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Labandeira-Garcia JL, Labandeira CM, Guerra MJ, Rodriguez-Perez AI. The role of the brain renin-angiotensin system in Parkinson´s disease. Transl Neurodegener 2024; 13:22. [PMID: 38622720 PMCID: PMC11017622 DOI: 10.1186/s40035-024-00410-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) was classically considered a circulating hormonal system that regulates blood pressure. However, different tissues and organs, including the brain, have a local paracrine RAS. Mutual regulation between the dopaminergic system and RAS has been observed in several tissues. Dysregulation of these interactions leads to renal and cardiovascular diseases, as well as progression of dopaminergic neuron degeneration in a major brain center of dopamine/angiotensin interaction such as the nigrostriatal system. A decrease in the dopaminergic function induces upregulation of the angiotensin type-1 (AT1) receptor activity, leading to recovery of dopamine levels. However, AT1 receptor overactivity in dopaminergic neurons and microglial cells upregulates the cellular NADPH-oxidase-superoxide axis and Ca2+ release, which mediate several key events in oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and α-synuclein aggregation, involved in Parkinson's disease (PD) pathogenesis. An intraneuronal antioxidative/anti-inflammatory RAS counteracts the effects of the pro-oxidative AT1 receptor overactivity. Consistent with this, an imbalance in RAS activity towards the pro-oxidative/pro-inflammatory AT1 receptor axis has been observed in the substantia nigra and striatum of several animal models of high vulnerability to dopaminergic degeneration. Interestingly, autoantibodies against angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 and AT1 receptors are increased in PD models and PD patients and contribute to blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysregulation and nigrostriatal pro-inflammatory RAS upregulation. Therapeutic strategies addressed to the modulation of brain RAS, by AT1 receptor blockers (ARBs) and/or activation of the antioxidative axis (AT2, Mas receptors), may be neuroprotective for individuals with a high risk of developing PD or in prodromal stages of PD to reduce progression of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose Luis Labandeira-Garcia
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology of Parkinson´S Disease, Research Center for Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS), IDIS, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain.
- Networking Research Center On Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain.
| | | | - Maria J Guerra
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology of Parkinson´S Disease, Research Center for Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS), IDIS, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain
- Networking Research Center On Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana I Rodriguez-Perez
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology of Parkinson´S Disease, Research Center for Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS), IDIS, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain.
- Networking Research Center On Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain.
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Kaschina E, Lauer D, Lange C, Unger T. Angiotensin AT 2 receptors reduce inflammation and fibrosis in cardiovascular remodeling. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 222:116062. [PMID: 38369211 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
The angiotensin AT2 receptor (AT2R), an important member of the "protective arm" of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), has been recently defined as a therapeutic target in different pathological conditions. The AT2R activates complex signalling pathways linked to cellular proliferation, differentiation, anti-inflammation, antifibrosis, and induction or inhibition of apoptosis. The anti-inflammatory effect of AT2R activation is commonly associated with reduced fibrosis in different models. Current discoveries demonstrated a direct impact of AT2Rs on the regulation of cytokines, transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF-beta1), matrix metalloproteases (MMPs), and synthesis of the extracellular matrix components. This review article summarizes current knowledge on the AT2R in regard to immunity, inflammation and fibrosis in the heart and blood vessels. In particular, the differential influence of the AT2R on cardiovascular remodeling in preclinical models of myocardial infarction, heart failure and aneurysm formation are discussed. Overall, these studies demonstrate that AT2R stimulation represents a promising therapeutic approach to counteract myocardial and aortic damage in cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Kaschina
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Max Rubner Center for Cardiovascular Metabolic Renal Research (MRC), Berlin, Germany.
| | - Dilyara Lauer
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Max Rubner Center for Cardiovascular Metabolic Renal Research (MRC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Christoph Lange
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Max Rubner Center for Cardiovascular Metabolic Renal Research (MRC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Thomas Unger
- CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
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Poonam, Chaudhary S. Interactions between AT1R and GRKs: the determinants for activation of signaling pathways involved in blood pressure regulation. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 51:46. [PMID: 38158508 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08995-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The success of Angiotensin II receptor blockers, specifically Angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) antagonists as antihypertensive drug emphasizes the involvement of AT1R in Essential hypertension. The structural insights and mutational studies of Ang II-AT1R have brought about the vision to design Ang II analogs that selectively activate the pathways with beneficial and cardioprotective effects such as cell survival and hinder the deleterious effects such as hypertrophy and cell death. AT1R belongs to G-protein coupled receptors and is regulated by G-protein coupled receptor kinases (GRKs) that either uncouples Gq protein for receptor desensitization or phosphorylate C-terminus to recruit β-arrestin for internalization of the receptor. The interaction of GRKs with ligand activated AT1R induces conformational changes and signal either Gq dependent or Gq independent pathways. These interactions might explain the complex regulatory mechanisms and offer promising ideas for hypertension therapeutics. This article reviews the functional role of AT1R, organization of GRK genes and regulation of AT1R by GRKs that play significant role in desensitization and internalization of the receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Poonam
- Department cum National Centre for Human Genome Studies and Research (NCHGSR), Panjab University, Chandigarh, 160014, India
| | - Shashi Chaudhary
- Department cum National Centre for Human Genome Studies and Research (NCHGSR), Panjab University, Chandigarh, 160014, India.
