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Ji B, Liu J, Ma Y, Yin Y, Xu H, Shen Q, Yu J. Minnelide Markedly Reduces Proteinuria in Mice with Adriamycin Nephropathy by Protecting Against Podocyte Injury. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2023; 195:7379-7396. [PMID: 37000351 PMCID: PMC10754751 DOI: 10.1007/s12010-023-04333-z] [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] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
Minimal change disease (MCD) is the most common cause of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome in children. The current major therapy is hormones for most steroid-sensitive patients. However, many patients have recurrent relapses of the disease and require long-term immunosuppression, leading to significant morbidity due to the side effects of the drugs. Therefore, better drugs need to be urgently explored to treat nephrotic syndrome while avoiding the side effects of drugs. Minnelide, a water-soluble prodrug of triptolide, has been proved to be effective in treating cancers in many clinical trials. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effect of minnelide in mice with adriamycin (ADR) nephropathy, its underlying protection mechanisms, and its reproductive toxicity. Minnelide was administered intraperitoneally to 6-8-week female mice with adriamycin nephropathy for 2 weeks, and the urine, blood, and kidney tissues were taken to analyze the therapeutic effect. In addition, we evaluated reproductive toxicity by measuring the levels of gonadal hormones and observing the histological changes in ovaries and testes. Primary mouse podocytes were exposed to puromycin (PAN) to damage the cytoskeleton and induce apoptosis, and then, triptolide was used to evaluate the therapeutic effect and underlying protection mechanisms in vitro. It was observed that minnelide dramatically alleviated proteinuria and apoptosis in mice with adriamycin nephropathy. In vitro, triptolide ameliorated puromycin-induced cytoskeletal rearrangement and apoptosis via reactive oxygen species-mediated mitochondrial pathway. In addition, minnelide caused no reproductive toxicity to male and female mice. The results suggested that minnelide might be a promising drug for nephrotic syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baowei Ji
- Department of Nephrology, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Junchao Liu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanli Ma
- Department of Nephrology, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ye Yin
- Department of Nephrology, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Xu
- Department of Nephrology, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Qian Shen
- Department of Nephrology, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Yu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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2
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Xue Z, Li Y, Zhou M, Liu Z, Fan G, Wang X, Zhu Y, Yang J. Traditional Herbal Medicine Discovery for the Treatment and Prevention of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:720873. [PMID: 34899290 PMCID: PMC8660120 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.720873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is characterized by pulmonary artery remodeling that may subsequently culminate in right heart failure and premature death. Although there are currently both non-pharmacological (lung transplantation, etc.) and pharmacological (Sildenafil, Bosentan, and new oral drugs on trial) therapies available, PAH remains a serious and fatal pulmonary disease. As a unique medical treatment, traditional herbal medicine (THM) treatment has gradually exerted its advantages in treating PAH worldwide through a multi-level and multi-target approach. Additionally, the potential mechanisms of THM were deciphered, including suppression of proliferation and apoptosis of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells, controlling the processes of inflammation and oxidative stress, and regulating vasoconstriction and ion channels. In this review, the effects and mechanisms of the frequently studied compound THM, single herbal preparations, and multiple active components from THM are comprehensively summarized, as well as their related mechanisms on several classical preclinical PAH models. It is worth mentioning that sodium tanshinone IIA sulfonate sodium and tetramethylpyrazine are under clinical trials and are considered the most promoting medicines for PAH treatment. Last, reverse pharmacology, a strategy to discover THM or THM-derived components, has also been proposed here for PAH. This review discusses the current state of THM, their working mechanisms against PAH, and prospects of reverse pharmacology, which are expected to facilitate the natural anti-PAH medicine discovery and development and its bench-to-bedside transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhifeng Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,Research and Development Center of TCM, Tianjin International Joint Academy of Biotechnology and Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yixuan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,Research and Development Center of TCM, Tianjin International Joint Academy of Biotechnology and Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Mengen Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,Research and Development Center of TCM, Tianjin International Joint Academy of Biotechnology and Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhidong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,Engineering Research Center of Modern Chinese Medicine Discovery and Preparation Technique, Ministry of Education, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Guanwei Fan
- Medical Experiment Center, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin Laboratory of Translational Research of TCM Prescription and Syndrome, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaoying Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,Research and Development Center of TCM, Tianjin International Joint Academy of Biotechnology and Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Jian Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,Research and Development Center of TCM, Tianjin International Joint Academy of Biotechnology and Medicine, Tianjin, China
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Rampa DR, Murugesan P, Chao H, Feng H, Dai W, Lee D, Pekcec A, Doods H, Wu D. Reversal of pulmonary arterial hypertension and neointimal formation by kinin B1 receptor blockade. Respir Res 2021; 22:281. [PMID: 34717626 PMCID: PMC8557528 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-021-01875-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [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: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This study examined whether BI113823, a novel selective kinin B1 receptor antagonist can reverse established pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), prevent right heart failure and death, which is critical for clinical translation. Methods Left pneumonectomized male Wistar rats were injected with monocrotaline to induce PAH. Three weeks later, when PAH was well established, the rats received daily treatment of BI113823 or vehicle for 3 weeks. Results Treatment with BI113823 from day 21 to day 42 after monocrotaline injection reversed established PAH as shown by normalized values of mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP). BI113823 therapy reversed pulmonary vascular remodeling, pulmonary arterial neointimal formation, and heart and lung fibrosis, reduced right ventricular pressure, right heart hypertrophy, improved cardiac output, and prevented right heart failure and death. Treatment with BI113823 reduced TNF-α and IL-1β, and macrophages recruitment in bronchoalveolar lavage, reduced CD-68 positive macrophages and expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) in the perivascular areas, and reduced expression of iNOS, B1 receptors, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 proteins, and the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and AKT in lung. Treatment with BI113823 reduced mRNA expression of ANP, BNP, βMHC, CGTF, collange-I and IV in right heart, compared to vehicle treated controls. In human monocytes cultures, BI113823 reduced LPS-induced TNF-α production, MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression, and reduced TNF-α-induced monocyte migration. Conclusions We conclude that BI113823 reverses preexisting severe experimental pulmonary hypertension via inhibition of macrophage infiltration, cytokine production, as well as down regulation of matrix metalloproteinase proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dileep Reddy Rampa
- Department of Bio-Nanotechnology and Bio-Convergence Engineering, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea
| | - Priya Murugesan
- Department of Bio-Nanotechnology and Bio-Convergence Engineering, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea
| | - Honglu Chao
- Department of Neurosurgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Huiying Feng
- Department of Bio-Nanotechnology and Bio-Convergence Engineering, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea.,Department of Research, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, FL, USA
| | - Wenxin Dai
- Department of Bio-Nanotechnology and Bio-Convergence Engineering, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea
| | - Dongwon Lee
- Department of Bio-Nanotechnology and Bio-Convergence Engineering, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea
| | - Anton Pekcec
- Research Beyond Borders, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach, Germany
| | - Henri Doods
- Research Beyond Borders, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach, Germany
| | - Dongmei Wu
- Department of Bio-Nanotechnology and Bio-Convergence Engineering, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea. .,Department of Research, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, FL, USA.
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Chen IC, Lin JY, Liu YC, Chai CY, Yeh JL, Hsu JH, Wu BN, Dai ZK. Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 Activator Ameliorates Severe Pulmonary Hypertension in a Rat Model of Left Pneumonectomy Combined With VEGF Inhibition. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:619133. [PMID: 33681251 PMCID: PMC7933511 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.619133] [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: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a life-threatening and deteriorating disease with no promising therapy available currently due to its diversity and complexity. An imbalance between vasoconstriction and vasodilation has been proposed as the mechanism of PAH. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), which catalyzes the hydrolysis of the vasoconstrictor angiotensin (Ang) II into the vasodilator Ang-(1-7), has been shown to be an important regulator of blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases. Herein we hypothesized diminazene aceturate (DIZE), an ACE2 activator, could ameliorate the development of PAH and pulmonary vascular remodeling. Methods: A murine model of PAH was established using left pneumonectomy (PNx) on day 0 followed by injection of a single dose of the VEGF receptor-2 inhibitor SU5416 (25 mg/kg) subcutaneously on day 1. All hemodynamic and biochemical measurements were done at the end of the study on day 42. Animals were divided into 4 groups (n = 6–8/group): (1) sham-operated group, (2) vehicle-treatment group (SuPNx42), (3) early treatment group (SuPNx42/DIZE1−42) with DIZE at 15 mg/kg/day, subcutaneously from day 1 to day 42, and (4) late treatment group (SuPNx42/DIZE29−42) with DIZE from days 29–42. Results: In both the early and late treatment groups, DIZE significantly attenuated the mean pulmonary artery pressure, pulmonary arteriolar remodeling, and right ventricle brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), as well as reversed the overexpression of ACE while up-regulating the expression of Ang-(1-7) when compared with the vehicle-treatment group. In addition, the early treatment group also significantly decreased plasma BNP and increased the expression of eNOS. Conclusions: ACE2 activator has therapeutic potentials for preventing and attenuating the development of PAH in an animal model of left pneumonectomy combined with VEGF inhibition. Activation of ACE2 may thus be a useful therapeutic strategy for the treatment of human PAH.
