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Bi L, Jin J, Fan Y, Liu Y, Xu H, Li M, Chen C, Shen C, Yang R. Blood-based HYAL2 methylation as a potential marker for the preclinical detection of coronary heart disease and stroke. Clin Epigenetics 2024; 16:130. [PMID: 39285429 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-024-01742-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 09/08/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coronary heart disease (CHD) and stroke have become the leading cause of premature mortality and morbidity worldwide. Therefore, sensitive and accurate biomarkers for early detection of CHD and stroke are urgently needed for effective prevention and treatment. We aim to investigate the association between blood-based HYAL2 methylation and the risk of CHD and stroke in Chinese population. METHODS In a prospective nested case-control study comprising 171 CHD cases, 139 stroke cases, who developed the diseases after recruitment and 356 controls who remained healthy during the 2.5 years of follow-up time, the methylation level of HYAL2 in the peripheral blood was quantified using mass spectrometry, and the association was calculated by logistic regression adjusted for covariant. RESULTS Significant association between HYAL2 methylation in the peripheral blood and increased risk of preclinical CHD and stroke were identified [odds ratios (ORs) per - 10% methylation: 1.35-1.64, p ≤ 0.045 for HYAL2_CpG_1, HYAL2_CpG_2 and HYAL2_CpG_3 in CHD; ORs per - 10% methylation: 0.76-1.64, p ≤ 0.033 for HYAL2_CpG_2 and HYAL2_CpG_4 in stroke]. The association in CHD was further enhanced by female gender, younger age (< 70 years old), without the history of hypertension and cancer. The combination of four HYAL2 methylation sites showed an effective discrimination of CHD and stroke cases without hypertension from controls [area under curve (AUC) = 0.78 and 0.75, respectively]. CONCLUSIONS This study presents a strong association of altered HYAL2 methylation in peripheral blood with preclinical CHD and stroke, providing a novel biomarker for risk assessment and early detection of cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lanfei Bi
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jialie Jin
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yao Fan
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Affiliated Geriatric Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Jurong City, Jurong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Haifeng Xu
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Jurong City, Jurong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mengxia Li
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Changying Chen
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chong Shen
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Rongxi Yang
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
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2
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Jovanovic N, Zach V, Crocini C, Bahr LS, Forslund-Startceva SK, Franz K. A gender perspective on diet, microbiome, and sex hormone interplay in cardiovascular disease. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2024:e14228. [PMID: 39263901 DOI: 10.1111/apha.14228] [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: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 07/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/24/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
A unique interplay between body and environment embeds and reflects host-microbiome interactions that contribute to sex-differential disease susceptibility, symptomatology, and treatment outcomes. These differences derive from individual biological factors, such as sex hormone action, sex-divergent immune processes, X-linked gene dosage effects, and epigenetics, as well as from their interaction across the lifespan. The gut microbiome is increasingly recognized as a moderator of several body systems that are thus impacted by its function and composition. In humans, biological sex components further interact with gender-specific exposures such as dietary preferences, stressors, and life experiences to form a complex whole, requiring innovative methodologies to disentangle. Here, we summarize current knowledge of the interactions among sex hormones, gut microbiota, immune system, and vascular health and their relevance for sex-differential epidemiology of cardiovascular diseases. We outline clinical implications, identify knowledge gaps, and place emphasis on required future studies to address these gaps. In addition, we provide an overview of the caveats associated with conducting cardiovascular research that require consideration of sex/gender differences. While previous work has inspected several of these components separately, here we call attention to further translational utility of a combined perspective from cardiovascular translational research, gender medicine, and microbiome systems biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Jovanovic
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin and Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK) Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Veronika Zach
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK) Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Cardiology, Angiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité - Medical Heart Center of Charité and German Heart Institute Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Claudia Crocini
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK) Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max Rubner Center for Cardiovascular Metabolic Renal Research (MRC), Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité (DHZC), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lina Samira Bahr
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin and Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK) Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max Rubner Center for Cardiovascular Metabolic Renal Research (MRC), Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité (DHZC), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sofia Kirke Forslund-Startceva
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin and Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK) Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Kristina Franz
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin and Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK) Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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3
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Thej C, Kishore R. Epigenetic regulation of sex dimorphism in cardiovascular health. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2024; 102:498-510. [PMID: 38427976 DOI: 10.1139/cjpp-2023-0406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of morbidity and mortality, affecting people of all races, ages, and sexes. Substantial sex dimorphism exists in the prevalence, manifestation, and outcomes of CVDs. Understanding the role of sex hormones as well as sex-hormone-independent epigenetic mechanisms could play a crucial role in developing effective and sex-specific cardiovascular therapeutics. Existing research highlights significant disparities in sex hormones, epigenetic regulators, and gene expression related to cardiac health, emphasizing the need for a nuanced understanding of these variations between men and women. Despite these differences, current treatment approaches for CVDs often lack sex-specific considerations. A pivotal shift toward personalized medicine, informed by comprehensive insights into sex-specific DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNA dynamics, holds the potential to revolutionize CVD management. By understanding sex-specific epigenetic complexities, independent of sex hormone influence, future cardiovascular research can be tailored to achieve effective diagnostic and therapeutic interventions for both men and women. This review summarizes the current knowledge and gaps in epigenetic mechanisms and sex dimorphism implicated in CVDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charan Thej
- Aging and Cardiovascular Discovery Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, 19140, USA
| | - Raj Kishore
- Aging and Cardiovascular Discovery Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, 19140, USA
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
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4
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Grilo LF, Zimmerman KD, Puppala S, Chan J, Huber HF, Li G, Jadhav AYL, Wang B, Li C, Clarke GD, Register TC, Oliveira PJ, Nathanielsz PW, Olivier M, Pereira SP, Cox LA. Cardiac Molecular Analysis Reveals Aging-Associated Metabolic Alterations Promoting Glycosaminoglycans Accumulation via Hexosamine Biosynthetic Pathway. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2309211. [PMID: 39119859 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202309211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Age is a prominent risk factor for cardiometabolic disease, often leading to heart structural and functional changes. However, precise molecular mechanisms underlying cardiac remodeling and dysfunction exclusively resulting from physiological aging remain elusive. Previous research demonstrated age-related functional alterations in baboons, analogous to humans. The goal of this study is to identify early cardiac molecular alterations preceding functional adaptations, shedding light on the regulation of age-associated changes. Unbiased transcriptomics of left ventricle samples are performed from female baboons aged 7.5-22.1 years (human equivalent ≈30-88 years). Weighted-gene correlation network and pathway enrichment analyses are performed, with histological validation. Modules of transcripts negatively correlated with age implicated declined metabolism-oxidative phosphorylation, tricarboxylic acid cycle, glycolysis, and fatty-acid β-oxidation. Transcripts positively correlated with age suggested a metabolic shift toward glucose-dependent anabolic pathways, including hexosamine biosynthetic pathway (HBP). This shift is associated with increased glycosaminoglycan synthesis, modification, precursor synthesis via HBP, and extracellular matrix accumulation, verified histologically. Upregulated extracellular matrix-induced signaling coincided with glycosaminoglycan accumulation, followed by cardiac hypertrophy-related pathways. Overall, these findings revealed a transcriptional shift in metabolism favoring glycosaminoglycan accumulation through HBP before cardiac hypertrophy. Unveiling this metabolic shift provides potential targets for age-related cardiac diseases, offering novel insights into early age-related mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luís F Grilo
- CNC-UC, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3060, Portugal
- CIBB, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3060, Portugal
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, PDBEB - Doctoral Programme in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3060, Portugal
- Center for Precision Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Kip D Zimmerman
- Center for Precision Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
- Section on Molecular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Sobha Puppala
- Center for Precision Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
- Section on Molecular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Jeannie Chan
- Center for Precision Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
- Section on Molecular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Hillary F Huber
- Southwest National Primate Research Center, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, 78245, USA
| | - Ge Li
- Center for Precision Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Avinash Y L Jadhav
- Center for Precision Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Benlian Wang
- Center for Precision Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Cun Li
- Texas Pregnancy & Life-Course Health Research Center, Department of Animal Science, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, 82071, USA
| | - Geoffrey D Clarke
- Department of Radiology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA
| | - Thomas C Register
- Center for Precision Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
- Section on Comparative Medicine, Department of Pathology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Paulo J Oliveira
- CNC-UC, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3060, Portugal
- CIBB, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3060, Portugal
| | - Peter W Nathanielsz
- Texas Pregnancy & Life-Course Health Research Center, Department of Animal Science, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, 82071, USA
| | - Michael Olivier
- Center for Precision Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
- Section on Molecular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Susana P Pereira
- CNC-UC, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3060, Portugal
- CIBB, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3060, Portugal
- Laboratory of Metabolism and Exercise (LaMetEx), Research Centre in Physical Activity, Health and Leisure (CIAFEL), Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), Faculty of Sports, University of Porto, Porto, 4050, Portugal
| | - Laura A Cox
- Center for Precision Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
- Section on Molecular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
- Southwest National Primate Research Center, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, 78245, USA
- Section on Comparative Medicine, Department of Pathology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
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5
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Ji Z, Xing Y, Li J, Feng X, Yang F, Zhu B, Yan J. Male-specific age prediction based on Y-chromosome DNA methylation with blood using pyrosequencing. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2024; 71:103050. [PMID: 38703560 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2024.103050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Age prediction is an important aspect of forensic science that offers valuable insight into identification. In recent years, extensive studies have been conducted on age prediction based on DNA methylation, and numerous studies have demonstrated that DNA methylation is a reliable biomarker for age prediction. However, almost all studies on age prediction based on DNA methylation have focused on age-related CpG sites in autosomes, which are concentrated on single-source DNA samples. Mixed samples, especially male-female mixed samples, are common in forensic casework. The application of Y-STRs and Y-SNPs can provide clues for the genetic typing of male individuals in male-female mixtures, but they cannot provide the age information of male individuals. Studies on Y-chromosome DNA methylation can address this issue. In this study, we identified five age-related CpG sites on the Y chromosome (Y-CpGs) and developed a male-specific age prediction model using pyrosequencing combined with a support vector machine algorithm. The mean absolute deviation of the model was 5.50 years in the training set and 6.74 years in the testing set. When we used a male blood sample to predict age, the deviation between the predicted and chronological age was 1.18 years. Then, we mixed the genomic DNA of the male and a female at ratios of 1:1, 1:5, 1:10, and 1:50, the range of deviation between the predicted and chronological age of the male in the mixture was 1.16-1.74 years. In addition, there was no significant difference between the methylation values of bloodstains and blood in the same sample, which indicates that our model is also suitable for bloodstain samples. Overall, our results show that age prediction using DNA methylation of the Y chromosome has potential applications in forensic science and can be of great help in predicting the age of males in male-female mixtures. Furthermore, this work lays the foundation for future research on age-related applications of Y-CpGs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhimin Ji
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030009, PR China
| | - Yangfeng Xing
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030009, PR China
| | - Junli Li
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030009, PR China
| | - Xiaoxiao Feng
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030009, PR China
| | - Fenglong Yang
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030009, PR China.
| | - Bofeng Zhu
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030009, PR China; Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Forensic Multi-Omics for Precision Identification, School of Forensic Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, PR China.
| | - Jiangwei Yan
- School of Forensic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030009, PR China.
