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Wang L, Sun H, Cao L, Wang J. Role of HOXA1-4 in the development of genetic and malignant diseases. Biomark Res 2024; 12:18. [PMID: 38311789 PMCID: PMC10840290 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-024-00569-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The HOXA genes, belonging to the HOX family, encompass 11 members (HOXA1-11) and exert critical functions in early embryonic development, as well as various adult processes. Furthermore, dysregulation of HOXA genes is implicated in genetic diseases, heart disease, and various cancers. In this comprehensive overview, we primarily focused on the HOXA1-4 genes and their associated functions and diseases. Emphasis was placed on elucidating the impact of abnormal expression of these genes and highlighting their significance in maintaining optimal health and their involvement in the development of genetic and malignant diseases. Furthermore, we delved into their regulatory mechanisms, functional roles, and underlying biology and explored the therapeutic potential of targeting HOXA1-4 genes for the treatment of malignancies. Additionally, we explored the utility of HOXA1-4 genes as biomarkers for monitoring cancer recurrence and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lumin Wang
- Gastroenterology Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China.
| | - Haifeng Sun
- The Third Department of Medical Oncology, Shaanxi Provincial Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Medical College of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Cao
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinhai Wang
- Gastroenterology Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China.
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2
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Zhao N, Teles F, Lu J, Koestler DC, Beck J, Boerwinkle E, Bressler J, Kelsey KT, Platz EA, Michaud DS. Epigenome-wide association study using peripheral blood leukocytes identifies genomic regions associated with periodontal disease and edentulism in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities study. J Clin Periodontol 2023; 50:1140-1153. [PMID: 37464577 PMCID: PMC10528731 DOI: 10.1111/jcpe.13852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
AIM To investigate individual susceptibility to periodontitis by conducting an epigenome-wide association study using peripheral blood. MATERIALS AND METHODS We included 1077 African American and 457 European American participants of the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study who had completed a dental examination or reported being edentulous at Visit 4 and had available data on DNA methylation from Visit 2 or 3. DNA methylation levels were compared by periodontal disease severity and edentulism through discovery analyses and subsequent testing of individual CpGs. RESULTS Our discovery analysis replicated findings from a previous study reporting a region in gene ZFP57 (6p22.1) that was significantly hypomethylated in severe periodontal disease compared with no/mild periodontal disease in European American participants. Higher methylation levels in a separate region in an unknown gene (located in Chr10: 743,992-744,958) was associated with significantly higher odds of edentulism compared with no/mild periodontal disease in African American participants. In subsequent CpG testing, four CpGs in a region previously associated with periodontitis located within HOXA4 were significantly hypermethylated in severe periodontal disease compared with no/mild periodontal disease in African American participants (odds ratio per 1 SD increase in methylation level: cg11015251: 1.28 (1.02, 1.61); cg14359292: 1.24 (1.01, 1.54); cg07317062: 1.30 (1.05, 1.61); cg08657492: 1.25 (1.01, 1.55)). CONCLUSIONS Our study highlights epigenetic variations in ZPF57 and HOXA4 that are significantly and reproducibly associated with periodontitis. Future studies should evaluate gene regulatory mechanisms in the candidate regions of these loci.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naisi Zhao
- Department of Public Health & Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Tufts University, Boston, MA
| | - Flavia Teles
- Department of Basic & Translational Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Jiayun Lu
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | - Devin C. Koestler
- Department of Biostatistics & Data Science, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS
- University of Kansas Cancer Center, Kansas City, KS
| | - James Beck
- Division of Comprehensive Oral Health/Periodontology, Adams School of Dentistry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Eric Boerwinkle
- Human Genetics Center, School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Jan Bressler
- Human Genetics Center, School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
| | - Karl T. Kelsey
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University, Providence, RI
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI
| | - Elizabeth A. Platz
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, Baltimore, MD
| | - Dominique S. Michaud
- Department of Public Health & Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Tufts University, Boston, MA
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3
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Spanjersberg TCF, Oosterhoff LA, Kruitwagen HS, van den Dungen NAM, Vernooij JCM, Asselbergs FW, Mokry M, Spee B, Harakalova M, van Steenbeek FG. Locational memory of macrovessel vascular cells is transcriptionally imprinted. Sci Rep 2023; 13:13028. [PMID: 37563195 PMCID: PMC10415317 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-38880-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular pathologies show locational predisposition throughout the body; further insights into the transcriptomics basis of this vascular heterogeneity are needed. We analyzed transcriptomes from cultured endothelial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells from nine adult canine macrovessels: the aorta, coronary artery, vena cava, portal vein, femoral artery, femoral vein, saphenous vein, pulmonary vein, and pulmonary artery. We observed that organ-specific expression patterns persist in vitro, indicating that these genes are not regulated by blood flow or surrounding cell types but are likely fixed in the epigenetic memory. We further demonstrated the preserved location-specific expression of GATA4 protein in cultured cells and in the primary adult vessel. On a functional level, arterial and venous endothelial cells differed in vascular network morphology as the arterial networks maintained a higher complexity. Our findings prompt the rethinking of the extrapolation of results from single-origin endothelial cell systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talitha C F Spanjersberg
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 104, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Regenerative Medicine Centre Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Uppsalalaan 8, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Division Heart and Lungs, Department of Cardiology, Circulatory Health Research Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 100, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Loes A Oosterhoff
- Regenerative Medicine Centre Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Uppsalalaan 8, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Hedwig S Kruitwagen
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 104, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Noortje A M van den Dungen
- Central Diagnostics Laboratory, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes C M Vernooij
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 7, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Folkert W Asselbergs
- Department of Cardiology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Health Data Research UK and Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, UK
| | - Michal Mokry
- Central Diagnostics Laboratory, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Laboratory of Experimental Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, University Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Bart Spee
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 104, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Regenerative Medicine Centre Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Uppsalalaan 8, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Magdalena Harakalova
- Regenerative Medicine Centre Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Uppsalalaan 8, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Division Heart and Lungs, Department of Cardiology, Circulatory Health Research Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 100, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Frank G van Steenbeek
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 104, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
- Regenerative Medicine Centre Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Uppsalalaan 8, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
- Division Heart and Lungs, Department of Cardiology, Circulatory Health Research Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 100, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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4
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Gene Expression Profiling in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11123260. [PMID: 35743331 PMCID: PMC9225238 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11123260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene expression profiling of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) indicates that chronic inflammatory responses, active matrix metalloproteinases, and degradation of the extracellular matrix components are involved in disease development and progression. This study investigates intra- and interpersonal RNA genome-wide expression profiling differences (Illumina HumanHT-12, BeadCHIP expression) of 24 AAA biopsies from 12 patients using a single gene and pathway (GeneOntology, GO enrichment) analysis. Biopsies were collected during open surgical AAA repair and according to prior finite element analysis (FEA) from regions with the highest and lowest wall stress. Single gene analysis revealed a strong heterogeneity of RNA expression parameters within the same and different AAA biopsies. The pathway analysis of all samples showed significant enrichment of genes from three different signaling pathways (integrin signaling pathway: fold change FC 1.63, p = 0.001; cholecystokinin receptor pathway: FC 1.60, p = 0.011; inflammation mediated by chemokine signaling pathway: FC 1.45, p = 0.028). These results indicate heterogeneous gene expression patterns within the AAA vascular wall. Single biopsy investigations do not permit a comprehensive characterization of activated molecular processes in AAA disease.