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Affiliation(s)
- I-Chen Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,College of Medicine, Graduate Institute of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Jao-Yu Lin
- Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ching Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chee-Yin Chai
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Jwu-Lai Yeh
- College of Medicine, Graduate Institute of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Jong-Hau Hsu
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Bin-Nan Wu
- College of Medicine, Graduate Institute of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Zen-Kong Dai
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,College of Medicine, Graduate Institute of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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5
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Zheng W, Wang Z, Jiang X, Zhao Q, Shen J. Targeted Drugs for Treatment of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Past, Present, and Future Perspectives. J Med Chem 2020; 63:15153-15186. [PMID: 33314936 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a devastating disease that can lead to right ventricular failure and premature death. Although approved drugs have been shown to be safe and effective, PAH remains a severe clinical condition, and the long-term survival of patients with PAH is still suboptimal. Thus, potential therapeutic targets and new agents to treat PAH are urgently needed. In recent years, a variety of related pathways and potential therapeutic targets have been found, which brings new hope for PAH therapy. In this perspective, not only are the marketed drugs used to treat PAH summarized but also the recently developed novel pharmaceutical therapies currently in clinical trials are discussed. Furthermore, the advances in natural products as potential treatment for PAH are also updated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zheng
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Pharmacy, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhen Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xiangrui Jiang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Qingjie Zhao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jingshan Shen
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Pharmacy, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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6
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Yuan K, Li X, Lu Q, Zhu Q, Jiang H, Wang T, Huang G, Xu A. Application and Mechanisms of Triptolide in the Treatment of Inflammatory Diseases-A Review. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:1469. [PMID: 31866868 PMCID: PMC6908995 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.01469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Bioactive compounds from medicinal plants with anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects have been emerging as important sources of drugs for the treatment of inflammatory disorders. Triptolide, a diterpene triepoxide, is a pharmacologically active compound isolated from Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F (TwHF) that is used as a remedy for inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. As the most promising bioactive compound obtained from TwHF, triptolide has attracted considerable interest recently, especially for its potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive activities. Over the past few years, an increasing number of studies have been published emphasizing the value of triptolide in the treatment of diverse inflammatory disorders. Here, we systematically review the mechanism of action and the therapeutic properties of triptolide in various inflammatory diseases according to different systematic organs, including lupus nephritis, inflammatory bowel disease, asthma, and rheumatoid arthritis with pubmed and Embase. Based on this review, potential research strategies might contribute to the clinical application of triptolide in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Yuan
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohong Li
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Qingyi Lu
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Qingqing Zhu
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Haixu Jiang
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Beijing Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Guangrui Huang
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Anlong Xu
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, China
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Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a severe disease characterized by
progressive remodeling of distal pulmonary arteries and persistent elevation of
pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR), which leads to right ventricular
dysfunction, heart failure, and eventually death. Although treatment
responsiveness for this disease is improving, it continues to be a
life-threatening condition. With the clinical efficacy of natural plant products
being fully confirmed by years of practice, more and more recognition and
attention have been obtained from the international pharmaceutical industry.
Moreover, studies over the past decades have demonstrated that drugs derived
from natural plants show unique advantages and broad application prospects in
PAH treatment, not to mention the historical application of Chinese traditional
medicine in cardiopulmonary diseases. In this review, we focus on summarizing
natural plant compounds with therapeutic properties in PAH, according to the
extracts, fractions, and pure compounds from plants into categories, hoping it
to be helpful for basic research and clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Xiang
- 1 Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ying Li
- 2 Department of Health Management, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,3 Hunan Key Laboratory for Bioanalysis of Complex Matrix Samples, Changsha, China
| | - Xu Deng
- 4 Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Djuro Kosanovic
- 5 Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), Member of the German Center for Lung Research, Giessen, Germany
| | - Ralph Theo Schermuly
- 5 Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), Member of the German Center for Lung Research, Giessen, Germany
| | - Xiaohui Li
- 1 Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China.,3 Hunan Key Laboratory for Bioanalysis of Complex Matrix Samples, Changsha, China
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8
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Yang B, Yan P, Yang GZ, Cao HL, Wang F, Li B. Triptolide reduces ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats and H9C2 cells via inhibition of NF‑κB, ROS and the ERK1/2 pathway. Int J Mol Med 2018; 41:3127-3136. [PMID: 29512681 PMCID: PMC5881718 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2018.3537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [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: 06/22/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) induces cardiac cell injury; however, the mechanism underlying cardiac damage remains unclear. A previous study demonstrated that triptolide (TP) exerts protective effects against I/R in cerebral cells. The present study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of TP on cardiac cells, and investigated the potential mechanisms involved in I/R‑induced damage. Rats and cardiac H9C2 cells undergoing I/R were pretreated with TP, and cell damage was assessed in vivo and in vitro. Hematoxylin and eosin and terminal deoxynucleotidyl‑transferase‑mediated dUTP nick end labeling staining were employed to evaluate I/R injury in rat cardiac tissue. Inflammatory factors, including tumor necrosis factor‑α, interleukin (IL)‑1β and IL‑6, were detected by ELISA. Biochemical analyses were performed to evaluate the bioactivity of superoxide dismutase, malondialdehyde and catalase. In addition, viability of H9C2 cells was measured using the Cell Counting kit 8 assay. Flow cytometry was used to evaluate cell apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Furthermore, the expression levels of proteins associated with apoptosis, peroxide and inflammation were measured using western blot analysis. H9C2 cells were also treated with N‑acetylcysteine and pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate, and cell injury was assessed after peroxidation or I/R. The results demonstrated that TP exerted a significant protective effect on cardiac cells in vivo and in vitro. TP reduced the inflammatory response, as determined by nuclear factor‑κB inhibition. In addition, TP decreased ROS‑mediated lipid peroxidation, and reduced ROS generation. TP also inhibited cell apoptosis by activating the extracellular signal‑regulated kinase 1/2 pathway. In conclusion, TP may protect cardiac cells from I/R injury; the potential protective mechanisms of TP against I/R include anti‑inflammatory action, antioxidation and apoptotic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Yang
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030001, P.R. China
| | - Ping Yan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030001, P.R. China
| | - Guang-Zhao Yang
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030012, P.R. China
| | - Hui-Li Cao
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Shanxi Cardiovascular Hospital, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030024, P.R. China
| | - Fei Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Shanxi Cardiovascular Hospital, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030024, P.R. China
| | - Bao Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030001, P.R. China
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9
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Yin J, You S, Liu H, Chen L, Zhang C, Hu H, Xue M, Cheng W, Wang Y, Li X, Shi Y, Li N, Yan S, Li X. Role of P2X 7R in the development and progression of pulmonary hypertension. Respir Res 2017. [PMID: 28646872 PMCID: PMC5483271 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-017-0603-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [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] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a devastating disease that lacks sufficient treatment. Studies have shown that the Nod-like receptor family, pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome contributes to PAH pathogenesis, but the role of the upstream molecular P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) has remained unexplored. We investigated the role of P2X7R in the pathogenesis of PAH. METHODS AND RESULTS PH was induced by a single subcutaneous injection of monocrotaline (MCT) (60 mg/kg) on left pneumonectomised Sprague-Dawley rats, as validated by significant increases in pulmonary artery pressure and vessel wall thickness. Marked P2X7R was detected by predominant PA immunostaining in lungs from PH rats. Western blot revealed a significant increase in the protein levels of P2X7R as well as NLRP3 and caspase-1 in the diseased lung tissue compared with normal tissue. The rats received A-740003 (a selective P2X7 receptor antagonist, 30 mg/kg) daily starting from 1 week before or 2 weeks after MCT injection. Consequently, A-740003 reversed the NLRP3 inflammasome upregulation, significantly decreased the mean right ventricular (RV) pressure and RV hypertrophy, and reversed pulmonary arterial remodelling 4 weeks after MCT injection, as both a pretreatment and rescue intervention. Notably, A-740003 significantly reduced macrophage and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, as measured via bronchoalveolar lavage. The recruitment of macrophages as well as collagen fibre deposition in the perivascular areas were also reduced, as confirmed by histological staining. CONCLUSIONS P2X7R contributes to the pathogenesis of PH, probably in association with activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Blockade of P2X7R might be applied as a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of PAH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Yin
- Department of Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, No. 16766 Jingshi Road, Lixia District, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Shuling You
- Adicon Company, Department of Pathology, Wangkai Infectious Diseases Hospital of Zaozhuang City, Zaozhuang, Shandong Province, China
| | - Haopeng Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhangqiu People Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Li Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Chengdong Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Hesheng Hu
- Department of Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, No. 16766 Jingshi Road, Lixia District, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Mei Xue
- Department of Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, No. 16766 Jingshi Road, Lixia District, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Wenjuan Cheng
- Department of Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, No. 16766 Jingshi Road, Lixia District, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Ye Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, No. 16766 Jingshi Road, Lixia District, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xinran Li
- Department of Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, No. 16766 Jingshi Road, Lixia District, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yugen Shi
- Department of Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, No. 16766 Jingshi Road, Lixia District, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Nannan Li
- Department of Emergency, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 16766 Jingshi Road, Lixia District, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Suhua Yan
- Department of Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, No. 16766 Jingshi Road, Lixia District, Jinan, Shandong Province, China.
| | - Xiaolu Li
- Department of Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, No. 16766 Jingshi Road, Lixia District, Jinan, Shandong Province, China. .,Department of Emergency, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China.
