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Fledderus J, Brouwer L, Kuiper T, Harmsen MC, Krenning G. H3K27Me3 abundance increases fibrogenesis during endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition via the silencing of microRNA-29c. Front Cardiovasc Med 2024; 11:1373279. [PMID: 38774662 PMCID: PMC11106376 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2024.1373279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) is a transdifferentiation process in which endothelial cells (ECs) adopt a mesenchymal-like phenotype. Over the past few years, it became clear that EndMT can contribute to several cardiovascular pathologies. However, the molecular pathways underlying the development of EndMT remain incompletely understood. Since the epigenetic enzyme Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2 (EZH2) and its concomitant mark H3K27Me3 have been shown to be elevated in many cardiovascular diseases that associate with EndMT, we hypothesized that H3K27Me3 is a determinant for the susceptibility of EndMT. Methods To study the association between H3K27Me3 and EndMT, a knockdown model of EZH2 in human endothelial cells (HUVEC) was utilized to reduce H3K27Me3 abundance, followed by induction of EndMT using TGFβ1. The expression of molecular markers of EndMT and fibrogenesis were analysed. Results In cultured HUVECs, a reduction of H3K27Me3 abundance facilitates EndMT but mitigates fibrogenesis as shown by a decreased expression of collagen I and III. In HUVEC, H3K27Me3 abundance directly affects the expression of miR29c, a collagen-targeting miRNA. Additionally, knockdown of miR-29c in HUVEC with low H3K27Me3 abundance partly restored the expression of collagen I and III. Expectedly, in rats with perivascular fibrosis an increased abundance of H3K27Me3 associated with a decreased expression of miR-29c. Conclusion our data shows that endothelial fibrogenesis underlies an epigenetic regulatory pathway and we demonstrate that a decreased abundance of H3K27Me3 in ECs blunts fibrogenesis in part in a miR-29c dependent manner. Therefore, a reduction of H3K27Me3 could serve as a novel therapeutical strategy to mitigate fibrogenesis and may prove to be beneficial in fibrogenic diseases including atherosclerosis, cardiac fibrosis, and PAH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolien Fledderus
- Laboratory for Cardiovascular Regenerative Medicine, Medical Biology Section, Department Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Linda Brouwer
- Laboratory for Cardiovascular Regenerative Medicine, Medical Biology Section, Department Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Timara Kuiper
- Laboratory for Cardiovascular Regenerative Medicine, Medical Biology Section, Department Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Martin C. Harmsen
- Laboratory for Cardiovascular Regenerative Medicine, Medical Biology Section, Department Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Guido Krenning
- Laboratory for Cardiovascular Regenerative Medicine, Medical Biology Section, Department Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
- Division Experimental Pharmacology, Department Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
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Sánchez-Ceinos J, Hussain S, Khan AW, Zhang L, Almahmeed W, Pernow J, Cosentino F. Repressive H3K27me3 drives hyperglycemia-induced oxidative and inflammatory transcriptional programs in human endothelium. Cardiovasc Diabetol 2024; 23:122. [PMID: 38580969 PMCID: PMC10998410 DOI: 10.1186/s12933-024-02196-0] [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: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Histone modifications play a critical role in chromatin remodelling and regulate gene expression in health and disease. Histone methyltransferases EZH1, EZH2, and demethylases UTX, JMJD3, and UTY catalyse trimethylation of lysine 27 on histone H3 (H3K27me3). This study was designed to investigate whether H3K27me3 triggers hyperglycemia-induced oxidative and inflammatory transcriptional programs in the endothelium. METHODS We studied human aortic endothelial cells exposed to high glucose (HAEC) or isolated from individuals with diabetes (D-HAEC). RT-qPCR, immunoblotting, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP-qPCR), and confocal microscopy were performed to investigate the role of H3K27me3. We determined superoxide anion (O2-) production by ESR spectroscopy, NF-κB binding activity, and monocyte adhesion. Silencing/overexpression and pharmacological inhibition of chromatin modifying enzymes were used to modulate H3K27me3 levels. Furthermore, isometric tension studies and immunohistochemistry were performed in aorta from wild-type and db/db mice. RESULTS Incubation of HAEC to high glucose showed that upregulation of EZH2 coupled to reduced demethylase UTX and JMJD3 was responsible for the increased H3K27me3. ChIP-qPCR revealed that repressive H3K27me3 binding to superoxide dismutase and transcription factor JunD promoters is involved in glucose-induced O2- generation. Indeed, loss of JunD transcriptional inhibition favours NOX4 expression. Furthermore, H3K27me3-driven oxidative stress increased NF-κB p65 activity and downstream inflammatory genes. Interestingly, EZH2 inhibitor GSK126 rescued these endothelial derangements by reducing H3K27me3. We also found that H3K27me3 epigenetic signature alters transcriptional programs in D-HAEC and aortas from db/db mice. CONCLUSIONS EZH2-mediated H3K27me3 represents a key epigenetic driver of hyperglycemia-induced endothelial dysfunction. Targeting EZH2 may attenuate oxidative stress and inflammation and, hence, prevent vascular disease in diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Sánchez-Ceinos
- Cardiology Unit, Department of Medicine-Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Shafaat Hussain
- Cardiology Unit, Department of Medicine-Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Abdul Waheed Khan
- Cardiology Unit, Department of Medicine-Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Liang Zhang
- Cardiology Unit, Department of Medicine-Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Wael Almahmeed
- Heart and Vascular Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - John Pernow
- Cardiology Unit, Department of Medicine-Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Francesco Cosentino
- Cardiology Unit, Department of Medicine-Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Lin Y, Su H, Zou B, Huang M. EZH2 Promotes Corneal Endothelial Cell Apoptosis by Mediating H3K27me3 and Inhibiting HO-1 Transcription. Curr Eye Res 2023; 48:1122-1132. [PMID: 37800319 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2023.2257401] [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: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This paper aims to explore the molecular mechanism of Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2 (EZH2)-mediated H3K27me3 in human corneal endothelial cells (HCEC) apoptosis by inhibiting Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) transcription to provide a potential target for the treatment of corneal apoptosis. METHODS HCECs were cultured in vitro and transfected with si-EZH2, pcDNA3.1-EZH2, pcDNA3.1-HO-1, GSK-J4 (an effective H3K27me3 demethylase inhibitor), and corresponding controls. Western Blot assay was used to detect the levels of EZH2, HO-1, H3K27me3, and apoptosis-related proteins (Bcl-2, Bax, and Cleaved-caspase-3) in HCECs; CCK-8 assay was conducted to detect cell viability and flow cytometry to analyze the apoptosis. HO-1 mRNA levels were detected by RT-qPCR and changes in H3K27me3 levels on the HO-1 promoter were detected by chromatin immunoprecipitation. RESULTS HCECs transfected with si-EZH2 showed significantly lower EZH2 mRNA and protein levels, higher HCEC viability, lower apoptosis rates, higher antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2 expression, lower proapoptotic protein (Bax and Cleaved-caspase-3) levels, and significantly higher HO-1 expression. HCECs transfected with pcDNA3.1-EZH2 showed the opposite results. EZH2 repressed HO-1 transcription by mediating H3K27me3. H3K27me27 was enriched in the HO-1 promoter and overexpression of EZH2 increased H3K27me27 levels. Promotion of H3K27me3 partially reversed the mitigating effect of si-EZH2 on HCEC apoptosis. Overexpression of HO-1 partially reversed the apoptosis-promoting effects of EZH2 and H3K27me3 on HCECs. CONCLUSIONS EZH2 promotes HCE cell apoptosis by mediating H3K27me3 to inhibit HO-1 transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Liuzhou Workers' Hospital, Liuzhou, Guangxi, China
| | - Huanjun Su
- Department of Ophthalmology, Liuzhou Workers' Hospital, Liuzhou, Guangxi, China
| | - Baoyi Zou
- Department of Optometry, Liuzhou Workers' Hospital, Liuzhou, Guangxi, China
| | - Minli Huang
- Department of Optometry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
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Salazar-Martín AG, Kalluri AS, Villanueva MA, Hughes TK, Wadsworth MH, Dao TT, Balcells M, Nezami FR, Shalek AK, Edelman ER. Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Reveals That Adaptation of Human Aortic Endothelial Cells to Antiproliferative Therapies Is Modulated by Flow-Induced Shear Stress. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2023; 43:2265-2281. [PMID: 37732484 PMCID: PMC10659257 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.123.319283] [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: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endothelial cells (ECs) are capable of quickly responding in a coordinated manner to a wide array of stresses to maintain vascular homeostasis. Loss of EC cellular adaptation may be a potential marker for cardiovascular disease and a predictor of poor response to endovascular pharmacological interventions such as drug-eluting stents. Here, we report single-cell transcriptional profiling of ECs exposed to multiple stimulus classes to evaluate EC adaptation. METHODS Human aortic ECs were costimulated with both pathophysiological flows mimicking shear stress levels found in the human aorta (laminar and turbulent, ranging from 2.5 to 30 dynes/cm2) and clinically relevant antiproliferative drugs, namely paclitaxel and rapamycin. EC state in response to these stimuli was defined using single-cell RNA sequencing. RESULTS We identified differentially expressed genes and inferred the TF (transcription factor) landscape modulated by flow shear stress using single-cell RNA sequencing. These flow-sensitive markers differentiated previously identified spatially distinct subpopulations of ECs in the murine aorta. Moreover, distinct transcriptional modules defined flow- and drug-responsive EC adaptation singly and in combination. Flow shear stress was the dominant driver of EC state, altering their response to pharmacological therapies. CONCLUSIONS We showed that flow shear stress modulates the cellular capacity of ECs to respond to paclitaxel and rapamycin administration, suggesting that while responding to different flow patterns, ECs experience an impairment in their transcriptional adaptation to other stimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio G. Salazar-Martín
- Institute for Medical Engineering and Science (A.G.S.-M., A.S.K., M.A.V., T.K.H., M.H.W., T.T.D., M.B., A.K.S., E.R.E.), Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA (A.G.S.-M., M.A.V., T.T.D., A.K.S.)
| | - Aditya S. Kalluri
- Institute for Medical Engineering and Science (A.G.S.-M., A.S.K., M.A.V., T.K.H., M.H.W., T.T.D., M.B., A.K.S., E.R.E.), Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA
| | - Martin A. Villanueva
- Institute for Medical Engineering and Science (A.G.S.-M., A.S.K., M.A.V., T.K.H., M.H.W., T.T.D., M.B., A.K.S., E.R.E.), Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA (A.G.S.-M., M.A.V., T.T.D., A.K.S.)
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA (M.A.V., T.K.H., M.H.W., T.T.D., A.K.S.)
- Departments of Biology (M.A.V.), Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge
| | - Travis K. Hughes
- Institute for Medical Engineering and Science (A.G.S.-M., A.S.K., M.A.V., T.K.H., M.H.W., T.T.D., M.B., A.K.S., E.R.E.), Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research (T.K.H., M.H.W., A.K.S., E.R.E.), Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA (M.A.V., T.K.H., M.H.W., T.T.D., A.K.S.)
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA (T.K.H., M.H.W., A.K.S.)
| | - Marc H. Wadsworth
- Institute for Medical Engineering and Science (A.G.S.-M., A.S.K., M.A.V., T.K.H., M.H.W., T.T.D., M.B., A.K.S., E.R.E.), Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research (T.K.H., M.H.W., A.K.S., E.R.E.), Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA (M.A.V., T.K.H., M.H.W., T.T.D., A.K.S.)
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA (T.K.H., M.H.W., A.K.S.)
| | - Tyler T. Dao
- Institute for Medical Engineering and Science (A.G.S.-M., A.S.K., M.A.V., T.K.H., M.H.W., T.T.D., M.B., A.K.S., E.R.E.), Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA (A.G.S.-M., M.A.V., T.T.D., A.K.S.)
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA (M.A.V., T.K.H., M.H.W., T.T.D., A.K.S.)
