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Wiktorska M, Sacewicz-Hofman I, Niewiarowska J. The endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition changes the focal adhesion site proteins levels and the SLRP-lumican level in HMEC-1 cell line. Exp Cell Res 2023:113692. [PMID: 37392962 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2023.113692] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
Abstract
Scleroderma, the chronic autoimmune disease is a consequence of inflammation in the connective tissue. Prolonged duration affects formation of compact connective tissue strands (scarring) within the target organ. Endothelial cells undergoing endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) are the source of fibroblast phenotype-resembling cells. EndMT contributes to reorganization of the focal adhesion proteins (FA), including integrins, and intensive extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling. However, in endothelial cells, the relationship between EndMT and the interaction of integrin receptors with lumican - a component of ECM, is still unclear. Our findings indicate that at the early stages of EndMT caused by Snail-1 transcription factor overexpression, the level of the β1 integrin subunit and its phosphorylation are elevated. Simultaneously, the changes in the level of proteins that build FAs and promote activation of integrin receptors as well as a decrease in lumican quantity were observed. These modulations contributed to increased migration of human microvascular endothelial cells, HMEC-1. Our findings were achieved by WB, ELISA and wound healing assay. Taken altogether, transfection of HMEC-1 cells with Snail-1 plasmids inducing the early stages of EndMT results in the increase of total FAK and integrin β1 phosphorylation as well as cell migration: phenomena which are modulated by interaction with lumican.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Wiktorska
- Department of Molecular Cell Mechanisms, Medical University of Lodz, 92-215, Lodz, Poland
| | | | - Jolanta Niewiarowska
- Department of Molecular Cell Mechanisms, Medical University of Lodz, 92-215, Lodz, Poland.
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Zhang Y, Popel AS, Bazzazi H. Combining Multikinase Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors Targeting the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Cluster of Differentiation 47 Signaling Pathways Is Predicted to Increase the Efficacy of Antiangiogenic Combination Therapies. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2023; 6:710-726. [PMID: 37200806 PMCID: PMC10186363 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.3c00008] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Angiogenesis is a critical step in tumor growth, development, and invasion. Nascent tumor cells secrete vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) that significantly remodels the tumor microenvironment through interaction with multiple receptors on vascular endothelial cells, including type 2 VEGF receptor (VEGFR2). The complex pathways initiated by VEGF binding to VEGFR2 lead to enhanced proliferation, survival, and motility of vascular endothelial cells and formation of a new vascular network, enabling tumor growth. Antiangiogenic therapies that inhibit VEGF signaling pathways were among the first drugs that targeted stroma rather than tumor cells. Despite improvements in progression-free survival and higher response rates relative to chemotherapy in some types of solid tumors, the impact on overall survival (OS) has been limited, with the majority of tumors eventually relapsing due to resistance or activation of alternate angiogenic pathways. Here, we developed a molecularly detailed computational model of endothelial cell signaling and angiogenesis-driven tumor growth to investigate combination therapies targeting different nodes of the endothelial VEGF/VEGFR2 signaling pathway. Simulations predicted a strong threshold-like behavior in extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2) activation relative to phosphorylated VEGFR2 levels, as continuous inhibition of at least 95% of receptors was necessary to abrogate phosphorylated ERK1/2 (pERK1/2). Combinations with mitogen-activated protein kinase/ERK kinase (MEK) and spingosine-1-phosphate inhibitors were found to be effective in overcoming the ERK1/2 activation threshold and abolishing activation of the pathway. Modeling results also identified a mechanism of resistance whereby tumor cells could reduce pERK1/2 sensitivity to inhibitors of VEGFR2 by upregulation of Raf, MEK, and sphingosine kinase 1 (SphK1), thus highlighting the need for deeper investigation of the dynamics of the crosstalk between VEGFR2 and SphK1 pathways. Inhibition of VEGFR2 phosphorylation was found to be more effective at blocking protein kinase B, also known as AKT, activation; however, to effectively abolish AKT activation, simulations identified Axl autophosphorylation or the Src kinase domain as potent targets. Simulations also supported activating cluster of differentiation 47 (CD47) on endothelial cells as an effective combination partner with tyrosine kinase inhibitors to inhibit angiogenesis signaling and tumor growth. Virtual patient simulations supported the effectiveness of CD47 agonism in combination with inhibitors of VEGFR2 and SphK1 pathways. Overall, the rule-based system model developed here provides new insights, generates novel hypothesis, and makes predictions regarding combinations that may enhance the OS with currently approved antiangiogenic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