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6
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Calvo-López M, Ortega-Paz L, Jimenez-Trinidad FR, Brugaletta S, Sabaté M, Dantas AP. Sex-associated differences in cardiac ageing: Clinical aspects and molecular mechanisms. Eur J Clin Invest 2024; 54:e14215. [PMID: 38624065 DOI: 10.1111/eci.14215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Despite the extensive clinical and scientific advances in prevention, diagnostics and treatment, cardiovascular diseases (CVD) remain the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide for people aged 65 and over. Of all ageing-related diseases, CVD are responsible for almost one-third of deaths in the elderly, being above all cancers combined. Age is an independent and unavoidable risk factor contributing to the impairment of heart and blood vessels. As the average age of the population in industrialized countries has doubled in the last century, and almost a fifth of the world's population is predicted to be over 65 in the next decade, we can assume that the burden of CVD will fall primarily on the elderly. Evidence from basic and clinical science has shown that sex significantly influences the onset and severity of CVD. In women, CVD usually develop later than in men and with atypical symptomatology. After menopause, however, the incidence and severity of CVD increase in women, reaching equality in both sexes. Although intrinsic sexual dimorphism in cardiovascular ageing may contribute to the sex differences in CVD progression, the molecular mechanisms associated with cardiovascular ageing and their clinical value are not known in detail. In this review, we discuss the scientific knowledge available, focusing on structural, hormonal, genetic/epigenetic and inflammatory pathways, seeking to transfer these findings to the cardiovascular clinic in terms of prevention, diagnosis, prognosis and management of these pathologies and proposing possible validation of target specifics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarita Calvo-López
- Clínic's Cardiovascular Institute (ICCV), Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Luis Ortega-Paz
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, UF Health Cardiovascular Center, University of Florida College of Medicine-Jacksonville, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Francisco Rafael Jimenez-Trinidad
- Institut de Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Salvatore Brugaletta
- Clínic's Cardiovascular Institute (ICCV), Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut de Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manel Sabaté
- Clínic's Cardiovascular Institute (ICCV), Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut de Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Paula Dantas
- Institut de Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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7
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Naciri I, Andrade-Ludena MD, Yang Y, Kong M, Sun S. An emerging link between lncRNAs and cancer sex dimorphism. Hum Genet 2024; 143:831-842. [PMID: 38095719 PMCID: PMC11176266 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-023-02620-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
The prevalence and progression of cancer differ in males and females, and thus, sexual dimorphism in tumor development directly impacts clinical research and medicine. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are increasingly recognized as important players in gene expression and various cellular processes, including cancer development and progression. In recent years, lncRNAs have been implicated in the differences observed in cancer incidence, progression, and treatment responses between men and women. Here, we present a brief overview of the current knowledge regarding the role of lncRNAs in cancer sex dimorphism, focusing on how they affect epigenetic processes in male and female mammalian cells. We discuss the potential mechanisms by which lncRNAs may contribute to sex differences in cancer, including transcriptional control of sex chromosomes, hormonal signaling pathways, and immune responses. We also propose strategies for studying lncRNA functions in cancer sex dimorphism. Furthermore, we emphasize the importance of considering sex as a biological variable in cancer research and the need to investigate the role lncRNAs play in mediating these sex differences. In summary, we highlight the emerging link between lncRNAs and cancer sex dimorphism and their potential as therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ikrame Naciri
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Maria D Andrade-Ludena
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Ying Yang
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, School of Biological Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Mei Kong
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, School of Biological Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
| | - Sha Sun
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
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8
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Gorashi RM, Baddour T, Chittle SJ, Vélez NEF, Wenning MA, Anseth KS, Mestroni L, Peña B, Guo P, Aguado BA. Y chromosome linked UTY modulates sex differences in valvular fibroblast methylation in response to nanoscale extracellular matrix cues. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.13.593760. [PMID: 38798394 PMCID: PMC11118428 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.13.593760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Aortic valve stenosis (AVS) is a progressive disease wherein males develop valve calcification relative to females that develop valve fibrosis. Valvular interstitial cells (VICs) aberrantly activate to myofibroblasts during AVS, driving the fibrotic valve phenotype in females. Myofibroblasts further differentiate into osteoblast-like cells and secrete calcium nanoparticles, driving valve calcification in males. We hypothesized the lysine demethylase UTY (ubiquitously transcribed tetratricopeptide repeat containing, Y-linked) decreases methylation uniquely in response to nanoparticle cues in the valve extracellular matrix to promote an osteoblast-like phenotype. Here, we describe a bioinspired hydrogel cell culture platform to interrogate how nanoscale cues modulate sex-specific methylation states in VICs activating to myofibroblasts and osteoblast-like cells. We found UTY (ubiquitously transcribed tetratricopeptide repeat containing, Y-linked) modulates VIC phenotypes in response to nanoscale cues uniquely in males. Overall, we reveal a novel role of UTY in the regulation of calcification processes in males during AVS progression.
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9
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Malyutina S, Chervova O, Maximov V, Nikitenko T, Ryabikov A, Voevoda M. Blood-Based Epigenetic Age Acceleration and Incident Colorectal Cancer Risk: Findings from a Population-Based Case-Control Study. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4850. [PMID: 38732069 PMCID: PMC11084311 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094850] [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: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
This study investigates the association between epigenetic age acceleration (EAA) derived from DNA methylation and the risk of incident colorectal cancer (CRC). We utilized data from a random population sample of 9,360 individuals (men and women, aged 45-69) from the HAPIEE Study who had been followed up for 16 years. A nested case-control design yielded 35 incident CRC cases and 354 matched controls. Six baseline epigenetic age (EA) measures (Horvath, Hannum, PhenoAge, Skin and Blood (SB), BLUP, and Elastic Net (EN)) were calculated along with their respective EAAs. After adjustment, the odds ratios (ORs) for CRC risk per decile increase in EAA ranged from 1.20 (95% CI: 1.04-1.39) to 1.44 (95% CI: 1.21-1.76) for the Horvath, Hannum, PhenoAge, and BLUP measures. Conversely, the SB and EN EAA measures showed borderline inverse associations with ORs of 0.86-0.87 (95% CI: 0.76-0.99). Tertile analysis reinforced a positive association between CRC risk and four EAA measures (Horvath, Hannum, PhenoAge, and BLUP) and a modest inverse relationship with EN EAA. Our findings from a prospective population-based-case-control study indicate a direct association between incident CRC and four markers of accelerated baseline epigenetic age. In contrast, two markers showed a negative association or no association. These results warrant further exploration in larger cohorts and may have implications for CRC risk assessment and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Malyutina
- Research Institute of Internal and Preventive Medicine-Branch of Institute of Cytology and Genetics SB RAS, Novosibirsk 630089, Russia; (V.M.); (T.N.); (A.R.); (M.V.)
| | | | - Vladimir Maximov
- Research Institute of Internal and Preventive Medicine-Branch of Institute of Cytology and Genetics SB RAS, Novosibirsk 630089, Russia; (V.M.); (T.N.); (A.R.); (M.V.)
| | - Tatiana Nikitenko
- Research Institute of Internal and Preventive Medicine-Branch of Institute of Cytology and Genetics SB RAS, Novosibirsk 630089, Russia; (V.M.); (T.N.); (A.R.); (M.V.)
| | - Andrew Ryabikov
- Research Institute of Internal and Preventive Medicine-Branch of Institute of Cytology and Genetics SB RAS, Novosibirsk 630089, Russia; (V.M.); (T.N.); (A.R.); (M.V.)
| | - Mikhail Voevoda
- Research Institute of Internal and Preventive Medicine-Branch of Institute of Cytology and Genetics SB RAS, Novosibirsk 630089, Russia; (V.M.); (T.N.); (A.R.); (M.V.)
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10
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Wang K, Sartor MA, Colacino JA, Dolinoy DC, Svoboda LK. Sex-Specific Deflection of Age-Related DNA Methylation and Gene Expression in Mouse Heart by Perinatal Toxicant Exposures. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.25.591125. [PMID: 38712146 PMCID: PMC11071472 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.25.591125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Background Global and site-specific changes in DNA methylation and gene expression are associated with cardiovascular aging and disease, but how toxicant exposures during early development influence the normal trajectory of these age-related molecular changes, and whether there are sex differences, has not yet been investigated. Objectives We used an established mouse model of developmental exposures to investigate the effects of perinatal exposure to either lead (Pb) or diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), two ubiquitous environmental contaminants strongly associated with CVD, on age-related cardiac DNA methylation and gene expression. Methods Dams were randomly assigned to receive human physiologically relevant levels of Pb (32 ppm in water), DEHP (25 mg/kg chow), or control water and chow. Exposures started two weeks prior to mating and continued until weaning at postnatal day 21 (3 weeks of age). Approximately one male and one female offspring per litter were followed to 3 weeks, 5 months, or 10 months of age, at which time whole hearts were collected (n ≥ 5 per sex per exposure). Enhanced reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (ERRBS) was used to assess the cardiac DNA methylome at 3 weeks and 10 months, and RNA-seq was conducted at all 3 time points. MethylSig and edgeR were used to identify age-related differentially methylated regions (DMRs) and differentially expressed genes (DEGs), respectively, within each sex and exposure group. Cell type deconvolution of bulk RNA-seq data was conducted using the MuSiC algorithm and publicly available single cell RNA-seq data. Results Thousands of DMRs and hundreds of DEGs were identified in control, DEHP, and Pb-exposed hearts across time between 3 weeks and 10 months of age. A closer look at the genes and pathways showing differential DNA methylation revealed that the majority were unique to each sex and exposure group. Overall, pathways governing development and differentiation were most frequently altered with age in all conditions. A small number of genes in each group showed significant changes in DNA methylation and gene expression with age, including several that were altered by both toxicants but were unchanged in control. We also observed subtle, but significant changes in the proportion of several cell types due to age, sex, and developmental exposure. Discussion Together these data show that perinatal Pb or DEHP exposures deflect normal age-related gene expression, DNA methylation programs, and cellular composition across the life course, long after cessation of exposure, and highlight potential biomarkers of developmental toxicant exposures. Further studies are needed to investigate how these epigenetic and transcriptional changes impact cardiovascular health across the life course.
