiol modulated a set of genes that function through TNFα mediated NF-κB signaling. These included many proteins known to play a role in the phenotypic shift of aortic smooth muscle cells from a contractile to a more inflammatory-like state such as Vcam-1, Mcp-1, Lgals3, Il-6, Il-1b, and C3. In addition, 17 β-estradiol suppressed the induction of these TNFα induced genes in aortic smooth muscle cells in vitro and this effect appears to be NF-κB dependent. In conclusion, 17 β-estradiol protects against the dilation and rupture of aortic roots in Marfan male mice through the inhibition of TNFα -NF-κB signaling and thus prevents the phenotypic switch of aortic smooth muscle cells from a contractile to an inflammatory state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Saddic
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Sean Escopete
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Smidt Heart Institute, Department of Cardiology, Los Angeles, California
| | - Lior Zilberberg
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Smidt Heart Institute, Department of Cardiology, Los Angeles, California
| | - Shannon Kalsow
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Smidt Heart Institute, Department of Cardiology, Los Angeles, California
| | - Divya Gupta
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Smidt Heart Institute, Department of Cardiology, Los Angeles, California
| | - Mansoureh Egbhali
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Sarah Parker
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Smidt Heart Institute, Department of Cardiology, Los Angeles, California
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13
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Pedroza AJ, Dalal AR, Shad R, Yokoyama N, Nakamura K, Cheng P, Wirka RC, Mitchel O, Baiocchi M, Hiesinger W, Quertermous T, Fischbein MP. Embryologic Origin Influences Smooth Muscle Cell Phenotypic Modulation Signatures in Murine Marfan Syndrome Aortic Aneurysm. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2022; 42:1154-1168. [PMID: 35861960 PMCID: PMC9420801 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.122.317381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aortic root smooth muscle cells (SMC) develop from both the second heart field (SHF) and neural crest. Disparate responses to disease-causing Fbn1 variants by these lineages are proposed to promote focal aortic root aneurysm formation in Marfan syndrome (MFS), but lineage-stratified SMC analysis in vivo is lacking. METHODS We generated SHF lineage-traced MFS mice and performed integrated multiomic (single-cell RNA and assay for transposase-accessible chromatin sequencing) analysis stratified by embryological origin. SMC subtypes were spatially identified via RNA in situ hybridization. Response to TWIST1 overexpression was determined via lentiviral transduction in human aortic SMCs. RESULTS Lineage stratification enabled nuanced characterization of aortic root cells. We identified heightened SHF-derived SMC heterogeneity including a subset of Tnnt2 (cardiac troponin T)-expressing cells distinguished by altered proteoglycan expression. MFS aneurysm-associated SMC phenotypic modulation was identified in both SHF-traced and nontraced (neural crest-derived) SMCs; however, transcriptomic responses were distinct between lineages. SHF-derived modulated SMCs overexpressed collagen synthetic genes and small leucine-rich proteoglycans while nontraced SMCs activated chondrogenic genes. These modulated SMCs clustered focally in the aneurysmal aortic root at the region of SHF/neural crest lineage overlap. Integrated RNA-assay for transposase-accessible chromatin analysis identified enriched Twist1 and Smad2/3/4 complex binding motifs in SHF-derived modulated SMCs. TWIST1 overexpression promoted collagen and SLRP gene expression in vitro, suggesting TWIST1 may drive SHF-enriched collagen synthesis in MFS aneurysm. CONCLUSIONS SMCs derived from both SHF and neural crest lineages undergo phenotypic modulation in MFS aneurysm but are defined by subtly distinct transcriptional responses. Enhanced TWIST1 transcription factor activity may contribute to enriched collagen synthetic pathways SHF-derived SMCs in MFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert J. Pedroza
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine. Stanford CA, USA
| | - Alex R. Dalal
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine. Stanford CA, USA
| | - Rohan Shad
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine. Stanford CA, USA
| | - Nobu Yokoyama
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine. Stanford CA, USA
| | - Ken Nakamura
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine. Stanford CA, USA
| | - Paul Cheng
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine. Stanford CA, USA
| | - Robert C. Wirka
- Division of Cardiology, UNC School of Medicine, Chapel Hill NC, USA
| | | | - Michael Baiocchi
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford Unviersity School of Medicine. Stanford CA, USA
| | - William Hiesinger
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine. Stanford CA, USA
| | - Thomas Quertermous
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine. Stanford CA, USA
| | - Michael P. Fischbein
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine. Stanford CA, USA
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14