| | - Aleksander S. Popel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
| | - Hojjat Bazzazi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
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Lou X, Liu S, Shi J, Chen H, Wang Z, Le Y, Chen H, Zhu R, Yu Y. The G-Protein-Coupled Formyl Peptide Receptor 2 Promotes Endothelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Diabetic Retinopathy. Ophthalmic Res 2023; 66:681-691. [PMID: 36805961 PMCID: PMC10064398 DOI: 10.1159/000529578] [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: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), retinal neovascularization is the essential pathogenic process that is linked to endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) induced by high glucose (HG). This pathophysiological process may be regulated by a G-protein-coupled chemoattractant receptor FPR2 (mouse Fpr2), involved in inflammatory cell migration and proliferation. In the current study, we investigated the role of Fpr2 in regulating EndoMT and the underlying mechanisms during diabetic retinopathy progression. METHODS FPR2 agonist or inhibitor was added to human microvascular endothelial cells (HMECs) exposed to normal glucose or HG. Morphologic, phenotypic, and functional changes of HMECs as well as the formation of microvasculature related to EndoMT were assessed. EndoMT biomarkers were detected in the retinal tissues of diabetic mice and fibrovascular epiretinal membranes (FVMs) from patients with PDR. RESULTS HG upregulated FPR2 in HMECs, which triggered morphological changes, and the cells acquired mesenchymal phenotype, with enhanced cell migration, viability, and angiogenic process shown by tube formation and aortic ring sprouting. Inhibition of FPR2 attenuated HG-induced EndoMT and endothelial cell migration to form vessel-like tube structures. RNA sequence and protein analysis further revealed that inhibition of FPR2 decreased the expression of genes associated with EndoMT. ERK1/2 and P38 signaling pathway was activated in HMECs, promoting neovascularization in HG-induced EndoMT of HMECs. In vivo, increased expression of mesenchymal markers was detected in the retina of diabetic mice and FVMs from patients with PDR. FPR2 deficiency was associated with diminished EndoMT-related phenotypic changes in the retina of diabetic mice. CONCLUSIONS FPR2 is actively involved in the progression of EndoMT that may contribute to the pathogenesis of PDR. Thus, FPR2 may be a potential therapeutic target for PDR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueying Lou
- Eye Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Shuang Liu
- Eye Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Suqian First Pepple’s Hospital, The Affiliated Suqian First Pepple’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suqian, China
| | - Jian Shi
- Eye Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Hongliang Chen
- Eye Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Zichen Wang
- Eye Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Yingying Le
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nutrition, Metabolism and Food Safety, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Chen
- Eye Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Rongrong Zhu
- Eye Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Ying Yu
- Eye Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
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Abstract
The endothelium is one of the largest organ systems in the body, and data continue to emerge regarding the importance of endothelial cell (EC) dysfunction in vascular aging and a range of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Over the last two decades and as a process intimately related to EC dysfunction, an increasing number of studies have also implicated endothelial to mesenchymal transition (EndMT) as a potentially disease-causal pathobiologic process that is involved in a multitude of differing CVDs. However, EndMT is also involved in physiologic processes (e.g., cardiac development), and transient EndMT may contribute to vascular regeneration in certain contexts. Given that EndMT involves a major alteration in the EC-specific molecular program, and that it potentially contributes to CVD pathobiology, the clinical translation opportunities are significant, but further molecular and translational research is needed to see these opportunities realized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Xu
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jason C Kovacic