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Liu Y, Chen S, Zhang E, Xu Y, Deng X, Hu Z, Nie S, Lin Y, Huang Y. Exploring the potential of VGLL3 methylation as a prognostic indicator for intracranial aneurysm with gender-specific considerations. Biosci Rep 2024; 44:BSR20231374. [PMID: 38348744 PMCID: PMC10912501 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20231374] [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: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
DNA methylation is widely recognized to play a role in intracranial aneurysm (IA) pathogenesis. We investigated the levels of methylation of vestigial-like 3 (VGLL3) in IA and explored its potential as a prognostic indicator. A total of 48 patients with IA and 48 healthy controls were included in the present study. Methylation levels of CpG sites were assessed using bisulfite pyrosequencing, and levels of VGLL3, TEAD, and YAP in the blood were measured by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction testing. VGLL3 methylation was significantly higher in controls than in IA patients (P=0.001), and this phenomenon was more pronounced in females (P<0.001). Compared with the control group, the expression levels of VGLL3 and TEAD in the blood of IA patients were significantly increased, while YAP was significantly decreased. VGLL3 methylation was positively correlated with HDL (P=0.003) and female Lpa concentration (r = 0.426, P=0.03), and was also negatively correlated with age (P=0.003), APOE (P=0.005), and VGLL3 mRNA expression (P<0.001). Methylation and mRNA expression of VGLL3 may serve as indicators of IA risk in females (AUC = 0.810 and 0.809). VGLL3 methylation may participate in the pathogenesis of IA by regulating the expression of the VGLL3/TEAD/YAP pathway, and its gene methylation and expression levels have IA risk prediction value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchun Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, China
- Laboratory of Neurological Diseases and Brain Function, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, China
| | - Siqi Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, China
- Laboratory of Neurological Diseases and Brain Function, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Atherosclerotic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, China
| | - Enhao Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, China
- Laboratory of Neurological Diseases and Brain Function, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Atherosclerotic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, China
| | - Yinbin Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, China
- Laboratory of Neurological Diseases and Brain Function, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Atherosclerotic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, China
| | - Xinpeng Deng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, China
- Laboratory of Neurological Diseases and Brain Function, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Atherosclerotic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, China
| | - Ziliang Hu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, China
- Laboratory of Neurological Diseases and Brain Function, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Atherosclerotic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, China
| | - Sheng Nie
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, China
- Laboratory of Neurological Diseases and Brain Function, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, China
| | - Yinglu Lin
- Department of Neurology, The Second People’s Hospital of Pingyang County, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325400, China
| | - Yi Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, China
- Laboratory of Neurological Diseases and Brain Function, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Atherosclerotic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, China
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12
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Yang ML, Xu C, Gupte T, Hoffmann TJ, Iribarren C, Zhou X, Ganesh SK. Sex-specific genetic architecture of blood pressure. Nat Med 2024; 30:818-828. [PMID: 38459180 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-024-02858-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
The genetic and genomic basis of sex differences in blood pressure (BP) traits remain unstudied at scale. Here, we conducted sex-stratified and combined-sex genome-wide association studies of BP traits using the UK Biobank resource, identifying 1,346 previously reported and 29 new BP trait-associated loci. Among associated loci, 412 were female-specific (Pfemale ≤ 5 × 10-8; Pmale > 5 × 10-8) and 142 were male-specific (Pmale ≤ 5 × 10-8; Pfemale > 5 × 10-8); these sex-specific loci were enriched for hormone-related transcription factors, in particular, estrogen receptor 1. Analyses of gene-by-sex interactions and sexually dimorphic effects identified four genomic regions, showing female-specific associations with diastolic BP or pulse pressure, including the chromosome 13q34-COL4A1/COL4A2 locus. Notably, female-specific pulse pressure-associated loci exhibited enriched acetylated histone H3 Lys27 modifications in arterial tissues and a female-specific association with fibromuscular dysplasia, a female-biased vascular disease; colocalization signals included Chr13q34: COL4A1/COL4A2, Chr9p21: CDKN2B-AS1 and Chr4q32.1: MAP9 regions. Sex-specific and sex-biased polygenic associations of BP traits were associated with multiple cardiovascular traits. These findings suggest potentially clinically significant and BP sex-specific pleiotropic effects on cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Lee Yang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Chang Xu
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Center for Statistical Genetics, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Trisha Gupte
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Thomas J Hoffmann
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, and Institute for Human Genetics, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Xiang Zhou
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Center for Statistical Genetics, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Santhi K Ganesh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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13
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Sakkers TR, Mokry M, Civelek M, Erdmann J, Pasterkamp G, Diez Benavente E, den Ruijter HM. Sex differences in the genetic and molecular mechanisms of coronary artery disease. Atherosclerosis 2023; 384:117279. [PMID: 37805337 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2023.117279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
Sex differences in coronary artery disease (CAD) presentation, risk factors and prognosis have been widely studied. Similarly, studies on atherosclerosis have shown prominent sex differences in plaque biology. Our understanding of the underlying genetic and molecular mechanisms that drive these differences remains fragmented and largely understudied. Through reviewing genetic and epigenetic studies, we identified more than 40 sex-differential candidate genes (13 within known CAD loci) that may explain, at least in part, sex differences in vascular remodeling, lipid metabolism and endothelial dysfunction. Studies with transcriptomic and single-cell RNA sequencing data from atherosclerotic plaques highlight potential sex differences in smooth muscle cell and endothelial cell biology. Especially, phenotypic switching of smooth muscle cells seems to play a crucial role in female atherosclerosis. This matches the known sex differences in atherosclerotic phenotypes, with men being more prone to lipid-rich plaques, while women are more likely to develop fibrous plaques with endothelial dysfunction. To unravel the complex mechanisms that drive sex differences in CAD, increased statistical power and adjustments to study designs and analysis strategies are required. This entails increasing inclusion rates of women, performing well-defined sex-stratified analyses and the integration of multi-omics data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim R Sakkers
- Laboratory of Experimental Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 100, 3508, GA, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Michal Mokry
- Laboratory of Experimental Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 100, 3508, GA, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Central Diagnostic Laboratory, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 100, 3508, GA, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Mete Civelek
- Center for Public Health Genomics, University of Virginia, 1335 Lee St, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, 351 McCormick Road, Charlottesville, VA, 22904, USA
| | - Jeanette Erdmann
- Institute for Cardiogenetics, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23562, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Gerard Pasterkamp
- Central Diagnostic Laboratory, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 100, 3508, GA, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Ernest Diez Benavente
- Laboratory of Experimental Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 100, 3508, GA, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Hester M den Ruijter
- Laboratory of Experimental Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 100, 3508, GA, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
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Sommer AJ, Okonkwo J, Monteiro J, Bind MAC. A permutation-based approach using a rank-based statistic to identify sex differences in epigenetics. Sci Rep 2023; 13:14838. [PMID: 37684282 PMCID: PMC10491832 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-41360-6] [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: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic sex differences and their resulting implications for human health have been studied for about a decade. The objective of this paper is to use permutation-based inference and a new ranked-based test statistic to identify sex-based epigenetic differences in the human DNA methylome. In particular, we examine whether we could identify separations between the female and male distributions of DNA methylation across hundred of thousands CpG sites in two independent cohorts, the Swedish Adoption Twin study and the Lamarck study. Based on Fisherian p-values, we set a threshold for methylation differences "worth further scrutiny". At this threshold, we were able to confirm previously-found CpG sites that stratify with respect to sex. These CpG sites with sex differences in DNA methylation should be further investigated for their possible contribution to various physiological and pathological functions in the human body. We followed-up our statistical analyses with a literature review in order to inform the proposed disease implications for the loci we uncovered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice J Sommer
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry, and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University München, Munich, Germany
- Institute of Epidemiology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Jude Okonkwo
- Columbia Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jonathan Monteiro
- Department of Biostatistics, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Marie-Abèle C Bind
- Department of Biostatistics, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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15
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Buono MF, Benavente ED, Daniels M, Mol BM, Mekke JM, de Borst GJ, de Kleijn DPV, van der Laan SW, Pasterkamp G, Onland-Moret C, Mokry M, den Ruijter HM. X chromosome inactivation skewing is common in advanced carotid atherosclerotic lesions in females and predicts secondary peripheral artery events. Biol Sex Differ 2023; 14:43. [PMID: 37408072 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-023-00527-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Sex differences in atherosclerosis have been described with female plaques being mostly perceived as stable and fibrous. Sex-specific mechanisms such as mosaic loss of the Y chromosome in men have been linked to cardiovascular health. In women, X-linked mechanisms such as X chromosome inactivation (XCI) skewing is common in several tissues. Yet, information on the role of XCI in female atherosclerotic plaques is lacking. Here, we investigated the presence of XCI skewing in advanced atherosclerotic lesions and its association with cardiovascular risk factors, histological plaque data, and clinical data. METHODS XCI skewing was quantified in 154 atherosclerotic plaque and 55 blood DNA samples of women included in the Athero-Express study. The skewing status was determined performing the HUMARA assay. Then, we studied the relationship of XCI skewing in female plaque and cardiovascular risk factors using regression models. In addition, we studied if plaque XCI predicted plaque composition, and adverse events during 3-years follow-up using Cox proportional hazard models. RESULTS XCI skewing was detected in 76 of 154 (49.4%) plaques and in 27 of 55 (67%) blood samples. None of the clinical risk factors were associated with plaque skewing. Plaque skewing was more often detected in plaques with a plaque hemorrhage (OR [95% CI]: 1.44 [1.06-1.98], P = 0.02). Moreover, skewed plaques were not associated with a higher incidence of composite and major events but were specifically associated with peripheral artery events during a 3-year follow-up period in a multivariate model (HR [95%CI]: 1.46 [1.09-1.97]; P = 0.007). CONCLUSIONS XCI skewing is common in carotid plaques of females and is predictive for the occurrence of peripheral artery events within 3 years after carotid endarterectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele F Buono
- Laboratory of Experimental Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ernest Diez Benavente
- Laboratory of Experimental Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Mark Daniels
- Laboratory of Experimental Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Barend M Mol
- Department of Vascular Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Joost M Mekke
- Department of Vascular Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Gert J de Borst
- Department of Vascular Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Dominique P V de Kleijn
- Department of Vascular Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sander W van der Laan
- Central Diagnostics Laboratory, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Gerard Pasterkamp
- Central Diagnostics Laboratory, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Charlotte Onland-Moret
- Laboratory of Experimental Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Michal Mokry
- Laboratory of Experimental Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Central Diagnostics Laboratory, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Hester M den Ruijter