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Lymperopoulos A, Borges JI, Stoicovy RA. RGS proteins and cardiovascular Angiotensin II Signaling: Novel opportunities for therapeutic targeting. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 218:115904. [PMID: 37922976 PMCID: PMC10841918 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Angiotensin II (AngII), as an octapeptide hormone normally ionized at physiological pH, cannot cross cell membranes and thus, relies on, two (mainly) G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) types, AT1R and AT2R, to exert its intracellular effects in various organ systems including the cardiovascular one. Although a lot remains to be elucidated about the signaling of the AT2R, AT1R signaling is known to be remarkably versatile, mobilizing a variety of G protein-dependent and independent signal transduction pathways inside cells to produce a biological outcome. Cardiac AT1R signaling leads to hypertrophy, adverse remodeling, fibrosis, while vascular AT1R signaling raises blood pressure via vasoconstriction, but also elicits hypertrophic, vascular growth/proliferation, and pathological remodeling sets of events. In addition, adrenal AT1R is the major physiological stimulus (alongside hyperkalemia) for secretion of aldosterone, a mineralocorticoid hormone that contributes to hypertension, electrolyte abnormalities, and to pathological remodeling of the failing heart. Regulator of G protein Signaling (RGS) proteins, discovered about 25 years ago as GTPase-activating proteins (GAPs) for the Gα subunits of heterotrimeric G proteins, play a central role in silencing G protein signaling from a plethora of GPCRs, including the AngII receptors. Given the importance of AngII and its receptors, but also of several RGS proteins, in cardiovascular homeostasis, the physiological and pathological significance of RGS protein-mediated modulation of cardiovascular AngII signaling comes as no surprise. In the present review, we provide an overview of the current literature on the involvement of RGS proteins in cardiovascular AngII signaling, by discussing their roles in cardiac (cardiomyocyte and cardiofibroblast), vascular (smooth muscle and endothelial cell), and adrenal (medulla and cortex) AngII signaling, separately. Along the way, we also highlight the therapeutic potential of enhancement of, or, in some cases, inhibition of each RGS protein involved in AngII signaling in each one of these cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasios Lymperopoulos
- Laboratory for the Study of Neurohormonal Control of the Circulation, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nova Southeastern University Barry and Judy Silverman College of Pharmacy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328-2018, USA.
| | - Jordana I Borges
- Laboratory for the Study of Neurohormonal Control of the Circulation, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nova Southeastern University Barry and Judy Silverman College of Pharmacy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328-2018, USA
| | - Renee A Stoicovy
- Laboratory for the Study of Neurohormonal Control of the Circulation, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nova Southeastern University Barry and Judy Silverman College of Pharmacy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328-2018, USA
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Lymperopoulos A, Borges JI, Suster MS. Angiotensin II-dependent aldosterone production in the adrenal cortex. Vitam Horm 2023; 124:393-404. [PMID: 38408805 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2023.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
The adrenal cortex is responsible for production of adrenal steroid hormones and is anatomically divided into three distinct zones: zona glomerulosa secreting mineralocorticoids (mainly aldosterone), zona fasciculata secreting glucocorticoids (cortisol), and zona reticularis producing androgens. Importantly, due to their high lipophilicity, no adrenal steroid hormone (including aldosterone) is stored in vesicles but rather gets synthesized and secreted instantly upon cell stimulation with specific stimuli. Aldosterone is the most potent mineralocorticoid hormone produced from the adrenal cortex in response to either angiotensin II (AngII) or elevated K+ levels in the blood (hyperkalemia). AngII, being a peptide, cannot cross cell membranes and thus, uses two distinct G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) types, AngII type 1 receptor (AT1R) and AT2R to exert its effects inside cells. In zona glomerulosa cells, AT1R activation by AngII results in aldosterone synthesis and secretion via two main pathways: (a) Gq/11 proteins that activate phospholipase C ultimately raising intracellular free calcium concentration; and (b) βarrestin1 and -2 (also known as Arrestin-2 and -3, respectively) that elicit sustained extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activation. Both pathways induce upregulation and acute activation of StAR (steroidogenic acute regulatory) protein, the enzyme that catalyzes the rate-limiting step in aldosterone biosynthesis. This chapter describes these two salient pathways underlying AT1R-induced aldosterone production in zona glomerulosa cells. We also highlight some pharmacologically important notions pertaining to the efficacy of the currently available AT1R antagonists, also known as angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) or sartans at suppressing both pathways, i.e., their inverse agonism efficacy at G proteins and βarrestins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasios Lymperopoulos
- From the Laboratory for the Study of Neurohormonal Control of the Circulation, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Barry and Judy Silverman College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, United States.