- Biological Engineering (T.T.D.), Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge
| | - Mercedes Balcells
- Institute for Medical Engineering and Science (A.G.S.-M., A.S.K., M.A.V., T.K.H., M.H.W., T.T.D., M.B., A.K.S., E.R.E.), Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA
| | - Farhad R. Nezami
- Division of Cardiac Surgery (F.R.N.), Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Alex K. Shalek
- Institute for Medical Engineering and Science (A.G.S.-M., A.S.K., M.A.V., T.K.H., M.H.W., T.T.D., M.B., A.K.S., E.R.E.), Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research (T.K.H., M.H.W., A.K.S., E.R.E.), Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA (A.G.S.-M., M.A.V., T.T.D., A.K.S.)
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA (M.A.V., T.K.H., M.H.W., T.T.D., A.K.S.)
- Chemistry (A.K.S.), Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA (T.K.H., M.H.W., A.K.S.)
| | - Elazer R. Edelman
- Institute for Medical Engineering and Science (A.G.S.-M., A.S.K., M.A.V., T.K.H., M.H.W., T.T.D., M.B., A.K.S., E.R.E.), Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research (T.K.H., M.H.W., A.K.S., E.R.E.), Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine (E.R.E.), Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA
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Zhang P, Yan X, Zhang X, Liu Y, Feng X, Yang Z, Zhang J, Xu X, Zheng Q, Liang L, Han H. TMEM215 Prevents Endothelial Cell Apoptosis in Vessel Regression by Blunting BIK-Regulated ER-to-Mitochondrial Ca Influx. Circ Res 2023; 133:739-757. [PMID: 37750320 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.123.322686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In developmental and pathological tissues, nascent vessel networks generated by angiogenesis require further pruning/regression to delete nonfunctional endothelial cells (ECs) by apoptosis and migration. Mechanisms underlying EC apoptosis during vessel pruning remain elusive. TMEM215 (transmembrane protein 215) is an endoplasmic reticulum-located, 2-pass transmembrane protein. We have previously demonstrated that TMEM215 knockdown in ECs leads to cell death, but its physiological function and mechanism are unclear. METHODS We characterized the role and mechanism of TMEM215 in EC apoptosis using human umbilical vein endothelial cells by identifying its interacting proteins with immunoprecipitation-mass spectrometry. The physiological function of TMEM215 in ECs was assessed by establishing a conditional knockout mouse strain. The role of TMEM215 in pathological angiogenesis was evaluated by tumor and choroidal neovascularization models. We also tried to evaluate its translational value by delivering a Tmem215 small interfering RNA (siRNA) using nanoparticles in vivo. RESULTS TMEM215 knockdown in ECs induced apoptotic cell death. We identified the chaperone BiP as a binding partner of TMEM215, and TMEM215 forms a complex with and facilitates the interaction of BiP (binding immunoglobin protein) with the BH (BCL-2 [B-cell lymphoma 2] homology) 3-only proapoptotic protein BIK (BCL-2 interacting killer). TMEM215 knockdown triggered apoptosis in a BIK-dependent way and was abrogated by BCL-2. Notably, TMEM215 knockdown increased the number and diminished the distance of mitochondria-associated endoplasmic reticulum membranes and increased mitochondrial calcium influx. Inhibiting mitochondrial calcium influx by blocking the IP3R (inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor) or MCU (mitochondrial calcium uniporter) abrogated TMEM215 knockdown-induced apoptosis. TMEM215 expression in ECs was induced by physiological laminar shear stress via EZH2 downregulation. In EC-specific Tmem215 knockout mice, induced Tmem215 depletion impaired the regression of retinal vasculature characterized by reduced vessel density, increased empty basement membrane sleeves, and increased EC apoptosis. Moreover, EC-specific Tmem215 ablation inhibited tumor growth with disrupted vasculature. However, Tmem215 ablation in adult mice attenuated lung metastasis, consistent with reduced Vcam1 expression. Administration of nanoparticles carrying Tmem215 siRNA also inhibited tumor growth and choroidal neovascularization injury. CONCLUSIONS TMEM215, which is induced by blood flow-derived shear stress via downregulating EZH2, protects ECs from BIK-triggered mitochondrial apoptosis mediated by calcium influx through mitochondria-associated ER membranes during vessel pruning, thus providing a novel target for antiangiogenic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiran Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (P.Z., X.Y., X.Z., Y.L., X.F., Z.Y., J.Z., X.X., L.L., H.H.), Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xianchun Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (P.Z., X.Y., X.Z., Y.L., X.F., Z.Y., J.Z., X.X., L.L., H.H.), Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (P.Z., X.Y., X.Z., Y.L., X.F., Z.Y., J.Z., X.X., L.L., H.H.), Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yuan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (P.Z., X.Y., X.Z., Y.L., X.F., Z.Y., J.Z., X.X., L.L., H.H.), Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
- The Affiliated Northwest Women's and Children's Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, China (Y.L.)
| | - Xingxing Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (P.Z., X.Y., X.Z., Y.L., X.F., Z.Y., J.Z., X.X., L.L., H.H.), Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ziyan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (P.Z., X.Y., X.Z., Y.L., X.F., Z.Y., J.Z., X.X., L.L., H.H.), Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jiayulin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (P.Z., X.Y., X.Z., Y.L., X.F., Z.Y., J.Z., X.X., L.L., H.H.), Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xinyuan Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (P.Z., X.Y., X.Z., Y.L., X.F., Z.Y., J.Z., X.X., L.L., H.H.), Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Qijun Zheng
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Shenzhen People's Hospital, China (Q.Z.)
| | - Liang Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (P.Z., X.Y., X.Z., Y.L., X.F., Z.Y., J.Z., X.X., L.L., H.H.), Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hua Han
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (P.Z., X.Y., X.Z., Y.L., X.F., Z.Y., J.Z., X.X., L.L., H.H.), Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
- Department of Gastroenterology (H.H.), Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
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Mannion AJ, Holmgren L. Nuclear mechanosensing of the aortic endothelium in health and disease. Dis Model Mech 2023; 16:dmm050361. [PMID: 37909406 PMCID: PMC10629673 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.050361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The endothelium, the monolayer of endothelial cells that line blood vessels, is exposed to a number of mechanical forces, including frictional shear flow, pulsatile stretching and changes in stiffness influenced by extracellular matrix composition. These forces are sensed by mechanosensors that facilitate their transduction to drive appropriate adaptation of the endothelium to maintain vascular homeostasis. In the aorta, the unique architecture of the vessel gives rise to changes in the fluid dynamics, which, in turn, shape cellular morphology, nuclear architecture, chromatin dynamics and gene regulation. In this Review, we discuss recent work focusing on how differential mechanical forces exerted on endothelial cells are sensed and transduced to influence their form and function in giving rise to spatial variation to the endothelium of the aorta. We will also discuss recent developments in understanding how nuclear mechanosensing is implicated in diseases of the aorta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aarren J. Mannion
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm 171 64, Sweden
| | - Lars Holmgren
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm 171 64, Sweden
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Sun L, Li X, Luo H, Guo H, Zhang J, Chen Z, Lin F, Zhao G. EZH2 can be used as a therapeutic agent for inhibiting endothelial dysfunction. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 213:115594. [PMID: 37207700 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115594] [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: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is a catalytic subunit of polycomb repressor complex 2 and plays important roles in endothelial cell homeostasis. EZH2 functionally methylates lysine 27 of histone H3 and represses gene expression through chromatin compaction. EZH2 mediates the effects of environmental stimuli by regulating endothelial functions, such as angiogenesis, endothelial barrier integrity, inflammatory signaling, and endothelial mesenchymal transition. Numerous studies have been conducted to determine the significance of EZH2 in endothelial function. The aim of this review is to provide a concise summary of the roles EZH2 plays in endothelial function and elucidate its therapeutic potential in cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Sun
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453100, China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Injury and Repair Medicine of Henan, Weihui, China
| | - Xuefang Li
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453100, China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Injury and Repair Medicine of Henan, Weihui, China
| | - Hui Luo
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453100, China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Injury and Repair Medicine of Henan, Weihui, China
| | - Huige Guo
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453100, China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Injury and Repair Medicine of Henan, Weihui, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453100, China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Injury and Repair Medicine of Henan, Weihui, China
| | - Zhigang Chen
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453100, China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Injury and Repair Medicine of Henan, Weihui, China
| | - Fei Lin
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453100, China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Injury and Repair Medicine of Henan, Weihui, China.
| | - Guoan Zhao
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453100, China; Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Injury and Repair Medicine of Henan, Weihui, China.
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Gu D, Cao T, Yi S, Liu Y, Fan C. CCCTC-Binding Factor Mediates the Transcription of Insulin-Like Growth Factor Binding Protein 5 Through EZH2 in Ulcerative Colitis. Dig Dis Sci 2023; 68:778-790. [PMID: 35705732 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-022-07566-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ulcerative colitis (UC) features chronic, non-infectious inflammation of the colon. Insulin-like growth factor binding protein 5 (IGFBP5) has been indicated to be related to various inflammation-related diseases. However, its association with UC remains largely unclear. AIMS Here, we investigate the role of IGFBP5 in colonic mucosal epithelial cell injury in UC. METHODS Differentially expressed genes in the colonic tissues of UC mice were screened using the Gene Expression Omnibus database, and IGFBP5 was identified. UC mice were developed using dextran sulfate sodium, and IGFBP5 expression in the colonic tissues of UC mice was confirmed by immunohistochemistry and RT-qPCR. The effects of IGFBP5 in vivo and in vitro were investigated by intraperitoneal injection of adeno-associated virus into UC mice or by transfection with an IGFBP5 overexpression plasmid into lipopolysaccharide-treated colonic mucosal epithelial cells. The mechanisms causing IGFBP5 deletion in UC were predicted by bioinformatics analysis and ChIP-qPCR and verified by rescue experiments. RESULTS IGFBP5 was reduced in UC. IGFBP5 impaired the NFκB pathway in the colonic tissue of UC mice and ameliorated inflammatory infiltration and colonic mucosal cell injury. IGFBP5 depletion was associated with H3K27me3 modification, which was induced by EZH2. CTCF was responsible for recruiting EZH2 to the promoter region of IGFBP5. CTCF inhibition repressed UC progression by reducing H3K27me3 modification via the discouragement of the enrichment of EZH2 in the IGFBP5 promoter. CONCLUSIONS CTCF modulates H3K27me3 modification of the IGFBP5 promoter by recruiting EZH2, thereby downregulating IGFBP5 to accentuate colonic mucosal epithelial cell injury in UC mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Gu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hengyang Medical School, The Affiliated Nanhua Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Ting Cao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hengyang Medical School, The Affiliated Nanhua Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Shijie Yi
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Hengyang Medical School, The Affiliated Nanhua Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Ya Liu
- Department of Anorectal Surgery, Hengyang Medical School, The Affiliated Nanhua Hospital, University of South China, No. 336, Dongfeng South Road, Zhuhui District, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Fan
- Department of Anorectal Surgery, Hengyang Medical School, The Affiliated Nanhua Hospital, University of South China, No. 336, Dongfeng South Road, Zhuhui District, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
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9
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Shi H, Xiong L, Zhu C, Wang J, Li Y, Luo Y, Wang T, Zhang C. Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of novel NO-releasing 4-chromanone derivatives as potential vasodilator agents. Chem Biol Drug Des 2023; 101:408-421. [PMID: 36054155 DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.14140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The nitric oxide/cyclic guanosine monophosphate (NO/cGMP) signaling pathway is an effective mechanism involved in the treatment of hypertension. In our search for potential antihypertensive agents, a series of novel NO-donor derivatives of the 4-chromanone skeleton were designed and synthesized by coupling furoxans or nitrooxy NO-donor moieties. All derivatives showed enhanced nitric oxide releasing capacity and vasodilator activity with EC50 values ranging from 0.0215 μM to 1.46 μM, obviously superior to those of precursor 3. These biological evaluations indicated that all compounds displayed an important vasorelaxant effect, and several compounds (9c, 14b, 14c, 14d) presented good vasodilator activity, with 14c being the best. Furthermore, molecular modeling studies revealed that compound 14c occupied the pocket well with the phosphodiesterase 5 domain in a favorable conformation. In conclusion, we observed that these novel compounds can act as structural templates for the design and subsequent development of new vasodilators and antihypertensive drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Shi
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China.,School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Liyan Xiong
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chenchen Zhu
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Qingpu Branch of Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Li
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yunchun Luo
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tingfang Wang
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chuan Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China.,School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
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10
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Wang E, Wang H, Chakrabarti S. Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition: An underappreciated mediator of diabetic complications. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1050540. [PMID: 36777351 PMCID: PMC9911675 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1050540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes and its complications represent a great burden on the global healthcare system. Diabetic complications are fundamentally diseases of the vasculature, with endothelial cells being the centerpiece of early hyperglycemia-induced changes. Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition is a tightly regulated process that results in endothelial cells losing endothelial characteristics and developing mesenchymal traits. Although endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition has been found to occur within most of the major complications of diabetes, it has not been a major focus of study or a common target in the treatment or prevention of diabetic complications. In this review we summarize the importance of endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition in each major diabetic complication, examine specific mechanisms at play, and highlight potential mechanisms to prevent endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition in each of the major chronic complications of diabetes.