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10
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Ding YY, Li JM, Guo FJ, Liu Y, Tong YF, Pan XC, Lu XL, Ye W, Chen XH, Zhang HG. Triptolide Upregulates Myocardial Forkhead Helix Transcription Factor p3 Expression and Attenuates Cardiac Hypertrophy. Front Pharmacol 2016; 7:471. [PMID: 27965581 PMCID: PMC5127789 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2016.00471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2016] [Accepted: 11/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The forkhead/winged helix transcription factor (Fox) p3 can regulate the expression of various genes, and it has been reported that the transfer of Foxp3-positive T cells could ameliorate cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis. Triptolide (TP) can elevate the expression of Foxp3, but its effects on cardiac hypertrophy remain unclear. In the present study, neonatal rat ventricular myocytes (NRVM) were isolated and stimulated with angiotensin II (1 μmol/L) to induce hypertrophic response. The expression of Foxp3 in NRVM was observed by using immunofluorescence assay. Fifty mice were randomly divided into five groups and received vehicle (control), isoproterenol (Iso, 5 mg/kg, s.c.), one of three doses of TP (10, 30, or 90 μg/kg, i.p.) for 14 days, respectively. The pathological morphology changes were observed after Hematoxylin and eosin, lectin and Masson's trichrome staining. The levels of serum brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and troponin I were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and chemiluminescence, respectively. The mRNA and protein expressions of α- myosin heavy chain (MHC), β-MHC and Foxp3 were determined using real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry, respectively. It was shown that TP (1, 3, 10 μg/L) treatment significantly decreased cell size, mRNA and protein expression of β-MHC, and upregulated Foxp3 expression in NRVM. TP also decreased heart weight index, left ventricular weight index and, improved myocardial injury and fibrosis; and decreased the cross-scetional area of the myocardium, serum cardiac troponin and BNP. Additionally, TP markedly reduced the mRNA and protein expression of myocardial β-MHC and elevated the mRNA and protein expression of α-MHC and Foxp3 in a dose-dependent manner. In conclusion, TP can effectively ameliorate myocardial damage and inhibit cardiac hypertrophy, which is at least partly related to the elevation of Foxp3 expression in cardiomyocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Yuan Ding
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Third Military Medical University Chongqing, China
| | - Jing-Mei Li
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Third Military Medical University Chongqing, China
| | - Feng-Jie Guo
- The People's Liberation Army No. 309 Hospital Beijing, China
| | - Ya Liu
- Institute of Materia Medica and Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Third Military Medical University Chongqing, China
| | - Yang-Fei Tong
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Third Military Medical UniversityChongqing, China; Department of Pharmacy, Chongqing Traditional Medicine HospitalChongqing, China
| | - Xi-Chun Pan
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Third Military Medical University Chongqing, China
| | - Xiao-Lan Lu
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Third Military Medical UniversityChongqing, China; Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical CollegeNanchong, China
| | - Wen Ye
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Third Military Medical University Chongqing, China
| | - Xiao-Hong Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Third Military Medical University Chongqing, China
| | - Hai-Gang Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Third Military Medical University Chongqing, China
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Abstract
Natural products have been an important source of new drugs, which also played a dominant role in the discovery and research of new drugs for the treatment of hypertension. This review article reviews the recent progress in the research and development of natural lead compounds with antihypertensive activity, including alkaloids, diterpenes, coumarins, flavonoids, and peptides. We summarized their structures, sources, as well as the antihypertensive mechanisms. These information provides instructive reference for the following structural modifications and optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ren-Ren Bai
- School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta 30322, GA, USA; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xiao-Ming Wu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Jin-Yi Xu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China; State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
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12
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Abstract
Triptolide, derived from the traditional Chinese herb, Tripterygium wilfordii, sensitizes cancer cells to apoptosis. Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), which accounts for most cases of central nervous malignancy, has a very poor prognosis and lacks effective therapeutic inventions. We, therefore, investigated the effects of different concentrations of, and different periods of exposure to, triptolide on cell proliferation and apoptosis in the glioma cell lines, U251MG and U87MG, and in normal human fetal astrocytes. Cell proliferation was investigated by MTT (3-[4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay and growth curve analysis, and apoptosis was assessed from genomic DNA fragmentation. Triptolide showed dose-dependent inhibition of cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis in glioma cells. It also increased the ratio of the pro-apoptotic protein, Bax, to the anti-apoptotic protein, Bcl-2. Since U87MG has the wild-type p53 gene whereas U251MG harbours a mutated p53 gene, our results indicate that triptolide induces apoptosis in GBM cells via a p53-independent pathway. The dose-dependent inhibition of cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis by triptolide may involve upregulation of Bax and downregulation of Bcl-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Lin
- College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China.
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13
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Abstract
This study investigated the effect of triptolide, derived from the traditional Chinese herb Tripterygium wilfordii, on the growth of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) cells. Glioma cell lines U251MG and U87MG and normal human fetal astrocytes were exposed to various concentrations of triptolide, and 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium and colony formation assays were used to measure cell growth and survival. Cell apoptosis was determined using annexin V. Levels of the oncogenic transformation-related proteins Ras-guanosine triphosphate (Ras-GTP), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and Akt were determined by Western blotting. Triptolide caused a dose-dependent decrease in proliferation and increase in apoptosis in the glioma cell lines. Since U87MG has a wildtype p53 gene while U251MG harbours a mutated p53 gene, these results indicate that triptolide induces apoptosis in GBM cells via a p53-independent pathway. Treatment of GBM cells with triptolide attenuated both the Ras/ERK and the Ras/Akt signalling pathways. This could provide a theoretical basis for triptolide treatment in GBM, but further animal studies and clinical research are necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Lin
- College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Jiaotong University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
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Nakata TM, Tanaka R, Yoshiyuki R, Fukayama T, Goya S, Fukushima R. Effects of Single Drug and Combined Short-term Administration of Sildenafil, Pimobendan, and Nicorandil on Right Ventricular Function in Rats With Monocrotaline-induced Pulmonary Hypertension. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2015; 65:640-8. [PMID: 25806612 DOI: 10.1097/FJC.0000000000000236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This study was designed to assess the progression of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and the effectiveness of therapy using recently investigated echocardiographic parameters. PAH is characterized by the progressive elevation of pulmonary artery pressure and right ventricular hypertrophy and dysfunction, which ultimately results in right-sided heart failure and death. Echocardiography results and invasive measurements of right and left ventricular systolic pressures were compared after 3-week administrations of sildenafil (S group), pimobendan (P group), nicorandil (N group), and their combinations (SP and SPN groups) in male rats with monocrotaline (MCT)-induced pulmonary hypertension (M group) and without this condition (C group). The groups that received pimobendan alone and in combinations (SP and SPN groups) showed improvement in their echocardiographic parameters of systolic function. A significant improvement of diastolic function was achieved in the SPN group. Invasive measurements showed the most significant decreases of right ventricular systolic pressure in the N and SPN groups, and the use of pimobendan resulted in a comparatively low risk of adverse hemodynamic effects (left ventricular systolic pressure). Although our results suggested the attenuation of PAH severity in all treatment groups, PAH could not be reversed.
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15
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Murugesan P, Hildebrandt T, Bernlöhr C, Lee D, Khang G, Doods H, Wu D. Inhibition of kinin B1 receptors attenuates pulmonary hypertension and vascular remodeling. Hypertension 2015; 66:906-12. [PMID: 26303291 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.115.05338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2015] [Accepted: 08/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
This study examined whether the kinin B1 receptor is involved in the pathogenesis of pulmonary hypertension, and whether its inhibition could reduce inflammation, pulmonary hypertension, vascular remodeling, and right heart dysfunction. Male Wistar rats underwent left pneumonectomy. Seven days later, the rats were injected subcutaneously with monocrotaline (60 mg/kg). The rats were then randomly assigned to receive treatment with vehicle or with BI113823 (a selective B1 receptor antagonist, 30 mg/kg, twice per day) via oral gavage from the day of monocrotaline injection to day 28. By day 28, BI113823-treated rats had significantly lower mean pulmonary artery pressure, less right ventricular hypertrophy, and pulmonary arterial neointimal formation than that of the vehicle-treated rats. Real-time polymerase chain reaction revealed that there was a significant increase in mRNA expression of B1 receptors in the lungs of monocrotaline-challenged pneumonectomized rats. Treatment with BI113823 significantly reduced macrophage recruitment, as measured via bronchoalveolar lavage. It also markedly reduced CD-68 positive macrophages and proliferating cell nuclear antigen positive cells in the perivascular areas, reduced expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase, matrix metalloproteinase 2 and 9, and B1 receptors compared with measurements in vehicle-treated rats. These findings demonstrate that kinin B1 receptors represent a novel therapeutic target for pulmonary arterial hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priya Murugesan
- Department of BIN Fusion Technology, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea (P.M., D.L., G.K., D.W.); Department of Respiratory Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach, Germany (T.H., C.B., H.D.); and Department of Research, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, FL (D.W.)
| | - Tobias Hildebrandt
- Department of BIN Fusion Technology, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea (P.M., D.L., G.K., D.W.); Department of Respiratory Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach, Germany (T.H., C.B., H.D.); and Department of Research, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, FL (D.W.)
| | - Christian Bernlöhr
- Department of BIN Fusion Technology, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea (P.M., D.L., G.K., D.W.); Department of Respiratory Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach, Germany (T.H., C.B., H.D.); and Department of Research, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, FL (D.W.)
| | - Dongwon Lee
- Department of BIN Fusion Technology, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea (P.M., D.L., G.K., D.W.); Department of Respiratory Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach, Germany (T.H., C.B., H.D.); and Department of Research, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, FL (D.W.)
| | - Gilson Khang
- Department of BIN Fusion Technology, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea (P.M., D.L., G.K., D.W.); Department of Respiratory Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach, Germany (T.H., C.B., H.D.); and Department of Research, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, FL (D.W.)
| | - Henri Doods
- Department of BIN Fusion Technology, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea (P.M., D.L., G.K., D.W.); Department of Respiratory Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach, Germany (T.H., C.B., H.D.); and Department of Research, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, FL (D.W.)
| | - Dongmei Wu
- Department of BIN Fusion Technology, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea (P.M., D.L., G.K., D.W.); Department of Respiratory Diseases Research, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach, Germany (T.H., C.B., H.D.); and Department of Research, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, FL (D.W.).