| | - Jordana I Borges
- From the Laboratory for the Study of Neurohormonal Control of the Circulation, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Barry and Judy Silverman College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, United States
| | - Malka S Suster
- From the Laboratory for the Study of Neurohormonal Control of the Circulation, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Barry and Judy Silverman College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, United States
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Steckelings UM, Widdop RE, Sturrock ED, Lubbe L, Hussain T, Kaschina E, Unger T, Hallberg A, Carey RM, Sumners C. The Angiotensin AT 2 Receptor: From a Binding Site to a Novel Therapeutic Target. Pharmacol Rev 2022; 74:1051-1135. [PMID: 36180112 PMCID: PMC9553111 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.120.000281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Discovered more than 30 years ago, the angiotensin AT2 receptor (AT2R) has evolved from a binding site with unknown function to a firmly established major effector within the protective arm of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and a target for new drugs in development. The AT2R represents an endogenous protective mechanism that can be manipulated in the majority of preclinical models to alleviate lung, renal, cardiovascular, metabolic, cutaneous, and neural diseases as well as cancer. This article is a comprehensive review summarizing our current knowledge of the AT2R, from its discovery to its position within the RAS and its overall functions. This is followed by an in-depth look at the characteristics of the AT2R, including its structure, intracellular signaling, homo- and heterodimerization, and expression. AT2R-selective ligands, from endogenous peptides to synthetic peptides and nonpeptide molecules that are used as research tools, are discussed. Finally, we summarize the known physiological roles of the AT2R and its abundant protective effects in multiple experimental disease models and expound on AT2R ligands that are undergoing development for clinical use. The present review highlights the controversial aspects and gaps in our knowledge of this receptor and illuminates future perspectives for AT2R research. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: The angiotensin AT2 receptor (AT2R) is now regarded as a fully functional and important component of the renin-angiotensin system, with the potential of exerting protective actions in a variety of diseases. This review provides an in-depth view of the AT2R, which has progressed from being an enigma to becoming a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- U Muscha Steckelings
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| | - Robert E Widdop
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| | - Edward D Sturrock
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| | - Lizelle Lubbe
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| | - Tahir Hussain
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| | - Elena Kaschina
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| | - Thomas Unger
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| | - Anders Hallberg
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| | - Robert M Carey
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| | - Colin Sumners
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
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Swami Vetha BS, Byrum R, Peele K, Diz D, Aileru A. Functional Significance of Angiotensin Receptor Type 2 in the Neuroplasticity of Autonomic Ganglia in (mRen2)27 Transgenic Hypertensive Rats. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2023; 81:76-84. [PMID: 36166507 DOI: 10.1097/FJC.0000000000001368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The over-expression of Ren -2 d gene in (mRen2)27 rats leads to development of hypertension mediated by the renin-angiotensin-system axis and exaggerated sympathetic nerve activity. Exogenously applied angiotensin II (AngII) on the superior cervical ganglion evokes ganglionic compound action potentials (gCAP) and ganglionic long-term potentiation (gLTP). We studied the functional role of angiotensin receptors and expression of reactive oxygen species marker, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase 4 (NOX4) proteins in AngII-induced postganglionic transmission. Bath-applied AngII revealed that the indices of ganglionic transmission, synaptic strength of gCAP, and decay time for gLTP are remarkably prolonged in (mRen2)27 rats and were abolished by an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB), suggesting postganglionic AngII Type 1 (AT 1 ) receptor localization and mediation. Receptor density for AT 1 was similar in (mRen2)27 and control animals, and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction revealed that it is consistent with the mRNA profile. Furthermore, immunocytochemistry analysis showed similar AT 1 receptor distribution and signals. However, assessment of Type 2 (AT 2 ), Ang-(1-7)-MAS and NOX4-specific proteins showed that AT 2 receptor protein expression was 4-fold lower, consistent with a low mRNA profile. MAS receptor expression was 10-fold lower and NOX4 protein was 2-fold lower. Despite similarity in the densities of AT 1 receptor, the low levels of the components of the protective arm of the renin-angiotensin system at the ganglia may contribute to the differential superior cervical ganglion sensitivity to AngII. The lower NOX4 affects reactive oxygen species balance and possibly results in activation of downstream pathways to promote increased sympathetic nerve activity. We speculate that the significant diminution in AT 2, MAS, and NOX4 protein expressions may play an indirect role in the alteration and efficacy of gCAP and gLTP in hypertension.
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Norambuena-Soto I, Lopez-Crisosto C, Martinez-Bilbao J, Hernandez-Fuentes C, Parra V, Lavandero S, Chiong M. Angiotensin-(1-9) in hypertension. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 203:115183. [PMID: 35870482 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.115183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Angiotensin-(1-9) [Ang-(1-9)] is a peptide of the non-canonical renin-angiotensin system (RAS) synthesized from angiotensin I by the monopeptidase angiotensin-converting enzyme type 2 (ACE2). Using osmotic minipumps, infusion of Ang-(1-9) consistently reduces blood pressure in several rat hypertension models. In these animals, hypertension-induced end-organ damage is also decreased. Several pieces of evidence suggest that Ang-(1-9) is the endogenous ligand that binds and activates the type-2 angiotensin II receptor (AT2R). Activation of AT2R triggers different tissue-specific signaling pathways. This phenomenon could be explained by the ability of AT2R to form different heterodimers with other G protein-coupled receptors. Because of the antihypertensive and protective effects of AT2R activation by Ang-(1-9), associated with a short half-life of RAS peptides, several synthetic AT2R agonists have been synthesized and assayed. Some of them, particularly CGP42112, C21 and novokinin, have demonstrated antihypertensive properties. Only two synthetic AT2R agonists, C21 and LP2-3, have been tested in clinical trials, but none of them like an antihypertensive. Therefore, Ang-(1-9) is a promising antihypertensive drug that reduces hypertension-induced end-organ damage. However, further research is required to translate this finding successfully to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ignacio Norambuena-Soto
- Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases (ACCDiS), Faculty of Chemical & Pharmaceutical Sciences and Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Camila Lopez-Crisosto
- Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases (ACCDiS), Faculty of Chemical & Pharmaceutical Sciences and Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Javiera Martinez-Bilbao
- Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases (ACCDiS), Faculty of Chemical & Pharmaceutical Sciences and Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Carolina Hernandez-Fuentes
- Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases (ACCDiS), Faculty of Chemical & Pharmaceutical Sciences and Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Valentina Parra
- Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases (ACCDiS), Faculty of Chemical & Pharmaceutical Sciences and Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile; Network for the Study of High-lethality Cardiopulmonary Diseases (REECPAL), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Sergio Lavandero
- Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases (ACCDiS), Faculty of Chemical & Pharmaceutical Sciences and Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile; Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Mario Chiong
- Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases (ACCDiS), Faculty of Chemical & Pharmaceutical Sciences and Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile.