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11
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Xu WD, Huang Q, Huang AF. Emerging role of EZH2 in rheumatic diseases: A comprehensive review. Int J Rheum Dis 2022; 25:1230-1238. [PMID: 35933601 DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.14416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is a histone methylated enzyme. It trimethylates histone 3 lysine 27 (H3K27) to regulate epigenetic processes. Recently, studies showed excessive expression of EZH2 in rheumatic diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and systemic sclerosis. Moreover, epigenetic modification of EZH2 regulates differentiation and proliferation of different immune cells. Therefore, in this review, we comprehensively discuss the role of EZH2 in rheumatic diseases. Collection of the evidence may provide a basis for further understanding the role of EZH2 and give potential for targeting these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wang-Dong Xu
- Department of Evidence-Based Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Qi Huang
- Department of Evidence-Based Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - An-Fang Huang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
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12
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LncRNA ANRIL mediates endothelial dysfunction through BDNF downregulation in chronic kidney disease. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:661. [PMID: 35906216 PMCID: PMC9338026 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05068-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Endothelial dysfunction is common in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), but the mechanism is unknown. In this study, we found that the circulating ANRIL level was increased and correlated with vascular endothelial dysfunction in patients with CKD, also negatively correlated with plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) concentration. We constructed the ANRIL knockout mice model, and found that ANRIL deficiency reversed the abnormal expression of BDNF, along with endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), vascular adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1) and Von Willebrand factor (vWF). Meanwhile, mitochondrial dynamics-related proteins, Dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1) and mitofusins (Mfn2) level were also recovered. In addition, in vitro, serum derived from CKD patients and uremia toxins induced abnormal expression of ANRIL. By making use of the gain- and loss-of-function approaches, we observed that ANRIL mediated endothelial dysfunction through BDNF downregulation. To explore the specific mechanism, RNA pull-down and RNA-binding protein immunoprecipitation (RIP) were used to explore the binding of ANRIL to histone methyltransferase Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2). Further experiments found increased EZH2 and histone H3 lysine 27 trimethylation (H3K27me3) levels at the BDNF promoter region. Collectively, we demonstrated that ANRIL mediate BDNF transcriptional suppression through recruitment of EZH2 to the BDNF promoter region, then regulated the proteins expression related to endothelial function and mitochondrial dynamics. This study provides new insights for the study of endothelial dysfunction in CKD.
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13
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Yao Z, Lin M, Lin T, Gong X, Qin P, Li H, Kang T, Ye J, Zhu Y, Hong Q, Liu Y, Li Y, Wang J, Fang F. The expression of IGFBP-5 in the reproductive axis and effect on the onset of puberty in female rats. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:100. [PMID: 35821045 PMCID: PMC9277959 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-00966-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Insulin-like growth factor-binding protein-5 (IGFBP-5) has recently been shown to alter the reproductive capacity by regulating insulin-like growth factor (IGF) bioavailability or IGF-independent effects. The present study aimed to investigate the effect and mechanism of IGFBP-5 on the onset of puberty in female rats. Immunofluorescence and real-time quantitative PCR were used to determine the expression and location of IGFBP-5 mRNA and protein distribution in the infant's hypothalamus-pituitary-ovary (HPO) axis prepuberty, peripuberty, puberty and adult female rats. Prepubertal rats with IGFBP-5 intracerebroventricular (ICV) were injected to determine the puberty-related genes expression and the concentrations of reproductive hormones. Primary hypothalamic cells were treated with IGFBP-5 to determine the expression of puberty-related genes and the Akt and mTOR proteins. Results showed that Igfbp-5 mRNA and protein were present on the HPO axis. The addition of IGFBP-5 to primary hypothalamic cells inhibited the expression of Gnrh and Igf-1 mRNAs (P < 0.05) and increased the expression of AKT and mTOR protein (P < 0.01). IGFBP-5 ICV-injection delayed the onset of puberty, reduced Gnrh, Igf-1, and Fshβ mRNAs, and decreased the concentrations of E2, P4, FSH,serum LH levels and the ovaries weight (P < 0.05). More corpus luteum and fewer primary follicles were found after IGFBP-5 injection (P < 0.05).
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqiu Yao
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Maosen Lin
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Tao Lin
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Xinbao Gong
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Pin Qin
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Hailing Li
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Tiezhu Kang
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Jing Ye
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Yanyun Zhu
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Qiwen Hong
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Ya Liu
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Yunsheng Li
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Juhua Wang
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Fugui Fang
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China.
- Department of Animal Veterinary Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei, 230036, Anhui, China.
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14
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Mechanical Cues Regulate Histone Modifications and Cell Behavior. Stem Cells Int 2022; 2022:9179111. [PMID: 35599845 PMCID: PMC9117061 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9179111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Change of biophysical factors in tissue microenvironment is an important step in a chronic disease development process. A mechanical and biochemical factor from cell living microniche can regulate cell epigenetic decoration and, therefore, further induce change of gene expression. In this review, we will emphasize the mechanism that biophysical microenvironment manipulates cell behavior including gene expression and protein decoration, through modifying histone amino acid residue modification. The influence given by different mechanical forces, including mechanical stretch, substrate surface stiffness, and shear stress, on cell fate and behavior during chronic disease development including tumorigenesis will also be teased out. Overall, the recent work summarized in this review culminates on the hypothesis that a mechanical factor stimulates the modification on histone which could facilitate disease detection and potential therapeutic target.
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15
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De Rosa S, Iaconetti C, Eyileten C, Yasuda M, Albanese M, Polimeni A, Sabatino J, Sorrentino S, Postula M, Indolfi C. Flow-Responsive Noncoding RNAs in the Vascular System: Basic Mechanisms for the Clinician. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11020459. [PMID: 35054151 PMCID: PMC8777617 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11020459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The vascular system is largely exposed to the effect of changing flow conditions. Vascular cells can sense flow and its changes. Flow sensing is of pivotal importance for vascular remodeling. In fact, it influences the development and progression of atherosclerosis, controls its location and has a major influx on the development of local complications. Despite its importance, the research community has traditionally paid scarce attention to studying the association between different flow conditions and vascular biology. More recently, a growing body of evidence has been accumulating, revealing that ncRNAs play a key role in the modulation of several biological processes linking flow-sensing to vascular pathophysiology. This review summarizes the most relevant evidence on ncRNAs that are directly or indirectly responsive to flow conditions to the benefit of the clinician, with a focus on the underpinning mechanisms and their potential application as disease biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore De Rosa
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (C.I.); (M.Y.); (M.A.); (A.P.); (J.S.); (S.S.)
- Correspondence: (S.D.R.); (C.I.)
| | - Claudio Iaconetti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (C.I.); (M.Y.); (M.A.); (A.P.); (J.S.); (S.S.)
| | - Ceren Eyileten
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Centre for Preclinical Research and Technology CePT, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland; (C.E.); (M.P.)
| | - Masakazu Yasuda
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (C.I.); (M.Y.); (M.A.); (A.P.); (J.S.); (S.S.)
| | - Michele Albanese
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (C.I.); (M.Y.); (M.A.); (A.P.); (J.S.); (S.S.)
| | - Alberto Polimeni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (C.I.); (M.Y.); (M.A.); (A.P.); (J.S.); (S.S.)
| | - Jolanda Sabatino
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (C.I.); (M.Y.); (M.A.); (A.P.); (J.S.); (S.S.)
| | - Sabato Sorrentino
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (C.I.); (M.Y.); (M.A.); (A.P.); (J.S.); (S.S.)
| | - Marek Postula
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Centre for Preclinical Research and Technology CePT, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland; (C.E.); (M.P.)
| | - Ciro Indolfi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (C.I.); (M.Y.); (M.A.); (A.P.); (J.S.); (S.S.)
- Mediterranea Cardiocentro, 80122 Naples, Italy
- Correspondence: (S.D.R.); (C.I.)
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16
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Hudson J, Farkas L. Epigenetic Regulation of Endothelial Dysfunction and Inflammation in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222212098. [PMID: 34829978 PMCID: PMC8617605 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Once perceived as a disorder treated by vasodilation, pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH) has emerged as a pulmonary vascular disease with severe endothelial cell dysfunction. In the absence of a cure, many studies seek to understand the detailed mechanisms of EC regulation to potentially create more therapeutic options for PAH. Endothelial dysfunction is characterized by complex phenotypic changes including unchecked proliferation, apoptosis-resistance, enhanced inflammatory signaling and metabolic reprogramming. Recent studies have highlighted the role of epigenetic modifications leading to pro-inflammatory response pathways, endothelial dysfunction, and the progression of PAH. This review summarizes the existing literature on epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs, which can lead to aberrant endothelial function. Our goal is to develop a conceptual framework for immune dysregulation and epigenetic changes in endothelial cells in the context of PAH. These studies as well as others may lead to advances in therapeutics to treat this devastating disease.
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17
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Liu Z, Ruter DL, Quigley K, Tanke NT, Jiang Y, Bautch VL. Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Reveals Endothelial Cell Transcriptome Heterogeneity Under Homeostatic Laminar Flow. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2021; 41:2575-2584. [PMID: 34433297 PMCID: PMC8454496 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.121.316797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text. Endothelial cells (ECs) that form the innermost layer of all vessels exhibit heterogeneous cell behaviors and responses to pro-angiogenic signals that are critical for vascular sprouting and angiogenesis. Once vessels form, remodeling and blood flow lead to EC quiescence, and homogeneity in cell behaviors and signaling responses. These changes are important for the function of mature vessels, but whether and at what level ECs regulate overall expression heterogeneity during this transition is poorly understood. Here, we profiled EC transcriptomic heterogeneity, and expression heterogeneity of selected proteins, under homeostatic laminar flow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziqing Liu
- Integrative Program for Biological & Genome Sciences (Z.L., D.L.R., V.L.B.).,McAllister Heart Institute (Z.L., D.L.R., V.L.B.)
| | - Dana L Ruter
- Integrative Program for Biological & Genome Sciences (Z.L., D.L.R., V.L.B.).,Now with KBI Biopharma, Inc, RTP, NC (D.L.R.).,McAllister Heart Institute (Z.L., D.L.R., V.L.B.).,Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center (D.L.R., Y.J., V.L.B.)
| | | | | | - Yuchao Jiang
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center (D.L.R., Y.J., V.L.B.).,Department of Biostatistics (Y.J.).,Department of Genetics (Y.J.)
| | - Victoria L Bautch
- Integrative Program for Biological & Genome Sciences (Z.L., D.L.R., V.L.B.).,McAllister Heart Institute (Z.L., D.L.R., V.L.B.).,Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center (D.L.R., Y.J., V.L.B.).,Curriculum in Cell Biology and Physiology (N.T.T., V.L.B.).,Department of Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill (V.L.B.)