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16
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Jin XQ, Ye F, Zhang JJ, Zhao Y, Zhou XL. Triptolide attenuates cerebral ischemia and reperfusion injury in rats through the inhibition the nuclear factor kappa B signaling pathway. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2015; 11:1395-403. [PMID: 26082636 PMCID: PMC4461131 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s82052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation plays critical roles in the acute progression of the pathology of ischemic injury. Previous studies have shown that triptolide interferes with a number of pro-inflammatory mechanisms. In this study, we investigated whether triptolide has protective effects during acute cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. Male Sprague Dawley rats received triptolide or vehicle at the onset of reperfusion following middle cerebral artery occlusion. Twenty-four hours after reperfusion, we evaluated neurological injuries, the expression of pro-inflammatory markers, and NF-κB activation. I/R rats treated with triptolide showed significantly better neurological deficit scores, decreased neural apoptosis, and reduced cerebral infarct volume and brain edema, and triptolide treatment suppressed the activation of NF-κB following I/R injury. Furthermore, the expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines at both the mRNA and protein levels were significantly decreased in rats receiving triptolide. These results indicate that the neuroprotective effects of triptolide during acute cerebral I/R injury are possibly related to the inhibition of both the NF-κB signaling pathway and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Qing Jin
- Department of Neurology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, People’s Republic of China
- Emergency Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fei Ye
- Department of Neurology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jun-Jian Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Emergency Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xian-Long Zhou
- Emergency Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, People’s Republic of China
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17
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McLendon JM, Joshi SR, Sparks J, Matar M, Fewell JG, Abe K, Oka M, McMurtry IF, Gerthoffer WT. Lipid nanoparticle delivery of a microRNA-145 inhibitor improves experimental pulmonary hypertension. J Control Release 2015; 210:67-75. [PMID: 25979327 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2015.05.261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2015] [Revised: 05/04/2015] [Accepted: 05/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Therapies that exploit RNA interference (RNAi) hold great potential for improving disease outcomes. However, there are several challenges that limit the application of RNAi therapeutics. One of the most important challenges is effective delivery of oligonucleotides to target cells and reduced delivery to non-target cells. We have previously developed a functionalized cationic lipopolyamine (Star:Star-mPEG-550) for in vivo delivery of siRNA to pulmonary vascular cells. This optimized lipid formulation enhances the retention of siRNA in mouse lungs and achieves significant knockdown of target gene expression for at least 10days following a single intravenous injection. Although this suggests great potential for developing lung-directed RNAi-based therapies, the application of Star:Star-mPEG mediated delivery of RNAi based therapies for pulmonary vascular diseases such as pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) remains unknown. We identified differential expression of several microRNAs known to regulate cell proliferation, cell survival and cell fate that are associated with development of PAH, including increased expression of microRNA-145 (miR-145). Here we test the hypothesis that Star:Star-mPEG mediated delivery of an antisense oligonucleotide against miR-145 (antimiR-145) will improve established PAH in rats. We performed a series of experiments testing the in vivo distribution, toxicity, and efficacy of Star:Star-mPEG mediated delivery of antimiR-145 in rats with Sugen-5416/hypoxia induced PAH. We showed that after subchronic therapy of three intravenous injections over 5weeks at 2mg/kg, antimiR-145 accumulated in rat lung tissue and reduced expression of endogenous miR-145. Using a novel in situ hybridization approach, we demonstrated substantial distribution of antimiR-145 in the lungs as well as the liver, kidney, and spleen. We assessed toxic effects of Star:Star-mPEG/antimiR-145 with serial complete blood counts of leukocytes and serum metabolic panels, gross pathology, and histopathology and did not detect significant off-target effects. AntimiR-145 reduced the degree of pulmonary arteriopathy, reduced the severity of pulmonary hypertension, and reduced the degree of cardiac dysfunction. The results establish effective and low toxicity of lung delivery of a miRNA-145 inhibitor using functionalized cationic lipopolyamine nanoparticles to repair pulmonary arteriopathy and improve cardiac function in rats with severe PAH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jared M McLendon
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of South Alabama College of Medicine, Mobile, AL 36688, USA; Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama College of Medicine, Mobile, AL 36688, USA.
| | - Sachindra R Joshi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of South Alabama College of Medicine, Mobile, AL 36688, USA; Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama College of Medicine, Mobile, AL 36688, USA
| | - Jeff Sparks
- Celsion-EGEN, 601 Genome Way, Huntsville, AL 35806, USA
| | - Majed Matar
- Celsion-EGEN, 601 Genome Way, Huntsville, AL 35806, USA
| | | | - Kohtaro Abe
- Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama College of Medicine, Mobile, AL 36688, USA
| | - Masahiko Oka
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of South Alabama College of Medicine, Mobile, AL 36688, USA; Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama College of Medicine, Mobile, AL 36688, USA
| | - Ivan F McMurtry
- Department of Pharmacology, University of South Alabama College of Medicine, Mobile, AL 36688, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, University of South Alabama College of Medicine, Mobile, AL 36688, USA; Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama College of Medicine, Mobile, AL 36688, USA
| | - William T Gerthoffer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of South Alabama College of Medicine, Mobile, AL 36688, USA; Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama College of Medicine, Mobile, AL 36688, USA
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18
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Dhar P, Singla N. Histomorphological and biochemical changes induced by triptolide treatment in male lesser bandicoot rat, Bandicota bengalensis. Pestic Biochem Physiol 2014; 116:49-55. [PMID: 25454520 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2014.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [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: 06/06/2014] [Revised: 09/12/2014] [Accepted: 09/26/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Mature and healthy male lesser bandicoot rats, Bandicota bengalensis (n = 40) were fed on bait (mixture of cracked wheat and powdered sugar in 98:2) containing different concentrations of triptolide (0, 0.15, 0.20 and 0.25% w/w) for 15 days in two-choice trials. Results revealed no significant effect of triptolide treatment on weights of vital organs after 30 and 60 days of treatment withdrawal. A significant (P ≤ 0.05) increase in plasma levels of TP, ALP, ACP, ALT and AST in response to stress induced in groups of rats treated with 0.20 and 0.25% triptolide was observed after 30 days of treatment withdrawal. No significant effect of treatment was observed on histomorphology of liver. A significant (P ≤ 0.05) effect of triptolide treatment was, however, observed on testicular function in the form of reduced diameter of seminiferous tubules and number of various spermatogenic cells indicating effect on spermatogenesis and spermiogenesis. The cell stages affected did not recover fully within 60 days period following treatment withdrawal. The present study suggests the potential of triptolide in the reproductive management of B. bengalensis by way of affecting testicular function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parul Dhar
- Department of Zoology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana 141004, India
| | - Neena Singla
- Department of Zoology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana 141004, India.
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LI BINGBING, YAN JIE, SHEN YAN, LIU YONG, MA ZHENGLIANG. Dichloroacetate prevents but not reverses the formation of neointimal lesions in a rat model of severe pulmonary arterial hypertension. Mol Med Rep 2014; 10:2144-52. [DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2014.2432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2013] [Accepted: 04/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Nogueira-Ferreira R, Ferreira R, Henriques-Coelho T. Cellular interplay in pulmonary arterial hypertension: Implications for new therapies. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Molecular Cell Research 2014; 1843:885-93. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2014.01.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2013] [Revised: 01/23/2014] [Accepted: 01/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Kosanovic D, Tian X, Pak O, Lai YJ, Hsieh YL, Seimetz M, Weissmann N, Schermuly RT, Dahal BK. Rhodiola: an ordinary plant or a promising future therapy for pulmonary hypertension? a brief review. Pulm Circ 2013; 3:499-506. [PMID: 24618536 DOI: 10.1086/674303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a chronic, complex, and progressive disease that eventuates in fatality. Research efforts over the past decades have resulted in therapeutic options that improve quality of life and prolong survival of patients, but they do not offer a cure. We propose a philosophical model that a disturbed balance of yin and yang results in pulmonary vascular remodeling, the hallmark of PH pathology. The model may be useful in exploring the wisdom of traditional Chinese medicine and incorporating it into mainstream PH research. In this context, the medicinal plant Rhodiola can be of profound interest owing to its variety of health-friendly attributes. Rhodiola has been shown to be beneficial in high-altitude-related symptoms and acute exacerbation of PH; moreover, improvement of PH has been demonstrated experimentally in chronically hypoxic rats. The beneficial effects of Rhodiola in PH may be attributable to its potential targeting of the signaling pathways, such as endothelin-1, nitric oxide, vascular endothelial growth factor, angiotensin-converting enzyme, nuclear factor κ-B, tumor necrosis factor α, and interleukin-6. Alterations in these mediators are implicated in PH pathogenesis, the characteristics of which include chronic pulmonary vasoconstriction, vasoproliferation, and vascular inflammation. Salidroside, one of the compounds extracted from Rhodiola, has been found to provide therapeutic benefits in experimental PH. As the data are limited and the field is in its infancy, further studies including in-depth analysis of the therapeutic effects on various animal models of PH are desirable. We believe that future PH research should place an adequate and special emphasis on exploring and promoting the potential of traditional Chinese medicine, and to this end, the medicinal plant Rhodiola offers a promising field on which to embark.