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Liu N, Qi B, Zhang Y, Fang S, Sun C, Li Q, Wei X. Bu-Gu-Sheng-Sui decoction promotes osteogenesis via activating the ERK/Smad signaling pathways. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:976121. [PMID: 36091820 PMCID: PMC9453880 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.976121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteoporosis is a systemic metabolic skeletal disease, which becomes a common public health problem that seriously endangers people’s health. Bu-Gu-Sheng-Sui decoction (BGSSD) is a safe and effective Chinese medicine formulation for the treatment of osteoporosis. Numerous studies have indicated that it played a significant role in bone anabolism. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Herein, we selected senescence-accelerated mice prone 6 (SAMP6) and MC3T3-E1 cells to study the effects of BGSSD on osteogenesis and then investigated the potential mechanism of BGSSD. Our research found that BGSSD protected the bone mass in SAMP6, increased the expression of osteogenic specific factor Runx2, and improved bone trabecular structure. In vitro, BGSSD accelerated the proliferation and differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells, which was characterized by stimulating the activity of Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and raising the expression of Runx2. Moreover, BGSSD could effectively boost the expression levels of ERK and Smad in SAMP6 and MC3T3-E1. Therefore, we speculate that BGSSD may promote bone formation through ERK/Smad pathways. Collectively, our results highlight the importance of BGSSD as a compound in promoting osteogenic differentiation and osteogenesis, demonstrating that BGSSD may become a latent drug to prevent and treat osteoporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Liu
- Wangjing Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Baoyu Qi
- Wangjing Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yili Zhang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine and School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Shengjie Fang
- Wangjing Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chuanrui Sun
- Wangjing Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qiuyue Li
- Wangjing Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xu Wei
- Wangjing Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Xu Wei,
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15
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Bramel EE, Bagirzadeh R, Saqib M, Creamer TJ, Espinoza Camejo WA, Roker LA, Pardo Habashi J, Dietz HC, Gallo MacFarlane E. Distinct Contribution of Global and Regional Angiotensin II Type 1a Receptor Inactivation to Amelioration of Aortopathy in Tgfbr1 M318R/+ Mice. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:936142. [PMID: 35811726 PMCID: PMC9257222 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.936142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiotensin II (Ang II) type 1 receptor (AT1R) signaling controls both physiological and pathogenetic responses in the vasculature. In mouse models of Loeys-Dietz syndrome (LDS), a hereditary disorder characterized by aggressive aortic aneurysms, treatment with angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) prevents aortic root dilation and associated histological alterations. In this study we use germline and conditional genetic inactivation of Agtr1a (coding for the AT1a receptor) to assess the effect of systemic and localized AT1R signaling attenuation on aortic disease in a mouse model of LDS (Tgfbr1M318R/+). Aortic diameters and histological features were examined in control and Tgfbr1M318R/+ mice with either germline or Mef2CSHF-Cre mediated genetic inactivation of Agtr1a, the latter resulting in deletion in second heart field (SHF)-derived lineages in the aortic root and proximal aorta. Both systemic and regional AT1R signaling attenuation resulted in reduction of diameters and improvement of tissue morphology in the aortic root of LDS mice; these outcomes were associated with reduced levels of Smad2/3 and ERK phosphorylation, signaling events previously linked to aortic disease in LDS. However, regional AT1a inactivation in SHF-derived lineages resulted in a more modest reduction in aortic diameters relative to the more complete effect of germline Agtr1a deletion, which was also associated with lower blood pressure. Our findings suggest that the therapeutic effects of AT1R antagonisms in preclinical models of aortic disease depend on both regional and systemic factors and suggest that combinatorial approaches targeting both processes may prove beneficial for aneurysm mitigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily E Bramel
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Predoctoral Training in Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Rustam Bagirzadeh
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Muzna Saqib
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Tyler J Creamer
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Wendy A Espinoza Camejo
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Predoctoral Training in Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - LaToya Ann Roker
- School of Medicine Microscope Facility, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | | | - Harry C Dietz
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD, United States
| | - Elena Gallo MacFarlane
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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16
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Humeres C, Venugopal H, Frangogiannis NG. Smad-dependent pathways in the infarcted and failing heart. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2022; 64:102207. [DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2022.102207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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17
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Muthu ML, Tiedemann K, Fradette J, Komarova S, Reinhardt DP. Fibrillin-1 regulates white adipose tissue development, homeostasis, and function. Matrix Biol 2022; 110:106-128. [DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2022.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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18