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18
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Mesa AM, Mao J, Medrano TI, Bivens NJ, Jurkevich A, Tuteja G, Cooke PS, Rosenfeld CS. Spatial Transcriptomics analysis of uterine gene expression in enhancer of Zeste homolog 2 (Ezh2) conditional knockout mice. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:1126-1139. [PMID: 34344022 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Histone proteins undergo various modifications that alter chromatin structure, including addition of methyl groups. Enhancer of homolog 2 (EZH2), is a histone methyltransferase that methylates lysine residue 27, and thereby, suppresses gene expression. EZH2 plays integral role in the uterus and other reproductive organs. We have previously shown that conditional deletion of uterine EZH2 results in increased proliferation of luminal and glandular epithelial cells, and RNAseq analyses reveal several uterine transcriptomic changes in Ezh2 conditional (c) knockout (KO) mice that can affect estrogen signaling pathways. To pinpoint the origin of such gene expression changes, we used the recently developed spatial transcriptomics (ST) method with the hypotheses that Ezh2cKO mice would predominantly demonstrate changes in epithelial cells and/or ablation of this gene would disrupt normal epithelial/stromal gene expression patterns. Uteri were collected from ovariectomized adult WT and Ezh2cKO mice and analyzed by ST. Asb4, Cxcl14, Dio2, and Igfbp5 were increased, Sult1d1, Mt3, and Lcn2 were reduced in Ezh2cKO uterine epithelium vs. WT epithelium. For Ezh2cKO uterine stroma, differentially expressed key hub genes included Cald1, Fbln1, Myh11, Acta2, and Tagln. Conditional loss of uterine Ezh2 also appears to shift the balance of gene expression profiles in epithelial vs. stromal tissue toward uterine epithelial cell and gland development and proliferation, consistent with uterine gland hyperplasia in these mice. Current findings provide further insight into how EZH2 may selectively affect uterine epithelial and stromal compartments. Additionally, these transcriptome data might provide the mechanistic understanding and valuable biomarkers for human endometrial disorders with epigenetic underpinnings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana M Mesa
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.,Grupo de Investigación en Agrociencias, Biodiversidad y Territorio - GAMMA, Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad de Antioquia UdeA, Calle 70 N° 52-21, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Jiude Mao
- Christopher S. Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA.,Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Theresa I Medrano
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Nathan J Bivens
- Genomics Technology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Alexander Jurkevich
- Advanced Light Microscopy Core Facility, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Geetu Tuteja
- Genetics, Development and Cell Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Paul S Cooke
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Cheryl S Rosenfeld
- Christopher S. Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA.,Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA.,Data Science and Informatics Institute, University of Missouri, Columbia; MO 65211, USA.,Thompson Center for Autism and Neurobehavioral Disorders, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
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Brinks J, van Dijk EHC, Klaassen I, Schlingemann RO, Kielbasa SM, Emri E, Quax PHA, Bergen AA, Meijer OC, Boon CJF. Exploring the choroidal vascular labyrinth and its molecular and structural roles in health and disease. Prog Retin Eye Res 2021; 87:100994. [PMID: 34280556 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2021.100994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The choroid is a key player in maintaining ocular homeostasis and plays a role in a variety of chorioretinal diseases, many of which are poorly understood. Recent advances in the field of single-cell RNA sequencing have yielded valuable insights into the properties of choroidal endothelial cells (CECs). Here, we review the role of the choroid in various physiological and pathophysiological mechanisms, focusing on the role of CECs. We also discuss new insights regarding the phenotypic properties of CECs, CEC subpopulations, and the value of measuring transcriptomics in primary CEC cultures derived from post-mortem eyes. In addition, we discuss key phenotypic, structural, and functional differences that distinguish CECs from other endothelial cells such as retinal vascular endothelial cells. Understanding the specific clinical and molecular properties of the choroid will shed new light on the pathogenesis of the broad clinical range of chorioretinal diseases such as age-related macular degeneration, central serous chorioretinopathy and other diseases within the pachychoroid spectrum, uveitis, and diabetic choroidopathy. Although our knowledge is still relatively limited with respect to the clinical features and molecular pathways that underlie these chorioretinal diseases, we summarise new approaches and discuss future directions for gaining new insights into these sight-threatening diseases and highlight new therapeutic strategies such as pluripotent stem cell‒based technologies and gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Brinks
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - E H C van Dijk
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - I Klaassen
- Ocular Angiogenesis Group, Departments of Ophthalmology and Medical Biology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - R O Schlingemann
- Ocular Angiogenesis Group, Departments of Ophthalmology and Medical Biology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Ophthalmology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Ophthalmology, University of Lausanne, Jules Gonin Eye Hospital, Fondation Asile des Aveugles, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - S M Kielbasa
- Department of Medical Statistics and Bioinformatics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - E Emri
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Section of Ophthalmogenetics, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - P H A Quax
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - A A Bergen
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Section of Ophthalmogenetics, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - O C Meijer
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - C J F Boon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; Department of Ophthalmology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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20
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Xu S, Liu Y, Ding Y, Luo S, Zheng X, Wu X, Liu Z, Ilyas I, Chen S, Han S, Little PJ, Jain MK, Weng J. The zinc finger transcription factor, KLF2, protects against COVID-19 associated endothelial dysfunction. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:266. [PMID: 34253708 PMCID: PMC8273371 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00690-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is regarded as an endothelial disease (endothelialitis) with its patho-mechanism being incompletely understood. Emerging evidence has demonstrated that endothelial dysfunction precipitates COVID-19 and its accompanying multi-organ injuries. Thus, pharmacotherapies targeting endothelial dysfunction have potential to ameliorate COVID-19 and its cardiovascular complications. The objective of the present study is to evaluate whether kruppel-like factor 2 (KLF2), a master regulator of vascular homeostasis, represents a therapeutic target for COVID-19-induced endothelial dysfunction. Here, we demonstrate that the expression of KLF2 was reduced and monocyte adhesion was increased in endothelial cells treated with COVID-19 patient serum due to elevated levels of pro-adhesive molecules, ICAM1 and VCAM1. IL-1β and TNF-α, two cytokines elevated in cytokine release syndrome in COVID-19 patients, decreased KLF2 gene expression. Pharmacologic (atorvastatin and tannic acid) and genetic (adenoviral overexpression) approaches to augment KLF2 levels attenuated COVID-19-serum-induced increase in endothelial inflammation and monocyte adhesion. Next-generation RNA-sequencing data showed that atorvastatin treatment leads to a cardiovascular protective transcriptome associated with improved endothelial function (vasodilation, anti-inflammation, antioxidant status, anti-thrombosis/-coagulation, anti-fibrosis, and reduced angiogenesis). Finally, knockdown of KLF2 partially reversed the ameliorative effect of atorvastatin on COVID-19-serum-induced endothelial inflammation and monocyte adhesion. Collectively, the present study implicates loss of KLF2 as an important molecular event in the development of COVID-19-induced vascular disease and suggests that efforts to augment KLF2 levels may be therapeutically beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suowen Xu
- Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Yujie Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, P.R. China
| | - Yu Ding
- Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Sihui Luo
- Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Xueying Zheng
- Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Xiumei Wu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhenghong Liu
- Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Iqra Ilyas
- Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Suyu Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, P.R. China
| | - Shuxin Han
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Peter J Little
- Sunshine Coast Health Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Birtinya, QLD, Australia
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, the University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia
| | - Mukesh K Jain
- Department of Medicine, Case Cardiovascular Research Institute, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harrington Heart and Vascular Institute, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Jianping Weng
- Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China.
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21
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Xu S, Ilyas I, Little PJ, Li H, Kamato D, Zheng X, Luo S, Li Z, Liu P, Han J, Harding IC, Ebong EE, Cameron SJ, Stewart AG, Weng J. Endothelial Dysfunction in Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Diseases and Beyond: From Mechanism to Pharmacotherapies. Pharmacol Rev 2021; 73:924-967. [PMID: 34088867 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.120.000096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 336] [Impact Index Per Article: 112.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The endothelium, a cellular monolayer lining the blood vessel wall, plays a critical role in maintaining multiorgan health and homeostasis. Endothelial functions in health include dynamic maintenance of vascular tone, angiogenesis, hemostasis, and the provision of an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antithrombotic interface. Dysfunction of the vascular endothelium presents with impaired endothelium-dependent vasodilation, heightened oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, leukocyte adhesion and hyperpermeability, and endothelial cell senescence. Recent studies have implicated altered endothelial cell metabolism and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition as new features of endothelial dysfunction. Endothelial dysfunction is regarded as a hallmark of many diverse human panvascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, hypertension, and diabetes. Endothelial dysfunction has also been implicated in severe coronavirus disease 2019. Many clinically used pharmacotherapies, ranging from traditional lipid-lowering drugs, antihypertensive drugs, and antidiabetic drugs to proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors and interleukin 1β monoclonal antibodies, counter endothelial dysfunction as part of their clinical benefits. The regulation of endothelial dysfunction by noncoding RNAs has provided novel insights into these newly described regulators of endothelial dysfunction, thus yielding potential new therapeutic approaches. Altogether, a better understanding of the versatile (dys)functions of endothelial cells will not only deepen our comprehension of human diseases but also accelerate effective therapeutic drug discovery. In this review, we provide a timely overview of the multiple layers of endothelial function, describe the consequences and mechanisms of endothelial dysfunction, and identify pathways to effective targeted therapies. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: The endothelium was initially considered to be a semipermeable biomechanical barrier and gatekeeper of vascular health. In recent decades, a deepened understanding of the biological functions of the endothelium has led to its recognition as a ubiquitous tissue regulating vascular tone, cell behavior, innate immunity, cell-cell interactions, and cell metabolism in the vessel wall. Endothelial dysfunction is the hallmark of cardiovascular, metabolic, and emerging infectious diseases. Pharmacotherapies targeting endothelial dysfunction have potential for treatment of cardiovascular and many other diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suowen Xu
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China (S.X., I.I., X.Z., S.L., J.W.); Sunshine Coast Health Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Birtinya, Australia (P.J.L.); School of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia (P.J.L., D.K.); Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); The Research Center of Basic Integrative Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National and Local United Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Guangzhou, China (Z.L., P.L.); College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China (J.H.); Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (I.C.H., E.E.E.); Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (E.E.E.); Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, New York (E.E.E.); Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio (S.J.C.); and ARC Centre for Personalised Therapeutics Technologies, Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Biomedical Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia (A.G.S.)
| | - Iqra Ilyas
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China (S.X., I.I., X.Z., S.L., J.W.); Sunshine Coast Health Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Birtinya, Australia (P.J.L.); School of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia (P.J.L., D.K.); Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); The Research Center of Basic Integrative Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National and Local United Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Guangzhou, China (Z.L., P.L.); College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China (J.H.); Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (I.C.H., E.E.E.); Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (E.E.E.); Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, New York (E.E.E.); Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio (S.J.C.); and ARC Centre for Personalised Therapeutics Technologies, Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Biomedical Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia (A.G.S.)
| | - Peter J Little
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China (S.X., I.I., X.Z., S.L., J.W.); Sunshine Coast Health Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Birtinya, Australia (P.J.L.); School of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia (P.J.L., D.K.); Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); The Research Center of Basic Integrative Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National and Local United Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Guangzhou, China (Z.L., P.L.); College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China (J.H.); Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (I.C.H., E.E.E.); Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (E.E.E.); Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, New York (E.E.E.); Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio (S.J.C.); and ARC Centre for Personalised Therapeutics Technologies, Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Biomedical Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia (A.G.S.)
| | - Hong Li
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China (S.X., I.I., X.Z., S.L., J.W.); Sunshine Coast Health Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Birtinya, Australia (P.J.L.); School of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia (P.J.L., D.K.); Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); The Research Center of Basic Integrative Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National and Local United Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Guangzhou, China (Z.L., P.L.); College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China (J.H.); Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (I.C.H., E.E.E.); Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (E.E.E.); Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, New York (E.E.E.); Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio (S.J.C.); and ARC Centre for Personalised Therapeutics Technologies, Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Biomedical Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia (A.G.S.)
| | - Danielle Kamato
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China (S.X., I.I., X.Z., S.L., J.W.); Sunshine Coast Health Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Birtinya, Australia (P.J.L.); School of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia (P.J.L., D.K.); Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); The Research Center of Basic Integrative Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National and Local United Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Guangzhou, China (Z.L., P.L.); College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China (J.H.); Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (I.C.H., E.E.E.); Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (E.E.E.); Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, New York (E.E.E.); Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio (S.J.C.); and ARC Centre for Personalised Therapeutics Technologies, Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Biomedical Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia (A.G.S.)