- Laboratory of Experimental Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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de Bakker M, Petersen TB, Akkerhuis KM, Harakalova M, Umans VA, Germans T, Caliskan K, Katsikis PD, van der Spek PJ, Suthahar N, de Boer RA, Rizopoulos D, Asselbergs FW, Boersma E, Kardys I. Sex-based differences in cardiovascular proteomic profiles and their associations with adverse outcomes in patients with chronic heart failure. Biol Sex Differ 2023; 14:29. [PMID: 37198662 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-023-00516-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies focusing on sex differences in circulating proteins in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) are scarce. Insight into sex-specific cardiovascular protein profiles and their associations with the risk of adverse outcomes may contribute to a better understanding of the pathophysiological processes involved in HFrEF. Moreover, it could provide a basis for the use of circulating protein measurements for prognostication in women and men, wherein the most relevant protein measurements are applied in each of the sexes. METHODS In 382 patients with HFrEF, we performed tri-monthly blood sampling (median follow-up: 25 [13-31] months). We selected all baseline samples and two samples closest to the primary endpoint (PEP: composite of cardiovascular death, heart transplantation, left ventricular assist device implantation, and HF hospitalization) or censoring. We then applied an aptamer-based multiplex proteomic assay identifying 1105 proteins previously associated with cardiovascular disease. We used linear regression models and gene-enrichment analysis to study sex-based differences in baseline levels. We used time-dependent Cox models to study differences in the prognostic value of serially measured proteins. All models were adjusted for the MAGGIC HF mortality risk score and p-values for multiple testing. RESULTS In 104 women and 278 men (mean age 62 and 64 years, respectively) cumulative PEP incidence at 30 months was 25% and 35%, respectively. At baseline, 55 (5%) out of the 1105 proteins were significantly different between women and men. The female protein profile was most strongly associated with extracellular matrix organization, while the male profile was dominated by regulation of cell death. The association of endothelin-1 (Pinteraction < 0.001) and somatostatin (Pinteraction = 0.040) with the PEP was modified by sex, independent of clinical characteristics. Endothelin-1 was more strongly associated with the PEP in men (HR 2.62 [95%CI, 1.98, 3.46], p < 0.001) compared to women (1.14 [1.01, 1.29], p = 0.036). Somatostatin was positively associated with the PEP in men (1.23 [1.10, 1.38], p < 0.001), but inversely associated in women (0.33 [0.12, 0.93], p = 0.036). CONCLUSION Baseline cardiovascular protein levels differ between women and men. However, the predictive value of repeatedly measured circulating proteins does not seem to differ except for endothelin-1 and somatostatin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie de Bakker
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus MC Cardiovascular Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Room Na-316, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Teun B Petersen
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus MC Cardiovascular Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Room Na-316, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - K Martijn Akkerhuis
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus MC Cardiovascular Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Room Na-316, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Magdalena Harakalova
- Department of Cardiology, Division Heart and Lungs, Circulatory Health Research Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Victor A Umans
- Department of Cardiology, Northwest Clinics, Alkmaar, The Netherlands
| | - Tjeerd Germans
- Department of Cardiology, Northwest Clinics, Alkmaar, The Netherlands
| | - Kadir Caliskan
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus MC Cardiovascular Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Room Na-316, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Peter D Katsikis
- Department of Immunology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Peter J van der Spek
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Navin Suthahar
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus MC Cardiovascular Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Room Na-316, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rudolf A de Boer
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus MC Cardiovascular Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Room Na-316, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dimitris Rizopoulos
- Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Folkert W Asselbergs
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Department of Cardiology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Health Data Research UK and Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, UK
| | - Eric Boersma
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus MC Cardiovascular Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Room Na-316, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Isabella Kardys
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus MC Cardiovascular Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Room Na-316, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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Hu J, Xu X, Li J, Jiang Y, Hong X, Rexrode KM, Wang G, Hu FB, Zhang H, Karmaus WJ, Wang X, Liang L. Sex differences in the intergenerational link between maternal and neonatal whole blood DNA methylation: a genome-wide analysis in 2 birth cohorts. Clin Epigenetics 2023; 15:51. [PMID: 36966332 PMCID: PMC10040137 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-023-01442-8] [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: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mother-child inheritance of DNA methylation (DNAm) variations could contribute to the inheritance of disease susceptibility across generations. However, no study has investigated patterns of mother-child associations in DNAm at the genome-wide scale. It remains unknown whether there are sex differences in mother-child DNAm associations. RESULTS Using genome-wide DNAm profiling data (721,331 DNAm sites, including 704,552 on autosomes and 16,779 on the X chromosome) of 396 mother-newborn pairs (54.5% male) from the Boston Birth Cohort, we found significant sex differences in mother-newborn correlations in genome-wide DNAm patterns (Spearman's rho = 0.91-0.98; p = 4.0 × 10-8), with female newborns having stronger correlations. Sex differences in correlations were attenuated but remained significant after excluding X-chromosomal DNAm sites (Spearman's rho = 0.91-0.98; p = 0.035). Moreover, 89,267 DNAm sites (12.4% of all analyzed, including 88,051 [12.5% of analyzed] autosomal and 1,216 [7.2% of analyzed] X-chromosomal sites) showed significant mother-newborn associations in methylation levels, and the top autosomal DNAm sites had high heritability than the genome-wide background (e.g., the top 100 autosomal DNAm sites had a medium h2 of 0.92). Additionally, significant interactions between newborn sex and methylation levels were observed for 11 X-chromosomal and 4 autosomal DNAm sites that were mapped to genes that have been associated with sex-specific disease/traits or early development (e.g., EFHC2, NXY, ADCYAP1R1, and BMP4). Finally, 18,769 DNAm sites (14,482 [77.2%] on the X chromosome) showed mother-newborn differences in methylation levels that were significantly associated with newborn sex, and the top autosomal DNAm sites had relatively small heritability (e.g., the top 100 autosomal DNAm sites had a medium h2 of 0.23). These DNAm sites were mapped to 2,532 autosomal genes and 978 X-chromosomal genes with significant enrichment in pathways involved in neurodegenerative and psychological diseases, development, neurophysiological process, immune response, and sex-specific cancers. Replication analysis in the Isle of Wight birth cohort yielded consistent results. CONCLUSION In two independent birth cohorts, we demonstrated strong mother-newborn correlations in whole blood DNAm on both autosomes and ChrX, and such correlations vary substantially by sex. Future studies are needed to examine to what extent our findings contribute to developmental origins of pediatric and adult diseases with well-observed sex differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Hu
- Division of Women's Health, Department of Medicine, Bigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 655 Huntington Avenue, Building 2, Room 207, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Xin Xu
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 655 Huntington Avenue, Building 2, Room 207, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 655 Huntington Avenue, Building 2, Room 207, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yu Jiang
- Division of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, & Environmental Health, School of Public Health, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Xiumei Hong
- Center On the Early Life Origins of Disease, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kathryn M Rexrode
- Division of Women's Health, Department of Medicine, Bigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Guoying Wang
- Center On the Early Life Origins of Disease, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Frank B Hu
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 655 Huntington Avenue, Building 2, Room 207, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hongmei Zhang
- Division of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, & Environmental Health, School of Public Health, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Wilfried J Karmaus
- Division of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, & Environmental Health, School of Public Health, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Xiaobin Wang
- Center On the Early Life Origins of Disease, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Liming Liang
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 655 Huntington Avenue, Building 2, Room 207, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
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18
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Govender P, Ghai M, Okpeku M. Sex-specific DNA methylation: impact on human health and development. Mol Genet Genomics 2022; 297:1451-1466. [PMID: 35969270 DOI: 10.1007/s00438-022-01935-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Human evolution has shaped gender differences between males and females. Over the years, scientific studies have proposed that epigenetic modifications significantly influence sex-specific differences. The evolution of sex chromosomes with epigenetics as the driving force may have led to one sex being more adaptable than the other when exposed to various factors over time. Identifying and understanding sex-specific differences, particularly in DNA methylation, will help determine how each gender responds to factors, such as disease susceptibility, environmental exposure, brain development and neurodegeneration. From a medicine and health standpoint, sex-specific methylation studies have shed light on human disease severity, progression, and response to therapeutic intervention. Interesting findings in gender incongruent individuals highlight the role of genetic makeup in influencing DNA methylation differences. Sex-specific DNA methylation studies will empower the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry with more knowledge to identify biomarkers, design and develop sex bias drugs leading to better treatment in men and women based on their response to different diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Govender
- Discipline of Genetics, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville, South Africa
| | - Meenu Ghai
- Discipline of Genetics, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville, South Africa.
| | - Moses Okpeku
- Discipline of Genetics, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville, South Africa
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19
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Pressler MP, Horvath A, Entcheva E. Sex-dependent transcription of cardiac electrophysiology and links to acetylation modifiers based on the GTEx database. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:941890. [PMID: 35935618 PMCID: PMC9354462 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.941890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Development of safer drugs based on epigenetic modifiers, e.g., histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi), requires better understanding of their effects on cardiac electrophysiology. Using RNAseq data from the genotype-tissue-expression database (GTEx), we created models that link the abundance of acetylation enzymes (HDAC/SIRT/HATs), and the gene expression of ion channels (IC) via select cardiac transcription factors (TFs) in male and female adult human hearts (left ventricle, LV). Gene expression data (transcripts per million, TPM) from GTEx donors (21–70 y.o.) were filtered, normalized and transformed to Euclidian space to allow quantitative comparisons in 84 female and 158 male LVs. Sex-specific partial least-square (PLS) regression models, linking gene expression data for HDAC/SIRT/HATs to TFs and to ICs gene expression, revealed tight co-regulation of cardiac ion channels by HDAC/SIRT/HATs, with stronger clustering in the male LV. Co-regulation of genes encoding excitatory and inhibitory processes in cardiac tissue by the acetylation modifiers may help explain their predominantly net-neutral effects on cardiac electrophysiology. ATP1A1, encoding for the Na/K pump, represented an outlier—with orthogonal regulation by the acetylation modifiers to most of the ICs. The HDAC/SIRT/HAT effects were mediated by strong (+) TF regulators of ICs, e.g., MEF2A and TBX5, in both sexes. Furthermore, for male hearts, PLS models revealed a stronger (+/-) mediatory role on ICs for NKX25 and TGF1B/KLF4, respectively, while RUNX1 exhibited larger (-) TF effects on ICs in females. Male-trained PLS models of HDAC/SIRT/HAT effects on ICs underestimated the effects on some ICs in females. Insights from the GTEx dataset about the co-expression and transcriptional co-regulation of acetylation-modifying enzymes, transcription factors and key cardiac ion channels in a sex-specific manner can help inform safer drug design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael P. Pressler
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Anelia Horvath
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, McCormick Genomics and Proteomics Center, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Emilia Entcheva
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
- *Correspondence: Emilia Entcheva,
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20
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Zheng Y, Joyce B, Hwang SJ, Ma J, Liu L, Allen N, Krefman A, Wang J, Gao T, Nannini D, Zhang H, Jacobs DR, Gross M, Fornage M, Lewis CE, Schreiner PJ, Sidney S, Chen D, Greenland P, Levy D, Hou L, Lloyd-Jones D. Association of Cardiovascular Health Through Young Adulthood With Genome-Wide DNA Methylation Patterns in Midlife: The CARDIA Study. Circulation 2022; 146:94-109. [PMID: 35652342 PMCID: PMC9348746 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.121.055484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiovascular health (CVH) from young adulthood is strongly associated with an individual's future risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and total mortality. Defining epigenomic biomarkers of lifelong CVH exposure and understanding their roles in CVD development may help develop preventive and therapeutic strategies for CVD. METHODS In 1085 CARDIA study (Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults) participants, we defined a clinical cumulative CVH score that combines body mass index, blood pressure, total cholesterol, and fasting glucose measured longitudinally from young adulthood through middle age over 20 years (mean age, 25-45). Blood DNA methylation at >840 000 methylation markers was measured twice over 5 years (mean age, 40 and 45). Epigenome-wide association analyses on the cumulative CVH score were performed in CARDIA and compared in the FHS (Framingham Heart Study). We used penalized regression to build a methylation-based risk score to evaluate the risk of incident coronary artery calcification and clinical CVD events. RESULTS We identified 45 methylation markers associated with cumulative CVH at false discovery rate <0.01 (P=4.7E-7-5.8E-17) in CARDIA and replicated in FHS. These associations were more pronounced with methylation measured at an older age. CPT1A, ABCG1, and SREBF1 appeared as the most prominent genes. The 45 methylation markers were mostly located in transcriptionally active chromatin and involved lipid metabolism, insulin secretion, and cytokine production pathways. Three methylation markers located in genes SARS1, SOCS3, and LINC-PINT statistically mediated 20.4% of the total effect between CVH and risk of incident coronary artery calcification. The methylation risk score added information and significantly (P=0.004) improved the discrimination capacity of coronary artery calcification status versus CVH score alone and showed association with risk of incident coronary artery calcification 5 to 10 years later independent of cumulative CVH score (odds ratio, 1.87; P=9.66E-09). The methylation risk score was also associated with incident clinical CVD in FHS (hazard ratio, 1.28; P=1.22E-05). CONCLUSIONS Cumulative CVH from young adulthood contributes to midlife epigenetic programming over time. Our findings demonstrate the role of epigenetic markers in response to CVH changes and highlight the potential of epigenomic markers for precision CVD prevention, and earlier detection of subclinical CVD, as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinan Zheng