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9
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Shang N, Bhullar KS, Wu J. Tripeptide IRW Protects MC3T3-E1 Cells against Ang II Stress in an AT2R Dependent Manner. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27123684. [PMID: 35744810 PMCID: PMC9230126 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27123684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple strategies including the use of bioactive peptides and other nutraceuticals are being adopted to maintain bone health. This study provides an improved and deeper understanding of the pharmacological effects that a bioactive peptide IRW (Ile-Arg-Trp) extends on bone health. Our results showed that IRW treatment protects osteoblasts against Ang II induced decline in cell proliferation and restores protein levels of collagen type I alpha 2 chain (COL1A2) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels in MC3T3-E1 cells (p < 0.05). Apart from augmentation of these mineralization factors, the angiotensin II (Ang II) induced apoptotic stress in osteoblasts was mitigated by IRW as well. At the molecular level, IRW abolished the cytochrome-c release via modulation of pro-and anti-apoptotic genes in MC3T3-E1 cells (p < 0.05). Interestingly, IRW also increased cellular levels of cytoprotective local RAAS factors such as MasR, Ang (1−7), ACE2, and AT2R, and lowered the levels of Ang II effector receptor (AT1R). Further, our results indicated a lower content of inflammation and osteoclastogenesis biomarkers such as cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), and receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL) following IRW treatment in MC3T3-E1 cells (p < 0.05). The use of an antagonist-guided cell study indicated that IRW contributed to the process of cytoprotection and proliferation of osteoblasts via Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) in face of Ang II stress in an AT2R dependent manner. The key findings of our study showed that IRW could potentially have a therapeutic role in the treatment and/or prevention of bone disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Shang
- Department of Agricultural Food and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada; (N.S.); (K.S.B.)
- College of Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Khushwant S. Bhullar
- Department of Agricultural Food and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada; (N.S.); (K.S.B.)
| | - Jianping Wu
- Department of Agricultural Food and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada; (N.S.); (K.S.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-780-492-6885; Fax: +1-780-492-8524
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10
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Barvitenko N, Ashrafuzzaman M, Lawen A, Skverchinskaya E, Saldanha C, Manca A, Uras G, Aslam M, Pantaleo A. Endothelial Cell Plasma Membrane Biomechanics Mediates Effects of Pro-Inflammatory Factors on Endothelial Mechanosensors: Vicious Circle Formation in Atherogenic Inflammation. Membranes 2022; 12:205. [PMID: 35207126 PMCID: PMC8877251 DOI: 10.3390/membranes12020205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Chronic low-grade vascular inflammation and endothelial dysfunction significantly contribute to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. In endothelial cells (ECs), anti-inflammatory or pro-inflammatory signaling can be induced by different patterns of the fluid shear stress (SS) exerted by blood flow on ECs. Laminar blood flow with high magnitude is anti-inflammatory, while disturbed flow and laminar flow with low magnitude is pro-inflammatory. Endothelial mechanosensors are the key upstream signaling proteins in SS-induced pro- and anti-inflammatory responses. Being transmembrane proteins, mechanosensors, not only experience fluid SS but also become regulated by the biomechanical properties of the lipid bilayer and the cytoskeleton. We review the apparent effects of pro-inflammatory factors (hypoxia, oxidative stress, hypercholesterolemia, and cytokines) on the biomechanics of the lipid bilayer and the cytoskeleton. An analysis of the available data suggests that the formation of a vicious circle may occur, in which pro-inflammatory cytokines enhance and attenuate SS-induced pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory signaling, respectively.
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11
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Ma K, Gao W, Xu H, Liang W, Ma G, Anand V. Role and Mechanism of the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System in the Onset and Development of Cardiorenal Syndrome. J Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone Syst 2022; 2022:1-8. [PMID: 35111237 PMCID: PMC8803448 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3239057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiorenal syndrome (CRS), a clinical syndrome involving multiple pathological mechanisms, exhibits high morbidity and mortality. According to the primary activity of the disease, CRS can be divided into cardiorenal syndrome (type I and type II), renal heart syndrome (type III and type IV), and secondary heart and kidney disease (type V). The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) is an important humoral regulatory system of the body that exists widely in various tissues and organs. As a compensatory mechanism, the RAAS is typically activated to participate in the regulation of target organ function. RAAS activation plays a key role in the pathogenesis of CRS. The RAAS induces the onset and development of CRS by mediating oxidative stress, uremic toxin overload, and asymmetric dimethylarginine production. Research on the mechanism of RAAS-induced CRS can provide multiple intervention methods that are of great significance for reducing end-stage organ damage and further improving the quality of life of patients with CRS.