| | - Xueying Zheng
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China (S.X., I.I., X.Z., S.L., J.W.); Sunshine Coast Health Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Birtinya, Australia (P.J.L.); School of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia (P.J.L., D.K.); Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); The Research Center of Basic Integrative Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National and Local United Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Guangzhou, China (Z.L., P.L.); College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China (J.H.); Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (I.C.H., E.E.E.); Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (E.E.E.); Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, New York (E.E.E.); Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio (S.J.C.); and ARC Centre for Personalised Therapeutics Technologies, Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Biomedical Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia (A.G.S.)
| | - Sihui Luo
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China (S.X., I.I., X.Z., S.L., J.W.); Sunshine Coast Health Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Birtinya, Australia (P.J.L.); School of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia (P.J.L., D.K.); Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); The Research Center of Basic Integrative Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National and Local United Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Guangzhou, China (Z.L., P.L.); College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China (J.H.); Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (I.C.H., E.E.E.); Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (E.E.E.); Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, New York (E.E.E.); Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio (S.J.C.); and ARC Centre for Personalised Therapeutics Technologies, Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Biomedical Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia (A.G.S.)
| | - Zhuoming Li
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China (S.X., I.I., X.Z., S.L., J.W.); Sunshine Coast Health Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Birtinya, Australia (P.J.L.); School of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia (P.J.L., D.K.); Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); The Research Center of Basic Integrative Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National and Local United Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Guangzhou, China (Z.L., P.L.); College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China (J.H.); Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (I.C.H., E.E.E.); Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (E.E.E.); Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, New York (E.E.E.); Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio (S.J.C.); and ARC Centre for Personalised Therapeutics Technologies, Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Biomedical Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia (A.G.S.)
| | - Peiqing Liu
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China (S.X., I.I., X.Z., S.L., J.W.); Sunshine Coast Health Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Birtinya, Australia (P.J.L.); School of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia (P.J.L., D.K.); Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); The Research Center of Basic Integrative Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National and Local United Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Guangzhou, China (Z.L., P.L.); College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China (J.H.); Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (I.C.H., E.E.E.); Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (E.E.E.); Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, New York (E.E.E.); Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio (S.J.C.); and ARC Centre for Personalised Therapeutics Technologies, Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Biomedical Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia (A.G.S.)
| | - Jihong Han
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China (S.X., I.I., X.Z., S.L., J.W.); Sunshine Coast Health Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Birtinya, Australia (P.J.L.); School of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia (P.J.L., D.K.); Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); The Research Center of Basic Integrative Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National and Local United Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Guangzhou, China (Z.L., P.L.); College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China (J.H.); Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (I.C.H., E.E.E.); Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (E.E.E.); Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, New York (E.E.E.); Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio (S.J.C.); and ARC Centre for Personalised Therapeutics Technologies, Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Biomedical Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia (A.G.S.)
| | - Ian C Harding
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China (S.X., I.I., X.Z., S.L., J.W.); Sunshine Coast Health Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Birtinya, Australia (P.J.L.); School of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia (P.J.L., D.K.); Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); The Research Center of Basic Integrative Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National and Local United Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Guangzhou, China (Z.L., P.L.); College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China (J.H.); Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (I.C.H., E.E.E.); Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (E.E.E.); Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, New York (E.E.E.); Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio (S.J.C.); and ARC Centre for Personalised Therapeutics Technologies, Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Biomedical Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia (A.G.S.)
| | - Eno E Ebong
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China (S.X., I.I., X.Z., S.L., J.W.); Sunshine Coast Health Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Birtinya, Australia (P.J.L.); School of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia (P.J.L., D.K.); Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); The Research Center of Basic Integrative Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National and Local United Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Guangzhou, China (Z.L., P.L.); College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China (J.H.); Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (I.C.H., E.E.E.); Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (E.E.E.); Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, New York (E.E.E.); Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio (S.J.C.); and ARC Centre for Personalised Therapeutics Technologies, Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Biomedical Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia (A.G.S.)
| | - Scott J Cameron
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China (S.X., I.I., X.Z., S.L., J.W.); Sunshine Coast Health Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Birtinya, Australia (P.J.L.); School of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia (P.J.L., D.K.); Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); The Research Center of Basic Integrative Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National and Local United Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Guangzhou, China (Z.L., P.L.); College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China (J.H.); Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (I.C.H., E.E.E.); Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (E.E.E.); Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, New York (E.E.E.); Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio (S.J.C.); and ARC Centre for Personalised Therapeutics Technologies, Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Biomedical Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia (A.G.S.)
| | - Alastair G Stewart
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China (S.X., I.I., X.Z., S.L., J.W.); Sunshine Coast Health Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Birtinya, Australia (P.J.L.); School of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia (P.J.L., D.K.); Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); The Research Center of Basic Integrative Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National and Local United Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Guangzhou, China (Z.L., P.L.); College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China (J.H.); Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (I.C.H., E.E.E.); Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (E.E.E.); Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, New York (E.E.E.); Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio (S.J.C.); and ARC Centre for Personalised Therapeutics Technologies, Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Biomedical Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia (A.G.S.)
| | - Jianping Weng
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China (S.X., I.I., X.Z., S.L., J.W.); Sunshine Coast Health Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Birtinya, Australia (P.J.L.); School of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia (P.J.L., D.K.); Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); The Research Center of Basic Integrative Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China (H.L.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National and Local United Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Guangzhou, China (Z.L., P.L.); College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China (J.H.); Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (I.C.H., E.E.E.); Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts (E.E.E.); Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, New York (E.E.E.); Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio (S.J.C.); and ARC Centre for Personalised Therapeutics Technologies, Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Biomedical Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia (A.G.S.)
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Wei X, Zhang Y, Xie L, Wang K, Wang X. Pharmacological inhibition of EZH2 by GSK126 decreases atherosclerosis by modulating foam cell formation and monocyte adhesion in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice. Exp Ther Med 2021; 22:841. [PMID: 34149887 PMCID: PMC8210282 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Histone modifications play an important role in the occurrence and development of atherosclerosis in human and atherosclerosis-prone mice. Histone methylation in macrophages, monocytes and endothelial cells markedly influence the progression of atherosclerosis. However, it remains unclear whether treatment with a histone methyltransferase enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) inhibitor may suppress atherosclerosis. The present study aimed to determine the effects of the EZH2 inhibitor, GSK126, on the suppression and regression of atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E-deficient mouse models. In vitro, it was found that pharmacological inhibition of EZH2 by GSK126 markedly reduced lipid transportation and monocyte adhesion during atherogenesis, predominantly through increasing the expression levels of ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 and suppressing vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 in human THP-1 cells. In vivo, it was found that atherosclerotic plaques in GSK126-treated mice were significantly decreased when comparing with the vehicle-treated animals. These results indicated that the GSK126 has the ability to attenuate the progression of atherosclerosis by reducing macrophage foam cell formation and monocyte adhesion in cell and mouse models. In conclusion, the present study provided new insights into the molecular mechanism behind the action of GSK126 and suggested its therapeutic potential for the treatment of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianjing Wei
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning 116023, P.R. China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning 116023, P.R. China
| | - Lianna Xie
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning 116023, P.R. China
| | - Kaijun Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning 116023, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoqing Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning 116023, P.R. China
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23
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Khan A, Paneni F, Jandeleit-Dahm K. Cell-specific epigenetic changes in atherosclerosis. Clin Sci (Lond) 2021; 135:1165-1187. [PMID: 33988232 PMCID: PMC8314213 DOI: 10.1042/cs20201066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a disease of large and medium arteries that can lead to life-threatening cerebrovascular and cardiovascular consequences such as heart failure and stroke and is a major contributor to cardiovascular-related mortality worldwide. Atherosclerosis development is a complex process that involves specific structural, functional and transcriptional changes in different vascular cell populations at different stages of the disease. The application of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis has discovered not only disease-related cell-specific transcriptomic profiles but also novel subpopulations of cells once thought as homogenous cell populations. Vascular cells undergo specific transcriptional changes during the entire course of the disease. Epigenetics is the instruction-set-architecture in living cells that defines and maintains the cellular identity by regulating the cellular transcriptome. Although different cells contain the same genetic material, they have different epigenomic signatures. The epigenome is plastic, dynamic and highly responsive to environmental stimuli. Modifications to the epigenome are driven by an array of epigenetic enzymes generally referred to as writers, erasers and readers that define cellular fate and destiny. The reversibility of these modifications raises hope for finding novel therapeutic targets for modifiable pathological conditions including atherosclerosis where the involvement of epigenetics is increasingly appreciated. This article provides a critical review of the up-to-date research in the field of epigenetics mainly focusing on in vivo settings in the context of the cellular role of individual vascular cell types in the development of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Waheed Khan
- Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Francesco Paneni
- Cardiovascular Epigenetics and Regenerative Medicine, Centre for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Karin A.M. Jandeleit-Dahm
- Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- German Diabetes Centre, Leibniz Centre for Diabetes Research at the Heinrich Heine University, Dusseldorf, Germany
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24
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Yang Y, Cai Y, Zhang Y, Yi X, Xu Z. Identification of Molecular Subtypes and Key Genes of Atherosclerosis Through Gene Expression Profiles. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:628546. [PMID: 33996893 PMCID: PMC8113832 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.628546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) caused by atherosclerosis (AS) is one of the highest causes of mortality worldwide. Although there have been many studies on AS, its etiology remains unclear. In order to carry out molecular characterization of different types of AS, we retrieved two datasets composed of 151 AS samples and 32 normal samples from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Using the non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) algorithm, we successfully divided the 151 AS samples into two subgroups. We then compared the molecular characteristics between the two groups using weighted gene co-expression analysis (WGCNA) and identified six key modules associated with the two subgroups. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis were used to identify the potential functions and pathways associated with the modules. In addition, we used the cytoscape software to construct and visualize protein-protein networks so as to identify key genes in the modules of interest. Three hub genes including PTGER3, GNAI1, and IGFBP5 were further screened using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and support vector machine-recursive feature elimination (SVM-RFE) algorithms. Since the modules were associated with immune pathways, we performed immune cell infiltration analysis. We discovered a significant difference in the level of immune cell infiltration by naïve B cells, CD8 T cells, T regulatory cells (Tregs), resting NK cells, Monocytes, Macrophages M0, Macrophages M1, and Macrophages M2 between the two subgroups. In addition, we observed the three hub genes were positively correlated with Tregs but negatively correlated with Macrophages M0. We also found that the three key genes are differentially expressed between normal and diseased tissue, as well as in the different subgroups. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) results showed a good performance in the validation dataset. These results may provide novel insight into cellular and molecular characteristics of AS and potential markers for diagnosis and targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujia Yang
- Department of Neurology and Centre for Clinical Neuroscience, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Yue Cai
- Department of Cardiology, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- Department of Neurology and Centre for Clinical Neuroscience, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Xu Yi
- Department of Neurology and Centre for Clinical Neuroscience, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Zhiqiang Xu
- Department of Neurology and Centre for Clinical Neuroscience, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
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25
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Cai Y, Xin Q, Lu J, Miao Y, Lin Q, Cong W, Chen K. A New Therapeutic Candidate for Cardiovascular Diseases: Berberine. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:631100. [PMID: 33815112 PMCID: PMC8010184 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.631100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death in the world. However, due to the limited effectiveness and potential adverse effects of current treatments, the long-term prognosis of CVD patients is still discouraging. In recent years, several studies have found that berberine (BBR) has broad application prospects in the prevention and treatment of CVD. Due to its effectiveness and safety for gastroenteritis and diarrhea caused by bacterial infections, BBR has been widely used in China and other Asian countries since the middle of the last century. The development of pharmacology also provides evidence for the multi-targets of BBR in treating CVD. Researches on CVD, such as arrhythmia, atherosclerosis, dyslipidemia, hypertension, ischemic heart disease, myocarditis and cardiomyopathy, heart failure, etc., revealed the cardiovascular protective mechanisms of BBR. This review systematically summarizes the pharmacological research progress of BBR in the treatment of CVD in recent years, confirming that BBR is a promising therapeutic option for CVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Cai
- Doctoral Candidate, Dongzhimen Hospital of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Qiqi Xin
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Diseases, Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Beijing, China
| | - Jinjin Lu
- Dongfang Hospital of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Miao
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Diseases, Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Lin
- Dongzhimen Hospital of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Weihong Cong
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Diseases, Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Beijing, China
| | - Keji Chen
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Diseases, Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Beijing, China
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26
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Fledderus J, Vanchin B, Rots MG, Krenning G. The Endothelium as a Target for Anti-Atherogenic Therapy: A Focus on the Epigenetic Enzymes EZH2 and SIRT1. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11020103. [PMID: 33562658 PMCID: PMC7915331 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11020103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Endothelial cell inflammatory activation and dysfunction are key events in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis, and are associated with an elevated risk of cardiovascular events. Yet, therapies specifically targeting the endothelium and atherosclerosis are lacking. Here, we review how endothelial behaviour affects atherogenesis and pose that the endothelium may be an efficacious cellular target for antiatherogenic therapies. We discuss the contribution of endothelial inflammatory activation and dysfunction to atherogenesis and postulate that the dysregulation of specific epigenetic enzymes, EZH2 and SIRT1, aggravate endothelial dysfunction in a pleiotropic fashion. Moreover, we propose that commercially available drugs are available to clinically explore this postulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolien Fledderus
- Medical Biology Section, Laboratory for Cardiovascular Regenerative Medicine, Department Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands; (J.F.); (B.V.)
| | - Byambasuren Vanchin
- Medical Biology Section, Laboratory for Cardiovascular Regenerative Medicine, Department Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands; (J.F.); (B.V.)