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5
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Sharma N, Hans CP. Interleukin 12p40 Deficiency Promotes Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm by Activating CCN2/MMP2 Pathways. J Am Heart Assoc 2021; 10:e017633. [PMID: 33470127 PMCID: PMC7955443 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.120.017633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background Development of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is associated with proinflammatory cytokines including interleukin-12 (IL12). Deficiency of interleukin 12p40 (IL12p40) increases localized fibrotic events by promoting TGFβ2 (transforming growth factor β)-dependent anti-inflammatory response. Here, we determined whether IL12p40 deficiency in apolipoprotein E-/- mice attenuates the development of AAA by antagonizing proinflammatory response. Methods and Results Double knockout (DKO) mice were generated by crossbreeding IL12p40-/- mice with apolipoprotein E-/- mice (n=12). Aneurysmal studies were performed using angiotensin II (1 µg/kg/min; subcutaneous). Surprisingly, DKO mice did not prevent the development of AAA with angiotensin II infusion. Immunohistological analysis, however, showed distinct pathological features between apolipoprotein E-/- and DKO mice. Polymerase chain reaction (7 day) and cytokine arrays (28 day) of the aortic tissues from DKO mice showed significantly increased expression of cytokines related to anti-inflammatory response (interleukin 5 and interleukin 13), synthetic vascular smooth muscle cell phenotype (Activin receptor-like kinase-1 (ALK-1), artemin, and betacellulin) and T helper 17-associated response (4-1BB, interleukin-17e (Il17e) and Cd40 ligand (Cd-40L)). Indeed, DKO mice exhibited increased expression of the fibro-proteolytic pathway in the medial layer of aortae induced by cellular communication network factor 2 (CCN2) and Cd3+IL17+ cells compared with apolipoprotein E-/- mice. Laser capture microdissection showed predominant expression of CCN2/TGFβ2 in the medial layer of human AAA. Finally, Ccn2 haploinsufficiency in the mice showed decreased AAA incidence in response to elastase infusion, associated with decreased matrix metalloproteinase-2 expression. Conclusions Our study reveals novel roles for IL12p40 deficiency in inducing fibro-proteolytic activities in the aneurysmal mouse model. Mechanistically, these effects of IL12p40 deficiency are mediated by CCN2/matrix metalloproteinase-2 crosstalk in the medial layer of aneurysmal aortae.
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MESH Headings
- Aged
- Animals
- Aorta, Abdominal/diagnostic imaging
- Aorta, Abdominal/metabolism
- Aorta, Abdominal/physiopathology
- Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal/etiology
- Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal/genetics
- Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal/metabolism
- Blotting, Western
- Cells, Cultured
- Connective Tissue Growth Factor/biosynthesis
- Connective Tissue Growth Factor/genetics
- Disease Models, Animal
- Electrocardiography
- Female
- Gene Expression Regulation
- Humans
- Interleukin-12 Subunit p40/blood
- Interleukin-12 Subunit p40/deficiency
- Male
- Matrix Metalloproteinase 2/biosynthesis
- Matrix Metalloproteinase 2/genetics
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Knockout
- Middle Aged
- RNA/genetics
- T-Lymphocytes/metabolism
- T-Lymphocytes/pathology
- Ultrasonography
- Vascular Stiffness/physiology
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Affiliation(s)
- Neekun Sharma
- Department of Cardiovascular MedicineUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMO
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research CenterUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMO
| | - Chetan P. Hans
- Department of Cardiovascular MedicineUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMO
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research CenterUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMO
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and PhysiologyUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMO
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6
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Kimura M, Horie T, Baba O, Ide Y, Tsuji S, Ruiz Rodriguez R, Watanabe T, Yamasaki T, Otani C, Xu S, Miyasaka Y, Nakashima Y, Kimura T, Ono K. Homeobox A4 suppresses vascular remodeling by repressing YAP/TEAD transcriptional activity. EMBO Rep 2020; 21:e48389. [PMID: 32147946 PMCID: PMC7132199 DOI: 10.15252/embr.201948389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Revised: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The Hippo signaling pathway is involved in the pathophysiology of various cardiovascular diseases. Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional enhancer activator domain (TEAD) transcriptional factors, the main transcriptional complex of the Hippo pathway, were recently identified as modulators of phenotypic switching of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). However, the intrinsic regulator of YAP/TEAD-mediated gene expressions involved in vascular pathophysiology remains to be elucidated. Here, we identified Homeobox A4 (HOXA4) as a potent repressor of YAP/TEAD transcriptional activity using lentiviral shRNA screen. Mechanistically, HOXA4 interacts with TEADs and attenuates YAP/TEAD-mediated transcription by competing with YAP for TEAD binding. We also clarified that the expression of HOXA4 is relatively abundant in the vasculature, especially in VSMCs. In vitro experiments in human VSMCs showed HOXA4 maintains the differentiation state of VSMCs via inhibition of YAP/TEAD-induced phenotypic switching. We generated Hoxa4-deficient mice and confirmed the downregulation of smooth muscle-specific contractile genes and the exacerbation of vascular remodeling after carotid artery ligation in vivo. Our results demonstrate that HOXA4 is a repressor of VSMC phenotypic switching by inhibiting YAP/TEAD-mediated transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Kimura
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takahiro Horie
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Osamu Baba
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yuya Ide
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Shuhei Tsuji
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Randolph Ruiz Rodriguez
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Toshimitsu Watanabe
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Yamasaki
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Chiharu Otani
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Sijia Xu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yui Miyasaka
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Nakashima
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takeshi Kimura
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Koh Ono
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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7
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Clifford AH, Arafat A, Idrees JJ, Roselli EE, Tan CD, Rodriguez ER, Svensson LG, Blackstone E, Johnston D, Pettersson G, Soltesz E, Hoffman GS. Outcomes Among 196 Patients With Noninfectious Proximal Aortitis. Arthritis Rheumatol 2019; 71:2112-2120. [DOI: 10.1002/art.40855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alison H. Clifford
- Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, and University of Alberta Edmonton Alberta Canada
| | - Amr Arafat
- Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, and Tanta University Tanta Egypt
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8
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Differentially expressed genes and canonical pathways in the ascending thoracic aortic aneurysm - The Tampere Vascular Study. Sci Rep 2017; 7:12127. [PMID: 28935963 PMCID: PMC5608723 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-12421-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Ascending thoracic aortic aneurysm (ATAA) is a multifactorial disease with a strong inflammatory component. Surgery is often required to prevent aortic rupture and dissection. We performed gene expression analysis (Illumina HumanHT-12 version 3 Expression BeadChip) for 32 samples from ATAA (26 without/6 with dissection), and 28 left internal thoracic arteries (controls) collected in Tampere Vascular study. We compared expression profiles and conducted pathway analysis using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) to reveal differences between ATAA and a healthy artery wall. Almost 5000 genes were differentially expressed in ATAA samples compared to controls. The most downregulated gene was homeobox (HOX) A5 (fold change, FC = -25.3) and upregulated cadherin-2 (FC = 12.6). Several other HOX genes were also found downregulated (FCs between -25.3 and -1.5, FDR < 0.05). 43, mostly inflammatory, canonical pathways in ATAA were found to be significantly (p < 0.05, FDR < 0.05) differentially expressed. The results remained essentially the same when the 6 dissected ATAA samples were excluded from the analysis. We show for the first time on genome level that ATAA is an inflammatory process, revealing a more detailed molecular pathway level pathogenesis. We propose HOX genes as potentially important players in maintaining aortic integrity, altered expression of which might be important in the pathobiology of ATAA.