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12
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Papola F, Biancofiore V, Angeletti C, Grimaldi A, Carucci AC, Cofini V, Necozione S, Rosciano A, Marinangeli F, Cervelli C. Anti-AT1R autoantibodies and prediction of the severity of Covid-19. Hum Immunol 2021; 83:130-133. [PMID: 34772541 PMCID: PMC8577881 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2021.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The stimulation of AT1R (Angiotensin II Receptor Type 1) by Angiotensin II has, in addition to the effects on the renin-angiotensin system, also pro-inflammatory effects through stimulation of ADAM17 and subsequent production of INF-gamma and Interleukin-6. This pro-inflammatory action stimulate the cytokine storm that characterizes the most severe forms of SARS-CoV-2 infection. We studied the effect of AT1Rab on the AT1R on 74 subjects with SARS-CoV-2 infection with respiratory symptoms requiring hospitalization. We divided the patients into 2 groups: 34 with moderate and 40 with severe symptoms that required ICU admission. Hospitalized subjects showed a 50% reduction in the frequency of AT1Rab compared to healthy reference population. Of the ICU patients, 33/40 (82.5%) were AT1Rab negative and 16/33 of them (48.5%) died. All 7 patients positive for AT1Rab survived. These preliminary data seem to indicate a protective role played by AT1R autoantibodies on inflammatory activation in SARS-CoV-2 infection pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franco Papola
- Regional Centre of Immunohaematology and Tissue Typing, S.Salvatore Hospital, L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Veronica Biancofiore
- Anesthesiology, Intensive Care and Pain Medicine, Emergency Department, S.Salvatore Hospital L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Chiara Angeletti
- Anesthesiology, Intensive Care and Pain Medicine, Emergency Department Civil Hospital G. Mazzini of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | | | | | - Vincenza Cofini
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Science, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Stefano Necozione
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Science, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Alessia Rosciano
- Regional Centre of Immunohaematology and Tissue Typing, S.Salvatore Hospital, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Franco Marinangeli
- Anesthesiology, Intensive Care and Pain Medicine, Emergency Department Civil Hospital G. Mazzini of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Carla Cervelli
- Regional Centre of Immunohaematology and Tissue Typing, S.Salvatore Hospital, L'Aquila, Italy
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13
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Gupta D, Kumar A, Mandloi A, Shenoy V. Renin angiotensin aldosterone system in pulmonary fibrosis: Pathogenesis to therapeutic possibilities. Pharmacol Res 2021; 174:105924. [PMID: 34607005 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Pulmonary fibrosis is a devastating lung disease with multifactorial etiology characterized by alveolar injury, fibroblast proliferation and excessive deposition of extracellular matrix proteins, which progressively results in respiratory failure and death. Accumulating evidence from experimental and clinical studies supports a central role of the renin angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS) in the pathogenesis and progression of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Angiotensin II (Ang II), a key vasoactive peptide of the RAAS mediates pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic effects on the lungs, adversely affecting organ function. Recent years have witnessed seminal discoveries in the field of RAAS. Identification of new enzymes, peptides and receptors has led to the development of several novel concepts. Of particular interest is the establishment of a protective axis of the RAAS comprising of Angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), Angiotensin-(1-7) [Ang-(1-7)], and the Mas receptor (the ACE2/Ang-(1-7)/Mas axis), and the discovery of a functional role for the Angiotensin type 2 (AT2) receptor. Herein, we will review our current understanding of the role of RAAS in lung fibrogenesis, provide evidence on the anti-fibrotic actions of the newly recognized RAAS components (the ACE2/Ang-(1-7)/Mas axis and AT2 receptor), discuss potential strategies and translational efforts to convert this new knowledge into effective therapeutics for PF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dipankar Gupta
- Congenital Heart Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida, College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Ashok Kumar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kansas University Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Avinash Mandloi
- College of Pharmacy, VNS Group of Institutions, Bhopal, India
| | - Vinayak Shenoy
- College of Pharmacy, California Health Sciences University, Clovis, CA, USA.
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14
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Wu L, Vasilijic S, Sun Y, Chen J, Landegger LD, Zhang Y, Zhou W, Ren J, Early S, Yin Z, Ho WW, Zhang N, Gao X, Lee GY, Datta M, Sagers JE, Brown A, Muzikansky A, Stemmer-Rachamimov A, Zhang L, Plotkin SR, Jain RK, Stankovic KM, Xu L. Losartan prevents tumor-induced hearing loss and augments radiation efficacy in NF2 schwannoma rodent models. Sci Transl Med 2021; 13:13/602/eabd4816. [PMID: 34261799 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abd4816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Hearing loss is one of the most common symptoms of neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) caused by vestibular schwannomas (VSs). Fibrosis in the VS tumor microenvironment (TME) is associated with hearing loss in patients with NF2. We hypothesized that reducing the fibrosis using losartan, an FDA-approved antihypertensive drug that blocks fibrotic and inflammatory signaling, could improve hearing. Using NF2 mouse models, we found that losartan treatment normalized the TME by (i) reducing neuroinflammatory IL-6/STAT3 signaling and preventing hearing loss, (ii) normalizing tumor vasculature and alleviating neuro-edema, and (iii) increasing oxygen delivery and enhancing efficacy of radiation therapy. In preparation to translate these exciting findings into the clinic, we used patient samples and data and demonstrated that IL-6/STAT3 signaling inversely associated with hearing function, that elevated production of tumor-derived IL-6 was associated with reduced viability of cochlear sensory cells and neurons in ex vivo organotypic cochlear cultures, and that patients receiving angiotensin receptor blockers have no progression in VS-induced hearing loss compared with patients on other or no antihypertensives based on a retrospective analysis of patients with VS and hypertension. Our study provides the rationale and critical data for a prospective clinical trial of losartan in patients with VS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Limeng Wu
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratories, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Sasa Vasilijic
- Eaton-Peabody Laboratories and Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Yao Sun
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratories, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Jie Chen
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratories, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Lukas D Landegger
- Eaton-Peabody Laboratories and Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Yanling Zhang
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratories, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Wenjianlong Zhou
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratories, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Jun Ren
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratories, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Samuel Early
- Eaton-Peabody Laboratories and Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA.,Division of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Surgery, UC San Diego Medical Center, San Diego, CA 92103, USA
| | - Zhenzhen Yin
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratories, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - William W Ho
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratories, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Na Zhang