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Lim WW, Dong J, Ng B, Widjaja AA, Xie C, Su L, Kwek XY, Tee NGZ, Jian Pua C, Schafer S, Viswanathan S, Cook SA. Inhibition of IL11 Signaling Reduces Aortic Pathology in Murine Marfan Syndrome. Circ Res 2022; 130:728-740. [PMID: 35135328 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.121.320381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Marfan syndrome (MFS) is associated with TGF (transforming growth factor) β-stimulated ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase) activity in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), which adopt a mixed synthetic/contractile phenotype. In VSMCs, TGFβ induces IL (interleukin) 11) that stimulates ERK-dependent secretion of collagens and MMPs (matrix metalloproteinases). Here, we examined the role of IL11 in the MFS aorta. METHODS We used echocardiography, histology, immunostaining, and biochemical methods to study aortic anatomy, physiology, and molecular endophenotypes in Fbn1C1041G/+ mice, an established murine model of MFS (mMFS). mMFS mice were crossed to an IL11-tagged EGFP (enhanced green fluorescent protein; Il11EGFP/+) reporter strain or to a strain deleted for the IL11 receptor (Il11ra1-/-). In therapeutic studies, mMFS were administered an X209 (neutralizing antibody against IL11RA [IL11 receptor subunit alpha]) or IgG for 20 weeks and imaged longitudinally. RESULTS IL11 mRNA and protein were elevated in the aortas of mMFS mice, as compared to controls. mMFS mice crossed to Il11EGFP/+ mice had increased IL11 expression in VSMCs, notably in the aortic root and ascending aorta. As compared to the mMFS parental strain, double mutant mMFS:Il11ra1-/- mice had reduced aortic dilatation and exhibited lesser fibrosis, inflammation, elastin breaks, and VSMC loss, which was associated with reduced aortic COL1A1 (collagen type I alpha 1 chain), IL11, MMP2/9, and phospho-ERK expression. To explore therapeutic targeting of IL11 signaling in MFS, we administered either a neutralizing antibody against IL11RA (X209) or an IgG control. After 20 weeks of antibody administration, as compared to IgG, mMFS mice receiving X209 had reduced thoracic and abdominal aortic dilation as well as lesser fibrosis, inflammation, elastin breaks, and VSMC loss. By immunoblotting, X209 was shown to reduce aortic COL1A1, IL11, MMP2/9, and phospho-ERK expression. CONCLUSIONS In MFS, IL11 is upregulated in aortic VSMCs to cause ERK-related thoracic aortic dilatation, inflammation, and fibrosis. Therapeutic inhibition of IL11, imminent in clinical trials, might be considered as a new approach in MFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Wen Lim
- National Heart Research Institute Singapore, National Heart Centre Singapore, Singapore (W.-W.L., B.N., C.X., L.S., X.-Y.K., N.G.Z.T., C.J.P., S.S., S.A.C.).,Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Program, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School (W.-W.L., J.D., B.N., A.A.W., S.S., S.V., S.A.C.)
| | - Jinrui Dong
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Program, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School (W.-W.L., J.D., B.N., A.A.W., S.S., S.V., S.A.C.)
| | - Benjamin Ng
- National Heart Research Institute Singapore, National Heart Centre Singapore, Singapore (W.-W.L., B.N., C.X., L.S., X.-Y.K., N.G.Z.T., C.J.P., S.S., S.A.C.).,Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Program, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School (W.-W.L., J.D., B.N., A.A.W., S.S., S.V., S.A.C.)
| | - Anissa A Widjaja
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Program, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School (W.-W.L., J.D., B.N., A.A.W., S.S., S.V., S.A.C.)
| | - Chen Xie
- National Heart Research Institute Singapore, National Heart Centre Singapore, Singapore (W.-W.L., B.N., C.X., L.S., X.-Y.K., N.G.Z.T., C.J.P., S.S., S.A.C.)
| | - Liping Su
- National Heart Research Institute Singapore, National Heart Centre Singapore, Singapore (W.-W.L., B.N., C.X., L.S., X.-Y.K., N.G.Z.T., C.J.P., S.S., S.A.C.)
| | - Xiu-Yi Kwek
- National Heart Research Institute Singapore, National Heart Centre Singapore, Singapore (W.-W.L., B.N., C.X., L.S., X.-Y.K., N.G.Z.T., C.J.P., S.S., S.A.C.)
| | - Nicole G Z Tee
- National Heart Research Institute Singapore, National Heart Centre Singapore, Singapore (W.-W.L., B.N., C.X., L.S., X.-Y.K., N.G.Z.T., C.J.P., S.S., S.A.C.)
| | - Chee Jian Pua
- National Heart Research Institute Singapore, National Heart Centre Singapore, Singapore (W.-W.L., B.N., C.X., L.S., X.-Y.K., N.G.Z.T., C.J.P., S.S., S.A.C.)
| | - Sebastian Schafer
- National Heart Research Institute Singapore, National Heart Centre Singapore, Singapore (W.-W.L., B.N., C.X., L.S., X.-Y.K., N.G.Z.T., C.J.P., S.S., S.A.C.).,Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Program, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School (W.-W.L., J.D., B.N., A.A.W., S.S., S.V., S.A.C.)
| | - Sivakumar Viswanathan
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Program, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School (W.-W.L., J.D., B.N., A.A.W., S.S., S.V., S.A.C.)
| | - Stuart A Cook
- National Heart Research Institute Singapore, National Heart Centre Singapore, Singapore (W.-W.L., B.N., C.X., L.S., X.-Y.K., N.G.Z.T., C.J.P., S.S., S.A.C.).,Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Program, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School (W.-W.L., J.D., B.N., A.A.W., S.S., S.V., S.A.C.).,MRC-London Institute of Medical Sciences, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, United Kingdom (S.A.C.)