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Affiliation(s)
- Djuro Kosanovic
- 1 Department of Internal Medicine, Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center, Giessen, Germany
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22
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Pulmonary endothelial injury triggers a reparative program, which in susceptible individuals is characterized by neointima formation, vascular narrowing, and the development of pulmonary arterial hypertension. The neointimal cells in human pathological plexiform lesions frequently coexpress smooth muscle α-actin and the endothelial von Willebrand antigen, creating a question about their cellular lineage of origin. METHODS AND RESULTS Experimental pulmonary hypertension with neointima formation develops in C57Bl/6 mice subjected to left pneumonectomy followed 1 week later by jugular vein injection of monocrotaline pyrrole (20 μg/μL and 1 μL/g; group P/MCTP). Compared with the group vehicle, by day 35, group P/MCTP developed higher right ventricular systolic pressure (54±5 versus 25±2 mm Hg; P<0.01) and right ventricular hypertrophy (0.58±0.16 versus 0.26±0.05; P<0.01). Transgenic vascular endothelial-cadherin Cre recombinase or Tie-2 Cre mice were intercrossed with mTomato/mGreen fluorescent protein double-fluorescent Cre reporter mice to achieve endothelial genetic lineage marking with membrane-targeted green fluorescent protein. In control mice, few endothelial lineage-marked cells lining the lumen of small pulmonary arteries demonstrate expression of smooth muscle α-actin. Concurrent with the development of pulmonary hypertension, endothelial lineage-marked cells are prominent in the neointima and exhibit expression of smooth muscle α-actin and smooth muscle myosin heavy chain. Human pulmonary arterial hypertension neointimal lesions contain cells that coexpress endothelial CD31 or von Willebrand antigen and smooth muscle α-actin. CONCLUSION Neointimal cells in pulmonary hypertension include contributions from the endothelial genetic lineage with induced expression of smooth muscle α-actin and smooth muscle myosin heavy chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Qiao
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine (T.N., L.S., D.S., A.T., P.N.K.) and the Departments of Pathology (G.J.B.) and Anesthesiology (J.R.T., R.G.P.), Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA; and Department of Pediatric Cardiology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China (L.Q.)
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Seyfarth HJ, Hammerschmidt S, Halank M, Neuhaus P, Wirtz HR. Everolimus in patients with severe pulmonary hypertension: a safety and efficacy pilot trial. Pulm Circ 2013; 3:632-8. [PMID: 24618547 PMCID: PMC4070806 DOI: 10.1086/674311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [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: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract Despite the availability of vasodilating compounds, pulmonary hypertension (PH) of various origins remains a disease with a poor prognosis. In recent years, pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) has been recognized as a predominantly proliferative process. Everolimus, an inhibitor of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), inhibits cellular protein synthesis and growth not only in lymphocytes but also in cells of the vascular wall. Ten patients suffering from PAH ([Formula: see text]) or chronic thromboembolic PH ([Formula: see text]) with progressive disease despite therapy with at least 2 vasodilating drugs were included in a prospective open-label pilot study. All patients were treated with everolimus in addition to their prior medication. Safety and tolerability were observed throughout the study. Pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) and 6-minute walk distance (6MWD) were considered coprimary end points. In 2 patients, study medication was stopped prematurely because of an adverse event. One patient had acute bronchitis, and the other had right heart decompensation. The remaining 8 patients exhibited a significant 31% decrease in PVR (median [interquartile range], 1,012 [688-1,344] vs. 663 [546-860] dyn s cm(-5); [Formula: see text]) and an increase in 6MWD (median [interquartile range], 236 [139-350] vs. 298 [207-450] m; [Formula: see text]) after 6 months of treatment with everolimus. In conclusion, in this pilot study antiproliferative therapy with everolimus was well tolerated in patients with PH. The observed improvements in PVR and 6MWD may stimulate further consideration of mTOR inhibition with everolimus for the treatment of PH.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Michael Halank
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, University of Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Petra Neuhaus
- Clinical Trial Center Leipzig, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Hubert R. Wirtz
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
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Bi LQ, Zhu R, Kong H, Wu SL, Li N, Zuo XR, Zhou SM, Kou JP, Yu BY, Wang H, Xie WP. Ruscogenin attenuates monocrotaline-induced pulmonary hypertension in rats. Int Immunopharmacol 2013; 16:7-16. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2013.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2012] [Revised: 01/24/2013] [Accepted: 03/11/2013] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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Alzoubi A, Toba M, Abe K, O'Neill KD, Rocic P, Fagan KA, McMurtry IF, Oka M. Dehydroepiandrosterone restores right ventricular structure and function in rats with severe pulmonary arterial hypertension. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2013; 304:H1708-18. [PMID: 23585128 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00746.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [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: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Current therapy of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is inadequate. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) effectively treats experimental pulmonary hypertension in chronically hypoxic and monocrotaline-injected rats. Contrary to these animal models, SU5416/hypoxia/normoxia-exposed rats develop a more severe form of occlusive pulmonary arteriopathy and right ventricular (RV) dysfunction that is indistinguishable from the human disorder. Thus, we tested the effects of DHEA treatment on PAH and RV structure and function in this model. Chronic (5 wk) DHEA treatment significantly, but moderately, reduced the severely elevated RV systolic pressure. In contrast, it restored the impaired cardiac index to normal levels, resulting in an improved cardiac function, as assessed by echocardiography. Moreover, DHEA treatment inhibited RV capillary rarefaction, apoptosis, fibrosis, and oxidative stress. The steroid decreased NADPH levels in the RV. As a result, the reduced reactive oxygen species production in the RV of these rats was reversed by NADPH supplementation. Mechanistically, DHEA reduced the expression and activity of Rho kinases in the RV, which was associated with the inhibition of cardiac remodeling-related transcription factors STAT3 and NFATc3. These results show that DHEA treatment slowed the progression of severe PAH in SU5416/hypoxia/normoxia-exposed rats and protected the RV against apoptosis and fibrosis, thus preserving its contractile function. The antioxidant activity of DHEA, by depleting NADPH, plays a central role in these cardioprotective effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdallah Alzoubi
- Department of Pharmacology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36688, USA
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Yan J, Shen Y, Wang Y, Li BB. Increased expression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α in proliferating neointimal lesions in a rat model of pulmonary arterial hypertension. Am J Med Sci 2013; 345:121-8. [PMID: 22627259 DOI: 10.1097/MAJ.0b013e31824cf5a2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The role of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) in pulmonary vascular remodeling is still undetermined. The objective of this study is to investigate the expression of HIF-1α and its role in proliferating neointimal lesions in a rat model of pulmonary arterial hypertension induced by monocrotaline (MCT) administration after left pneumonectomy. METHODS The rats were subjected to MCT (60 mg/kg, subcutaneously) 7 days after left pneumonectomy or sham surgery; controls with vehicle treatment after left pneumonectomy or sham surgery were also studied. On day 35, hemodynamic parameters of the rats were measured. The right lower lobes of the lungs were fixed for morphometric analysis. The expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen and survivin was detected with Western blot. The expressions of HIF-1α and hexokinase-2 (HK-2) were detected with Western blot and immunohistochemistry assay. RESULTS The rats treated with MCT after pneumonectomy developed severe pulmonary arterial hypertension and marked medial thickening on day 35. The neointimal lesions in pulmonary arterioles were observed only in MCT-treated pneumonectomized rats. The severely injured pulmonary arterioles (intimal proliferation causing greater than 50% luminal occlusion) accounted for 40% of all the measured arterioles in rats treated by MCT after pneumonectomy. The intriguing finding showed that HIF-1α was predominantly expressed in neointimal lesion areas, paralleled with the increased expression of HK-2 in MCT-treated pneumonectomized rats, which was not observed in rats undergoing MCT treatment alone. CONCLUSIONS The activation of HIF-1α/HK-2 axis is probably the key mediator responsible for the neointimal lesion formation in MCT-treated pneumonectomized rats.