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9
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Nabzdyk CS, Pradhan-Nabzdyk L, LoGerfo FW. RNAi therapy to the wall of arteries and veins: anatomical, physiologic, and pharmacological considerations. J Transl Med 2017; 15:164. [PMID: 28754174 PMCID: PMC5534068 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-017-1270-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2017] [Accepted: 07/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cardiovascular disease remains a major health care challenge. The knowledge about the underlying mechanisms of the respective vascular disease etiologies has greatly expanded over the last decades. This includes the contribution of microRNAs, endogenous non-coding RNA molecules, known to vastly influence gene expression. In addition, short interference RNA has been established as a mechanism to temporarily affect gene expression. This review discusses challenges relating to the design of a RNA interference therapy strategy for the modulation of vascular disease. Despite advances in medical and surgical therapies, atherosclerosis (ATH), aortic aneurysms (AA) are still associated with high morbidity and mortality. In addition, intimal hyperplasia (IH) remains a leading cause of late vein and prosthetic bypass graft failure. Pathomechanisms of all three entities include activation of endothelial cells (EC) and dedifferentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). RNA interference represents a promising technology that may be utilized to silence genes contributing to ATH, AA or IH. Successful RNAi delivery to the vessel wall faces multiple obstacles. These include the challenge of cell specific, targeted delivery of RNAi, anatomical barriers such as basal membrane, elastic laminae in arterial walls, multiple layers of VSMC, as well as adventitial tissues. Another major decision point is the route of delivery and potential methods of transfection. A plethora of transfection reagents and adjuncts have been described with varying efficacies and side effects. Timing and duration of RNAi therapy as well as target gene choice are further relevant aspects that need to be addressed in a temporo-spatial fashion. Conclusions While multiple preclinical studies reported encouraging results of RNAi delivery to the vascular wall, it remains to be seen if a single target can be sufficient to the achieve clinically desirable changes in the injured vascular wall in humans. It might be necessary to achieve simultaneous and/or sequential silencing of multiple, synergistically acting target genes. Some advances in cell specific RNAi delivery have been made, but a reliable vascular cell specific transfection strategy is still missing. Also, off-target effects of RNAi and unwanted effects of transfection agents on gene expression are challenges to be addressed. Close collaborative efforts between clinicians, geneticists, biologists, and chemical and medical engineers will be needed to provide tailored therapeutics for the various types of vascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph S Nabzdyk
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Frank W. LoGerfo Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 110 Francis Street, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Leena Pradhan-Nabzdyk
- Frank W. LoGerfo Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 110 Francis Street, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
| | - Frank W LoGerfo
- Frank W. LoGerfo Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 110 Francis Street, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
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10
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Levchuk KA, Malashicheva AB. Regional functional heterogeneity of aortic smooth muscle cells in rats. Russ J Dev Biol 2017. [DOI: 10.1134/s1062360417030080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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11
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Visconti RP, Awgulewitsch A. Topographic patterns of vascular disease: HOX proteins as determining factors? World J Biol Chem 2015; 6:65-70. [PMID: 26322165 PMCID: PMC4549770 DOI: 10.4331/wjbc.v6.i3.65] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2015] [Revised: 04/23/2015] [Accepted: 05/07/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Steadily increasing evidence supports the idea that genetic diversities in the vascular bed are, in addition to hemodynamic influences, a major contributing factor in determining region-specific cardiovascular disease susceptibility. Members of the phylogenetically highly conserved Hox gene family of developmental regulators have to be viewed as prime candidates for determining these regional genetic differences in the vasculature. During embryonic patterning, the regionally distinct and precisely choreographed expression patterns of HOX transcription factors are essential for the correct specification of positional identities. Apparently, these topographic patterns are to some degree retained in certain adult tissues, including the circulatory system. While an understanding of the functional significance of these localized Hox activities in adult blood vessels is only beginning to emerge, an argument can be made for a role of Hox genes in the maintenance of vessel wall homeostasis and functional integrity on the one hand, and in regulating the development and progression of regionally restricted vascular pathologies, on the other. Initial functional studies in animal models, as well as data from clinical studies provide some level of support for this view. The data suggest that putative genetic regulatory networks of Hox-dependent cardiovascular disease processes include genes of diverse functional categories (extracellular matrix remodeling, transmembrane signaling, cell cycle control, inflammatory response, transcriptional control, etc.), as potential targets in both vascular smooth muscle and endothelial cells, as well as cell populations residing in the adventitia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard P Visconti
- Richard P Visconti, Alexander Awgulewitsch, Department of Regenerative Medicine and Cell Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, United States
| | - Alexander Awgulewitsch
- Richard P Visconti, Alexander Awgulewitsch, Department of Regenerative Medicine and Cell Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, United States
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12
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Moxon JV, Behl-Gilhotra R, Morton SK, Krishna SM, Seto SW, Biros E, Nataatmadja M, West M, Walker PJ, Norman PE, Golledge J. Plasma Low-density Lipoprotein Receptor-related Protein 1 Concentration is not Associated with Human Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Presence. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2015; 50:466-73. [PMID: 26188720 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejvs.2015.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2015] [Accepted: 06/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE/BACKGROUND Recent genetic data suggest that a polymorphism of LRP1 is an independent risk factor for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). The aims of this study were to assess whether plasma and aortic concentrations of low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1) are associated with AAA, and to investigate the possible relevance of LRP1 to AAA pathophysiology. METHODS Three analyses were conducted. First, plasma LRP1 concentrations were measured in community-dwelling men with and without AAA (n = 189 and n = 309, respectively) using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Second, Western blotting analyses were employed to compare the expression of LRP1 protein in aortic biopsies collected from patients with AAA and nonaneurysmal postmortem donors (n = 6/group). Finally, the effect of in vitro LRP1 blockade on matrix metalloprotease 9 (MMP9) clearance by vascular smooth muscle cells was assessed by zymography. RESULTS Plasma LRP1 concentrations did not differ between groups of men with and without AAA (median concentration 4.56 μg/mL [interquartile range {IQR} (3.39-5.96)] and 4.43 μg/mL [IQR 3.44-5.84], respectively; p = .48), and were not associated with AAA after adjusting for other risk factors (odds ratio 1.10 [95% confidence interval: 0.91-1.32]; p = 0.35). In contrast, LRP1 expression was approximately 3.4-fold lower in aortic biopsies recovered from patients with AAA compared with controls (median [IQR] expression 1.72 [0.94-3.14] and 5.91 [4.63-6.94] relative density units, respectively; p < .01). In vitro LRP1 blockade significantly reduced the ability of vascular smooth muscle cells to internalize extracellular MMP9. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that aortic but not circulating LRP1 is downregulated in patients with AAA and indicates a possible role for this protein in clearing an aneurysm-relevant ligand.