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratories, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA.,Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing TongRen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Xing Gao
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratories, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Grace Y Lee
- St. Mark's School, Southborough, MA 01772, USA
| | - Meenal Datta
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratories, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Jessica E Sagers
- Eaton-Peabody Laboratories and Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Alyssa Brown
- Eaton-Peabody Laboratories and Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Alona Muzikansky
- Division of Biostatistics, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | | | - Luo Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing TongRen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Scott R Plotkin
- Department of Neurology and Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Rakesh K Jain
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratories, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Konstantina M Stankovic
- Eaton-Peabody Laboratories and Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
| | - Lei Xu
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratories, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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15
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Gregório JF, Rodrigues-Machado MDG, Santos RAS, Carvalho Ribeiro IA, Nunes OM, Aguiar Oliveira IF, Vasconcelos AV, Campagnole-Santos MJ, Magalhães GS. ASTHMA: ROLE OF THE ANGIOTENSIN-(1-7)/MAS PATHWAY IN PATHOPHYSIOLOGY AND THERAPY. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 178:4428-4439. [PMID: 34235725 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 06/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of asthma is a global health problem, requiring studies aimed at developing new treatments to improve clinical management, thereby reducing personal and economic burdens on the health system. Therefore, the discovery of mediators that promote anti-inflammatory and pro-resolutive events are highly desirable to improve lung function and quality of life in asthmatic patients. In that regard, experimental studies have shown that the Angiotensin-(1-7)/Mas receptor of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is a potential candidate for the treatment of asthma. Therefore, we reviewed findings related to the function of the Angiotensin-(1-7)/Mas pathway in regulating the processes associated with inflammation and exacerbations in asthma, including leukocyte influx, fibrogenesis, pulmonary dysfunction and resolution of inflammation. Thus, knowledge of the role of the Angiotensin-(1-7)/Mas can help pave the way for the development of new treatments for this disease with high morbidity and mortality through new experimental and clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Fabiana Gregório
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, National Institute of Science and Technology - INCT-Nanobiopharmaceutical, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Minas Gerais
| | | | - Robson A S Santos
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, National Institute of Science and Technology - INCT-Nanobiopharmaceutical, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Minas Gerais
| | | | - Olivia Mendonça Nunes
- Medical Sciences Faculty of Minas Gerais, Post-Graduation Program in Health Sciences, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | - Ana Victoria Vasconcelos
- Medical Sciences Faculty of Minas Gerais, Post-Graduation Program in Health Sciences, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Maria José Campagnole-Santos
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, National Institute of Science and Technology - INCT-Nanobiopharmaceutical, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Minas Gerais
| | - Giselle Santos Magalhães
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, National Institute of Science and Technology - INCT-Nanobiopharmaceutical, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Minas Gerais.,Medical Sciences Faculty of Minas Gerais, Post-Graduation Program in Health Sciences, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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16
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Aimo A, Vergaro G, Passino C, Clerico A. Evaluation of pathophysiological relationships between renin-angiotensin and ACE-ACE2 systems in cardiovascular disorders: from theory to routine clinical practice in patients with heart failure. Crit Rev Clin Lab Sci 2021; 58:530-545. [PMID: 34196254 DOI: 10.1080/10408363.2021.1942782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Despite the progressive improvements in diagnosis and therapy during the first 20 years of this century, the morbidity and mortality of patients with heart failure (HF) remain high, resulting in an enormous health and economic burden. Only a further improvement in understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms related to the development of cardiac injury and dysfunction can allow more innovative and personalized approaches to HF management. The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) has a critical role in cardiovascular physiology by regulating blood pressure and electrolyte balance. The RAS is mainly regulated by both angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) and type 2 angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE2). However, the balance between the various peptides and peptidases constituting the RAS/ACE pathway remains in great part unraveled in patients with HF. This review summarizes the role of the RAS/ACE axis in cardiac physiology and HF pathophysiology as well as some analytical issues relevant to the clinical and laboratory assessment of inter-relationships between these two systems. There is evidence that RAS peptides represent a dynamic network of peptides, which are altered in different HF states and influenced by medical therapy. However, the mechanisms of signal transduction have not been fully elucidated under physiological and pathophysiological conditions. Further investigations are necessary to explore novel molecular mechanisms related to the RAS, which will provide alternative therapeutic agents. Moreover, monitoring the circulating levels of active RAS peptides in HF patients may enable a personalized approach by facilitating assessment of the pathophysiological status of several cardiovascular diseases and thus better selection of therapies for HF patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Aimo
- Fondazione CNR - Regione Toscana G. Monasterio, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Vergaro
- Fondazione CNR - Regione Toscana G. Monasterio, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Claudio Passino
- Fondazione CNR - Regione Toscana G. Monasterio, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Aldo Clerico
- Fondazione CNR - Regione Toscana G. Monasterio, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
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17
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Singh D, Gupta S. Butyrate: A Review on Beneficial Pharmacological and Therapeutic Effect. CNF 2021. [DOI: 10.2174/1573401316999201029210912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Background::
Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), generally acetate, propionate along with
butyrate, are aliphatic organic acids formed in the gut mucosa through bacterial fermentation of
mostly undigested nutritional carbohydrates, again to a minor degree by natural and dietary proteins,
such as mucous and shed epithelial cells.
Methods::
Many sources were used to collect information about Butyrate, such as Pub med, Google
Scholar, Pubmed, Scopus and other reliable sources.
:
Endogenous butyrate formation, absorption, and transportation by colon cells have now been well
acknowledged. Butyrate exerts its action features by way of appearing as a histone deacetylase inhibitor,
even signaling through a few protein receptors. Lately, butyrate has received special consideration
for its favorable result on intestinal equilibrium and also energy metabolism. There is a
growing interest in butyrate as its impact on epigenetic mechanisms will result in much more certain
and also efficacious healing techniques for the prevention and therapy of various diseases that
range from genetic conditions to other body disorders.