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19
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Sawada H, Beckner ZA, Ito S, Daugherty A, Lu HS. β-Aminopropionitrile-induced aortic aneurysm and dissection in mice. JVS Vasc Sci 2022; 3:64-72. [PMID: 35141570 PMCID: PMC8814647 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvssci.2021.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanistic basis for the formation of aortic aneurysms and dissection needs to be elucidated to facilitate the development of effective medications. β-Aminopropionitrile administration in mice has been used frequently to study the pathologic features and mechanisms of aortic aneurysm and dissection. This mouse model mimics several facets of the pathology of human aortic aneurysms and dissection, although many variables exist in the experimental design and protocols that must be resolved to determine its application to the human disease. In the present brief review, we have introduced the development of this mouse model and provided insights into understanding its pathologic features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hisashi Sawada
- Saha Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Ky
- Saha Aortic Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Ky
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Ky
| | - Zachary A. Beckner
- Saha Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Ky
- Saha Aortic Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Ky
| | - Sohei Ito
- Saha Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Ky
- Saha Aortic Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Ky
| | - Alan Daugherty
- Saha Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Ky
- Saha Aortic Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Ky
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Ky
| | - Hong S. Lu
- Saha Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Ky
- Saha Aortic Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Ky
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Ky
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20
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Xie X, Shirasu T, Guo LW, Kent KC. Smad2 inhibition of MET transcription potentiates human vascular smooth muscle cell apoptosis. Atheroscler Plus 2021; 44:31-42. [PMID: 35445204 PMCID: PMC9017589 DOI: 10.1016/j.athplu.2021.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Background: Vascular smooth muscle cell (SMC) apoptosis is involved in major cardiovascular diseases. Smad2 is a transcription factor implicated in aortic aneurysm. The molecular mediators of Smad2-driven SMC apoptosis are not well defined. Here we have identified a Smad2-directed mechanism involving MET and FAS, both encoding cell membrane signaling receptors. Methods and results: Guided by microarray analysis in human primary aortic SMCs, loss/gain-of-function (siRNA/overexpression) indicated that Smad2 negatively and positively regulated, respectively, the gene expression of Met which was identified herein as anti-apoptotic and that of Fas, a known pro-apoptotic factor. While co-immunoprecipitation suggested a physical association of Smad2 with p53, chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by quantitative PCR revealed their co-occupancy in the same region of the MET promoter. Activating p53 with nutlin3a further potentiated the suppression of MET promoter-dependent luciferase activity and the exacerbation of SMC apoptosis that were caused by Smad2 overexpression. These results indicated that Smad2 in SMCs repressed the transcription of MET by cooperating with p53, and that Smad2 also activated FAS, a target gene of its transcription factor activity. Conclusions: Our study suggests a pro-apoptotic mechanism in human SMCs, whereby Smad2 negatively and positively regulates MET and FAS, genes encoding anti-apoptotic and pro-apoptotic factors, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiujie Xie
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA
| | - Takuro Shirasu
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA
| | - Lian-Wang Guo
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA.,Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA
| | - K Craig Kent
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA
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21
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Chen JZ, Sawada H, Ye D, Katsumata Y, Kukida M, Ohno-Urabe S, Moorleghen JJ, Franklin MK, Howatt DA, Sheppard MB, Mullick AE, Lu HS, Daugherty A. Deletion of AT1a (Angiotensin II Type 1a) Receptor or Inhibition of Angiotensinogen Synthesis Attenuates Thoracic Aortopathies in Fibrillin1 C1041G/+ Mice. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2021; 41:2538-2550. [PMID: 34407634 PMCID: PMC8458261 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.121.315715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Objective: A cardinal feature of Marfan syndrome is thoracic aortic aneurysm. The contribution of the renin-angiotensin system via AT1aR (Ang II [angiotensin II] receptor type 1a) to thoracic aortic aneurysm progression remains controversial because the beneficial effects of angiotensin receptor blockers have been ascribed to off-target effects. This study used genetic and pharmacological modes of attenuating angiotensin receptor and ligand, respectively, to determine their roles on thoracic aortic aneurysm in mice with fibrillin-1 haploinsufficiency (Fbn1C1041G/+). Approach and Results: Thoracic aortic aneurysm in Fbn1C1041G/+ mice was found to be strikingly sexual dimorphic. Males displayed aortic dilation over 12 months while aortic dilation in Fbn1C1041G/+ females did not differ significantly from wild-type mice. To determine the role of AT1aR, Fbn1C1041G/+ mice that were either +/+ or -/- for AT1aR were generated. AT1aR deletion reduced expansion of ascending aorta and aortic root diameter from 1 to 12 months of age in males. Medial thickening and elastin fragmentation were attenuated. An antisense oligonucleotide against angiotensinogen was administered to male Fbn1C1041G/+ mice to determine the effects of Ang II depletion. Antisense oligonucleotide against angiotensinogen administration attenuated dilation of the ascending aorta and aortic root and reduced extracellular remodeling. Aortic transcriptome analyses identified potential targets by which inhibition of the renin-angiotensin system reduced aortic dilation in Fbn1C1041G/+ mice. Conclusions: Deletion of AT1aR or inhibition of Ang II production exerted similar effects in attenuating pathologies in the proximal thoracic aorta of male Fbn1C1041G/+ mice. Inhibition of the renin-angiotensin system attenuated dysregulation of genes within the aorta related to pathology of Fbn1C1041G/+ mice.