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Brian Joyce
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Shih-Jen Hwang
- Population Sciences Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Jiantao Ma
- Tufts University Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lei Liu
- Division of Biostatistics, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Norrina Allen
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Amy Krefman
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Tao Gao
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Drew Nannini
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Haixiang Zhang
- Center for Applied Mathematics, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - David R. Jacobs
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Myron Gross
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Myriam Fornage
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Cora E. Lewis
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Division of Preventive Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Pamela J. Schreiner
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Stephen Sidney
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Dongquan Chen
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Philip Greenland
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Daniel Levy
- Population Sciences Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Lifang Hou
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Donald Lloyd-Jones
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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21
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Abstract
Sex is a key risk factor for many types of cardiovascular disease. It is imperative to understand the mechanisms underlying sex differences to devise optimal preventive and therapeutic approaches for all individuals. Both biological sex (determined by sex chromosomes and gonadal hormones) and gender (social and cultural behaviors associated with femininity or masculinity) influence differences between men and women in disease susceptibility and pathology. Here, we focus on the application of experimental mouse models that elucidate the influence of 2 components of biological sex-sex chromosome complement (XX or XY) and gonad type (ovaries or testes). These models have revealed that in addition to well-known effects of gonadal hormones, sex chromosome complement influences cardiovascular risk factors, such as plasma cholesterol levels and adiposity, as well as the development of atherosclerosis and pulmonary hypertension. One mechanism by which sex chromosome dosage influences cardiometabolic traits is through sex-biased expression of X chromosome genes that escape X inactivation. These include chromatin-modifying enzymes that regulate gene expression throughout the genome. The identification of factors that determine sex-biased gene expression and cardiometabolic traits will expand our mechanistic understanding of cardiovascular disease processes and provide insight into sex differences that remain throughout the lifespan as gonadal hormone levels alter with age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Reue
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - Carrie B. Wiese
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
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22
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Grant OA, Wang Y, Kumari M, Zabet NR, Schalkwyk L. Characterising sex differences of autosomal DNA methylation in whole blood using the Illumina EPIC array. Clin Epigenetics 2022; 14:62. [PMID: 35568878 PMCID: PMC9107695 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-022-01279-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sex differences are known to play a role in disease aetiology, progression and outcome. Previous studies have revealed autosomal epigenetic differences between males and females in some tissues, including differences in DNA methylation patterns. Here, we report for the first time an analysis of autosomal sex differences in DNAme using the Illumina EPIC array in human whole blood by performing a discovery (n = 1171) and validation (n = 2471) analysis. RESULTS We identified and validated 396 sex-associated differentially methylated CpG sites (saDMPs) with the majority found to be female-biased CpGs (74%). These saDMP's are enriched in CpG islands and CpG shores and located preferentially at 5'UTRs, 3'UTRs and enhancers. Additionally, we identified 266 significant sex-associated differentially methylated regions overlapping genes, which have previously been shown to exhibit epigenetic sex differences, and novel genes. Transcription factor binding site enrichment revealed enrichment of transcription factors related to critical developmental processes and sex determination such as SRY and ESR1. CONCLUSION Our study reports a reliable catalogue of sex-associated CpG sites and elucidates several characteristics of these sites using large-scale discovery and validation data sets. This resource will benefit future studies aiming to investigate sex specific epigenetic signatures and further our understanding of the role of DNA methylation in sex differences in human whole blood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia A Grant
- School of Life Sciences, University of Essex, Colchester, CO4 3SQ, UK
- Institute of Social and Economic Research, University of Essex, Colchester, CO4 3SQ, UK
- Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, E1 2AT, UK
| | - Yucheng Wang
- School of Life Sciences, University of Essex, Colchester, CO4 3SQ, UK
- School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering, University of Essex, Colchester, CO4 3SQ, UK
| | - Meena Kumari
- Institute of Social and Economic Research, University of Essex, Colchester, CO4 3SQ, UK
| | - Nicolae Radu Zabet
- School of Life Sciences, University of Essex, Colchester, CO4 3SQ, UK.
- Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, E1 2AT, UK.
| | - Leonard Schalkwyk
- School of Life Sciences, University of Essex, Colchester, CO4 3SQ, UK.
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23
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Ji H, Kwan AC, Chen M, Ouyang D, Ebinger JE, Bell SP, Niiranen T, Bello NA, Cheng S. Sex Differences in Myocardial and Vascular Aging. Circ Res 2022; 130:566-577. [PMID: 35175845 PMCID: PMC8863105 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.121.319902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
It is well known that cardiovascular disease manifests differently in women and men. The underlying causes of these differences during the aging lifespan are less well understood. Sex differences in cardiac and vascular phenotypes are seen in childhood and tend to track along distinct trajectories related to dimorphism in genetic factors as well as response to risk exposures and hormonal changes during the life course. These differences underlie sex-specific variation in cardiovascular events later in life, including myocardial infarction, heart failure, ischemic stroke, and peripheral vascular disease. With respect to cardiac phenotypes, females have intrinsically smaller body size-adjusted cardiac volumes and they tend to experience greater age-related wall thickening and myocardial stiffening with aging. With respect to vascular phenotypes, sexual dimorphism in both physiology and pathophysiology are also seen, including overt differences in blood pressure trajectories. The majority of sex differences in myocardial and vascular alterations that manifest with aging seem to follow relatively consistent trajectories from the very early to the very later stages of life. This review aims to synthesize recent cardiovascular aging-related research to highlight clinically relevant studies in diverse female and male populations that can inform approaches to improving the diagnosis, management, and prognosis of cardiovascular disease risks in the aging population at large.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongwei Ji
- Department of Cardiology, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Alan C. Kwan
- Department of Cardiology, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Melanie Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - David Ouyang
- Department of Cardiology, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Joseph E. Ebinger
- Department of Cardiology, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Susan P. Bell
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Teemu Niiranen
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Department of Public Health Solutions, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Turku, Finland
| | - Natalie A. Bello
- Department of Cardiology, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Susan Cheng
- Department of Cardiology, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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24
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Vaura F, Palmu J, Aittokallio J, Kauko A, Niiranen T. Genetic, Molecular, and Cellular Determinants of Sex-Specific Cardiovascular Traits. Circ Res 2022; 130:611-631. [PMID: 35175841 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.121.319891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Despite the well-known sex dimorphism in cardiovascular disease traits, the exact genetic, molecular, and cellular underpinnings of these differences are not well understood. A growing body of evidence currently points at the links between cardiovascular disease traits and the genome, epigenome, transcriptome, and metabolome. However, the sex-specific differences in these links remain largely unstudied due to challenges in bioinformatic methods, inadequate statistical power, analytic costs, and paucity of valid experimental models. This review article provides an overview of the literature on sex differences in genetic architecture, heritability, epigenetic changes, transcriptomic signatures, and metabolomic profiles in relation to cardiovascular disease traits. We also review the literature on the associations between sex hormones and cardiovascular disease traits and discuss the potential mechanisms underlying these associations, focusing on human studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Vaura
- Department of Internal Medicine (F.V., J.P., A.K., T.N.), University of Turku, Finland
| | - Joonatan Palmu
- Department of Internal Medicine (F.V., J.P., A.K., T.N.), University of Turku, Finland
| | - Jenni Aittokallio
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care (J.A.), University of Turku, Finland.,Division of Perioperative Services, Intensive Care and Pain Medicine (J.A.), Turku University Hospital, Finland
| | - Anni Kauko
- Department of Internal Medicine (F.V., J.P., A.K., T.N.), University of Turku, Finland
| | - Teemu Niiranen
- Department of Internal Medicine (F.V., J.P., A.K., T.N.), University of Turku, Finland.,Division of Medicine (T.N.), Turku University Hospital, Finland.,Department of Public Health and Welfare, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland (T.N.)
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25
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Malyutina S, Chervova O, Tillmann T, Maximov V, Ryabikov A, Gafarov V, Hubacek JA, Pikhart H, Beck S, Bobak M. The Relationship between Epigenetic Age and Myocardial Infarction/Acute Coronary Syndrome in a Population-Based Nested Case-Control Study. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12010110. [PMID: 35055425 PMCID: PMC8781885 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12010110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
We investigated the relationship between ‘epigenetic age’ (EA) derived from DNA methylation (DNAm) and myocardial infarction (MI)/acute coronary syndrome (ACS). A random population sample was examined in 2003/2005 (n = 9360, 45–69, the HAPIEE project) and followed up for 15 years. From this cohort, incident MI/ACS (cases, n = 129) and age- and sex-stratified controls (n = 177) were selected for a nested case-control study. Baseline EA (Horvath’s, Hannum’s, PhenoAge, Skin and Blood) and the differences between EA and chronological age (CA) were calculated (ΔAHr, ΔAHn, ΔAPh, ΔASB). EAs by Horvath’s, Hannum’s and Skin and Blood were close to CA (median absolute difference, MAD, of 1.08, –1.91 and –2.03 years); PhenoAge had MAD of −9.29 years vs. CA. The adjusted odds ratios (ORs) of MI/ACS per 1–year increments of ΔAHr, ΔAHn, ΔASB and ΔAPh were 1.01 (95% CI 0.95–1.07), 1.01 (95% CI 0.95–1.08), 1.02 (95% CI 0.97–1.06) and 1.01 (0.93–1.09), respectively. When classified into tertiles, only the highest tertile of ΔAPh showed a suggestion of increased risk of MI/ACS with OR 2.09 (1.11–3.94) independent of age and 1.84 (0.99–3.52) in the age- and sex-adjusted model. Metabolic modulation may be the likely mechanism of this association. In conclusion, this case-control study nested in a prospective population-based cohort did not find strong associations between accelerated epigenetic age markers and risk of MI/ACS. Larger cohort studies are needed to re-examine this important research question.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Malyutina
- Research Institute of Internal and Preventive Medicine-Branch of Institute of Cytology and Genetics SB RAS, 630089 Novosibirsk, Russia; (V.M.); (A.R.); (V.G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +7-913-929-33-63
| | - Olga Chervova
- UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK; (O.C.); (S.B.)
| | - Taavi Tillmann
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK;
| | - Vladimir Maximov
- Research Institute of Internal and Preventive Medicine-Branch of Institute of Cytology and Genetics SB RAS, 630089 Novosibirsk, Russia; (V.M.); (A.R.); (V.G.)
| | - Andrew Ryabikov
- Research Institute of Internal and Preventive Medicine-Branch of Institute of Cytology and Genetics SB RAS, 630089 Novosibirsk, Russia; (V.M.); (A.R.); (V.G.)
| | - Valery Gafarov
- Research Institute of Internal and Preventive Medicine-Branch of Institute of Cytology and Genetics SB RAS, 630089 Novosibirsk, Russia; (V.M.); (A.R.); (V.G.)
| | - Jaroslav A. Hubacek
- Experimental Medicine Centre, Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine, 14021 Prague, Czech Republic;
| | - Hynek Pikhart
- Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK; (H.P.); (M.B.)
| | - Stephan Beck
- UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK; (O.C.); (S.B.)
| | - Martin Bobak
- Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK; (H.P.); (M.B.)