- Department Cardiology, School of Medicine, Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences, Jamyan St 3, Ulaanbaatar 14210, Mongolia
| | - Marianne G. Rots
- Epigenetic Editing, Medical Biology Section, Department Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands;
| | - Guido Krenning
- Medical Biology Section, Laboratory for Cardiovascular Regenerative Medicine, Department Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands; (J.F.); (B.V.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +31-50-361-8043; Fax: +31-50-361-9911
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27
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Pang M, Li Y, Gu W, Sun Z, Wang Z, Li L. Recent Advances in Epigenetics of Macrovascular Complications in Diabetes Mellitus. Heart Lung Circ 2021; 30:186-196. [PMID: 32873490 DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2020.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic and endocrine disorder characterised by hyperglycaemia. Type 2 diabetes mellitus accounts for >90% of people with diabetes. Disorders of blood glucose metabolism and a series of adverse reactions triggered by hyperglycaemia-such as oxidative stress and inflammation-are conducive to the occurrence of diabetic macrovascular complications, which pose severe challenges to the quality of life and life expectancy of people with diabetes. In recent years, epigenetics has attracted more and more researchers' attention as they explore the causes and treatment of diabetes. Epigenetics refers to the regulation of gene expression without changes in gene content. Research focusses on DNA methylation, histone post-translational modification and non-coding RNA. A series of studies have shown that epigenetic regulation accelerates the development of atherosclerosis by interfering with the physiological activities of macrophages, endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells, such as inflammation, lipid deposition and apoptosis. Therefore, it is particularly important to explore new epigenetic discoveries to reduce the severity and harmfulness of diabetes. This study reviewed recent advances in epigenetics in the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus and its macrovascular complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingchang Pang
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Yalan Li
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Wen Gu
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Zhen Sun
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Zhongqun Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Lihua Li
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.
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28
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Yang X, Yang Y, Guo J, Meng Y, Li M, Yang P, Liu X, Aung LHH, Yu T, Li Y. Targeting the epigenome in in-stent restenosis: from mechanisms to therapy. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2021; 23:1136-1160. [PMID: 33664994 PMCID: PMC7896131 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2021.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the most common causes of death worldwide. The introduction of percutaneous revascularization has revolutionized the therapy of patients with CAD. Despite the advent of drug-eluting stents, restenosis remains the main challenge in treating patients with CAD. In-stent restenosis (ISR) indicates the reduction in lumen diameter after percutaneous coronary intervention, in which the vessel's lumen re-narrowing is attributed to the aberrant proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and dysregulation of endothelial cells (ECs). Increasing evidence has demonstrated that epigenetics is involved in the occurrence and progression of ISR. In this review, we provide the latest and comprehensive analysis of three separate but related epigenetic mechanisms regulating ISR, namely, DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNAs. Initially, we discuss the mechanism of restenosis. Furthermore, we discuss the biological mechanism underlying the diverse epigenetic modifications modulating gene expression and functions of VSMCs, as well as ECs in ISR. Finally, we discuss potential therapeutic targets of the small molecule inhibitors of cardiovascular epigenetic factors. A more detailed understanding of epigenetic regulation is essential for elucidating this complex biological process, which will assist in developing and improving ISR therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Yang
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Road No. 59 Haier, Qingdao 266100, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanyan Yang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, No. 308 Ningxia Road, Qingdao 266071, People's Republic of China
| | - Junjie Guo
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Road No. 59 Haier, Qingdao 266100, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanyuan Meng
- Department of Cardiac Ultrasound, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao 266000, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Li
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 38 Dengzhou Road, Qingdao 266021, People's Republic of China
| | - Panyu Yang
- Department of Cardiac Ultrasound, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao 266000, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Liu
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Road No. 59 Haier, Qingdao 266100, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Lynn Htet Htet Aung
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 38 Dengzhou Road, Qingdao 266021, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Yu
- Department of Cardiac Ultrasound, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao 266000, People's Republic of China.,Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 38 Dengzhou Road, Qingdao 266021, People's Republic of China
| | - Yonghong Li
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Road No. 59 Haier, Qingdao 266100, Shandong, People's Republic of China
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29
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Jin ZR, Fang D, Liu BH, Cai J, Tang WH, Jiang H, Xing GG. Roles of CatSper channels in the pathogenesis of asthenozoospermia and the therapeutic effects of acupuncture-like treatment on asthenozoospermia. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:2822-2844. [PMID: 33456575 PMCID: PMC7806476 DOI: 10.7150/thno.51869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Idiopathic asthenozoospermia (iAZS) is one of the major causes of male infertility and has no effective therapeutic treatment. Understanding the potential mechanisms that cause it may be helpful in seeking novel targets and treatment strategies for overcoming the problem of low sperm motility in iAZS individuals. Methods: Computer-assisted semen analysis (CASA) was utilized to assess the sperm motility. RT-qPCR, Western blot, immunofluorescence staining, and calcium imaging analysis were performed to examine the expression and function of CatSper channels. Hyperactivation and acrosome reaction were used to evaluate the functional characteristics of epididymal sperm. In vivo fertility assay was applied to determine the fertility of rats. CatSper1 knockdown and overexpression experiments were performed to confirm the roles of CatSper channels in the pathogenesis of iAZS and the therapeutic effects of electroacupuncture (EA) treatment on AZS model rats. Results: Here, we reported a functional down-regulation of CatSper channel from CatSper1 to CatSper 4 in the sperm of both iAZS patients and ornidazole (ORN)-induced AZS model rats, and an impaired sperm function characterized by a reduction of protein tyrosine phosphorylation, hyperactivation, and acrosome reaction in the epididymal sperm of AZS rats. Knockdown of CatSper1 in the testis tissues is sufficient to induce AZS in normal rats, and this action was validated by the reversal effects of CatSper1 overexpression. Transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) and electroacupuncture (EA) at 2 Hz frequency improve the sperm motility via enhancing the functional expression of CatSper channels in the sperm. Gene silencing CatSper1 in the sperm abolishes the therapeutic effects of 2 Hz-EA treatment on AZS rats. Conclusions: We conclude that a functional down-regulation of CatSper channel in the sperm may be a contributor or a downstream indicator for a portion of AZS, especially iAZS, while 2 Hz-TEAS or EA treatment has a therapeutic effect on iAZS through inducing the functional up-regulation of CatSper channels in the sperm. This study provides a novel mechanism for the pathogenesis of some AZS especially iAZS, and presents a potential therapeutic target of CatSper for iAZS treatment. Acupuncture treatment like TEAS may be used as a promising complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapy for male infertility caused by iAZS in clinical practice.
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30
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Song Y, Soto J, Li S. Mechanical regulation of histone modifications and cell plasticity. CURRENT OPINION IN SOLID STATE & MATERIALS SCIENCE 2020; 24:100872. [PMID: 33214755 PMCID: PMC7671577 DOI: 10.1016/j.cossms.2020.100872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Cell plasticity is important in development and tissue remodeling. Cells can sense physical and chemical cues from their local microenvironment and transduce the signals into the nucleus to regulate the epigenetic state and gene expression, resulting in a change in cell phenotype. In this review, we highlight the role of mechanical cues in regulating stem cell differentiation and cell reprogramming through the modulation of histone modifications. The effects of various mechanical cues, including matrix stiffness, mechanical stretch, and shear stress, on cell fate during tissue regeneration and remodeling will be discussed. Taken together, recent work demonstrates that the alterations in histone modifications by mechanical stimuli can facilitate epigenetic changes during cell phenotypic switching, which has potential applications in the development of biomaterials and bioreactors for cell engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Song
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Jennifer Soto
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Song Li
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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31
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Wang J, Li P, Xu X, Zhang B, Zhang J. MicroRNA-200a Inhibits Inflammation and Atherosclerotic Lesion Formation by Disrupting EZH2-Mediated Methylation of STAT3. Front Immunol 2020; 11:907. [PMID: 32655542 PMCID: PMC7324475 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Endothelial inflammation and dysfunction are critical to the process of atherosclerosis. Emerging evidence demonstrates that upregulation of miR-200a reduces VCAM-1 expression and prevents monocytic cell adhesion onto the aortic endothelium. However, limited information is available about the role of microRNA-200a (miR-200a) in facilitating atherosclerotic lesion formation. We investigated the anti-inflammatory and anti-atherosclerotic actions of miR-200a. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were cultured in the presence of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL), and their viability and apoptosis were evaluated using CCK-8 assays and flow cytometric analysis. The enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) promoter activity was evaluated in the presence of miR-200a by dual luciferase reporter gene assay. EZH2-mediated methylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) was validated by ChIP and IP assays. ApoE-/- mice were given a 12-week high-fat diet and developed as in vivo atherosclerotic models. miR-200a was downregulated but EZH2 and HMGB1 were upregulated in ox-LDL-treated HUVECs and the aorta tissues of atherosclerotic mouse models. Elevated miR-200a was shown to protect HUVECs against ox-LDL-induced apoptosis and inflammation. EZH2 was verified as a target of miR-200a. The protective effects of miR-200a were abrogated upon an elevation of EZH2. EZH2 methylated STAT3 and enhanced STAT3 activity by increased tyrosine phosphorylation of STAT3, thereby increasing apoptosis and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines in ox-LDL-treated HUVECs. An anti-atherosclerotic role of miR-200a was also demonstrated in atherosclerotic mouse models. Our study demonstrates that miR-200a has anti-inflammatory and anti-atherosclerotic activities dependent on the EZH2/STAT3 signaling cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinpeng Wang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ping Li
- Department of Developmental Pediatrics, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiaofei Xu
- Department of Radiology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Beilin Zhang
- Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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Carbone F, Montecucco F, Xu S, Banach M, Jamialahmadi T, Sahebkar A. Epigenetics in atherosclerosis: key features and therapeutic implications. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2020; 24:719-721. [PMID: 32354276 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2020.1764535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Federico Carbone
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino Genoa - Italian Cardiovascular Network , Genoa, Italy.,First Clinic of Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa , Genoa, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Montecucco
- First Clinic of Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa , Genoa, Italy.,First Clinic of Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine and Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research (CEBR), University of Genoa , Genoa, Italy
| | - Suowen Xu
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China , Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Maciej Banach
- Department of Hypertension, Chair of Nephrology and Hypertension, Medical University of Lodz , Poland.,Polish Mother's Memorial Hospital Research Institute (PMMHRI) , Lodz, Poland
| | - Tannaz Jamialahmadi
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences , Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Food Science and Technology, Quchan Branch, Islamic Azad University , Quchan, Iran.,Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences , Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences , Mashhad, Iran.,Halal Research Center of IRI, FDA , Tehran, Iran.,Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences , Mashhad, Iran
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Xu S. Therapeutic potential of blood flow mimetic compounds in preventing endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis. Pharmacol Res 2020; 155:104737. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.104737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Deng J, Guo M, Li G, Xiao J. Gene therapy for cardiovascular diseases in China: basic research. Gene Ther 2020; 27:360-369. [PMID: 32341485 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-020-0148-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Revised: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease has become a major disease affecting health in the whole world. Gene therapy, delivering foreign normal genes into target cells to repair damages caused by defects and abnormal genes, shows broad prospects in treating different kinds of cardiovascular diseases. China has achieved great progress of basic gene therapy researches and pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases in recent years. This review will summarize the latest research about gene therapy of proteins, epigenetics, including noncoding RNAs and genome-editing technology in myocardial infarction, cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury, atherosclerosis, muscle atrophy, and so on in China. We wish to highlight some important findings about the essential roles of basic gene therapy in this field, which might be helpful for searching potential therapeutic targets for cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiali Deng
- Cardiac Regeneration and Ageing Lab, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Life Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Mengying Guo
- Cardiac Regeneration and Ageing Lab, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Life Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China.,School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Guoping Li
- Cardiovascular Division of the Massachusetts, General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Junjie Xiao
- Cardiac Regeneration and Ageing Lab, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Life Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China. .,School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China.