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MESH Headings
- Angiotensinogen/genetics
- Angiotensinogen/metabolism
- Animals
- Aorta, Thoracic/metabolism
- Aorta, Thoracic/pathology
- Aortic Aneurysm, Thoracic/genetics
- Aortic Aneurysm, Thoracic/metabolism
- Aortic Aneurysm, Thoracic/pathology
- Aortic Aneurysm, Thoracic/prevention & control
- Disease Models, Animal
- Female
- Fibrillin-1/genetics
- Fibrillin-1/metabolism
- Gene Deletion
- Genetic Predisposition to Disease
- Haploinsufficiency
- Male
- Marfan Syndrome/genetics
- Marfan Syndrome/metabolism
- Marfan Syndrome/pathology
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Knockout
- Oligonucleotides, Antisense/genetics
- Oligonucleotides, Antisense/metabolism
- Phenotype
- Receptor, Angiotensin, Type 1/deficiency
- Receptor, Angiotensin, Type 1/genetics
- Renin-Angiotensin System/genetics
- Sex Characteristics
- Sex Factors
- Transcriptome
- Mice
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeff Z. Chen
- Saha Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
- Saha Aortic Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| | - Hisashi Sawada
- Saha Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
- Saha Aortic Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| | - Dien Ye
- Saha Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
- Saha Aortic Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| | - Yuriko Katsumata
- Department Biostatistics, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| | - Masayoshi Kukida
- Saha Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
- Saha Aortic Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| | - Satoko Ohno-Urabe
- Saha Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
- Saha Aortic Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| | - Jessica J. Moorleghen
- Saha Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
- Saha Aortic Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| | - Michael K. Franklin
- Saha Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
- Saha Aortic Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| | - Deborah A. Howatt
- Saha Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
- Saha Aortic Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| | - Mary B. Sheppard
- Saha Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
- Saha Aortic Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
- Department of Surgery, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| | | | - Hong S. Lu
- Saha Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
- Saha Aortic Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| | - Alan Daugherty
- Saha Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
- Saha Aortic Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
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22
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Deleeuw V, De Clercq A, De Backer J, Sips P. An Overview of Investigational and Experimental Drug Treatment Strategies for Marfan Syndrome. J Exp Pharmacol 2021; 13:755-779. [PMID: 34408505 PMCID: PMC8366784 DOI: 10.2147/jep.s265271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a heritable connective tissue disorder caused by pathogenic variants in the gene coding for the extracellular matrix protein fibrillin-1. While the disease affects multiple organ systems, the most life-threatening manifestations are aortic aneurysms leading to dissection and rupture. Other cardiovascular complications, including mitral valve prolapse, primary cardiomyopathy, and arrhythmia, also occur more frequently in patients with MFS. The standard medical care relies on cardiovascular imaging at regular intervals, along with pharmacological treatment with β-adrenergic receptor blockers aimed at reducing the aortic growth rate. When aortic dilatation reaches a threshold associated with increased risk of dissection, prophylactic surgical aortic replacement is performed. Although current clinical management has significantly improved the life expectancy of patients with MFS, no cure is available and fatal complications still occur, underscoring the need for new treatment options. In recent years, preclinical studies have identified a number of potentially promising therapeutic targets. Nevertheless, the translation of these results into clinical practice has remained challenging. In this review, we present an overview of the currently available knowledge regarding the underlying pathophysiological processes associated with MFS cardiovascular pathology. We then summarize the treatment options that have been developed based on this knowledge and are currently in different stages of preclinical or clinical development, provide a critical review of the limitations of current studies and highlight potential opportunities for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Violette Deleeuw
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
| | - Adelbert De Clercq
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
| | - Julie De Backer
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, 9000, Belgium.,Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
| | - Patrick Sips
- Center for Medical Genetics, Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
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23