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Affiliation(s)
- J V Moxon
- Queensland Research Centre for Peripheral Vascular Disease, College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
| | - R Behl-Gilhotra
- Queensland Research Centre for Peripheral Vascular Disease, College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
| | - S K Morton
- Queensland Research Centre for Peripheral Vascular Disease, College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
| | - S M Krishna
- Queensland Research Centre for Peripheral Vascular Disease, College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
| | - S W Seto
- Queensland Research Centre for Peripheral Vascular Disease, College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia; National Institute of Complementary Medicine, University of Western Sydney, Campbelltown, NSW 2560, Australia
| | - E Biros
- Queensland Research Centre for Peripheral Vascular Disease, College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
| | - M Nataatmadja
- The Cardiovascular Research Group, Department of Medicine, University of Queensland, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4032, Australia
| | - M West
- The Cardiovascular Research Group, Department of Medicine, University of Queensland, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4032, Australia
| | - P J Walker
- School of Medicine, Discipline of Surgery and Centre for Clinical Research, University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - P E Norman
- School of Surgery, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - J Golledge
- Queensland Research Centre for Peripheral Vascular Disease, College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia; School of Medicine, Discipline of Surgery and Centre for Clinical Research, University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4072, Australia; Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, The Townsville Hospital, Townsville, QLD 4814, Australia.
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13
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Dai X, Shen J, Annam NP, Jiang H, Levi E, Schworer CM, Tromp G, Arora A, Higgins M, Wang XF, Yang M, Li HJ, Zhang K, Kuivaniemi H, Li L. SMAD3 deficiency promotes vessel wall remodeling, collagen fiber reorganization and leukocyte infiltration in an inflammatory abdominal aortic aneurysm mouse model. Sci Rep 2015; 5:10180. [PMID: 25985281 PMCID: PMC4434993 DOI: 10.1038/srep10180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2014] [Accepted: 04/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
TGF-β signaling plays critical roles in the pathogenesis of aneurysms; however, it is still unclear whether its role is protective or destructive. In this study, we investigate the role of SMAD3 in the pathogenesis of calcium chloride (CaCl2)-induced abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) in Smad3−/−, Smad3+/− and Smad3+/+ mice. We find that loss of SMAD3 drastically increases wall thickening of the abdominal aorta. Histological analyses show significant vessel wall remodeling with elastic fiber fragmentation. Remarkably, under polarized light, collagen fibers in the hyperplastic adventitia of Smad3−/− mice show extensive reorganization accompanied by loosely packed thin and radial collagen fibers. The expressions of matrix metalloproteinases including MMP2, MMP9, and MMP12 and infiltration of macrophage/T cells are drastically enhanced in the vascular wall of Smad3−/− mice. We also observe marked increase of NF-κB and ERK1/2 signaling as well as the expression of nuclear Smad2, Smad4 and TGF-β1 in the vessel wall of Smad3−/− mice. In addition, we find that SMAD3 expression is reduced in the dedifferentiated medial smooth muscle-like cells of human AAA patients. These findings provide direct in vivo evidence to support the essential roles of SMAD3 in protecting vessel wall integrity and suppressing inflammation in the pathogenesis of AAAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohua Dai
- 1] Department of Internal Medicine [2] Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics
| | - Jianbin Shen
- 1] Department of Internal Medicine [2] Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics [3] Cardiovascular Research Institute
| | | | | | - Edi Levi
- Department of Pathology, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Detroit, MI 48201
| | - Charles M Schworer
- The Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA 17822
| | - Gerard Tromp
- The Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA 17822
| | | | | | - Xiao-Fan Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Maozhou Yang
- Bone and Joint Center, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI 48202
| | - Hui J Li
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts, Worcester, MA 01655
| | | | - Helena Kuivaniemi
- The Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA 17822
| | - Li Li
- 1] Department of Internal Medicine [2] Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics [3] Cardiovascular Research Institute
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14
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Hinterseher I, Schworer CM, Lillvis JH, Stahl E, Erdman R, Gatalica Z, Tromp G, Kuivaniemi H. Immunohistochemical analysis of the natural killer cell cytotoxicity pathway in human abdominal aortic aneurysms. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:11196-212. [PMID: 25993291 PMCID: PMC4463696 DOI: 10.3390/ijms160511196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2014] [Revised: 01/26/2015] [Accepted: 01/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Our previous analysis using genome-wide microarray expression data revealed extreme overrepresentation of immune related genes belonging the Natural Killer (NK) Cell Mediated Cytotoxicity pathway (hsa04650) in human abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). We followed up the microarray studies by immunohistochemical analyses using antibodies against nine members of the NK pathway (VAV1, VAV3, PLCG1, PLCG2, HCST, TYROBP, PTK2B, TNFA, and GZMB) and aortic tissue samples from AAA repair operations (n = 6) and control aortae (n = 8) from age-, sex- and ethnicity-matched donors from autopsies. The results confirmed the microarray results. Two different members of the NK pathway, HCST and GRZB, which act at different steps in the NK-pathway, were actively transcribed and translated into proteins in the same cells in the AAA tissue demonstrated by double staining. Furthermore, double staining with antibodies against CD68 or CD8 together with HCST, TYROBP, PTK2B or PLCG2 revealed that CD68 and CD8 positive cells expressed proteins of the NK-pathway but were not the only inflammatory cells involved in the NK-pathway in the AAA tissue. The results provide strong evidence that the NK Cell Mediated Cytotoxicity Pathway is activated in human AAA and valuable insight for future studies to dissect the pathogenesis of human AAA.
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MESH Headings
- Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing/genetics
- Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing/metabolism
- Adult
- Aged
- Aged, 80 and over
- Antigens, CD/metabolism
- Antigens, Differentiation, Myelomonocytic/metabolism
- Aorta, Abdominal/metabolism
- Aorta, Abdominal/pathology
- Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal/immunology
- Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal/metabolism
- Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal/pathology
- CD8 Antigens/metabolism
- Female
- Focal Adhesion Kinase 2/genetics
- Focal Adhesion Kinase 2/metabolism
- Humans
- Immunohistochemistry
- Killer Cells, Natural/cytology
- Killer Cells, Natural/immunology
- Killer Cells, Natural/metabolism
- Male
- Membrane Proteins/genetics
- Membrane Proteins/metabolism
- Middle Aged
- Oligonucleotide Array Sequence Analysis
- Phospholipase C gamma/metabolism
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-vav/genetics
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-vav/metabolism
- Receptors, Immunologic/genetics
- Receptors, Immunologic/metabolism
- Transcriptome
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Hinterseher
- Department of General, Visceral, Vascular and Thoracic Surgery, Charité Universitätsmedizin, Campus Mitte, 10117 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Charles M Schworer
- Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA 17822, USA.
| | - John H Lillvis
- The Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48202, USA.
| | - Elizabeth Stahl
- Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA 17822, USA.
| | - Robert Erdman
- Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA 17822, USA.
| | | | - Gerard Tromp
- Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA 17822, USA.
| | - Helena Kuivaniemi
- Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA 17822, USA.
- Department of Surgery, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA.