Conclusion::
With this assessment, we compile the existing information on the attributes of butyrate,
particularly its potential effects and also mechanisms involved in cancer, inflammation, diabetes
mellitus, neurological and cardiovascular disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhirendra Singh
- Department of Pharmacology, M.M. College of Pharmacy, (Deemed to be University), Mullana, Ambala, Haryana, India
| | - Sumeet Gupta
- Department of Pharmacology, M.M. College of Pharmacy, (Deemed to be University), Mullana, Ambala, Haryana, India
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18
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Abstract
The renin-angiotensin system is of vital significance not only in the maintenance of blood pressure but also because of its role in the pathophysiology of different organ systems in the body. Of the 2 Ang II (angiotensin II) receptors, the AT1R (Ang II type 1 receptor) has been extensively studied for its role in mediating the classical functions of Ang II, including vasoconstriction, stimulation of renal tubular sodium reabsorption, hormonal secretion, cell proliferation, inflammation, and oxidative stress. The other receptor, AT2R (Ang II type 2 receptor), is abundantly expressed in both immune and nonimmune cells in fetal tissue. However, its expression is increased under pathological conditions in adult tissues. The role of AT2R in counteracting AT1R function has been discussed in the past 2 decades. However, with the discovery of the nonpeptide agonist C21, the significance of AT2R in various pathologies such as obesity, hypertension, and kidney diseases have been examined. This review focuses on the most recent findings on the beneficial effects of AT2R by summarizing both gene knockout studies as well as pharmacological studies, specifically highlighting its importance in blood pressure regulation, obesity/metabolism, organ protection, and relevance in the treatment of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
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Affiliation(s)
- Naureen Fatima
- From the Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, TX
| | - Sanket N Patel
- From the Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, TX
| | - Tahir Hussain
- From the Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, TX
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Ferraino KE, Cora N, Pollard CM, Sizova A, Maning J, Lymperopoulos A. Adrenal angiotensin II type 1 receptor biased signaling: The case for "biased" inverse agonism for effective aldosterone suppression. Cell Signal 2021; 82:109967. [PMID: 33640432 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2021.109967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Angiotensin II (AngII) uses two distinct G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) types, AT1R and AT2R, to exert a plethora of physiologic effects in the body and to significantly affect cardiovascular homeostasis. Although not much is known about the signaling of the AT2R, AT1R signaling is known to be quite pleiotropic, mobilizing a variety of signal transducers inside cells to produce a biological outcome. When the outcome in question is aldosterone production from the adrenal cortex, the main transducers activated specifically by the adrenocortical AT1R to signal toward that cellular effect are the Gq/11 protein alpha subunits and the β-arrestins (also known as Arrestin-2 and -3). The existence of various downstream pathways the AT1R signal can travel down on has led to the ever-expanding filed of GPCR pharmacology termed "biased" signaling, which refers to a ligand preferentially activating one signaling pathway over others downstream of the same receptor in the same cell. However, "biased" signaling or "biased" agonism is therapeutically desirable only when the downstream pathways lead to different or opposite cellular outcomes, so the pathway promoting the beneficial effect can be selectively activated over the pathway that leads to detrimental consequences. In the case of the adrenal AT1R, both Gq/11 proteins and β-arrestins mediate signaling to the same end-result: aldosterone synthesis and secretion. Therefore, both pathways need to remain inactive in the adrenal cortex to fully suppress the production of aldosterone, which is one of the culprit hormones elevated in chronic heart failure, hypertension, and various other cardiovascular diseases. Variations in the effectiveness of the AT1R antagonists, which constitute the angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) class of drugs (also known as sartans), at the relative blockade of these two pathways downstream of the adrenal AT1R opens the door to the flip term "biased" inverse agonism at the AT1R. ARBs that are unbiased and equipotent inverse agonists for both G proteins and β-arrestins at this receptor, like candesartan and valsartan, are the most preferred agents with the best efficacy at reducing circulating aldosterone, thereby ameliorating heart failure. In the present review, the biased signaling of the adrenal AT1R, particularly in relation to aldosterone production, is examined and the term "biased" inverse agonism at the AT1R is introduced and explained, as a means of pharmacological categorization of the various agents within the ARB drug class.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krysten E Ferraino
- Laboratory for the Study of Neurohormonal Control of the Circulation, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328-2018, USA
| | - Natalie Cora
- Laboratory for the Study of Neurohormonal Control of the Circulation, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328-2018, USA
| | - Celina M Pollard
- Laboratory for the Study of Neurohormonal Control of the Circulation, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328-2018, USA
| | - Anastasiya Sizova
- Laboratory for the Study of Neurohormonal Control of the Circulation, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328-2018, USA
| | - Jennifer Maning
- Laboratory for the Study of Neurohormonal Control of the Circulation, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328-2018, USA
| | - Anastasios Lymperopoulos
- Laboratory for the Study of Neurohormonal Control of the Circulation, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328-2018, USA.
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Qaddumi WN, Jose PA. The Role of the Renal Dopaminergic System and Oxidative Stress in the Pathogenesis of Hypertension. Biomedicines 2021; 9:139. [PMID: 33535566 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9020139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The kidney is critical in the long-term regulation of blood pressure. Oxidative stress is one of the many factors that is accountable for the development of hypertension. The five dopamine receptor subtypes (D1R–D5R) have important roles in the regulation of blood pressure through several mechanisms, such as inhibition of oxidative stress. Dopamine receptors, including those expressed in the kidney, reduce oxidative stress by inhibiting the expression or action of receptors that increase oxidative stress. In addition, dopamine receptors stimulate the expression or action of receptors that decrease oxidative stress. This article examines the importance and relationship between the renal dopaminergic system and oxidative stress in the regulation of renal sodium handling and blood pressure. It discusses the current information on renal dopamine receptor-mediated antioxidative network, which includes the production of reactive oxygen species and abnormalities of renal dopamine receptors. Recognizing the mechanisms by which renal dopamine receptors regulate oxidative stress and their degree of influence on the pathogenesis of hypertension would further advance the understanding of the pathophysiology of hypertension.