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26
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Walker CJ, Schroeder ME, Aguado BA, Anseth KS, Leinwand LA. Matters of the heart: Cellular sex differences. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2021; 160:42-55. [PMID: 34166708 PMCID: PMC8571046 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2021.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Nearly all cardiovascular diseases show sexual dimorphisms in prevalence, presentation, and outcomes. Until recently, most clinical trials were carried out in males, and many animal studies either failed to identify the sex of the animals or combined data obtained from males and females. Cellular sex in the heart is relatively understudied and many studies fail to report the sex of the cells used for in vitro experiments. Moreover, in the small number of studies in which sex is reported, most of those studies use male cells. The observation that cells from males and females are inherently different is becoming increasingly clear - either due to acquired differences from hormones and other factors or due to intrinsic differences in genotype (XX or XY). Because of the likely contribution of cellular sex differences in cardiac health and disease, here, we explore differences in mammalian male and female cells in the heart, including the less-studied non-myocyte cell populations. We discuss how the heart's microenvironment impacts male and female cellular phenotypes and vice versa, including how secretory profiles are dependent on cellular sex, and how hormones contribute to sexually dimorphic phenotypes and cellular functions. Intracellular mechanisms that contribute to sex differences, including gene expression and epigenetic remodeling, are also described. Recent single-cell sequencing studies have revealed unexpected sex differences in the composition of cell types in the heart which we discuss. Finally, future recommendations for considering cellular sex differences in the design of bioengineered in vitro disease models of the heart are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cierra J Walker
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80303, United States of America; Interdisciplinary Quantitative Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80303, United States of America; BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80303, United States of America
| | - Megan E Schroeder
- Chemical and Biological Engineering Department, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80303, United States of America; BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80303, United States of America
| | - Brian A Aguado
- Chemical and Biological Engineering Department, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80303, United States of America; BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80303, United States of America
| | - Kristi S Anseth
- Chemical and Biological Engineering Department, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80303, United States of America; BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80303, United States of America
| | - Leslie A Leinwand
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80303, United States of America; Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309, United States of America.
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27
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Lock R, Al Asafen H, Fleischer S, Tamargo M, Zhao Y, Radisic M, Vunjak-Novakovic G. A framework for developing sex-specific engineered heart models. NATURE REVIEWS. MATERIALS 2021; 7:295-313. [PMID: 34691764 PMCID: PMC8527305 DOI: 10.1038/s41578-021-00381-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The convergence of tissue engineering and patient-specific stem cell biology has enabled the engineering of in vitro tissue models that allow the study of patient-tailored treatment modalities. However, sex-related disparities in health and disease, from systemic hormonal influences to cellular-level differences, are often overlooked in stem cell biology, tissue engineering and preclinical screening. The cardiovascular system, in particular, shows considerable sex-related differences, which need to be considered in cardiac tissue engineering. In this Review, we analyse sex-related properties of the heart muscle in the context of health and disease, and discuss a framework for including sex-based differences in human cardiac tissue engineering. We highlight how sex-based features can be implemented at the cellular and tissue levels, and how sex-specific cardiac models could advance the study of cardiovascular diseases. Finally, we define design criteria for sex-specific cardiac tissue engineering and provide an outlook to future research possibilities beyond the cardiovascular system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Lock
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY USA
| | - Hadel Al Asafen
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada
| | - Sharon Fleischer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY USA
| | - Manuel Tamargo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY USA
| | - Yimu Zhao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY USA
| | - Milica Radisic
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada
| | - Gordana Vunjak-Novakovic
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY USA
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY USA
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Incidence and clinical relevance of persistent iatrogenic atrial septal defect after percutaneous mitral valve repair. Sci Rep 2021; 11:12700. [PMID: 34135437 PMCID: PMC8209228 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-92255-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Percutaneous mitral valve repair (PMVR) requires transseptal puncture and results in iatrogenic atrial septal defect (iASD). The impact of persistent iASD was previously investigated. However, data were diverse and inconclusive. 53 patients who underwent MITRACLIP were retrospectively included. Based on the presence of iASD in transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) after 6 months, patients were divided in two groups (iASD group vs. non-iASD group). Impact of iASD on outcome at 6 months and at two years was evaluated. Persistent iASD was detected in 62% of patients. Independent predictors for persistent iASD were female gender and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction. At 6-month follow-up, there was no difference in reduction of NYHA class (ΔNYHA = 1.3 ± 1 in iASD group vs. 0.9 ± 1 in non-iASD group, p = 0.171). There was a significant difference in right ventricular end diastolic diameter (RVEDd) (42 ± 8 mm in iASD-group vs. 39 ± 4 mm in non-iASD group, p = 0.047). However, right ventricular systolic function (TAPSE) (14 ± 7 mm in iASD group vs. 16 ± 8 mm in non-iASD group, p = 0.176) and right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) (40 ± 12 mmHg in iASD group vs. 35 ± 10 mmHg in non-iASD group, p = 0.136) were still comparable between both groups. At 2 years follow-up, there was no significant difference regarding rate of rehospitalization (24% vs 15%, p = 0.425) or mortality (12% vs 10%, p = 0.941) between both groups. Incidence of persistent iASD after MITRACLIP is markedly high. Despite the increase in right ventricular diameter in patients with persistent iASD, these patients were not clinically compromised compared to patients without persistent iASD.
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Deegan DF, Nigam P, Engel N. Sexual Dimorphism of the Heart: Genetics, Epigenetics, and Development. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 8:668252. [PMID: 34124200 PMCID: PMC8189176 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.668252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The democratization of genomic technologies has revealed profound sex biases in expression patterns in every adult tissue, even in organs with no conspicuous differences, such as the heart. With the increasing awareness of the disparities in cardiac pathophysiology between males and females, there are exciting opportunities to explore how sex differences in the heart are established developmentally. Although sexual dimorphism is traditionally attributed to hormonal influence, expression and epigenetic sex biases observed in early cardiac development can only be accounted for by the difference in sex chromosome composition, i.e., XX in females and XY in males. In fact, genes linked to the X and Y chromosomes, many of which encode regulatory factors, are expressed in cardiac progenitor cells and at every subsequent developmental stage. The effect of the sex chromosome composition may explain why many congenital heart defects originating before gonad formation exhibit sex biases in presentation, mortality, and morbidity. Some transcriptional and epigenetic sex biases established soon after fertilization persist in cardiac lineages, suggesting that early epigenetic events are perpetuated beyond early embryogenesis. Importantly, when sex hormones begin to circulate, they encounter a cardiac genome that is already functionally distinct between the sexes. Although there is a wealth of knowledge on the effects of sex hormones on cardiac function, we propose that sex chromosome-linked genes and their downstream targets also contribute to the differences between male and female hearts. Moreover, identifying how hormones influence sex chromosome effects, whether antagonistically or synergistically, will enhance our understanding of how sex disparities are established. We also explore the possibility that sexual dimorphism of the developing heart predicts sex-specific responses to environmental signals and foreshadows sex-biased health-related outcomes after birth.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nora Engel
- Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Fels Institute for Cancer Research, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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30
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Rey F, Messa L, Pandini C, Maghraby E, Barzaghini B, Garofalo M, Micheletto G, Raimondi MT, Bertoli S, Cereda C, Zuccotti GV, Cancello R, Carelli S. RNA-seq Characterization of Sex-Differences in Adipose Tissue of Obesity Affected Patients: Computational Analysis of Differentially Expressed Coding and Non-Coding RNAs. J Pers Med 2021; 11:352. [PMID: 33924951 PMCID: PMC8145808 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11050352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a multifactorial disease presenting sex-related differences including adipocyte functions, sex hormone effects, genetics, and metabolic inflammation. These can influence individuals' risk for metabolic dysfunctions, with an urgent need to perform sex-based analysis to improve prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation programs. This research work is aimed at characterizing the transcriptional differences present in subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) of five obesity affected men versus five obesity affected women, with an additional focus on the role of long non-coding RNAs. Through RNA-sequencing, we highlighted the presence of both coding and non-coding differentially expressed RNAs, and with numerous computational analyses we identified the processes in which these genes are implicated, along with their role in co-morbidities development. We report 51 differentially expressed transcripts, 32 of which were coding genes and 19 were non-coding. Using the WGCNA R package (Weighted Correlation Network Analysis, version 1.70-3), we describe the interactions between coding and non-coding RNAs, and the non-coding RNAs association with the insurgence of specific diseases, such as cancer development, neurodegenerative diseases, and schizophrenia. In conclusion, our work highlights a specific gender sex-related transcriptional signature in the SAT of obesity affected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Rey
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “L. Sacco”, School of Medicine, University of Milan, Via G.B. Grassi 74, 20157 Milan, Italy; (F.R.); (E.M.); (G.V.Z.)
- Paediatric Clinical Research Center Fondazione “Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi”, University of Milan, Via G.B. Grassi 74, 20157 Milan, Italy
| | - Letizia Messa
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering “Giulio Natta”, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milan, Italy; (L.M.); (B.B.); (M.T.R.)
| | - Cecilia Pandini
- Genomic and Post-Genomic Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (C.P.); (M.G.); (C.C.)
| | - Erika Maghraby
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “L. Sacco”, School of Medicine, University of Milan, Via G.B. Grassi 74, 20157 Milan, Italy; (F.R.); (E.M.); (G.V.Z.)
- Paediatric Clinical Research Center Fondazione “Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi”, University of Milan, Via G.B. Grassi 74, 20157 Milan, Italy
| | - Bianca Barzaghini
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering “Giulio Natta”, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milan, Italy; (L.M.); (B.B.); (M.T.R.)
| | - Maria Garofalo
- Genomic and Post-Genomic Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (C.P.); (M.G.); (C.C.)
| | - Giancarlo Micheletto
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, INCO and Department of General Surgery, Istituto Clinico Sant’Ambrogio, University of Milan, Via Francesco Sforza 35, 20122 Milan, Italy;
| | - Manuela Teresa Raimondi
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering “Giulio Natta”, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milan, Italy; (L.M.); (B.B.); (M.T.R.)
| | - Simona Bertoli
- Obesity Unit—Laboratory of Nutrition and Obesity Research, Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Via Ariosto 9, 20145 Milan, Italy; (S.B.); (R.C.)
- International Center for the Assessment of Nutritional Status (ICANS), Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences (DeFENS), University of Milan, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina Cereda
- Genomic and Post-Genomic Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (C.P.); (M.G.); (C.C.)
| | - Gian Vincenzo Zuccotti
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “L. Sacco”, School of Medicine, University of Milan, Via G.B. Grassi 74, 20157 Milan, Italy; (F.R.); (E.M.); (G.V.Z.)
- Paediatric Clinical Research Center Fondazione “Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi”, University of Milan, Via G.B. Grassi 74, 20157 Milan, Italy
- Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital “V. Buzzi”, Via Lodovico Castelvetro 32, 20154 Milano, Italy
| | - Raffaella Cancello
- Obesity Unit—Laboratory of Nutrition and Obesity Research, Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Via Ariosto 9, 20145 Milan, Italy; (S.B.); (R.C.)
| | - Stephana Carelli
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “L. Sacco”, School of Medicine, University of Milan, Via G.B. Grassi 74, 20157 Milan, Italy; (F.R.); (E.M.); (G.V.Z.)
- Paediatric Clinical Research Center Fondazione “Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi”, University of Milan, Via G.B. Grassi 74, 20157 Milan, Italy
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31
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Sarajlic P, Plunde O, Franco-Cereceda A, Bäck M. Artificial Intelligence Models Reveal Sex-Specific Gene Expression in Aortic Valve Calcification. JACC Basic Transl Sci 2021; 6:403-412. [PMID: 34095631 PMCID: PMC8165113 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacbts.2021.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Differences in the clinical presentation and physiology of aortic stenosis in men and women complicate the management of the condition. By combining traditional inferential statistics, artificial intelligence predictive modeling, and genetic pathway analysis, one can gain further insight into sex-specific gene expression patterns, potentially driving the valvular phenotype differences between the sexes. Results from this study, implementing a mixed and comprehensive methodological approach, offer a foundation for further exploration of potential drug targets.