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia; .,St Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Echlin M, Aguilar B, Shmulevich I. Characterizing the Impact of Communication on Cellular and Collective Behavior Using a Three-Dimensional Multiscale Cellular Model. Entropy (Basel) 2023; 25:319. [PMID: 36832685 PMCID: PMC9955575 DOI: 10.3390/e25020319] [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] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Communication between cells enables the coordination that drives structural and functional complexity in biological systems. Both single and multicellular organisms have evolved diverse communication systems for a range of purposes, including synchronization of behavior, division of labor, and spatial organization. Synthetic systems are also increasingly being engineered to utilize cell-cell communication. While research has elucidated the form and function of cell-cell communication in many biological systems, our knowledge is still limited by the confounding effects of other biological phenomena at play and the bias of the evolutionary background. In this work, our goal is to push forward the context-free understanding of what impact cell-cell communication can have on cellular and population behavior to more fully understand the extent to which cell-cell communication systems can be utilized, modified, and engineered. We use an in silico model of 3D multiscale cellular populations, with dynamic intracellular networks interacting via diffusible signals. We focus on two key communication parameters: the effective interaction distance at which cells are able to interact and the receptor activation threshold. We found that cell-cell communication can be divided into six different forms along the parameter axes, three asocial and three social. We also show that cellular behavior, tissue composition, and tissue diversity are all highly sensitive to both the general form and specific parameters of communication even when the cellular network has not been biased towards that behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moriah Echlin
- Prostate Cancer Research Center, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, FI-33014 Tampere, Finland
- Institute for Systems Biology, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Boris Aguilar
- Institute for Systems Biology, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
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Peng Q, Shan D, Cui K, Li K, Zhu B, Wu H, Wang B, Wong S, Norton V, Dong Y, Lu YW, Zhou C, Chen H. The Role of Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in Cardiovascular Disease. Cells 2022; 11:1834. [PMID: 35681530 PMCID: PMC9180466 DOI: 10.3390/cells11111834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) is the process of endothelial cells progressively losing endothelial-specific markers and gaining mesenchymal phenotypes. In the normal physiological condition, EndoMT plays a fundamental role in forming the cardiac valves of the developing heart. However, EndoMT contributes to the development of various cardiovascular diseases (CVD), such as atherosclerosis, valve diseases, fibrosis, and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Therefore, a deeper understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying EndoMT in CVD should provide urgently needed insights into reversing this condition. This review summarizes a 30-year span of relevant literature, delineating the EndoMT process in particular, key signaling pathways, and the underlying regulatory networks involved in CVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianman Peng
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Q.P.); (D.S.); (K.C.); (K.L.); (B.Z.); (H.W.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (V.N.); (Y.D.); (Y.W.L.)
| | - Dan Shan
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Q.P.); (D.S.); (K.C.); (K.L.); (B.Z.); (H.W.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (V.N.); (Y.D.); (Y.W.L.)
| | - Kui Cui
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Q.P.); (D.S.); (K.C.); (K.L.); (B.Z.); (H.W.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (V.N.); (Y.D.); (Y.W.L.)
| | - Kathryn Li
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Q.P.); (D.S.); (K.C.); (K.L.); (B.Z.); (H.W.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (V.N.); (Y.D.); (Y.W.L.)
| | - Bo Zhu
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Q.P.); (D.S.); (K.C.); (K.L.); (B.Z.); (H.W.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (V.N.); (Y.D.); (Y.W.L.)
| | - Hao Wu
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Q.P.); (D.S.); (K.C.); (K.L.); (B.Z.); (H.W.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (V.N.); (Y.D.); (Y.W.L.)
| | - Beibei Wang
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Q.P.); (D.S.); (K.C.); (K.L.); (B.Z.); (H.W.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (V.N.); (Y.D.); (Y.W.L.)
| | - Scott Wong
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Q.P.); (D.S.); (K.C.); (K.L.); (B.Z.); (H.W.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (V.N.); (Y.D.); (Y.W.L.)
| | - Vikram Norton
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Q.P.); (D.S.); (K.C.); (K.L.); (B.Z.); (H.W.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (V.N.); (Y.D.); (Y.W.L.)
| | - Yunzhou Dong
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Q.P.); (D.S.); (K.C.); (K.L.); (B.Z.); (H.W.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (V.N.); (Y.D.); (Y.W.L.)
| | - Yao Wei Lu
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Q.P.); (D.S.); (K.C.); (K.L.); (B.Z.); (H.W.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (V.N.); (Y.D.); (Y.W.L.)
| | - Changcheng Zhou
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA;
| | - Hong Chen
- Vascular Biology Program, Department of Surgery, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (Q.P.); (D.S.); (K.C.); (K.L.); (B.Z.); (H.W.); (B.W.); (S.W.); (V.N.); (Y.D.); (Y.W.L.)