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21
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Abstract
Pain in response to various types of acute injury can be a protective stimulus to prevent the organism from using the injured part and allow tissue repair and healing. On the other hand, neuropathic pain, defined as ‘pain caused by a lesion or disease of the somatosensory nervous system’, is a debilitating pathology. The TRPA1 neurons in the Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) respond to reactive oxygen species (ROS) and induce pain. In acute nerve injury and inflammation, macrophages infiltrating the site of injury undergo an oxidative burst, and generate ROS that promote tissue repair and induce pain via TRPA1. The latter discourages using the injured limb, with a lack of movement helping wound healing. In chronic inflammation caused by diabetes, cancer etc., ROS levels increase systemically and modulate TRPA1 neuronal functions and cause debilitating neuropathic pain. It is important to distinguish between drug targets that elicit protective vs. debilitating pain when developing effective drugs for neuropathic pain. In this context, the connection of the Angiotensin type 2 receptor (AT2R) to neuropathic pain presents an interesting dilemma. Several lines of evidence show that AT2R activation promotes anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive signaling, tissue repair, and suppresses ROS in chronic inflammatory models. Conversely, some studies suggest that AT2R antagonists are anti-nociceptive and therefore AT2R is a drug target for neuropathic pain. However, AT2R expression in nociceptive neurons is lacking, indicating that neuronal AT2R is not involved in neuropathic pain. It is also important to consider that Novartis terminated their phase II clinical trial (EMPHENE) to validate that AT2R antagonist EMA401 mitigates post-herpetic neuralgia. This trial, conducted in Australia, United Kingdom, and a number of European and Asian countries in 2019, was discontinued due to pre-clinical drug toxicity data. Moreover, early data from the trial did not show statistically significant positive outcomes. These facts suggest that may AT2R not be the proper drug target for neuropathic pain in humans and its inhibition can be harmful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lakshmi Pulakat
- Molecular Cardiology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Colin Sumners
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
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22
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Steckelings UM, Sumners C. Correcting the imbalanced protective RAS in COVID-19 with angiotensin AT2-receptor agonists. Clin Sci (Lond) 2020; 134:2987-3006. [PMID: 33210709 DOI: 10.1042/CS20200922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that is responsible for the global corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic enters host cells via a mechanism that includes binding to angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) 2 (ACE2). Membrane-bound ACE2 is depleted as a result of this entry mechanism. The consequence is that the protective renin-angiotensin system (RAS), of which ACE2 is an essential component, is compromised through lack of production of the protective peptides angiotensin-(1-7) and angiotensin-(1-9), and therefore decreased stimulation of Mas (receptor Mas) and angiotensin AT2-receptors (AT2Rs), while angiotensin AT1-receptors (AT1Rs) are overstimulated due to less degradation of angiotensin II (Ang II) by ACE2. The protective RAS has numerous beneficial actions, including anti-inflammatory, anti-coagulative, anti-fibrotic effects along with endothelial and neural protection; opposite to the deleterious effects caused by heightened stimulation of angiotensin AT1R. Given that patients with severe COVID-19 exhibit an excessive immune response, endothelial dysfunction, increased clotting, thromboses and stroke, enhancing the activity of the protective RAS is likely beneficial. In this article, we discuss the evidence for a dysfunctional protective RAS in COVID and develop a rationale that the protective RAS imbalance in COVID-19 may be corrected by using AT2R agonists. We further review preclinical studies with AT2R agonists which suggest that AT2R stimulation may be therapeutically effective to treat COVID-19-induced disorders of various organ systems such as lung, vasculature, or the brain. Finally, we provide information on the design of a clinical trial in which patients with COVID-19 were treated with the AT2R agonist Compound 21 (C21). This trial has been completed, but results have not yet been reported.
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Fang C, Schmaier AH. Novel anti-thrombotic mechanisms mediated by Mas receptor as result of balanced activities between the kallikrein/kinin and the renin-angiotensin systems. Pharmacol Res 2020; 160:105096. [PMID: 32712319 PMCID: PMC7378497 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The risk of thrombosis, a globally growing challenge and a major cause of death, is influenced by various factors in the intravascular coagulation, vessel wall, and cellular systems. Among the contributors to thrombosis, the contact activation system and the kallikrein/kinin system, two overlapping plasma proteolytic systems that are often considered as synonymous, regulate thrombosis from different aspects. On one hand, components of the contact activation system such as factor XII initiates activation of the coagulation proteins promoting thrombus formation on artificial surfaces through factor XI- and possibly prekallikrein-mediated intrinsic coagulation. On the other hand, physiological activation of plasma prekallikrein in the kallikrein/kinin system on endothelial cells liberates bradykinin from associated high-molecular-weight kininogen to stimulate the constitutive bradykinin B2 receptor to generate nitric oxide and prostacyclin to induce vasodilation and counterbalance angiotensin II signaling from the renin-angiotensin system which stimulates vasoconstriction. In addition to vascular tone regulation, this interaction between the kallikrein/kinin and renin-angiotensin systems has a thrombo-regulatory role independent of the contact pathway. At the level of the G-protein coupled receptors of these systems, defective bradykinin signaling due to attenuated bradykinin formation and/or decreased B2 receptor expression, as seen in murine prekallikrein and B2 receptor null mice, respectively, leads to compensatory overexpressed Mas, the receptor for angiotensin-(1-7) of the renin-angiotensin system. Mas stimulation and/or its increased expression contributes to maintaining a healthy vascular homeostasis by generating graded elevation of plasma prostacyclin which reduces thrombosis through two independent pathways: (1) increasing the vasoprotective transcription factor Sirtuin 1 to suppress tissue factor expression, and (2) inhibiting platelet activation. This review will summarize the recent advances in this field that support these understandings. Appreciating these subtle mechanisms help to develop novel anti-thrombotic strategies by targeting the vascular receptors in the renin-angiotensin and the kallikrein/kinin systems to maintain healthy vascular homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Fang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology and the Key Laboratory for Drug Target Researches and Pharmacodynamic Evaluation of Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China.
| | - Alvin H. Schmaier
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
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