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15
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Pahl MC, Erdman R, Kuivaniemi H, Lillvis JH, Elmore JR, Tromp G. Transcriptional (ChIP-Chip) Analysis of ELF1, ETS2, RUNX1 and STAT5 in Human Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:11229-58. [PMID: 25993293 PMCID: PMC4463698 DOI: 10.3390/ijms160511229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2014] [Accepted: 12/31/2014] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
We investigated transcriptional control of gene expression in human abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). We previously identified 3274 differentially expressed genes in human AAA tissue compared to non-aneurysmal controls. Four expressed transcription factors (ELF1, ETS2, STAT5 and RUNX1) were selected for genome-wide chromatin immunoprecipitation. Transcription factor binding was enriched in 4760 distinct genes (FDR < 0.05), of which 713 were differentially expressed in AAA. Functional classification using Gene Ontology (GO), KEGG, and Network Analysis revealed enrichment in several biological processes including “leukocyte migration” (FDR = 3.09 × 10−05) and “intracellular protein kinase cascade” (FDR = 6.48 × 10−05). In the control aorta, the most significant GO categories differed from those in the AAA samples and included “cytoskeleton organization” (FDR = 1.24 × 10−06) and “small GTPase mediated signal transduction” (FDR = 1.24 × 10−06). Genes up-regulated in AAA tissue showed a highly significant enrichment for GO categories “leukocyte migration” (FDR = 1.62 × 10−11), “activation of immune response” (FDR = 8.44 × 10−11), “T cell activation” (FDR = 4.14 × 10−10) and “regulation of lymphocyte activation” (FDR = 2.45 × 10−09), whereas the down-regulated genes were enriched in GO categories “cytoskeleton organization” (FDR = 7.84 × 10−05), “muscle cell development” (FDR = 1.00 × 10−04), and “organ morphogenesis” (FDR = 3.00 × 10−04). Quantitative PCR assays confirmed a sub-set of the transcription factor binding sites including those in MTMR11, DUSP10, ITGAM, MARCH1, HDAC8, MMP14, MAGI1, THBD and SPOCK1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew C Pahl
- Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA 17822, USA.
| | - Robert Erdman
- Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA 17822, USA.
| | - Helena Kuivaniemi
- Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA 17822, USA.
- Department of Surgery, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA.
| | - John H Lillvis
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48202, USA.
| | - James R Elmore
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA 17822, USA.
| | - Gerard Tromp
- Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA 17822, USA.
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16
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Ryer EJ, Ronning KE, Erdman R, Schworer CM, Elmore JR, Peeler TC, Nevius CD, Lillvis JH, Garvin RP, Franklin DP, Kuivaniemi H, Tromp G. The potential role of DNA methylation in abdominal aortic aneurysms. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:11259-75. [PMID: 25993294 PMCID: PMC4463699 DOI: 10.3390/ijms160511259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2014] [Accepted: 01/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a complex disorder that has a significant impact on the aging population. While both genetic and environmental risk factors have been implicated in AAA formation, the precise genetic markers involved and the factors influencing their expression remain an area of ongoing investigation. DNA methylation has been previously used to study gene silencing in other inflammatory disorders and since AAA has an extensive inflammatory component, we sought to examine the genome-wide DNA methylation profiles in mononuclear blood cells of AAA cases and matched non-AAA controls. To this end, we collected blood samples and isolated mononuclear cells for DNA and RNA extraction from four all male groups: AAA smokers (n = 11), AAA non-smokers (n = 9), control smokers (n = 10) and control non-smokers (n = 11). Methylation data were obtained using the Illumina 450k Human Methylation Bead Chip and analyzed using the R language and multiple Bioconductor packages. Principal component analysis and linear analysis of CpG island subsets identified four regions with significant differences in methylation with respect to AAA: kelch-like family member 35 (KLHL35), calponin 2 (CNN2), serpin peptidase inhibitor clade B (ovalbumin) member 9 (SERPINB9), and adenylate cyclase 10 pseudogene 1 (ADCY10P1). Follow-up studies included RT-PCR and immunostaining for CNN2 and SERPINB9. These findings are novel and suggest DNA methylation may play a role in AAA pathobiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan J Ryer
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA 17822, USA.
| | - Kaitryn E Ronning
- Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA 17822, USA.
- Department of Biology, Susquehanna University, Selinsgrove, PA 17870, USA.
| | - Robert Erdman
- Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA 17822, USA.
| | - Charles M Schworer
- Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA 17822, USA.
| | - James R Elmore
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA 17822, USA.
| | - Thomas C Peeler
- Department of Biology, Susquehanna University, Selinsgrove, PA 17870, USA.
| | - Christopher D Nevius
- Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA 17822, USA.
| | - John H Lillvis
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48202, USA.
| | - Robert P Garvin
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA 17822, USA.
| | - David P Franklin
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA 17822, USA.
| | - Helena Kuivaniemi
- Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA 17822, USA.
- Department of Surgery, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA.
| | - Gerard Tromp
- Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA 17822, USA.
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17
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Cheng J, Koenig SN, Kuivaniemi HS, Garg V, Hans CP. Pharmacological inhibitor of notch signaling stabilizes the progression of small abdominal aortic aneurysm in a mouse model. J Am Heart Assoc 2014; 3:e001064. [PMID: 25349182 PMCID: PMC4338693 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.114.001064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Background The progression of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) involves a sustained influx of proinflammatory macrophages, which exacerbate tissue injury by releasing cytokines, chemokines, and matrix metalloproteinases. Previously, we showed that Notch deficiency reduces the development of AAA in the angiotensin II–induced mouse model by preventing infiltration of macrophages. Here, we examined whether Notch inhibition in this mouse model prevents progression of small AAA and whether these effects are associated with altered macrophage differentiation. Methods and Results Treatment with pharmacological Notch inhibitor (DAPT [N‐(N‐[3,5‐difluorophenacetyl]‐L‐alanyl)‐S‐phenylglycine t‐butyl ester]) at day 3 or 8 of angiotensin II infusion arrested the progression of AAA in Apoe−/− mice, as demonstrated by a decreased luminal diameter and aortic width. The abdominal aortas of Apoe−/− mice treated with DAPT showed decreased expression of matrix metalloproteinases and presence of elastin precursors including tropoelastin and hyaluronic acid. Marginal adventitial thickening observed in the aorta of DAPT‐treated Apoe−/− mice was not associated with increased macrophage content, as observed in the mice treated with angiotensin II alone. Instead, DAPT‐treated abdominal aortas showed increased expression of Cd206‐positive M2 macrophages and decreased expression of Il12‐positive M1 macrophages. Notch1 deficiency promoted M2 differentiation of macrophages by upregulating transforming growth factor β2 in bone marrow–derived macrophages at basal levels and in response to IL4. Protein expression of transforming growth factor β2 and its downstream effector pSmad2 also increased in DAPT‐treated Apoe−/− mice, indicating a potential link between Notch and transforming growth factor β2 signaling in the M2 differentiation of macrophages. Conclusions Pharmacological inhibitor of Notch signaling prevents the progression of AAA by macrophage differentiation–dependent mechanisms. The study also provides insights for novel therapeutic strategies to prevent the progression of small AAA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeeyun Cheng
- Center for Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Research and The Heart Center, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH (J.C., S.N.K., V.G., C.P.H.)
| | - Sara N Koenig
- Center for Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Research and The Heart Center, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH (J.C., S.N.K., V.G., C.P.H.)
| | - Helena S Kuivaniemi
- The Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA (H.S.K.)
| | - Vidu Garg
- Center for Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Research and The Heart Center, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH (J.C., S.N.K., V.G., C.P.H.) Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH (V.G., C.P.H.) Department of Molecular Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH (V.G.)
| | - Chetan P Hans
- Center for Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Research and The Heart Center, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH (J.C., S.N.K., V.G., C.P.H.) Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH (V.G., C.P.H.)