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Gorick CM, Saucerman JJ, Price RJ. Computational model of brain endothelial cell signaling pathways predicts therapeutic targets for cerebral pathologies. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2022; 164:17-28. [PMID: 34798125 PMCID: PMC8958390 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2021.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Brain endothelial cells serve many critical homeostatic functions. In addition to sensing and regulating blood flow, they maintain blood-brain barrier function, including precise control of nutrient exchange and efflux of xenobiotics. Many signaling pathways in brain endothelial cells have been implicated in both health and disease; however, our understanding of how these signaling pathways functionally integrate is limited. A model capable of integrating these signaling pathways could both advance our understanding of brain endothelial cell signaling networks and potentially identify promising molecular targets for endothelial cell-based drug or gene therapies. To this end, we developed a large-scale computational model, wherein brain endothelial cell signaling pathways were reconstructed from the literature and converted into a network of logic-based differential equations. The model integrates 63 nodes (including proteins, mRNA, small molecules, and cell phenotypes) and 82 reactions connecting these nodes. Specifically, our model combines signaling pathways relating to VEGF-A, BDNF, NGF, and Wnt signaling, in addition to incorporating pathways relating to focused ultrasound as a therapeutic delivery tool. To validate the model, independently established relationships between selected inputs and outputs were simulated, with the model yielding correct predictions 73% of the time. We identified influential and sensitive nodes under different physiological or pathological contexts, including altered brain endothelial cell conditions during glioma, Alzheimer's disease, and ischemic stroke. Nodes with the greatest influence over combinations of desired model outputs were identified as potential druggable targets for these disease conditions. For example, the model predicts therapeutic benefits from inhibiting AKT, Hif-1α, or cathepsin D in the context of glioma - each of which are currently being studied in clinical or pre-clinical trials. Notably, the model also permits testing multiple combinations of node alterations for their effects on the network and the desired outputs (such as inhibiting AKT and overexpressing the P75 neurotrophin receptor simultaneously in the context of glioma), allowing for the prediction of optimal combination therapies. In all, our approach integrates results from over 100 past studies into a coherent and powerful model, capable of both revealing network interactions unapparent from studying any one pathway in isolation and predicting therapeutic targets for treating devastating brain pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine M. Gorick
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Jeffrey J. Saucerman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA,Corresponding authors at: Department of Biomedical Engineering, Box 800759, Health System, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA. (J.J. Saucerman), (R.J. Price)
| | - Richard J. Price
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA,Department of Radiology & Medical Imaging, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA,Corresponding authors at: Department of Biomedical Engineering, Box 800759, Health System, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA. (J.J. Saucerman), (R.J. Price)
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Ozer F, Tokuc EO, Albayrak MGB, Akpinar G, Kasap M, Karabas VL. Comparison of before versus after intravitreal bevacizumab injection, growth factor levels and fibrotic markers in vitreous samples from patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2022. [PMID: 35028761 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-021-05515-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE In diabetic retinopathy patients, intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) injections are widely used to facilitate dissection of retinal fibrovascular membranes during surgery, reduce the rate of perioperative hemorrhage, and prevent recurrent neovascularization. Previous studies have shown that IVB may worsen fibrosis and thereby impair vision. The aim of this study was to determine which markers are associated with fibrosis. METHODS Twenty-three patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) underwent pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with IVB pretreatment for intraocular hemorrhage (IOH) and/or tractional retinal detachment (TRD). Vitreous samples were obtained at the time of IVB injection and again at the beginning of PPV, about a week later. Using Western blot analysis, the concentrations of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), placental growth factor (PIGF), insulin like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), angiogenin-1 (Ang-1), and vascular endothelial cadherin (VE-cadherin) were measured in vitreous samples. RESULTS After treatment with IVB, VEGF, PIGF, and VE-cadherin concentrations in the vitreous significantly decreased (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, and p = 0.001, respectively), whereas the concentrations of IGF-1 increased (p = 0.001). There were no significant changes in Ang-1 concentrations in the vitreous after IVB injection (p = 0.732). There were no statistically significant differences in VEGF-A, PIGF, VE-cadherin, IGF, and Ang-1 levels before and after IVB injection when the IOH and TRD groups underwent subgroup analysis (p = 0.696, p = 0.516, p = 0.498, p = 0.188, and p = 0.243, respectively). CONCLUSION The levels of VEGF and other cytokines changed in the vitreous after IVB. The adverse effects associated with IVB, such as fibrosis, may result from modulation of vitreous cytokine concentrations. In the treatment of PDR, drugs that optimize the effects of PIGF, IGF-1, and VE-cadherin to reduce these side effects may be useful.