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Nettersheim FS, Lemties J, Braumann S, Geißen S, Bokredenghel S, Nies R, Hof A, Winkels H, Freeman BA, Klinke A, Rudolph V, Baldus S, Mehrkens D, Mollenhauer M, Adam M. Nitro-oleic acid (NO2-OA) reduces thoracic aortic aneurysm progression in a mouse model of Marfan syndrome. Cardiovasc Res 2021; 118:2211-2225. [PMID: 34324651 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvab256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a connective tissue disorder caused by mutations in the Fibrillin-1 gene. It is associated with formation of thoracic aortic aneurysms that can potentially be a life-threatening condition due to aortic rupture or dissection. Excessive non-canonical transforming growth factor beta signalling, mediated by activation of extracellular-signal regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2), as well as inducible nitric oxide synthase (NOS2)-dependent nitric oxide production have been identified to drive aortic pathology in MFS through induction of elastin fragmentation and smooth muscle cell apoptosis. Despite promising results in animal studies, specific pharmacological interventions approved for clinical use in patients with MFS-related aortic disease are rare. Nitro-oleic acid (NO2-OA) is an endogenously generated signalling modulator, which is available as an oral compound and has been shown to inhibit ERK1/2 activation and NOS2 expression in different disease models, thereby exerting promising therapeutic effects. In this study, we investigated whether NO2-OA decreases aortic dilation in MFS. METHODS AND RESULTS Eight-week-old MFS (Fbn1C1041G/+) mice were treated with NO2-OA or vehicle for four weeks via subcutaneously implanted osmotic minipumps. Echocardiography indicated progressive ascending aortic dilation and wall stiffening in MFS mice, which was significantly attenuated by NO2-OA treatment. This protective effect was mediated by inhibition of aortic ERK1/2, Smad2 as well as nuclear factor kappa B overactivation and consequent attenuation of elastin fragmentation by matrix metalloproteinase 2, apoptosis and collagen deposition. Critically, the therapeutic efficacy of NO2-OA in MFS was further emphasized by demonstrating its capability to reduce lethal aortic complications in Fbn1C1041G/+mice challenged with Angiotensin II. CONCLUSION NO2-OA distinctly attenuates progression of aortic dilation in MFS via modulation of well-established disease-mediating pathways, thereby meriting further investigation into its application as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of this condition. TRANSLATIONAL PERSPECTIVE Thoracic aortic aneurysm formation is the major life-threatening complication of Marfan syndrome, a relatively common genetic connective tissue disorder. Although various potential therapeutic targets have been identified, specific pharmacological treatment options are still unavailable. In this study, we demonstrate that Nitro-oleic acid reduces ascending aortic elastin fragmentation, apoptosis, and fibrotic remodelling in Marfan syndrome through inhibition of extracellular-signal regulated kinases 1/2, Smad2 as well as nuclear factor kappa B overactivation and thereby mitigates aneurysm formation. Thus, Nitro-oleic acid, which has been developed as an oral compound, emerges as a potential treatment option for Marfan-related aortic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Sebastian Nettersheim
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Julian Lemties
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Simon Braumann
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Simon Geißen
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Senai Bokredenghel
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Richard Nies
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Alexander Hof
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Holger Winkels
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Bruce A Freeman
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, USA
| | - Anna Klinke
- Agnes-Wittenborg-Institute, Department of General and Interventional Cardiology, Heart and Diabetes Center North Rhine-Westphalia, Bad Oeynhausen, Germany
| | - Volker Rudolph
- Agnes-Wittenborg-Institute, Department of General and Interventional Cardiology, Heart and Diabetes Center North Rhine-Westphalia, Bad Oeynhausen, Germany
| | - Stephan Baldus
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Dennis Mehrkens
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Martin Mollenhauer
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Matti Adam
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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24
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Andersen NH, Groth KA, Berglund A, Hove H, Gravholt CH, Stochholm K. Non-aortic cardiovascular disease in Marfan syndrome: a nationwide epidemiological study. Clin Res Cardiol 2021; 110:1106-15. [PMID: 33885997 DOI: 10.1007/s00392-021-01858-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Studies indicate that other cardiovascular problems than aortic disease are a burden for patients with Marfan syndrome (MFS). The aim of the study was to assess the extent of this issue. METHODS A registry-based population study of patients with a Ghent II verified MFS diagnosis. Each patient was matched with up to 100 controls on age and sex. From the Danish healthcare system, we identified 407 MFS patients (from 1977 to 2014) and their cardiovascular events and compared them with those in 40,700 controls. Total follow-up time was 16,439 person years. RESULTS Mitral valve disease was significantly more common in MFS [HR: 58.9 (CI 38.1-91.1)] and happened earlier and more often in women than men with MFS [age at first registration: 22 vs. 38 years, HR: 2.1 (CI 1.0-4.4)]. Heart failure/cardiomyopathy was also more common in MFS [HR: 8.7 (CI 5.7-13.4)] and men were more affected than women, and at younger age [39 vs. 64 years, HR: 0.18 (CI 0.06-0.55)]. In all cases, atrioventricular block [HR: 4.9 (1.5-15.6)] was related to heart surgery. Supraventricular [HR: 9.7 (CI 7.5-12.7)] and ventricular tachycardia [HR: 7.7 (CI 4.2-14.3)] also occurred more often than in the control group. The risk of sudden cardiac death was increased [HR: 8.3 (CI 3.8-18.0)] but the etiology was unclear due to lack of autopsies. CONCLUSION Non-aortic cardiovascular disease in patients with MFS is exceptionally prevalent and the range of diseases varies between women and men. Physicians caring for MFS patients must be aware of this large spectrum of cardiovascular diseases.