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18
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Estrelinha M, Hinterseher I, Kuivaniemi H. Gene expression studies in human abdominal aortic aneurysm. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rvm.2014.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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19
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Kuivaniemi H, Ryer EJ, Elmore JR, Hinterseher I, Smelser DT, Tromp G. Update on abdominal aortic aneurysm research: from clinical to genetic studies. SCIENTIFICA 2014; 2014:564734. [PMID: 24834361 PMCID: PMC4009235 DOI: 10.1155/2014/564734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2013] [Accepted: 02/02/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a dilatation of the abdominal aorta with a diameter of at least 3.0 cm. AAAs are often asymptomatic and are discovered as incidental findings in imaging studies or when the AAA ruptures leading to a medical emergency. AAAs are more common in males than females, in individuals of European ancestry, and in those over 65 years of age. Smoking is the most important environmental risk factor. In addition, a positive family history of AAA increases the person's risk for AAA. Interestingly, diabetes has been shown to be a protective factor for AAA in many large studies. Hallmarks of AAA pathogenesis include inflammation, vascular smooth muscle cell apoptosis, extracellular matrix degradation, and oxidative stress. Autoimmunity may also play a role in AAA development and progression. In this Outlook paper, we summarize our recent studies on AAA including clinical studies related to surgical repair of AAA and genetic risk factor and large-scale gene expression studies. We conclude with a discussion on our research projects using large data sets available through electronic medical records and biobanks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Kuivaniemi
- The Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA, USA
- Department of Surgery, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Evan J. Ryer
- Department of Surgery, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA, USA
| | - James R. Elmore
- Department of Surgery, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA, USA
| | - Irene Hinterseher
- Department of General, Visceral, Vascular and Thoracic Surgery, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charité Campus Mitte, Berlin, Germany
| | - Diane T. Smelser
- The Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA, USA
| | - Gerard Tromp
- The Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Health System, Danville, PA, USA
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20
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Toshner M, Dunmore BJ, McKinney EF, Southwood M, Caruso P, Upton PD, Waters JP, Ormiston ML, Skepper JN, Nash G, Rana AA, Morrell NW. Transcript analysis reveals a specific HOX signature associated with positional identity of human endothelial cells. PLoS One 2014; 1:430-5. [PMID: 23213434 PMCID: PMC3507213 DOI: 10.1242/bio.2012039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The distinct topographic Hox expression patterns observed in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) of the adult cardiovascular system suggest that these transcriptional regulators are critical for maintaining region-specific physiological properties of blood vessels. To test this proposition, we expanded the vascular Hoxc11 expression domain normally restricted to the lower limbs by utilizing an innovative integrated tetracycline regulatory system and Transgelin promoter elements to induce Hoxc11 expression universally in VSMCs of transgenic mice. Ectopic Hoxc11 expression in carotid arteries, aortic arch and descending aorta resulted in drastic vessel wall remodeling involving elastic laminae fragmentation, medial smooth muscle cell loss, and intimal lesion formation. None of these alterations were observed upon induction of Hoxc11 transgene expression in the femoral artery, i.e. the natural Hoxc11 activity domain, although this vessel was greatly enlarged, comparable to the topographically restricted vascular changes seen in Hoxc11−/− mice. To begin defining Hoxc11-controlled pathways of vascular remodeling, we performed immunolabeling studies in conjunction with co-transfection and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays using mouse vascular smooth muscle (MOVAS) cells. The results suggest direct transcriptional control of two members of the matrix metalloproteinase (Mmp) family, including Mmp2 and Mmp9 that are known as key players in the inception and progression of vascular remodeling events. In summary, the severe vascular abnormalities resulting from the induced dysregulated expression of a Hox gene with regional vascular patterning functions suggest that proper Hox function and regulation is critical for maintaining vascular functional integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Toshner
- Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Papworth Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Benjamin J Dunmore
- Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Eoin F McKinney
- Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | | | - Paola Caruso
- Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Paul D Upton
- Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - John P Waters
- Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Mark L Ormiston
- Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Jeremy N Skepper
- Department of Physiology and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Gerard Nash
- School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Birmingham University, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Amer A Rana
- Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas W Morrell
- Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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21
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Family history is a risk factor for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), suggesting that genetic factors play an important role in AAA development, growth and rupture. Identification of these factors could improve understanding of the AAA pathogenesis and be useful to identify at risk individuals. RECENT FINDINGS Many approaches are used to examine genetic determinants of AAA, including genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and DNA linkage studies. Two recent GWAS have identified genetic markers associated with an increased risk of AAA located within the genes for DAB2 interacting protein (DAB2IP) and low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1). In addition, a marker on 9p21 associated with other vascular diseases is also strongly associated with AAA. The exact means by which these genes currently control AAA risk is not clear; however, in support of these findings, mice with vascular smooth muscle cell deficiency of Lrp1 are prone to aneurysm development. Further current work is concentrated on other molecular mechanisms relevant in AAA pathogenesis, including noncoding RNAs such as microRNAs. SUMMARY Current studies assessing genetic mechanisms for AAA have significant potential to identify novel mechanisms involved in AAA pathogenesis of high relevance to better clinical management of the disease.