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Zhang Y, Wang H, Oliveira RHM, Zhao C, Popel AS. Systems biology of angiogenesis signaling: Computational models and omics. WIREs Mech Dis 2021; 14:e1550. [PMID: 34970866 PMCID: PMC9243197 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Angiogenesis is a highly regulated multiscale process that involves a plethora of cells, their cellular signal transduction, activation, proliferation, differentiation, as well as their intercellular communication. The coordinated execution and integration of such complex signaling programs is critical for physiological angiogenesis to take place in normal growth, development, exercise, and wound healing, while its dysregulation is critically linked to many major human diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and ocular disorders; it is also crucial in regenerative medicine. Although huge efforts have been devoted to drug development for these diseases by investigation of angiogenesis‐targeted therapies, only a few therapeutics and targets have proved effective in humans due to the innate multiscale complexity and nonlinearity in the process of angiogenic signaling. As a promising approach that can help better address this challenge, systems biology modeling allows the integration of knowledge across studies and scales and provides a powerful means to mechanistically elucidate and connect the individual molecular and cellular signaling components that function in concert to regulate angiogenesis. In this review, we summarize and discuss how systems biology modeling studies, at the pathway‐, cell‐, tissue‐, and whole body‐levels, have advanced our understanding of signaling in angiogenesis and thereby delivered new translational insights for human diseases. This article is categorized under:Cardiovascular Diseases > Computational Models Cancer > Computational Models
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Hanwen Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Rebeca Hannah M Oliveira
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Chen Zhao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Aleksander S Popel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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10
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Botts SR, Fish JE, Howe KL. Dysfunctional Vascular Endothelium as a Driver of Atherosclerosis: Emerging Insights Into Pathogenesis and Treatment. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:787541. [PMID: 35002720 PMCID: PMC8727904 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.787541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis, the chronic accumulation of cholesterol-rich plaque within arteries, is associated with a broad spectrum of cardiovascular diseases including myocardial infarction, aortic aneurysm, peripheral vascular disease, and stroke. Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of mortality in high-income countries and recent years have witnessed a notable increase in prevalence within low- and middle-income regions of the world. Considering this prominent and evolving global burden, there is a need to identify the cellular mechanisms that underlie the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis to discover novel therapeutic targets for preventing or mitigating its clinical sequelae. Despite decades of research, we still do not fully understand the complex cell-cell interactions that drive atherosclerosis, but new investigative approaches are rapidly shedding light on these essential mechanisms. The vascular endothelium resides at the interface of systemic circulation and the underlying vessel wall and plays an essential role in governing pathophysiological processes during atherogenesis. In this review, we present emerging evidence that implicates the activated endothelium as a driver of atherosclerosis by directing site-specificity of plaque formation and by promoting plaque development through intracellular processes, which regulate endothelial cell proliferation and turnover, metabolism, permeability, and plasticity. Moreover, we highlight novel mechanisms of intercellular communication by which endothelial cells modulate the activity of key vascular cell populations involved in atherogenesis, and discuss how endothelial cells contribute to resolution biology - a process that is dysregulated in advanced plaques. Finally, we describe important future directions for preclinical atherosclerosis research, including epigenetic and targeted therapies, to limit the progression of atherosclerosis in at-risk or affected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven R. Botts
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jason E. Fish
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Peter Munk Cardiac Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kathryn L. Howe
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Peter Munk Cardiac Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Bouten RM, Dalgard CL, Soltis AR, Slaven JE, Day RM. Transcriptomic profiling and pathway analysis of cultured human lung microvascular endothelial cells following ionizing radiation exposure. Sci Rep 2021; 11:24214. [PMID: 34930946 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-03636-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The vascular system is sensitive to radiation injury, and vascular damage is believed to play a key role in delayed tissue injury such as pulmonary fibrosis. However, the response of endothelial cells to radiation is not completely understood. We examined the response of primary human lung microvascular endothelial cells (HLMVEC) to 10 Gy (1.15 Gy/min) X-irradiation. HLMVEC underwent senescence (80-85%) with no significant necrosis or apoptosis. Targeted RT-qPCR showed increased expression of genes CDKN1A and MDM2 (10-120 min). Western blotting showed upregulation of p2/waf1, MDM2, ATM, and Akt phosphorylation (15 min-72 h). Low levels of apoptosis at 24-72 h were identified using nuclear morphology. To identify novel pathway regulation, RNA-seq was performed on mRNA using time points from 2 to 24 h post-irradiation. Gene ontology and pathway analysis revealed increased cell cycle inhibition, DNA damage response, pro- and anti- apoptosis, and pro-senescence gene expression. Based on published literature on inflammation and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) pathway genes, we identified increased expression of pro-inflammatory genes and EndMT-associated genes by 24 h. Together our data reveal a time course of integrated gene expression and protein activation leading from early DNA damage response and cell cycle arrest to senescence, pro-inflammatory gene expression, and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition.