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Polonio IB, Acencio MMP, Pazetti R, Almeida FMD, Canzian M, Silva BSD, Pereira KAB, Souza RD. Comparação de dois modelos experimentais de hipertensão pulmonar. J Bras Pneumol 2012; 38:452-60. [DOI: 10.1590/s1806-37132012000400007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2012] [Accepted: 05/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJETIVO: Comparar dois modelos de hipertensão pulmonar (monocrotalina e monocrotalina+pneumonectomia) em relação à gravidade hemodinâmica, estrutura de artérias pulmonares, marcadores inflamatórios (IL-1 e PDGF) e sobrevida em 45 dias. MÉTODOS: Foram utilizados 80 ratos Sprague-Dawley em dois protocolos de estudo: análise estrutural e de sobrevida. Os animais foram divididos em quatro grupos: controle, monocrotalina (M), pneumonectomia (P) e monocrotalina+pneumonectomia (M+P). Para a análise estrutural, 40 animais (10/grupo) foram cateterizados após 28 dias para a medição dos valores hemodinâmicos e sacrificados, obtendo-se tecidos cardíaco e pulmonar. O ventrículo direito (VD) foi dissecado do septo interventricular (SI), e a relação do peso do VD e do peso do ventrículo esquerdo (VE) com o SI foi obtida como índice de hipertrofia de VD. No tecido pulmonar, foram realizadas análises histológicas e dosados IL-1 e PDGF por ELISA. Para o estudo de sobrevida, 40 animais (10/grupo) foram observados por 45 dias. RESULTADOS: Os grupos M e M+P apresentaram hipertensão pulmonar em relação aos demais. Houve um aumento significativo da relação VD/VE+S no grupo M+P em relação aos demais. Não houve diferenças significativas entre os grupos M e M+P quanto à área da camada média das artérias pulmonares, dosagens de IL-1 e PDGF ou sobrevida. CONCLUSÕES: Baseados nos resultados, não podemos afirmar que o modelo de monocrotalina+pneumonectomia é superior ao modelo de monocrotalina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Bastos Polonio
- Universidade de São Paulo; Irmandade da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de São Paulo, Brasil
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Lee HF, Lee TS, Kou YR. Anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects of triptolide on traumatic brain injury in rats. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2012; 182:1-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2012.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2012] [Revised: 01/16/2012] [Accepted: 01/31/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Baron RM, Choi AJS, Owen CA, Choi AMK. Genetically manipulated mouse models of lung disease: potential and pitfalls. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2011; 302:L485-97. [PMID: 22198907 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00085.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene targeting in mice (transgenic and knockout) has provided investigators with an unparalleled armamentarium in recent decades to dissect the cellular and molecular basis of critical pathophysiological states. Fruitful information has been derived from studies using these genetically engineered mice with significant impact on our understanding, not only of specific biological processes spanning cell proliferation to cell death, but also of critical molecular events involved in the pathogenesis of human disease. This review will focus on the use of gene-targeted mice to study various models of lung disease including airways diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and parenchymal lung diseases including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary hypertension, pneumonia, and acute lung injury. We will attempt to review the current technological approaches of generating gene-targeted mice and the enormous dataset derived from these studies, providing a template for lung investigators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca M Baron
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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Wang W, Wang YL, Chen XY, Li YT, Hao W, Jin YP, Han B. Dexamethasone attenuates development of monocrotaline-induced pulmonary arterial hypertension. Mol Biol Rep 2011; 38:3277-84. [PMID: 21431360 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-010-0390-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2010] [Accepted: 11/08/2010] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Immunity and inflammation are well established factors in the pathogenesis of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). We aimed to investigate whether dexamethasone (Dex), a potent immunosuppressant, could prevent the development of monocrotaline (MCT)-induced PAH in rats as compared with pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC) and its effect on the immune mechanism. PAH in rats (n = 66) was induced by MCT (50 mg/kg) injected intraperitoneally. Two days after MCT treatment, Dex (1.0 mg/kg) and PDTC (100 mg/kg) were administered once daily for 21 days. Samples were collected at 7, 14, and 21 days. Dex effectively inhibited MCT-induced PAH and reduced the T-helper (Th) 1 dominant cytokine response (interferon-γ) but up-regulated the Th2 one (interleukin 4). It increased the number of CD4+ T cells and decreased the number of CD8+ T cells around pulmonary arteries, upregulated the mRNA expression of fractalkine and downregulated that of CX3CR1 in the lung. Serum levels of interferon γ and interleukin 4 did not significantly differ from that of controls. Dex attenuated the process of MCT-induced PAH through its immunomodulatory property. Dex could be an appropriate therapy for PAH, although more studies are needed to define the appropriate treatment regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, 44 Wenxi Road, Ji'nan, 250012 Shandong Province, China
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Abstract
Hemodynamic stress in the pulmonary vessel is directly linked to the development of vascular remodeling and dysfunction, ultimately leading to pulmonary hypertension. Recently, some advances have been made in our molecular understanding of the exogenous upstream stimuli that initiate hemodynamic pertubations as well as the downstream vasoactive effectors that control these responses. However, much still remains unknown regarding how these complex signaling pathways connect in order to result in these characteristic pathophysiological changes. This chapter will describe our current understanding of and needed areas of research into the clinical, physiological, and molecular changes associated with pressure/volume overload in the pulmonary circulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Y. Chan
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Joseph Loscalzo
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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Sakao S, Tatsumi K, Voelkel NF. Reversible or irreversible remodeling in pulmonary arterial hypertension. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2010; 43:629-34. [PMID: 20008280 PMCID: PMC2993084 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2009-0389tr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [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: 10/23/2009] [Accepted: 11/21/2009] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular remodeling is an important pathological feature of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), which leads to increased pulmonary vascular resistance, with marked proliferation of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (SMC) and/or endothelial cells (EC). Successful treatment of experimental PAH with a platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor offers the perspective of "reverse remodeling" (i.e., the regression of established pulmonary vascular lesions). Here we ask the question: which forms of pulmonary vascular remodeling are reversible and can such remodeling caused by angiogenic proliferation of EC be reversed? It is important to emphasize that the report showing reduction of vascular remodeling by PDGF receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor showed only a reduction of the pulmonary artery muscularization in chronic hypoxia and monocrotaline models, which lack the feature of clustered proliferated EC in the lumen of pulmonary arteries. The regression of vascular muscularization is an important manifestation, whereby proliferative adult SMC convert back to a nonproliferative state. In contrast, in vitro experiments assessing the contribution of EC to the development of PAH demonstrated that phenotypically altered EC generated as a consequence of a vascular endothelial growth factor receptor blockade did not reverse to normal EC. Whereas it is suggested that the proliferative state of SMC may be reversible, it remains unknown whether phenotypically altered EC can switch back to a normal monolayer-forming EC. This article reviews the pathogenetic concepts of severe PAH and explains the many forms in PAH with reversible or irreversible remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seiichiro Sakao
- Department of Respirology (B2), Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, Japan.
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Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a chronic and progressive disease characterized by a persistent elevation of pulmonary artery pressure accompanied by right ventricular hypertrophy (RVH). The current treatment for pulmonary hypertension is limited and only provides symptomatic relief due to unknown cause and pathogenesis of the disease. Both vasoconstriction and structural remodeling (enhanced proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cell) of the pulmonary arteries contribute to the progressive course of PAH, irrespective of different underlying causes. The exact molecular mechanism of PAH, however, is not fully understood. The purpose of this review is to provide recent advances in the mechanistic investigation of PAH. Specifically, this review focuses on nitric oxide, oxidative stress and inflammation and how these factors contribute to the development and progression of PAH. This review also discusses recent and potential therapeutic advancements for the treatment of PAH.
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Abstract
Vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation has been known to be predominant in vascular remodeling of pulmonary hypertensive. The GATA family proteins, a group of zinc finger transcription factors, play an important role during cell proliferation. The aim of present study was to investigate the expression of GATA-6 gene in experimental pulmonary hypertensive rats and explore the effect of regulation of GATA-6 expression by simvastatin on pulmonary vascular remodeling. The male Sprague-Dawley rats model was established with receiving pneumonectomy and monocrotaline (MCT) administration. Right pulmonary artery remodeling in these animals was compared with untreated rats or rats receiving simvastatin. The level of GATA-6 mRNA and protein expression was detected by reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blotting, respectively. Pneumonectomized, MCT-treated rats had significantly increased mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP), RV/(LV + S) ratio (ratio of the right ventricular to left ventricular and septum weights), vascular occlusion scores (VOSs), and percent media wall thickness on day 35, all the indices were significantly decreased after simvastatin administration in these rats. The level of GATA-6 mRNA and protein were markedly decreased in these pneumonectomy and MCT-treated rats, and they were significantly up-regulated in these rats after receiving simvastatin. These results indicate that the development and progression of pulmonary hypertension is prevented by simvastatin by up-regulating GATA-6 expression in the lung tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Liu
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, West China Second University Hospital, University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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Stenmark KR, Meyrick B, Galie N, Mooi WJ, McMurtry IF. Animal models of pulmonary arterial hypertension: the hope for etiological discovery and pharmacological cure. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2009; 297:L1013-32. [DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00217.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 565] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
At present, six groups of chronic pulmonary hypertension (PH) are described. Among these, group 1 (and 1′) comprises a group of diverse diseases termed pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) that have several pathophysiological, histological, and prognostic features in common. PAH is a particularly severe and progressive form of PH that frequently leads to right heart failure and premature death. The diagnosis of PAH must include a series of defined clinical parameters, which extend beyond mere elevations in pulmonary arterial pressures and include precapillary PH, pulmonary hypertensive arteriopathy (usually with plexiform lesions), slow clinical onset (months or years), and a chronic time course (years) characterized by progressive deterioration. What appears to distinguish PAH from other forms of PH is the severity of the arteriopathy observed, the defining characteristic of which is “plexogenic arteriopathy.” The pathogenesis of this arteriopathy remains unclear despite intense investigation in a variety of animal model systems. The most commonly used animal models (“classic” models) are rodents exposed to either hypoxia or monocrotaline. Newer models, which involve modification of classic approaches, have been developed that exhibit more severe PH and vascular lesions, which include neointimal proliferation and occlusion of small vessels. In addition, genetically manipulated mice have been generated that have provided insight into the role of specific molecules in the pulmonary hypertensive process. Unfortunately, at present, there is no perfect preclinical model that completely recapitulates human PAH. All models, however, have provided and will continue to provide invaluable insight into the numerous pathways that contribute to the development and maintenance of PH. Use of both classic and newly developed animal models will allow continued rigorous testing of new hypotheses regarding pathogenesis and treatment. This review highlights progress that has been made in animal modeling of this important human condition.
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Abstract
Inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-6 is elevated in the serum and lungs of patients with pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH). Several animal models of PAH cite the potential role of inflammatory mediators. We investigated role of IL-6 in the pathogenesis of pulmonary vascular disease. Indices of pulmonary vascular remodeling were measured in lung-specific IL-6-overexpressing transgenic mice (Tg(+)) and compared to wild-type (Tg(-)) controls in both normoxic and chronic hypoxic conditions. The Tg(+) mice exhibited elevated right ventricular systolic pressures and right ventricular hypertrophy with corresponding pulmonary vasculopathic changes, all of which were exacerbated by chronic hypoxia. IL-6 overexpression increased muscularization of the proximal arterial tree, and hypoxia enhanced this effect. It also reproduced the muscularization and proliferative arteriopathy seen in the distal arteriolar vessels of PAH patients. The latter was characterized by the formation of occlusive neointimal angioproliferative lesions that worsened with hypoxia and were composed of endothelial cells and T-lymphocytes. IL-6-induced arteriopathic changes were accompanied by activation of proangiogenic factor, vascular endothelial growth factor, the proproliferative kinase extracellular signal-regulated kinase, proproliferative transcription factors c-MYC and MAX, and the antiapoptotic proteins survivin and Bcl-2 and downregulation of the growth inhibitor transforming growth factor-beta and proapoptotic kinases JNK and p38. These findings suggest that IL-6 promotes the development and progression of pulmonary vascular remodeling and PAH through proproliferative antiapoptotic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Kathryn Steiner
- Division of Pulmonary Critical Care Medicine, University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, MA 01655, USA.