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22
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Gerhard GS, Styer AM, Strodel WE, Roesch SL, Yavorek A, Carey DJ, Wood GC, Petrick AT, Gabrielsen J, Ibele A, Benotti P, Rolston DD, Still CD, Argyropoulos G. Gene expression profiling in subcutaneous, visceral and epigastric adipose tissues of patients with extreme obesity. Int J Obes (Lond) 2013; 38:371-8. [PMID: 23949615 PMCID: PMC3925764 DOI: 10.1038/ijo.2013.152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2013] [Revised: 07/19/2013] [Accepted: 08/08/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Objective The goal of the present study was to identify differences in gene expression between SAT, VAT, and EAT depots in Class III severely obese individuals. Design Human subcutaneous (SAT) and visceral (VAT) adipose tissues exhibit differential gene expression profiles. There is little information, however, about the other proximal white adipose tissue, epigastric (EAT) in terms of its function and contribution to metabolism. Subjects and Methods Using RNA from adipose biospecimens obtained from Class III severely obese patients undergoing open Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery, we compared gene expression profiles between SAT, VAT, and EAT, using microarrays validated by real time quantitative PCR. Results The three depots were found to share 1,907 genes. VAT had the greatest number of genes [66] expressed exclusively in this depot, followed by SAT [23], and then EAT [14]. Moreover, VAT shared more genes with EAT [65] than with SAT [38]. Further analyses using ratios of SAT/EAT, VAT/EAT, and SAT/VAT, identified specific as well as overlapping networks and pathways of genes representing dermatological diseases, inflammation, cell cycle and growth, cancer, and development. Targeted analysis of genes playing a role in adipose tissue development and function, revealed that Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor Gamma Coactivator 1-alpha (PGC1-α) that regulates the precursor of the hormone Irisin (FNCD5), were abundantly expressed in all three fat depots, along with fibroblast growth factors (FGF) FGF1, FGF7, and FGF10, whereas, FGF19 and FGF21 were undetectable. Conclusions These data indicate that EAT has more in common with VAT suggesting similar metabolic potential. The human epigastric adipose depot could play a significant functional role in metabolic diseases and should be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- G S Gerhard
- 1] Weis Center for Research, Danville, PA, USA [2] Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - A M Styer
- Weis Center for Research, Danville, PA, USA
| | - W E Strodel
- Department of Surgery, Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, PA, USA
| | - S L Roesch
- Weis Center for Research, Danville, PA, USA
| | - A Yavorek
- Weis Center for Research, Danville, PA, USA
| | - D J Carey
- Weis Center for Research, Danville, PA, USA
| | - G C Wood
- Institute of Obesity, Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, PA, USA
| | - A T Petrick
- Department of Surgery, Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, PA, USA
| | - J Gabrielsen
- Department of Surgery, Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, PA, USA
| | - A Ibele
- Department of Surgery, Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, PA, USA
| | - P Benotti
- Institute of Obesity, Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, PA, USA
| | - D D Rolston
- Department of General and Internal Medicine, Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, PA, USA
| | - C D Still
- 1] Institute of Obesity, Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, PA, USA [2] Department of Gastroenterology, Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, PA, USA
| | - G Argyropoulos
- 1] Weis Center for Research, Danville, PA, USA [2] Institute of Obesity, Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, PA, USA
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23
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Awgulewitsch A, Majesky MW. Interpreting inflammation: smooth muscle positional identity and nuclear factor-κB signaling. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2013; 33:1113-5. [PMID: 23677878 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.113.301407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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24
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Gerhard GS, Styer AM, Wood GC, Roesch SL, Petrick AT, Gabrielsen J, Strodel WE, Still CD, Argyropoulos G. A role for fibroblast growth factor 19 and bile acids in diabetes remission after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Diabetes Care 2013; 36:1859-64. [PMID: 23801799 PMCID: PMC3687273 DOI: 10.2337/dc12-2255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 175] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) in humans can remit type 2 diabetes, but the operative mechanism is not completely understood. In mice, fibroblast growth factor (FGF) 15 (FGF19 in humans) regulates hepatic bile acid (BA) production and can also resolve diabetes. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that the FGF19-BA pathway plays a role in the remission of human diabetes after RYGB surgery. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Cohorts of diabetic and nondiabetic individuals of various body weights were used. In addition, RYGB patients without diabetes (No-Diabetes), RYGB patients with diabetes who experienced remission for at least 12 months after surgery (Diabetes-R), and RYGB patients with diabetes who did not go into remission after surgery (Diabetes-NoR) were studied. Circulating FGF19 and BA levels, hepatic glycogen content, and expression levels of genes regulating the FGF19-BA pathway were compared among these groups of patients using pre- and postoperative serum samples and intraoperative liver biopsies. RESULTS Preoperatively, patients with diabetes had lower FGF19 and higher BA levels than nondiabetic patients, irrespective of body weight. In diabetic patients undergoing RYGB, lower FGF19 levels were significantly correlated with increased hepatic expression of the cholesterol 7alpha-hydroxylase 1 (CYP7A1) gene, which modulates BA production. Following RYGB surgery, however, FGF19 and BA levels (particularly cholic and deoxycholic acids) exhibited larger increases in Diabetic-R patients compared with nondiabetic and Diabetic-NoR patients. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, the baseline and postoperative data implicate the FGF19-CYP7A1-BA pathway in the etiology and remission of type 2 diabetes following RYGB surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glenn S Gerhard
- Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Clinic, Danville, Pennsylvania, USA
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25
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Kuivaniemi H, Sakalihasan N, Lederle FA, Jones GT, Defraigne JO, Labropoulos N, Legrand V, Michel JB, Nienaber C, Radermecker MA, Elefteriades JA. New Insights Into Aortic Diseases: A Report From the Third International Meeting on Aortic Diseases (IMAD3). AORTA (STAMFORD, CONN.) 2013; 1:23-39. [PMID: 26798669 PMCID: PMC4682695 DOI: 10.12945/j.aorta.2013.13.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2013] [Accepted: 03/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The current state of research and treatment on aortic diseases was discussed in the "3rd International Meeting on Aortic Diseases" (IMAD3) held on October 4-6, 2012, in Liège, Belgium. The 3-day meeting covered a wide range of topics related to thoracic aortic aneurysms and dissections, abdominal aortic aneurysms, and valvular diseases. It brought together clinicians and basic scientists and provided an excellent opportunity to discuss future collaborative research projects for genetic, genomics, and biomarker studies, as well as clinical trials. Although great progress has been made in the past few years, there are still a large number of unsolved questions about aortic diseases. Obtaining answers to the key questions will require innovative, interdisciplinary approaches that integrate information from epidemiological, genetic, molecular biology, and bioengineering studies on humans and animal models. It is more evident than ever that multicenter collaborations are needed to accomplish these goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Kuivaniemi
- Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Clinic, Danville, Pennsylvania
| | | | - Frank A. Lederle
- Minneapolis Center for Epidemiological and Clinical Research, Department of Medicine (III-0), VA Medical Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | | | | | - Nicos Labropoulos
- Department of Surgery, Stony Brook University Medical Center, Stony Brook, New York
| | - Victor Legrand
- Cardiology Departments, University Hospital of Liège, CHU, Liège, Belgium
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26
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Trigueros-Motos L, González-Granado JM, Cheung C, Fernández P, Sánchez-Cabo F, Dopazo A, Sinha S, Andrés V. Embryological-origin-dependent differences in homeobox expression in adult aorta: role in regional phenotypic variability and regulation of NF-κB activity. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2013; 33:1248-56. [PMID: 23448971 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.112.300539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Different vascular beds show differing susceptibility to the development of atherosclerosis, but the molecular mechanisms underlying these differences are incompletely understood. This study aims to identify factors that contribute to the phenotypic heterogeneity of distinct regions of the adult vasculature. APPROACH AND RESULTS High-throughput mRNA profiling in adult mice reveals higher expression of the homeobox paralogous genes 6 to 10 (Hox6-10) in the athero-resistant thoracic aorta (TA) than in the athero-susceptible aortic arch (AA). Higher homeobox gene expression also occurs in rat and porcine TA, and is maintained in primary smooth muscle cells isolated from TA (TA-SMCs) compared with cells from AA (AA-SMCs). This region-specific homeobox gene expression pattern is also observed in human embryonic stem cells differentiated into neuroectoderm-SMCs and paraxial mesoderm-SMCs, which give rise to AA-SMCs and TA-SMCs, respectively. We also find that, compared with AA and AA-SMCs, TA and TA-SMCs have lower activity of the proinflammatory and proatherogenic nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and lower expression of NF-κB target genes, at least in part attributable to HOXA9-dependent inhibition. Conversely, NF-κB inhibits HOXA9 promoter activity and mRNA expression in SMCs. CONCLUSION Our findings support a model of Hox6-10-specified positional identity in the adult vasculature that is established by embryonic cues independently of environmental factors and is conserved in different mammalian species. Differential homeobox gene expression contributes to maintaining phenotypic differences between SMCs from athero-resistant and athero-susceptible regions, at least in part through feedback regulatory mechanisms involving inflammatory mediators, for example, reciprocal inhibition between HOXA9 and NF-κB.