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25
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Wang W, Zhu Y, Sun Z, Jin C, Wang X. Positive feedback regulation between USP15 and ERK2 inhibits osteoarthritis progression through TGF-β/SMAD2 signaling. Arthritis Res Ther 2021; 23:84. [PMID: 33726807 PMCID: PMC7962367 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-021-02456-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling pathway plays an essential role in maintaining homeostasis in joints affected by osteoarthritis (OA). However, the specific mechanism of non-SMAD and classical SMAD signaling interactions is still unclear, which needs to be further explored. Methods In ATDC5 cells, USP15 overexpression and knockout were performed using the transfected lentivirus USP15 and Crispr/Cas9. Western blotting and immunofluorescence staining were used to test p-SMAD2 and cartilage phenotype-related molecular markers. In rat OA models, immunohistochemistry, hematoxylin and eosin (HE)/Safranin-O fast green staining, and histology were used to examine the regulatory activity of USP15 in TGF-β/SMAD2 signaling and the cartilage phenotype. Then, ERK2 overexpression and knockout were performed. The expressions of USP15, p-SMAD2, and the cartilage phenotype were evaluated in vitro and in vivo. To address whether USP15 is required for ERK2 and TGF-β/SMAD2 signaling, we performed rescue experiments in vitro and in vivo. Immunoprecipitation and deubiquitination assays were used to examine whether USP15 could bind to ERK2 and affect the deubiquitination of ERK2. Finally, whether USP15 regulates the level of p-ERK1/2 was evaluated by western blotting, immunofluorescence staining, and immunohistochemistry in vitro and in vivo. Results Our results indicated that USP15 stimulated TGF-β/SMAD2 signaling and the cartilage phenotype. Moreover, ERK2 required USP15 to influence TGF-β/SMAD2 signaling for regulating the cartilage phenotype in vivo and in vitro. And USP15 can form a complex with ERK2 to regulate ubiquitination of ERK2. Interestingly, USP15 did not regulate the stability of ERK2 but increased the level of p-ERK1/2 to further enhance the TGF-β/SMAD2 signaling pathway. Conclusions Taken together, our study revealed positive feedback regulation between USP15 and ERK2, which played a critical role in TGF-β/SMAD2 signaling to inhibit OA progression. Therefore, this specific mechanism can guide the clinical treatment of OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjuan Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orthopaedic Implants, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanhui Zhu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenyu Sun
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orthopaedic Implants, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chen Jin
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xiang Wang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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26
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Abstract
Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a complex connective tissue disease that is primarily characterized by cardiovascular, ocular and skeletal systems disorders. Despite its rarity, MFS severely impacts the quality of life of the patients. It has been shown that molecular genetic factors serve critical roles in the pathogenesis of MFS. FBN1 is associated with MFS and the other genes such as FBN2, transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) receptors (TGFBR1 and TGFBR2), latent TGF-β-binding protein 2 (LTBP2) and SKI, amongst others also have their associated syndromes, however high overlap may exist between these syndromes and MFS. Abnormalities in the TGF-β signaling pathway also contribute to the development of aneurysms in patients with MFS, although the detailed molecular mechanism remains unclear. Mutant FBN1 protein may cause unstableness in elastic structures, thereby perturbing the TGF-β signaling pathway, which regulates several processes in cells. Additionally, DNA methylation of FBN1 and histone acetylation in an MFS mouse model demonstrated that epigenetic factors play a regulatory role in MFS. The purpose of the present review is to provide an up-to-date understanding of MFS-related genes and relevant assessment technologies, with the aim of laying a foundation for the early diagnosis, consultation and treatment of MFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiu Du
- Marfan Research Group, College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan, China
| | - Dingding Zhang
- Marfan Research Group, College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan, China.,Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Disease, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 611731, Sichuan, China