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Krakauer T, Chen X, Howard OMZ, Young HA. Triptolide Attenuates Endotoxin- and Staphylococcal Exotoxin-Induced T-Cell Proliferation and Production of Cytokines and Chemokines. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2008; 27:53-66. [PMID: 15803859 DOI: 10.1081/iph-51294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Proinflammatory cytokines mediate the toxic effects of superantigenic staphylococcal exotoxins (SE) and bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Triptolide, an oxygenated diterpene derived from a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, Tripterygium wilfordii, inhibited SE-stimulated T-cell proliferation (by 98%) and expression of interleukin 1beta, interleukin 6, tumor necrosis factor, gamma interferon, monocyte chemotactic protein 1, macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-1alpha, and MIP-1beta by human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). It also blocked the production of these cytokines and chemokines by LPS-stimulated PBMC in a dose-dependent manner. These results suggest that triptolide has potent immunosuppressive effects even counteracting the effects of superantigens and LPS. It also may be therapeutically useful for mitigating the pathogenic effects of these microbial products by downregulating the signaling pathways activated by both bacterial exotoxins and endotoxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Krakauer
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Biology, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Bldg. 1425, Fort Detrick, Frederick, MD 21702-5011, USA.
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Abstract
Triptolide (TPL), a small molecule purified from the herb Tripterygium wilfordii, has potential clinical application for suppression of chronic autoimmune disorders and inhibition of tumor growth. However, its mechanism of action is largely unknown. In this study, the effect of TPL on mitochondria was explored with a panel of molecular probes that detect the alteration of mitochondrial functions. When Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cells were treated with different doses of TPL for four hours, impaired mitochondrial functions were detected. This included an increased production of reactive oxygen species, the opening of the transition pore of mitochondria, the depolarization of the mitochondria membrane, the inhibition of the production of ATP and increased release of ATP as well as the induction of apoptosis. It is likely that by impairment of mitochondrial function, TPL exerts its inhibitory effect on growth of tumor and progression of inflammatory disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Su
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
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White RJ, Meoli DF, Swarthout RF, Kallop DY, Galaria II, Harvey JL, Miller CM, Blaxall BC, Hall CM, Pierce RA, Cool CD, Taubman MB. Plexiform-like lesions and increased tissue factor expression in a rat model of severe pulmonary arterial hypertension. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2007; 293:L583-90. [PMID: 17586694 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00321.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) occurs in idiopathic form and in association with diverse diseases. The pathological hallmarks are distal smooth muscle hypertrophy, obliteration of small pulmonary arteriole lumens, and disorganized cellular proliferation in plexiform lesions. In situ thrombosis is also observed. A detailed understanding of the disease progression has been hampered by the absence of an animal model bearing all the pathological features of human disease. To create a model with these characteristics, we gave young (200-g) rats monocrotaline 1 wk following left pneumonectomy; controls with vehicle treatment or sham operation were also studied. In experimental rats, pulmonary arteries had distal smooth muscle hypertrophy and proliferative perivascular lesions. The lesions had a plexiform appearance, occurred early in disease development, and were composed of cells expressing endothelial antigens. Three-dimensional microangiography revealed severe vascular pruning and disorganized vascular networks. We found that expression of tissue factor (TF), the membrane glycoprotein that initiates coagulation, facilitates angiogenesis, and mediates arterial injury in the systemic circulation, was increased in the pulmonary arterioles and plexiform-like lesions of the rats. TF was also heavily expressed in the vessels and plexiform lesions of humans with pulmonary arterial hypertension. We conclude that plexiform-like lesions can be reproduced in rats, and this model will facilitate experiments to address controversies about the role of these lesions in PAH. Increased TF expression may contribute to the prothrombotic diathesis and vascular cell proliferation typical of human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- R James White
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Univ. of Rochester, 601 Elmwood Ave., Box 692, Rochester, NY, USA.
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Taraseviciene-Stewart L, Nicolls MR, Kraskauskas D, Scerbavicius R, Burns N, Cool C, Wood K, Parr JE, Boackle SA, Voelkel NF. Absence of T cells confers increased pulmonary arterial hypertension and vascular remodeling. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2007; 175:1280-9. [PMID: 17413127 PMCID: PMC2176089 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.200608-1189oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Severe pulmonary arterial hypertension (SPH) is a frequently lethal condition characterized by pulmonary vascular remodeling and right heart strain or failure. SPH is also often associated with autoimmune and collagen vascular disorders. OBJECTIVES To study the effects of T cells on the development of experimental SPH. METHODS Athymic nude rats lacking T cells were treated with a single subcutaneous injection of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor blocker SU5416 (20 mg/kg) to induce pulmonary vascular endothelial cell apoptosis. Immunohistochemical analysis and IL-4 levels of the lung tissue were performed. Cell death and proliferation were assessed by Western blot and immunohistochemistry. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS In contrast to SU5416-treated euthymic rats that develop SPH only in combination with chronic hypoxia, athymic nude rats developed SPH and vascular remodeling (similar to clinical SPH) at normoxic conditions as demonstrated by measurements of pulmonary artery pressure and right ventricle hypertrophy. Pulmonary arterioles became occluded with proliferating endothelial cells and were surrounded by mast cells, B cells, and macrophages. IL-4, proliferating cell nuclear antigen, and collagen type I levels were markedly increased in SU5416-treated athymic rat lungs. Antibody deposition was noted along the vascular endothelium in rats with SPH. Finally, protection from SPH was conferred by immune challenge with spleen cells from euthymic nude rats. CONCLUSIONS These studies demonstrate the importance of a complete, intact immune system in protecting against pulmonary angioproliferation in this new model of SPH as well as the importance of intact VEGF receptor signaling for lung endothelial cell homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laimute Taraseviciene-Stewart
- Division of Pulmonary Sciences, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver, CO 80262, USA.
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Campian ME, Hardziyenka M, Michel MC, Tan HL. How valid are animal models to evaluate treatments for pulmonary hypertension? Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2006; 373:391-400. [PMID: 16932922 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-006-0087-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Various animal models of pulmonary hypertension (PH) exist, among which injection of monocrotaline (MCT) and exposure to hypoxia are used most frequently. These animal models have not only been used to characterize the pathophysiology of PH and its sequelae such as right ventricular hypertrophy and failure, but also to test novel therapeutic strategies. This manuscript summarizes the available treatment studies in animal models of PH, and compares the findings to those obtained in patients with PH. The analysis shows that all approaches which have proven successful in patients, most notably prostacyclin and its analogs and endothelin receptor antagonists, are also effective in various animal models. However, the opposite it not always true. Therefore, promising results in animals have to be interpreted carefully until confirmed in clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria E Campian
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Cardiology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Abstract
Natural products have been used as medicinal agents for many years. In addition, these compounds have also served as the starting points for semisynthetic analogs with improved properties. This review focuses on recent advances in the pharmacological studies on natural products mainly performed and published in China. Emphasis will be placed on those compounds that show the greatest promise clinically such as huperzine A (9-amino-13-ethylidene-11-methyl-4-azatricyclo[7.3.1.0(3.8)]trideca-3(8),6,11-trien-5-one), s-(-)-3-n-butylphthalide (s-(-)-3-butyl-1(3H)-isobenzofuranone), (-)-clausenamide (3-hydroxy-4-phenyl-5a-hydroxybenzyl-N-methyl-gamma-lactam) and Ginkgo biloba extract and its active components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Zu Zhu
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences. 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park, Pudong, Shanghai 201203, China.