Male and female aortic stenosis patients have distinct valvular phenotypes, increasing the complexities in the evaluation of valvular pathophysiology. In this study, we present cutting-edge artificial intelligence analyses of transcriptome-wide array data from stenotic aortic valves to highlight differences in gene expression patterns between the sexes, using both sex-differentiated transcripts and unbiased gene selections. This approach enabled the development of efficient models with high predictive ability and determining the most significant sex-dependent contributors to calcification. In addition, analyses of function-related gene groups revealed enriched fibrotic pathways among female patients. Ultimately, we demonstrate that artificial intelligence models can be used to accurately predict aortic valve calcification by carefully analyzing sex-specific gene transcripts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Sarajlic
- Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Oscar Plunde
- Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anders Franco-Cereceda
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Theme Heart and Vessels, Division of Valvular and Coronary Disease, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Magnus Bäck
- Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Theme Heart and Vessels, Division of Valvular and Coronary Disease, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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32
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Vidaki A, Montiel González D, Planterose Jiménez B, Kayser M. Male-specific age estimation based on Y-chromosomal DNA methylation. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:6442-6458. [PMID: 33744870 PMCID: PMC7993701 DOI: 10.18632/aging.202775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Although DNA methylation variation of autosomal CpGs provides robust age predictive biomarkers, no male-specific age predictor exists based on Y-CpGs yet. Since sex chromosomes play an important role in aging, a Y-chromosome-based age predictor would allow studying male-specific aging effects and would also be useful in forensics. Here, we used blood-based DNA methylation microarray data of 1,057 males from six cohorts aged 15-87 and identified 75 Y-CpGs with an interquartile range of ≥0.1. Of these, 22 and six were significantly hyper- and hypomethylated with age (p(cor)<0.05, Bonferroni), respectively. Amongst several machine learning algorithms, a model based on support vector machines with radial kernel performed best in male-specific age prediction. We achieved a mean absolute deviation (MAD) between true and predicted age of 7.54 years (cor=0.81, validation) when using all 75 Y-CpGs, and a MAD of 8.46 years (cor=0.73, validation) based on the most predictive 19 Y-CpGs. The accuracies of both age predictors did not worsen with increased age, in contrast to autosomal CpG-based age predictors that are known to predict age with reduced accuracy in the elderly. Overall, we introduce the first-of-its-kind male-specific epigenetic age predictor for future applications in aging research and forensics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athina Vidaki
- Department of Genetic Identification, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam 3000, CA, The Netherlands
| | - Diego Montiel González
- Department of Genetic Identification, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam 3000, CA, The Netherlands
| | - Benjamin Planterose Jiménez
- Department of Genetic Identification, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam 3000, CA, The Netherlands
| | - Manfred Kayser
- Department of Genetic Identification, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam 3000, CA, The Netherlands
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33
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Baroni C, Lionetti V. The impact of sex and gender on heart-brain axis dysfunction: current concepts and novel perspectives. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2021; 99:151-160. [PMID: 33002366 DOI: 10.1139/cjpp-2020-0391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The heart-brain axis (HBA) recapitulates all the circuits that regulate bidirectional flow of communication between heart and brain. Several mechanisms may underlie the interdependent relationship involving heterogeneous tissues at rest and during specific target organ injury such as myocardial infarction, heart failure, arrhythmia, stroke, mood disorders, or dementia. In-depth translational studies of the HBA dysfunction under single-organ injury should include both male and female animals to develop sex- and gender-oriented prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies. Indeed, sex and gender are determining factors as females and males exhibit significant differences in terms of susceptibility to risk factors, age of onset, severity of symptoms, and outcome. Despite most studies having focused on the male population, we have conducted a careful appraisal of the literature investigating HBA in females. In particular, we have (i) analyzed sex-related heart and brain illnesses, (ii) recapitulated the most significant studies simultaneously conducted on cardio- and cerebro-vascular systems in female populations, and (iii) hypothesized future perspectives for the development of a gender-based approach to HBA dysfunction. Although sex- and gender-oriented research is at its infancy, the impact of sex on HBA dysfunction is opening unexpected new avenues for managing the health of female subjects exposed to risk of lifestyle multi-organ disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlotta Baroni
- Institute of Life Sciences, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Lionetti
- Institute of Life Sciences, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
- UOS Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Fondazione Toscana G. Monasterio, Pisa, Italy
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34
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Sex-Specific Alterations in Cardiac DNA Methylation in Adult Mice by Perinatal Lead Exposure. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18020577. [PMID: 33445541 PMCID: PMC7826866 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18020577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Revised: 12/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Environmental factors play an important role in the etiology of cardiovascular diseases. Cardiovascular diseases exhibit marked sexual dimorphism; however, the sex-specific effects of environmental exposures on cardiac health are incompletely understood. Perinatal and adult exposures to the metal lead (Pb) are linked to several adverse cardiovascular outcomes, but the sex-specific effects of this toxicant on the heart have received little attention. Perinatal environmental exposures can lead to disease through disruption of the normal epigenetic programming that occurs during early development. Using a mouse model of human-relevant perinatal environmental exposure, we investigated the effects of exposure to Pb during gestation and lactation on DNA methylation in the hearts of adult offspring mice (n = 6 per sex). Two weeks prior to mating, dams were assigned to control or Pb acetate (32 ppm) water, and exposure continued until offspring were weaned at three weeks of age. Enhanced reduced-representation bisulfite sequencing was used to measure DNA methylation in the hearts of offspring at five months of age. Although Pb exposure stopped at three weeks of age, we discovered hundreds of differentially methylated cytosines (DMCs) and regions (DMRs) in males and females at five months of age. DMCs/DMRs and their associated genes were sex-specific, with a small, but statistically significant subset overlapping between sexes. Pathway analysis revealed altered methylation of genes important for cardiac and other tissue development in males, and histone demethylation in females. Together, these data demonstrate that perinatal exposure to Pb induces sex-specific changes in cardiac DNA methylation that are present long after cessation of exposure, and highlight the importance of considering sex in environmental epigenetics and mechanistic toxicology studies.
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35
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Olson NL, Albensi BC. Race- and Sex-Based Disparities in Alzheimer's Disease Clinical Trial Enrollment in the United States and Canada: An Indigenous Perspective. J Alzheimers Dis Rep 2020; 4:325-344. [PMID: 33024940 PMCID: PMC7504979 DOI: 10.3233/adr-200214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Randomized clinical trials (RCT) involve labor-intensive, highly regulated, and controlled processes intended to transform scientific concepts into clinical outcomes. To be effective and targeted, it is imperative they include those populations who would most benefit from those outcomes. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is most detrimental to the aging population, and its clinical manifestation is influenced by socio-economic factors such as poverty, poor education, stress, and chronic co-morbidities. Indigenous populations in the United States and Canada are among the minority populations most influenced by poor socio-economic conditions and are prone to the ravages of AD, with Indigenous women carrying the added burden of exposure to violence, caregiving stresses, and increased risk by virtue of their sex. Race- and sex-based disparities in RCT enrollment has occurred for decades, with Indigenous men and women very poorly represented. In this review, we examined literature from the last twenty years that reinforce these disparities and provide some concrete suggestions and guidelines to increase the enrollment numbers in AD RCT among this vulnerable and poorly represented population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy L Olson
- Division of Neurodegenerative Disorders, St Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Benedict C Albensi
- Division of Neurodegenerative Disorders, St Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
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36
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Jusic A, Salgado-Somoza A, Paes AB, Stefanizzi FM, Martínez-Alarcón N, Pinet F, Martelli F, Devaux Y, Robinson EL, Novella S. Approaching Sex Differences in Cardiovascular Non-Coding RNA Research. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E4890. [PMID: 32664454 PMCID: PMC7402336 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21144890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the biggest cause of sickness and mortality worldwide in both males and females. Clinical statistics demonstrate clear sex differences in risk, prevalence, mortality rates, and response to treatment for different entities of CVD. The reason for this remains poorly understood. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are emerging as key mediators and biomarkers of CVD. Similarly, current knowledge on differential regulation, expression, and pathology-associated function of ncRNAs between sexes is minimal. Here, we provide a state-of-the-art overview of what is known on sex differences in ncRNA research in CVD as well as discussing the contributing biological factors to this sex dimorphism including genetic and epigenetic factors and sex hormone regulation of transcription. We then focus on the experimental models of CVD and their use in translational ncRNA research in the cardiovascular field. In particular, we want to highlight the importance of considering sex of the cellular and pre-clinical models in clinical studies in ncRNA research and to carefully consider the appropriate experimental models most applicable to human patient populations. Moreover, we aim to identify sex-specific targets for treatment and diagnosis for the biggest socioeconomic health problem globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amela Jusic
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Tuzla, 75000 Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina;
| | - Antonio Salgado-Somoza
- Cardiovascular Research Unit, Department of Population Health, Luxembourg Institute of Health, L-1445 Strassen, Luxembourg; (A.S.-S.); (F.M.S.); (Y.D.)
| | - Ana B. Paes
- INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, Menéndez Pelayo 4 Accesorio, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (A.B.P.); (N.M.-A.)
| | - Francesca Maria Stefanizzi
- Cardiovascular Research Unit, Department of Population Health, Luxembourg Institute of Health, L-1445 Strassen, Luxembourg; (A.S.-S.); (F.M.S.); (Y.D.)
| | - Núria Martínez-Alarcón
- INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, Menéndez Pelayo 4 Accesorio, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (A.B.P.); (N.M.-A.)
| | - Florence Pinet
- INSERM, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, University of Lille, U1167 F-59000 Lille, France;
| | - Fabio Martelli
- Molecular Cardiology Laboratory, Policlinico San Donato IRCCS, San Donato Milanese, 20097 Milan, Italy;
| | - Yvan Devaux
- Cardiovascular Research Unit, Department of Population Health, Luxembourg Institute of Health, L-1445 Strassen, Luxembourg; (A.S.-S.); (F.M.S.); (Y.D.)
| | - Emma Louise Robinson
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands;
| | - Susana Novella
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Valencia, and INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, Menéndez Pelayo 4 Accesorio, 46010 Valencia, Spain
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Oertelt-Prigione S, Mariman E. The impact of sex differences on genomic research. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2020; 124:105774. [PMID: 32470538 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2020.105774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Sex and gender differences affect all dimensions of human health ranging from the biological basis of disease to therapeutic access, choice and response. Genomics research has long ignored the role of sex differences as potential modulators and the concept is gaining more attention only recently. In the present review we summarize the current knowledge of the impact of sex differences on genomic and epigenomic research, the potential interaction of genomics and gender and the role of these differences in disease etiopathogenesis. Sex differences can emerge from differences in the sex chromosomes themselves, from their interaction with the genome and from the influence of hormones on genomic processes. The impact of these processes on the incidence of autoimmune and oncologic disease is well documented. The growing field of systems biology, which aims at integrating information from different networks of the human body, could also greatly benefit from this approach. In the present review we summarize the current knowledge and provide recommendations for the future performance of sex-sensitive genomics research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Oertelt-Prigione
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Radboud Institute of Health Sciences, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Institute of Legal and Forensic Medicine, Charité - Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Edwin Mariman
- Department of Human Biology, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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38
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The Impact of Estrogen Receptor in Arterial and Lymphatic Vascular Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21093244. [PMID: 32375307 PMCID: PMC7247322 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21093244] [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: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The lower incidence of cardiovascular diseases in pre-menopausal women compared to men is well-known documented. This protection has been largely attributed to the protective effect of estrogens, which exert many beneficial effects against arterial diseases, including vasodilatation, acceleration of healing in response to arterial injury, arterial collateral growth and atheroprotection. More recently, with the visualization of the lymphatic vessels, the impact of estrogens on lymphedema and lymphatic diseases started to be elucidated. These estrogenic effects are mediated not only by the classic nuclear/genomic actions via the specific estrogen receptor (ER) α and β, but also by rapid extra-nuclear membrane-initiated steroid signaling (MISS). The ERs are expressed by endothelial, lymphatic and smooth muscle cells in the different vessels. In this review, we will summarize the complex vascular effects of estrogens and selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) that have been described using different transgenic mouse models with selective loss of ERα function and numerous animal models of vascular and lymphatic diseases.