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MESH Headings
- Adult
- Animals
- Aorta/embryology
- Aorta, Thoracic/embryology
- Atherosclerosis/genetics
- Atherosclerosis/physiopathology
- Cell Differentiation/genetics
- Cells, Cultured
- Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental
- Genes, Homeobox/genetics
- Humans
- Mice
- Models, Animal
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/cytology
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/metabolism
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/cytology
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/metabolism
- NF-kappa B/genetics
- Phenotype
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Rats
- Species Specificity
- Swine
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Affiliation(s)
- Laia Trigueros-Motos
- Departamento de Epidemiología, Aterotrombosis e Imagen, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid, Spain
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27
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Kuivaniemi H, Elmore JR. Opportunities in abdominal aortic aneurysm research: epidemiology, genetics, and pathophysiology. Ann Vasc Surg 2012; 26:862-70. [PMID: 22794334 DOI: 10.1016/j.avsg.2012.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2011] [Revised: 02/01/2012] [Accepted: 02/09/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Aortic aneurysms are a complex genetic disorder with known environmental risk factors such as smoking. Along the length of the aorta, significant heterogeneity occurs in the distribution of aneurysmal disease. The prevalence of aneurysm in the abdominal aorta is at least nine times higher than that in the thoracic section of the aorta. A number of studies have shown that aortic aneurysms are frequently familial, even when they are not associated with rare heritable disorders such as Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome type IV. The pathobiology of aortic aneurysms is complex and largely unsolved. Unbiased whole-genome approaches are now being used to elucidate the genetic basis of aortic aneurysms to uncover the germline genetic variants that influence the disease risk. The findings will provide critical information about underlying biology of the disease and will help identify potential targets for pharmacological therapies. These studies may lead to therapies that may increase survival rates for individuals with aortic aneurysms and reduce the need for surgical interventions. Abdominal aortic aneurysms were the topic of an international conference "Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Epidemiology, Genetics, and Pathophysiology" held recently at the Geisinger Clinic, Danville, Pennsylvania.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Kuivaniemi
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, The Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Clinic, Danville, PA 17822-2610, USA.
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28
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Pahl MC, Derr K, Gäbel G, Hinterseher I, Elmore JR, Schworer CM, Peeler TC, Franklin DP, Gray JL, Carey DJ, Tromp G, Kuivaniemi H. MicroRNA expression signature in human abdominal aortic aneurysms. BMC Med Genomics 2012; 5:25. [PMID: 22704053 PMCID: PMC3507654 DOI: 10.1186/1755-8794-5-25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2012] [Accepted: 05/31/2012] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a dilatation of the aorta affecting most frequently elderly men. Histologically AAAs are characterized by inflammation, vascular smooth muscle cell apoptosis, and extracellular matrix degradation. The mechanisms of AAA formation, progression, and rupture are currently poorly understood. A previous mRNA expression study revealed a large number of differentially expressed genes between AAA and non-aneurysmal control aortas. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), small non-coding RNAs that are post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression, could provide a mechanism for the differential expression of genes in AAA. METHODS To determine differences in miRNA levels between AAA (n = 5) and control (n = 5) infrarenal aortic tissues, a microarray study was carried out. Results were adjusted using Benjamini-Hochberg correction (adjusted p < 0.05). Real-time quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) assays with an independent set of 36 AAA and seven control tissues were used for validation. Potential gene targets were retrieved from miRNA target prediction databases Pictar, TargetScan, and MiRTarget2. Networks from the target gene set were generated and examined using the network analysis programs, CytoScape® and Ingenuity Pathway Core Analysis®. RESULTS A microarray study identified eight miRNAs with significantly different expression levels between AAA and controls (adjusted p < 0.05). Real-time qRT-PCR assays validated the findings for five of the eight miRNAs. A total of 222 predicted miRNA target genes known to be differentially expressed in AAA based on a prior mRNA microarray study were identified. Bioinformatic analyses revealed that several target genes are involved in apoptosis and activation of T cells. CONCLUSIONS Our genome-wide approach revealed several differentially expressed miRNAs in human AAA tissue suggesting that miRNAs play a role in AAA pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew C Pahl
- The Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Clinic, 100 North Academy Avenue, Pennsylvania, 17822-2610, USA
- Department of Biology, Susquehanna University, Selinsgrove, PA, USA
| | - Kimberly Derr
- The Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Clinic, 100 North Academy Avenue, Pennsylvania, 17822-2610, USA
| | - Gabor Gäbel
- Department of Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Technical University of Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Irene Hinterseher
- Department of Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Technical University of Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Department of General, Visceral, Vascular and Thoracic Surgery, Charité Universitätsmedizin, Charité Campus Mitte, Berlin, Germany
| | - James R Elmore
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Geisinger Clinic, Danville, PA, USA
| | - Charles M Schworer
- The Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Clinic, 100 North Academy Avenue, Pennsylvania, 17822-2610, USA
| | - Thomas C Peeler
- Department of Biology, Susquehanna University, Selinsgrove, PA, USA
| | - David P Franklin
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Geisinger Clinic, Danville, PA, USA
| | - John L Gray
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Geisinger Clinic, Danville, PA, USA
| | - David J Carey
- The Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Clinic, 100 North Academy Avenue, Pennsylvania, 17822-2610, USA
| | - Gerard Tromp
- The Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Clinic, 100 North Academy Avenue, Pennsylvania, 17822-2610, USA
| | - Helena Kuivaniemi
- The Sigfried and Janet Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Clinic, 100 North Academy Avenue, Pennsylvania, 17822-2610, USA
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29
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Momiyama Y, Ohmori R, Fayad ZA, Tanaka N, Kato R, Taniguchi H, Nagata M, Ohsuzu F. The LDL-cholesterol to HDL-cholesterol ratio and the severity of coronary and aortic atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis 2012; 222:577-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2012.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2012] [Revised: 03/18/2012] [Accepted: 03/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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30
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Klausen C, Auersperg N. HOXA4 protein levels and localization in the aorta and in human abdominal aortic aneurysms. BMC PHYSIOLOGY 2011; 11:18. [PMID: 22168796 PMCID: PMC3254126 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6793-11-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2011] [Accepted: 12/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
This report presents evidence for the specificities of select commercially available HOXA4 antibodies in regards to concerns about the specificity of the HOXA4 antibody used by Lillvis et al. (Regional expression of HOXA4 along the aorta and its potential role in human abdominal aortic aneurysms. BMC Physiol 2011, 11:9). Using an antibody characterized extensively by us, Lillvis et al. report detecting HOXA4 at a size of 33 kDa despite our previous reports that HOXA4 is detected at ~37-39 kDa and that the ~30-33 kDa band is non-specific. Using small interfering RNA targeting HOXA4, forced expression of full-length HOXA4 and HOXA4-positive and -negative ovarian cancer cell lines, we confirm our previous findings that the ~30-33 kDa band is non-specific and that HOXA4 is detected at ~37-39 kDa. Moreover, we demonstrate that HOXA4 small interfering RNA reduces the ~37-39 kDa HOXA4 band, but not the ~30-33 kDa non-specific band, in a human acute monocytic leukemia cell line used by Lillvis et al. Western blot analysis performed with two additional commercially available HOXA4 antibodies also detected HOXA4 at ~37-39 kDa. Lastly, immunofluorescent staining of a HOXA4-negative ovarian cancer cell line with the antibody used by Lillvis et al. yields strong perinuclear staining, similar to that observed by Lillvis et al., which cannot be attributed to HOXA4. Our results highlight and briefly discuss the importance of careful antibody validation and selection for use in various applications.
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