| | - Yue Zhuang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 611731, Sichuan, China
| | - Qiongrong Xia
- Marfan Research Group, College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan, China
| | - Taishen Wen
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Disease, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 611731, Sichuan, China
| | - Haiping Jia
- Department of Immunology, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, 637100, Sichuan, China
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27
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Tashima Y, He H, Cui JZ, Pedroza AJ, Nakamura K, Yokoyama N, Iosef C, Burdon G, Koyano T, Yamaguchi A, Fischbein MP. Androgens Accentuate TGF-β Dependent Erk/Smad Activation During Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm Formation in Marfan Syndrome Male Mice. J Am Heart Assoc 2020; 9:e015773. [PMID: 33059492 PMCID: PMC7763370 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.119.015773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Background Male patients with Marfan syndrome have a higher risk of aortic events and root dilatation compared with females. The role androgens play during Marfan syndrome aneurysm development in males remains unknown. We hypothesized that androgens potentiate transforming growth factor beta induced Erk (extracellular-signal-regulated kinase)/Smad activation, contributing to aneurysm progression in males. Methods and Results Aortic diameters in Fbn1C1039G/+ and littermate wild-type controls were measured at ages 6, 8, 12, and 16 weeks. Fbn1C1039G/+ males were treated with (1) flutamide (androgen receptor blocker) or (2) vehicle control from age 6 to 16 weeks and then euthanized. p-Erk1/2, p-Smad2, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity were measured in ascending/aortic root and descending aorta specimens. Fbn1C1039G/+ male and female ascending/aortic root-derived smooth muscle cells were utilized in vitro to measure Erk/Smad activation and MMP-2 activity following dihydrotestosterone, flutamide or transforming growth factor beta 1 treatment. Fbn1C1039G/+ males have increased aneurysm growth. p-Erk1/2 and p-Smad2 were elevated in ascending/aortic root specimens at age 16 weeks. Corresponding with enhanced Erk/Smad signaling, MMP-2 activity was higher in Fbn1C1039G/+ males. In vitro smooth muscle cell studies revealed that dihydrotestosterone potentiates transforming growth factor beta-induced Erk/Smad activation and MMP-2 activity, which is reversed by flutamide treatment. Finally, in vivo flutamide treatment reduced aneurysm growth via p-Erk1/2 and p-Smad2 reduction in Fbn1C1039G/+ males. Conclusions Fbn1C1039G/+ males have enhanced aneurysm growth compared with females associated with enhanced p-Erk1/2 and p-Smad2 activation. Mechanistically, in vitro smooth muscle cell studies suggested that dihydrotestosterone potentiates transforming growth factor beta induced Erk/Smad activation. As biological proof of concept, flutamide treatment attenuated aneurysm growth and p-Erk1/2 and p-Smad2 signaling in Fbn1C1039G/+ males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasushi Tashima
- Department of Cardiothoracic SurgeryStanford UniversityStanfordCA
- Department of Cardiovascular SurgeryJichi Medical UniversitySaitama Medical CenterSaitamaJapan
| | - Hao He
- Department of Cardiothoracic SurgeryStanford UniversityStanfordCA
| | - Jason Z. Cui
- Department of Cardiothoracic SurgeryStanford UniversityStanfordCA
| | | | - Ken Nakamura
- Department of Cardiothoracic SurgeryStanford UniversityStanfordCA
| | - Nobu Yokoyama
- Department of Cardiothoracic SurgeryStanford UniversityStanfordCA
| | - Cristiana Iosef
- Department of Cardiothoracic SurgeryStanford UniversityStanfordCA
| | - Grayson Burdon
- Department of Cardiothoracic SurgeryStanford UniversityStanfordCA
| | - Tiffany Koyano
- Department of Cardiothoracic SurgeryStanford UniversityStanfordCA
| | - Atsushi Yamaguchi
- Department of Cardiovascular SurgeryJichi Medical UniversitySaitama Medical CenterSaitamaJapan
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28
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole K Anderson
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine and Howard Hughes Medical Institute Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Baltimore MD
| | - Emily E Juzwiak
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine and Howard Hughes Medical Institute Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Baltimore MD
| | - Harry C Dietz
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine and Howard Hughes Medical Institute Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Baltimore MD
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