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Vaszar LT, Nishimura T, Storey JD, Zhao G, Qiu D, Faul JL, Pearl RG, Kao PN. Longitudinal transcriptional analysis of developing neointimal vascular occlusion and pulmonary hypertension in rats. Physiol Genomics 2004; 17:150-6. [PMID: 15082832 DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00198.2003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Pneumonectomized rats injected with the alkaloid toxin, monocrotaline, develop progressive neointimal pulmonary vascular obliteration and pulmonary hypertension resulting in right ventricular failure and death. The antiproliferative immunosuppressant, triptolide, attenuates neointimal formation and pulmonary hypertension in this disease model (Faul JL, Nishimura T, Berry GJ, Benson GV, Pearl RG, and Kao PN. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 162: 2252–2258, 2000). Pneumonectomized rats, injected with monocrotaline on day 7, were killed at days 14, 21, 28, and 35 for measurements of physiology and gene expression patterns. These data were compared with pneumonectomized, monocrotaline-injected animals that received triptolide from day 5 to day 35. The hypothesis was tested that a group of functionally related genes would be significantly coexpressed during the development of disease and downregulated in response to treatment. Transcriptional analysis using total lung RNA was performed on replicate animals for each experimental time point with exploratory data analysis followed by statistical significance analysis. Marked, statistically significant increases in proteases (particularly derived from mast cells) were noted that parallel the development of vascular obliteration and pulmonary hypertension. Mast-cell-derived proteases may play a role in regulating the development of neointimal pulmonary vascular occlusion and pulmonary hypertension in response to injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laszlo T Vaszar
- Division of Pulmonary/Critical Care Medicine, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, California 94305-5236, USA
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Nishimura T, Vaszar LT, Faul JL, Zhao G, Berry GJ, Shi L, Qiu D, Benson G, Pearl RG, Kao PN. Simvastatin rescues rats from fatal pulmonary hypertension by inducing apoptosis of neointimal smooth muscle cells. Circulation 2003; 108:1640-5. [PMID: 12963647 DOI: 10.1161/01.cir.0000087592.47401.37] [Citation(s) in RCA: 186] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pulmonary vascular injury by toxins can induce neointimal formation, pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), right ventricular failure, and death. We showed previously that simvastatin attenuates smooth muscle neointimal proliferation and pulmonary hypertension in pneumonectomized rats injected with the alkaloid toxin monocrotaline. The present study was undertaken to investigate the efficacy of simvastatin and its mechanism of reversing established neointimal vascular occlusion and pulmonary hypertension. METHODS AND RESULTS Pneumonectomized rats injected with monocrotaline at 4 weeks demonstrated severe PAH at 11 weeks (mean pulmonary artery pressure [mPAP]=42 versus 17 mm Hg in normal rats) and death by 15 weeks. When rats with severe PAH received simvastatin (2 mg x kg(-1) x d(-1) by gavage) from week 11, there was 100% survival and reversal of PAH after 2 weeks (mPAP=36 mm Hg) and 6 weeks (mPAP=24 mm Hg) of therapy. Simvastatin treatment reduced right ventricular hypertrophy and reduced proliferation and increased apoptosis of pathological smooth muscle cells in the neointima and medial walls of pulmonary arteries. Longitudinal transcriptional profiling revealed that simvastatin downregulated the inflammatory genes fos, jun, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha and upregulated the cell cycle inhibitor p27Kip1, endothelial nitric oxide synthase, and bone morphogenetic protein receptor type 1a. CONCLUSIONS Simvastatin reverses pulmonary arterial neointimal formation and PAH after toxic injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshihiko Nishimura
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, Calif 94305-5236, USA
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Qiu D, Kao PN. Immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory mechanisms of triptolide, the principal active diterpenoid from the Chinese medicinal herb Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. f. Drugs R D 2003; 4:1-18. [PMID: 12568630 DOI: 10.2165/00126839-200304010-00001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 234] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracts of Tripterygium wilfordii hook. f. (leigong teng, Thundergod vine) are effective in traditional Chinese medicine for treatment of immune inflammatory diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, nephritis and asthma. Characterisation of the terpenoids present in extracts of Tripterygium identified triptolide, a diterpenoid triepoxide, as responsible for most of the immunosuppressive, anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative effects observed in vitro. Triptolide inhibits lymphocyte activation and T-cell expression of interleukin-2 at the level of transcription. In all cell types examined, triptolide inhibits nuclear factor-kappaB transcriptional activation at a unique step in the nucleus after binding to DNA. Further characterisation of the molecular mechanisms of triptolide action will serve to elucidate pathways of immune system regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daoming Qiu
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, California 94305, USA.
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Frese S, Pirnia F, Miescher D, Krajewski S, Borner MM, Reed JC, Schmid RA. PG490-mediated sensitization of lung cancer cells to Apo2L/TRAIL-induced apoptosis requires activation of ERK2. Oncogene 2003; 22:5427-35. [PMID: 12934102 DOI: 10.1038/sj.onc.1206842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (Apo2L/TRAIL) belongs to the family of programmed cell death-inducing cytokines. Apo2L/TRAIL induces apoptosis in a wide variety of tumor cells. Tumor cells that are resistant to Apo2L/TRAIL-induced apoptosis can be sensitized by chemotherapeutic drugs and other agents via an unknown mechanism. Here we report that PG490 (triptolide), a diterpene triepoxide extracted from the Chinese herb Tripterygium wilfordii and used in traditional Chinese medicine, sensitizes lung cancer but not normal human bronchial epithelial cells to Apo2L/TRAIL-induced apoptosis. Sensitization was accompanied by caspase-3 and caspase-8 activation, whereas no cleavage of caspase-9 was observed. Determination of cell surface receptors by flow cytometry demonstrated no difference in Apo2L/TRAIL-R1 and -R2 expression, the two receptors with functional death domains, between resistant and sensitized cells. In cells treated with the combination of Apo2L/TRAIL and PG490, we observed activation of ERK2, a member of the mitogen-activated protein kinase family. Furthermore, sensitization could be blocked by the ERK inhibitor U0126 but not the p38 inhibitor SB203580, suggesting that activation of ERK2 is required for this effect. In addition, sensitization of lung cancer cells was also seen in ex vivo culture of lung cancer tissue from four patients who underwent surgery. Immunohistochemical staining showed a clear reduction in proliferation cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) in tissue treated with Apo2L/TRAIL and PG490. In conclusion, apoptosis induced by the combination of Apo2L/TRAIL and PG490 warrants further evaluation as a potential new strategy for the treatment of lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steffen Frese
- Department of Clinical Research, Division of General Thoracic Surgery, University Hospital Berne, Switzerland.
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49
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Increased pulmonary blood flow is believed to contribute to the development of pulmonary hypertension. We investigated the effect of overcirculation via an aortocaval fistula, on the development of monocrotaline-induced pulmonary hypertension in rats. Monocrotaline was administered 1 wk after the creation of an aortocaval fistula. DESIGN Randomized, controlled study. SETTING Research laboratory of an academic institution. SUBJECTS Male Sprague-Dawley rats. INTERVENTIONS Overcirculation was induced by pneumonectomy and by surgical creation of aortocaval fistula. Pulmonary artery hypertension was induced by administration of monocrotaline. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Aortic blood flow, Pao(2), and pulmonary arterial pressure were measured 4 wks later. A blinded investigator quantified pulmonary arterial neointimal formation in small pulmonary arteries. Compared with animals that received monocrotaline and/or underwent pneumonectomy but did not undergo aortocaval fistula, the presence of a surgical aortocaval fistula was associated with increased aortic blood flow (p <.001), increased Pao(2) (p <.001), and lower mean pulmonary arterial pressure (p <.001). In addition, rats with aortocaval fistula had less pulmonary arterial neointimal formation than matched animals without an aortocaval fistula (p =.034). CONCLUSIONS The presence of a surgical aortocaval fistula attenuates, rather than worsens, the development of monocrotaline-induced pulmonary hypertension in rats.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Aorta, Abdominal/diagnostic imaging
- Aorta, Abdominal/surgery
- Arteriovenous Shunt, Surgical
- Blood Flow Velocity
- Blood Pressure
- Cardiac Output
- Hypertension, Pulmonary/chemically induced
- Hypertension, Pulmonary/complications
- Hypertension, Pulmonary/pathology
- Hypertension, Pulmonary/physiopathology
- Hypertrophy, Right Ventricular/etiology
- Lung/blood supply
- Male
- Monocrotaline
- Pneumonectomy
- Pulmonary Artery/pathology
- Rats
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Tunica Intima/pathology
- Ultrasonography, Doppler
- Vena Cava, Inferior/surgery
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshihiko Nishimura
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Stanford University Medical Center, 300 Pasteur Avenue, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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Nishimura T, Faul JL, Berry GJ, Vaszar LT, Qiu D, Pearl RG, Kao PN. Simvastatin attenuates smooth muscle neointimal proliferation and pulmonary hypertension in rats. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2002; 166:1403-8. [PMID: 12406854 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.200203-268oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypertensive pulmonary vascular disease is characterized by abnormal proliferation of vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cells, leading to occlusion of pulmonary arterioles, pulmonary hypertension, right ventricular failure, and death. Compounds with antiproliferative effects on vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cells, such as 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors, may prevent the development of experimental hypertensive pulmonary vascular disease. Pneumonectomized rats injected with monocrotaline at 7 days develop severe hypertensive pulmonary vascular disease with neointimal formation. Rats were randomized to receive either vehicle or treatment with the HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor simvastatin (2 mg/kg per day). By Day 35, rats that received vehicle had higher mean pulmonary arterial pressures (53 +/- 2 mm Hg) and right ventricular hypertrophy (right ventricle/[left ventricle plus septum] [RV/LV+S] = 0.78 +/- 0.09) than rats in Group PMS5-35 that received simvastatin from Day 5 to 35 (mean pulmonary arterial pressure = 27 +/- 3 mm Hg, RV/LV+S = 0.34 +/- 0.08; p < or = 0.001). Pulmonary vascular remodeling with neointimal formation consisting of vascular smooth muscle cells was more severe in vehicle-treated rats (vascular occlusion score, 1.98 +/- 0.02) than in Group PMS5-35 (vascular occlusion score, 0.59 +/- 0.46; p < 0.001). In addition, lung endothelial nitric oxide synthase gene expression was decreased in vehicle-treated animals but was restored toward normal levels in simvastatin-treated animals. Simvastatin attenuates monocrotaline-induced pulmonary vascular remodeling with neointimal formation, pulmonary arterial hypertension, and right ventricular hypertrophy in rats.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Anticholesteremic Agents/therapeutic use
- Body Weight/drug effects
- Body Weight/physiology
- Cholesterol/blood
- Disease Models, Animal
- Gene Expression Regulation/drug effects
- Heart Ventricles/pathology
- Hemodynamics/drug effects
- Hemodynamics/physiology
- Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors/therapeutic use
- Hypertension, Pulmonary/blood
- Hypertension, Pulmonary/complications
- Hypertension, Pulmonary/prevention & control
- Hypertrophy, Right Ventricular/blood
- Hypertrophy, Right Ventricular/complications
- Hypertrophy, Right Ventricular/prevention & control
- Lung/blood supply
- Lung/metabolism
- Lung/pathology
- Male
- Monocrotaline/administration & dosage
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/drug effects
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/pathology
- Nitric Oxide Synthase/biosynthesis
- Nitric Oxide Synthase/drug effects
- Organ Size/drug effects
- Organ Size/physiology
- Pneumonectomy
- Pulmonary Artery/pathology
- RNA, Messenger/drug effects
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Rats
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Simvastatin/therapeutic use
- Treatment Outcome
- Tunica Intima/drug effects
- Tunica Intima/pathology
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshihiko Nishimura
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, and Department of Pathology, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, California 94305, USA
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