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Feng X, Wang Y, Chen W, Xu S, Li L, Geng Y, Shen A, Gao H, Zhang L, Liu S. SIRT3 inhibits cardiac hypertrophy by regulating PARP-1 activity. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:4178-4192. [PMID: 32139662 PMCID: PMC7093179 DOI: 10.18632/aging.102862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) is a type III histone deacetylase that inhibits cardiac hypertrophy. It is mainly localized in the mitochondria and is thus implicated in mitochondrial metabolism. Recent studies have shown that SIRT3 can also accumulate in the nuclear under stressed conditions, and participated in histone deacetylation of target proteins. Poly [ADP-ribose] polymerase 1 (PARP-1) functions as an important PARP isoform that was involved in cardiac hypertrophy. Our experiments showed that SIRT3 accumulated in the nuclear of cardiomyocytes treated with isoproterenol or SIRT3 overexpression. Moreover, overexpression of SIRT3 by adenovirus inhibited the expression of cardiac hypertrophic genes-ANF and BNP, as well as abrogating PARP-1 activation induced by isoproterenol or phenylephrine. In addition, co-immunoprecipitation experiments revealed that SIRT3 could interact with PARP-1, and overexpression of SIRT3 could decrease the acetylation level of PARP-1. Our results indicate that SIRT3 exerts protective effects against cardiac hypertrophy by reducing the level of acetylation and activity of PARP-1, thus providing novel mechanistic insights into SIRT3-mediated cardiprotective actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojun Feng
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, PR. China
| | - Yanan Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, PR. China
| | - Wenxu Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, PR. China
| | - Suowen Xu
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of Rochester, West Henrietta, NY 14586, USA
| | - Lingli Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, PR. China
| | - Yadi Geng
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, PR. China
| | - Aizong Shen
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, PR. China.,Anhui Provincial Cardiovascular Institute, Hefei, Anhui, PR. China
| | - Hui Gao
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, PR. China
| | - Lei Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, PR. China
| | - Sheng Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, PR. China
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Zhang J, Zhang F. Suppressor of ras val-2 promotes inflammation-mediated oxidative stress and cell apoptosis in cardiomyocytes through activating Mst1-mROS signaling pathway. J Recept Signal Transduct Res 2020; 40:224-230. [PMID: 32065019 DOI: 10.1080/10799893.2020.1726953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Context: Reperfusion injury after myocardial infarction is associated with inflammation response and oxidative stress.Aim: The aim of our study is to explore the influence of suppressor of ras val-2 (SRV2) on cardiomyocyte oxidative stress and inflammation response under hypoxia-reoxygenation (HR) injury.Methods: Cell viability was determined via MTT assay. qPCR and western blots were used to analyze the alterations of SRV2 and mammalian STE20-like protein kinases 1 (Mst1). ELISA and qPCR were used to verify the alterations of antioxidants and pro-inflammatory factors.Results: SRV2 was upregulated by HR injury in cardiomyocyte. Interestingly, loss of SRV2 attenuated HR injury-mediated cardiomyocyte damage through inhibiting cardiomyocyte apoptosis. At the molecular levels, SRV2 deletion reduced inflammation and oxidative stress induced by HR injury and thus promoted cardiomyocyte survival. Besides, SRV2 deletion inactivated the Mst1-mROS signaling pathway in cardiomyocyte and thus regulated the inflammation and oxidative stress. Interestingly, overexpression of Mst1 abolished the beneficial effects exerted by SRV2 deletion on HR-mediated cardiomyocyte death.Conclusions: SRV2 upregulation, induced by reperfusion injury, contributes to cardiomyocyte death through the Mst1-mROS signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjing, P. R. China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjing, P. R. China
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Zhang Y, Zhang H, Shi W, Wang W. Mief1 augments thyroid cell dysfunction and apoptosis through inhibiting AMPK-PTEN signaling pathway. J Recept Signal Transduct Res 2020; 40:15-23. [PMID: 31960779 DOI: 10.1080/10799893.2020.1716799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Objective: Inflammation-mediated thyroid cell dysfunction and apoptosis increases the like-hood of hypothyroidism.Aim: Our aim in the present study is to explore the role of mitochondrial elongation factor 1 (Mief1) in thyroid cell dysfunction induced by TNFα.Materials and methods: Different doses of TNFα were used to incubate with thyroid cells in vitro. The survival rate, apoptotic index and proliferation capacity of thyroid cells were measured. Cellular energy metabolism and endoplasmic reticulum function related to protein synthesis were detected.Results: In response to TNFα treatment, the levels of Mief1 were increased, coinciding with a drop in the viability of thyroid cells in vitro. Loss of Mief1 attenuates TNFα-induced cell death through reducing the ratio of cell apoptosis. Further, we found that Mief1 deletion reversed cell energy metabolism and this effect was attributable to mitochondrial protection. Mief1 knockdown sustained mitochondrial membrane potential and reduced mitochondrial ROS overproduction. In addition, Mief1 knockdown also reduced endoplasmic reticulum stress, as evidenced by decreased levels of Chop and Caspase-12. Finally, our data verified that TNFα treatment inhibited the activity of AMPK-PTEN pathway whereas Mief1 deletion reversed the activity of AMPK and thus promoted the upregulation of PTEN. However, inhibition of AMPK-PTEN pathways could abolish the beneficial effects exerted by Mief1 deletion on thyroid cells damage and dysfunction.Conclusions: Altogether, our data indicate that immune abnormality-mediated thyroid cell dysfunction and death are alleviated by Mief1 deletion possible driven through reversing the activity of AMPK-PTEN pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonglan Zhang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Otorhinolaryngology Research Institute of Tianjin, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Auditory Speech Balance Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - Haichao Zhang
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Tianjin Fourth Central Hospital, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenjie Shi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Otorhinolaryngology Research Institute of Tianjin, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Auditory Speech Balance Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Otorhinolaryngology Research Institute of Tianjin, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Auditory Speech Balance Medicine, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
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38
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Song Y, Soto J, Chen B, Yang L, Li S. Cell engineering: Biophysical regulation of the nucleus. Biomaterials 2020; 234:119743. [PMID: 31962231 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2019.119743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Revised: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cells live in a complex and dynamic microenvironment, and a variety of microenvironmental cues can regulate cell behavior. In addition to biochemical signals, biophysical cues can induce not only immediate intracellular responses, but also long-term effects on phenotypic changes such as stem cell differentiation, immune cell activation and somatic cell reprogramming. Cells respond to mechanical stimuli via an outside-in and inside-out feedback loop, and the cell nucleus plays an important role in this process. The mechanical properties of the nucleus can directly or indirectly modulate mechanotransduction, and the physical coupling of the cell nucleus with the cytoskeleton can affect chromatin structure and regulate the epigenetic state, gene expression and cell function. In this review, we will highlight the recent progress in nuclear biomechanics and mechanobiology in the context of cell engineering, tissue remodeling and disease development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Song
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA; School of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Jennifer Soto
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Binru Chen
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Li Yang
- School of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Song Li
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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Meng XD, Yao HH, Wang LM, Yu M, Shi S, Yuan ZX, Liu J. Knockdown of GAS5 Inhibits Atherosclerosis Progression via Reducing EZH2-Mediated ABCA1 Transcription in ApoE -/- Mice. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2019; 19:84-96. [PMID: 31830648 PMCID: PMC6926212 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2019.10.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2019] [Revised: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 10/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a disorder occurring in the large arteries and the primary cause of heart diseases. Accumulating evidence has implicated long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in atherosclerosis. This study aims to clarify the potential effects of lncRNA growth arrest-specific 5 (GAS5) on cholesterol reverse-transport and intracellular lipid accumulation in atherosclerosis. GAS5 was mainly localized in the nucleus and highly expressed in the human monocytic leukemia cell line (THP-1) macrophage-derived foam cells in coronary heart disease. Overexpressed GAS5 increased THP-1 macrophage lipid accumulation. Of note, GAS5 can inhibit the expression of ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) by binding to enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2). Overexpression of EZH2 reduced cholesterol efflux and ABCA1 expression. EZH2 promoted triple methylation of lysine 27 (H3K27) in the ABCA1 promoter region. Subjected to overexpressed GAS5, overexpressed EZH2, or downregulated ABCA1, the Apolipoprotein E (ApoE)−/− mice with atherosclerosis showed increased total cholesterol (TC), free cholesterol (FC), cholesterol ester (CE), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels, aortic plaque, and lipid accumulation, accompanied by reduced high-density lipoprotein (HDL) level and cholesterol outflow. Altogether, knockdown of GAS5 can potentially promote reverse-transportation of cholesterol and inhibit intracellular lipid accumulation, ultimately preventing the progression of atherosclerosis via reducing EZH2-mediated transcriptional inhibition of ABCA1 by histone methylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang-Dong Meng
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
| | - Hua-Hong Yao
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
| | - Li-Min Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
| | - Min Yu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
| | - Sheng Shi
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
| | - Zhong-Xiang Yuan
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
| | - Jian Liu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China.
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Sheinberg DL, McCarthy DJ, Elwardany O, Bryant JP, Luther E, Chen SH, Thompson JW, Starke RM. Endothelial dysfunction in cerebral aneurysms. Neurosurg Focus 2019; 47:E3. [PMID: 31389675 DOI: 10.3171/2019.4.focus19221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Endothelial cell (EC) dysfunction is known to contribute to cerebral aneurysm (CA) pathogenesis. Evidence shows that damage or injury to the EC layer is the first event in CA formation. The mechanisms behind EC dysfunction in CA disease are interrelated and include hemodynamic stress, hazardous nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity, oxidative stress, estrogen imbalance, and endothelial cell-to-cell junction compromise. Abnormal variations in hemodynamic stress incite pathological EC transformation and inflammatory zone formation, ultimately leading to destruction of the vascular wall and aneurysm dilation. Hemodynamic stress activates key molecular pathways that result in the upregulation of chemotactic cytokines and adhesion molecules, leading to inflammatory cell recruitment and infiltration. Concurrently, oxidative stress damages EC-to-EC junction proteins, resulting in interendothelial gap formation. This further promotes leukocyte traffic into the vessel wall and the release of matrix metalloproteinases, which propagates vascular remodeling and breakdown. Abnormal hemodynamic stress and inflammation also trigger adverse changes in NOS activity, altering proper EC mediation of vascular tone and the local inflammatory environment. Additionally, the vasoprotective hormone estrogen modulates gene expression that often suppresses these harmful processes. Crosstalk between these sophisticated pathways contributes to CA initiation, progression, and rupture. This review aims to outline the complex mechanisms of EC dysfunction in CA pathogenesis.