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39
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Sexually dimorphic DNA-methylation in cardiometabolic health: A systematic review. Maturitas 2020; 135:6-26. [DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2020.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Revised: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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40
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Shang D, Wang L, Klionsky DJ, Cheng H, Zhou R. Sex differences in autophagy-mediated diseases: toward precision medicine. Autophagy 2020; 17:1065-1076. [PMID: 32264724 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2020.1752511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Nearly all diseases in humans, to a certain extent, exhibit sex differences, including differences in the onset, progression, prevention, therapy, and prognosis of diseases. Accumulating evidence shows that macroautophagy/autophagy, as a mechanism for development, differentiation, survival, and homeostasis, is involved in numerous aspects of sex differences in diseases such as cancer, neurodegeneration, and cardiovascular diseases. Advances in our knowledge regarding sex differences in autophagy-mediated diseases have enabled an understanding of their roles in human diseases, although the underlying molecular mechanisms of sex differences in autophagy remain largely unexplored. In this review, we discuss current advances in our insight into the biology of sex differences in autophagy and disease, information that will facilitate precision medicine.Abbreviations: AD: Azheimer disease; AMBRA1: autophagy and beclin 1 regulator 1; APP: amyloid beta precursor protein; AR: androgen receptor; AMPK: AMP-activated protein kinase; ATG: autophagy related; ATP6AP2: ATPase H+ transporting accessory protein 2; BCL2L1: BCL2 like 1; BECN1: beclin 1; CTSD: cathepsin D; CYP19A1: cytochrome P450 family 19 subfamily A member 1; DSD: disorders of sex development; eALDI: enhancer alternate long-distance initiator; ESR1: estrogen receptor 1; ESR2: estrogen receptor 2; FYCO1: FYVE and coiled-coil domain autophagy adaptor 1; GABARAP: GABA type A receptor-associated protein; GLA: galactosidase alpha; GTEx: genotype-tissue expression; HDAC6: histone deacetylase 6; I-R: ischemia-reperfusion; LAMP2: lysosomal associated membrane protein 2; MAP1LC3B/LC3B: microtubule associated protein 1 light chain 3 beta; MTOR: mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase; m6A: N6-methyladenosine; MYBL2: MYB proto-oncogene like 2; PIK3C3: phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase catalytic subunit type 3; PSEN1: presenilin 1; PSEN2: presenilin 2; RAB9A, RAB9A: member RAS oncogene family; RAB9B, RAB9B: member RAS oncogene family; RAB40AL: RAB40A like; SF1: splicing factor 1; SOX9: SRY-box transcription factor 9; SRY: sex determining region Y; TFEB: transcription factor EB; ULK1: unc-51 like autophagy activating kinase 1; UVRAG: UV radiation resistance associated; VDAC2: voltage dependent anion channel 2; WDR45: WD repeat domain 45; XPDS: X-linked parkinsonism and spasticity; YTHDF2: YTH N6-methyladenosine RNA binding protein 2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dangtong Shang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Lingling Wang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Daniel J Klionsky
- Life Sciences Institute and Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Hanhua Cheng
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Rongjia Zhou
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan, China.,Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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41
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Porritt RA, Markman JL, Maruyama D, Kocaturk B, Chen S, Lehman TJA, Lee Y, Fishbein MC, Rivas MN, Arditi M. Interleukin-1 Beta-Mediated Sex Differences in Kawasaki Disease Vasculitis Development and Response to Treatment. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2020; 40:802-818. [PMID: 31996019 PMCID: PMC7047651 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.119.313863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Kawasaki disease (KD) is the leading cause of acute vasculitis and acquired heart disease in children in developed countries. Notably, KD is more prevalent in males than females. We previously established a key role for IL (interleukin)-1 signaling in KD pathogenesis, but whether this pathway underlies the sex-based difference in susceptibility is unknown. Approach and Results: The role of IL-1 signaling was investigated in the Lactobacillus casei cell wall extract-induced experimental mouse model of KD vasculitis. Five-week-old male and female mice were injected intraperitoneally with PBS, Lactobacillus caseicell wall extract, or a combination of Lactobacillus caseicell wall extract and the IL-1 receptor antagonist Anakinra. Aortitis, coronary arteritis inflammation score and abdominal aorta dilatation, and aneurysm development were assessed. mRNA-seq (messenger RNA sequencing) analysis was performed on abdominal aorta tissue. Publicly available human transcriptomics data from patients with KD was analyzed to identify sex differences and disease-associated genes. Male mice displayed enhanced aortitis and coronary arteritis as well as increased incidence and severity of abdominal aorta dilatation and aneurysm, recapitulating the increased incidence in males that is observed in human KD. Gene expression data from patients with KD and abdominal aorta tissue of Lactobacillus caseicell wall extract-injected mice showed enhanced Il1b expression and IL-1 signaling genes in males. Although the more severe IL-1β-mediated disease phenotype observed in male mice was ameliorated by Anakinra treatment, the milder disease phenotype in female mice failed to respond. CONCLUSIONS IL-1β may play a central role in mediating sex-based differences in KD, with important implications for the use of anti-IL-1β therapies to treat male and female patients with KD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca A. Porritt
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
| | - Janet L. Markman
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
| | - Daisuke Maruyama
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
| | - Begum Kocaturk
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
| | - Shuang Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Infectious and Immunologic Disease Research Center, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
- Department of Biomedical Science, Research Division of Immunology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
| | - Thomas J. A. Lehman
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Rheumatology, Weill Cornell Medical School, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Youngho Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
| | - Michael C Fishbein
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
| | - Magali Noval Rivas
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Infectious and Immunologic Disease Research Center, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
- Department of Biomedical Science, Research Division of Immunology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
| | - Moshe Arditi
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Infectious and Immunologic Disease Research Center, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
- Department of Biomedical Science, Research Division of Immunology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
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42
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Ruiz-Meana M, Boengler K, Garcia-Dorado D, Hausenloy DJ, Kaambre T, Kararigas G, Perrino C, Schulz R, Ytrehus K. Ageing, sex, and cardioprotection. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 177:5270-5286. [PMID: 31863453 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Translation of cardioprotective interventions aimed at reducing myocardial injury during ischaemia-reperfusion from experimental studies to clinical practice is an important yet unmet need in cardiovascular medicine. One particular challenge facing translation is the existence of demographic and clinical factors that influence the pathophysiology of ischaemia-reperfusion injury of the heart and the effects of treatments aimed at preventing it. Among these factors, age and sex are prominent and have a recognised role in the susceptibility and outcome of ischaemic heart disease. Remarkably, some of the most powerful cardioprotective strategies proven to be effective in young animals become ineffective during ageing. This article reviews the mechanisms and implications of the modulatory effects of ageing and sex on myocardial ischaemia-reperfusion injury and their potential effects on cardioprotective interventions. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on Risk factors, comorbidities, and comedications in cardioprotection. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v177.23/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisol Ruiz-Meana
- Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Department of Cardiology, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red-CV (CIBER-CV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Kerstin Boengler
- Institute of Physiology, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - David Garcia-Dorado
- Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Department of Cardiology, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red-CV (CIBER-CV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Derek J Hausenloy
- Cardiovascular & Metabolic Disorders Program, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore.,National Heart Research Institute Singapore, National Heart Centre, Singapore.,Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore.,The Hatter Cardiovascular Institute, University College London, London, UK.,The National Institute of Health Research, University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, Research & Development, London, UK.,Tecnologico de Monterrey, Centro de Biotecnologia-FEMSA, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
| | - Tuuli Kaambre
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, National Institute of Chemical Physics and Biophysics, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Georgios Kararigas
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlinand Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Cinzia Perrino
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Rainer Schulz
- Institute of Physiology, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Kirsti Ytrehus
- Cardiovascular Research Group, Institute of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
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43
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Hsu CN, Tain YL. The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of Pregnancy Nutrients and Developmental Programming of Adult Disease. Nutrients 2019; 11:nu11040894. [PMID: 31010060 PMCID: PMC6520975 DOI: 10.3390/nu11040894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2019] [Revised: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal nutrition plays a decisive role in developmental programming of many non-communicable diseases (NCDs). A variety of nutritional insults during gestation can cause programming and contribute to the development of adult-onset diseases. Nutritional interventions during pregnancy may serve as reprogramming strategies to reverse programming processes and prevent NCDs. In this review, firstly we summarize epidemiological evidence for nutritional programming of human disease. It will also discuss evidence from animal models, for the common mechanisms underlying nutritional programming, and potential nutritional interventions used as reprogramming strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chien-Ning Hsu
- Department of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan.
- School of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan.
| | - You-Lin Tain
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan.
- Institute for Translational Research in Biomedicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan.
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44
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Kessler EL, Rivaud MR, Vos MA, van Veen TAB. Sex-specific influence on cardiac structural remodeling and therapy in cardiovascular disease. Biol Sex Differ 2019; 10:7. [PMID: 30717770 PMCID: PMC6360698 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-019-0223-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) culminating into heart failure (HF) are major causes of death in men and women. Prevalence and manifestation, however, differ between sexes, since men mainly present with coronary artery disease (CAD) and myocardial infarction (MI), and post-menopausal women predominantly present with hypertension. These discrepancies are probably influenced by underlying genetic and molecular differences in structural remodeling pathways involved in hypertrophy, inflammation, fibrosis, and apoptosis. In general, men mainly develop eccentric forms, while women develop concentric forms of hypertrophy. Besides that, women show less inflammation, fibrosis, and apoptosis upon HF. This seems to emerge, at least partially, from the fact that the underlying pathways might be modulated by estrogen, which changes after menopause due to declining of the estrogen levels. CONCLUSION In this review, sex-dependent alterations in adverse cardiac remodeling are discussed for various CVDs. Moreover, potential therapeutic options, like estrogen treatment, are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise L. Kessler
- Department of Medical Physiology, Division of Heart and Lungs, University Medical Center, Utrecht, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 50, 3584CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Experimental Cardiology, Division of Heart and Lungs, University Medical Center, Utrecht, Utrecht University, P.O.Box 85500, Heidelberglaan 100, Utrecht, 3584CT The Netherlands
| | - Mathilde R. Rivaud
- Department of Medical Physiology, Division of Heart and Lungs, University Medical Center, Utrecht, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 50, 3584CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Cardiology, Heart Center, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marc A. Vos
- Department of Medical Physiology, Division of Heart and Lungs, University Medical Center, Utrecht, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 50, 3584CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Toon A. B. van Veen
- Department of Medical Physiology, Division of Heart and Lungs, University Medical Center, Utrecht, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 50, 3584CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
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