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41
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Xu S, Kamato D, Little PJ, Nakagawa S, Pelisek J, Jin ZG. Targeting epigenetics and non-coding RNAs in atherosclerosis: from mechanisms to therapeutics. Pharmacol Ther 2019; 196:15-43. [PMID: 30439455 PMCID: PMC6450782 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2018.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis, the principal cause of cardiovascular death worldwide, is a pathological disease characterized by fibro-proliferation, chronic inflammation, lipid accumulation, and immune disorder in the vessel wall. As the atheromatous plaques develop into advanced stage, the vulnerable plaques are prone to rupture, which causes acute cardiovascular events, including ischemic stroke and myocardial infarction. Emerging evidence has suggested that atherosclerosis is also an epigenetic disease with the interplay of multiple epigenetic mechanisms. The epigenetic basis of atherosclerosis has transformed our knowledge of epigenetics from an important biological phenomenon to a burgeoning field in cardiovascular research. Here, we provide a systematic and up-to-date overview of the current knowledge of three distinct but interrelated epigenetic processes (including DNA methylation, histone methylation/acetylation, and non-coding RNAs), in atherosclerotic plaque development and instability. Mechanistic and conceptual advances in understanding the biological roles of various epigenetic modifiers in regulating gene expression and functions of endothelial cells (vascular homeostasis, leukocyte adhesion, endothelial-mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, and mechanotransduction), smooth muscle cells (proliferation, migration, inflammation, hypertrophy, and phenotypic switch), and macrophages (differentiation, inflammation, foam cell formation, and polarization) are discussed. The inherently dynamic nature and reversibility of epigenetic regulation, enables the possibility of epigenetic therapy by targeting epigenetic "writers", "readers", and "erasers". Several Food Drug Administration-approved small-molecule epigenetic drugs show promise in pre-clinical studies for the treatment of atherosclerosis. Finally, we discuss potential therapeutic implications and challenges for future research involving cardiovascular epigenetics, with an aim to provide a translational perspective for identifying novel biomarkers of atherosclerosis, and transforming precision cardiovascular research and disease therapy in modern era of epigenetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suowen Xu
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Danielle Kamato
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Wooloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia; Department of Pharmacy, Xinhua College of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510520, China
| | - Peter J Little
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Wooloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia; Department of Pharmacy, Xinhua College of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510520, China
| | - Shinichi Nakagawa
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Kita 12-jo Nishi 6-chome, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan
| | - Jaroslav Pelisek
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar der Technischen Universitaet Muenchen, Germany
| | - Zheng Gen Jin
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA.
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Feng X, Sureda A, Jafari S, Memariani Z, Tewari D, Annunziata G, Barrea L, Hassan ST, Šmejkal K, Malaník M, Sychrová A, Barreca D, Ziberna L, Mahomoodally MF, Zengin G, Xu S, Nabavi SM, Shen AZ. Berberine in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases: From Mechanisms to Therapeutics. Theranostics 2019; 9:1923-1951. [PMID: 31037148 PMCID: PMC6485276 DOI: 10.7150/thno.30787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 201] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular and metabolic diseases (CVMD) are the leading causes of death worldwide, underscoring the urgent necessity to develop new pharmacotherapies. Berberine (BBR) is an eminent component of traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for more than 2000 years. Recently, BBR has attracted much interest for its pharmacological actions in treating and/or managing CVMD. Recent discoveries of basic, translational and clinical studies have identified many novel molecular targets of BBR (such as AMPK, SIRT1, LDLR, PCSK9, and PTP1B) and provided novel evidences supporting the promising therapeutic potential of BBR to combat CVMD. Thus, this review provides a timely overview of the pharmacological properties and therapeutic application of BBR in CVMD, and underlines recent pharmacological advances which validate BBR as a promising lead drug against CVMD.
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A simple protocol for isolating mouse lung endothelial cells. Sci Rep 2019; 9:1458. [PMID: 30728372 PMCID: PMC6365507 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-37130-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Endothelial dysfunction is the common molecular basis of multiple human diseases, such as atherosclerosis, diabetes, hypertension, and acute lung injury. Therefore, primary isolation of high-purity endothelial cells (ECs) is crucial to study the mechanisms of endothelial function and disease pathogenesis. Mouse lung ECs (MLECs) are widely used in vascular biology and lung cell biology studies such as pulmonary inflammation, angiogenesis, vessel permeability, leukocyte/EC interaction, nitric oxide production, and mechanotransduction. Thus, in this paper, we describe a simple, and reproducible protocol for the isolation and culture of MLECs from adult mice using collagenase I-based enzymatic digestion, followed by sequential sorting with PECAM1 (also known as CD31)- and ICAM2 (also known as CD102)-coated microbeads. The morphology of isolated MLECs were observed with phase contrast microscope. MLECs were authenticated by CD31 immunoblotting, and immunofluorescent staining of established EC markers VE-cadherin and von Willebrand factor (vWF). Cultured MLECs also showed functional characteristics of ECs, evidenced by DiI-oxLDL uptake assay and THP-1 monocyte adhesion assay. Finally, we used MLECs from endothelium-specific enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) knockout mice to show the general applicability of our protocol. To conclude, we describe here a simple and reproducible protocol to isolate highly pure and functional ECs from adult mouse lungs. Isolation of ECs from genetically engineered mice is important for downstream phenotypic, genetic, or proteomic studies.
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Lacey M, Baribault C, Ehrlich KC, Ehrlich M. Atherosclerosis-associated differentially methylated regions can reflect the disease phenotype and are often at enhancers. Atherosclerosis 2018; 280:183-191. [PMID: 30529831 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2018.11.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Revised: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 11/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Atherosclerosis is a widespread and complicated disease involving phenotypic modulation and transdifferentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs), the predominant cells in aorta, as well as changes in endothelial cells and infiltrating monocytes. Alterations in DNA methylation are likely to play central roles in these phenotypic changes, just as they do in normal differentiation and cancer. METHODS We examined genome-wide DNA methylation changes in atherosclerotic aorta using more stringent criteria for differentially methylated regions (DMRs) than in previous studies and compared these DMRs to tissue-specific epigenetic features. RESULTS We found that disease-linked hypermethylated DMRs account for 85% of the total atherosclerosis-associated DMRs and often overlap aorta-associated enhancer chromatin. These hypermethylated DMRs were associated with functionally different sets of genes compared to atherosclerosis-linked hypomethylated DMRs. The extent and nature of the DMRs could not be explained as direct effects of monocyte/macrophage infiltration. Among the known atherosclerosis- and contractile SMC-related genes that exhibited hypermethylated DMRs at aorta enhancer chromatin were ACTA2 (aorta α2 smooth muscle actin), ELN (elastin), MYOCD (myocardin), C9orf3 (miR-23b and miR-27b host gene), and MYH11 (smooth muscle myosin). Our analyses also suggest a role in atherosclerosis for developmental transcription factor genes having little or no previous association with atherosclerosis, such as NR2F2 (COUP-TFII) and TBX18. CONCLUSIONS We provide evidence for atherosclerosis-linked DNA methylation changes in aorta SMCs that might help minimize or reverse the standard contractile character of many of these cells by down-modulating aorta SMC-related enhancers, thereby facilitating pro-atherosclerotic phenotypic changes in many SMCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Lacey
- Tulane Cancer Center, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, LA, 70112, USA; Department of Mathematics, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, 70118, USA
| | - Carl Baribault
- Tulane Cancer Center, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Kenneth C Ehrlich
- Center for Bioinformatics and Genomics, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, USA
| | - Melanie Ehrlich
- Tulane Cancer Center, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, LA, 70112, USA; Center for Bioinformatics and Genomics, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, USA; Hayward Genetics Center, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA.
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45
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Feng X, Li Y, Wang Y, Li L, Little PJ, Xu SW, Liu S. Danhong injection in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases: Pharmacological actions, molecular mechanisms, and therapeutic potential. Pharmacol Res 2018; 139:62-75. [PMID: 30408571 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2018.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Revised: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 11/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases are the main cause of mortality worldwide, currently with less than optimum therapeutic options. Danhong injection (DHI) is a medicinal preparation based on two eminent Chinese herbal medicines, Salviae Miltiorrhizae (Dan Shen; family: Lamiaceae) and Flos Carthami (Hong Hua; family: Compositae/Asteraceae). DHI has been mainly used in the clinical therapy of cardiovascular (such as acute coronary syndrome and angina pectoris) and cerebrovascular diseases (such as stroke) in China for many years. The pharmacological properties of DHI include anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-coagulatory, hypolipidemic, anti-apoptotic, vasodilatory, and angiogenesis-promoting actions. DHI offers a safe and effective therapeutic agent against cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases by modulating multiple disease-relevant signaling pathways and molecular targets. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review of the phytochemistry, therapeutic effects, molecular mechanisms, and adverse reactions of DHI in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. We also highlight the latest pharmacological advances and therapeutic potential of this promising herb-derived cardiovascular drug preparation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojun Feng
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China
| | - Yi Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China
| | - Yanan Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China
| | - Lingli Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China
| | - Peter J Little
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Wooloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia; Department of Pharmacy, Xinhua College of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510520, China
| | - Suo-Wen Xu
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of Rochester, NY, 14623, USA.
| | - Sheng Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China.
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46
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Tian K, Ogura S, Little PJ, Xu SW, Sawamura T. Targeting LOX-1 in atherosclerosis and vasculopathy: current knowledge and future perspectives. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2018; 1443:34-53. [PMID: 30381837 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.13984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2018] [Revised: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
LOX-1 (lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1; also known as OLR1) is the dominant receptor that recognizes and internalizes oxidized low-density lipoproteins (ox-LDLs) in endothelial cells. Several genetic variants of LOX-1 are associated with the risk and severity of coronary artery disease. The LOX-1-ox-LDL interaction induces endothelial dysfunction, leukocyte adhesion, macrophage-derived foam cell formation, smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration, and platelet activation. LOX-1 activation eventually leads to the rupture of atherosclerotic plaques and acute cardiovascular events. In addition, LOX-1 can be cleaved to generate soluble LOX-1 (sLOX-1), which is a useful diagnostic and prognostic marker for atherosclerosis-related diseases in human patients. Of therapeutic relevance, several natural products and clinically used drugs have emerged as LOX-1 inhibitors that have antiatherosclerotic actions. We hereby provide an updated overview of role of LOX-1 in atherosclerosis and associated vascular diseases, with an aim to highlighting the potential of LOX-1 as a novel theranostic tool for cardiovascular disease prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunming Tian
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Sayoko Ogura
- Division of Laboratory Medicine, Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Peter J Little
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Wooloongabba, Queensland, Australia.,Department of Pharmacy, Xinhua College of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Suo-Wen Xu
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York
| | - Tatsuya Sawamura
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Shinshu University, Nagano, Japan.,Research Center for Next Generation Medicine, Shinshu University, Nagano, Japan
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47
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Nafisa A, Gray SG, Cao Y, Wang T, Xu S, Wattoo FH, Barras M, Cohen N, Kamato D, Little PJ. Endothelial function and dysfunction: Impact of metformin. Pharmacol Ther 2018; 192:150-162. [PMID: 30056057 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2018.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular and metabolic diseases remain the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Endothelial dysfunction is a key player in the initiation and progression of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Current evidence suggests that the anti-diabetic drug metformin improves insulin resistance and protects against endothelial dysfunction in the vasculature. Hereby, we provide a timely review on the protective effects and molecular mechanisms of metformin in preventing endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asma Nafisa
- School of Pharmacy, University of Queensland, Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia.
| | - Susan G Gray
- School of Pharmacy, University of Queensland, Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia.
| | - Yingnan Cao
- Xinhua College of Sun Yat-sen University, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tinghuai Wang
- Xinhua College of Sun Yat-sen University, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Suowen Xu
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Feroza H Wattoo
- Department of Biochemistry, PMAS Arid Agriculture University, Shamasabad, Muree Road, Rawalpindi 4600, Pakistan..
| | - Michael Barras
- Dept. of Pharmacy, Princess Alexandra Hospital, 199 Ipswich Rd, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia.
| | - Neale Cohen
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, 3004, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Danielle Kamato
- School of Pharmacy, University of Queensland, Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia; Xinhua College of Sun Yat-sen University, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Peter J Little
- School of Pharmacy, University of Queensland, Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia; Xinhua College of Sun Yat-sen University, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, China.
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