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12
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Zhang J, Rojas S, Singh S, Musich PR, Gutierrez M, Yao Z, Thewke D, Jiang Y. Wnt2 Contributes to the Development of Atherosclerosis. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 8:751720. [PMID: 34901211 PMCID: PMC8652052 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.751720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis, is a chronic inflammatory disease, characterized by the narrowing of the arteries resulting from the formation of intimal plaques in the wall of arteries. Yet the molecular mechanisms responsible for maintaining the development and progression of atherosclerotic lesions have not been fully defined. In this study, we show that TGF-β activates the endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) in cultured human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) and this transition is dependent on the key executor of the Wnt signaling pathway in vitro. This study presents the first evidence describing the mechanistic details of the TGF-β-induced EndMT signaling pathway in HAECs by documenting the cellular transition to the mesenchymal phenotype including the expression of mesenchymal markers α-SMA and PDGFRα, and the loss of endothelial markers including VE-cadherin and CD31. Furthermore, a short hairpin RNA (shRNA) screening revealed that Wnt2 signaling is required for TGF-β-mediated EndMT of HAECs. Also, we found that LDLR−/− mice fed on a high-fat western-type diet (21% fat, 0.2% cholesterol) expressed high levels of Wnt2 protein in atherosclerotic lesions, confirming that this signaling pathway is involved in atherosclerosis in vivo. These findings suggest that Wnt2 may contribute to atherosclerotic plaque development and this study will render Wnt2 as a potential target for therapeutic intervention aiming at controlling atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyu Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States.,Division of Infectious, Inflammatory and Immunologic Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Samuel Rojas
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Sanjay Singh
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Phillip R Musich
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Matthew Gutierrez
- Department of Health Sciences, College of Public Health, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Zhiqiang Yao
- Division of Infectious, Inflammatory and Immunologic Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Douglas Thewke
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Yong Jiang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
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13
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Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a vasculopathy characterized by sustained elevated pulmonary arterial pressures in which the pulmonary vasculature undergoes significant structural and functional remodeling. To better understand disease mechanisms, in this review article we highlight recent insights into the regulation of pulmonary arterial cells by mechanical cues associated with PAH. Specifically, the mechanobiology of pulmonary arterial endothelial cells (PAECs), smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) and adventitial fibroblasts (PAAFs) has been investigated in vivo, in vitro, and in silico. Increased pulmonary arterial pressure increases vessel wall stress and strain and endothelial fluid shear stress. These mechanical cues promote vasoconstriction and fibrosis that contribute further to hypertension and alter the mechanical milieu and regulation of pulmonary arterial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariel Wang
- Bioengineering Department, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA USA
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14
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Alfaro-García JP, Granados-Alzate MC, Vicente-Manzanares M, Gallego-Gómez JC. An Integrated View of Virus-Triggered Cellular Plasticity Using Boolean Networks. Cells 2021; 10:cells10112863. [PMID: 34831086 PMCID: PMC8616224 DOI: 10.3390/cells10112863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Virus-related mortality and morbidity are due to cell/tissue damage caused by replicative pressure and resource exhaustion, e.g., HBV or HIV; exaggerated immune responses, e.g., SARS-CoV-2; and cancer, e.g., EBV or HPV. In this context, oncogenic and other types of viruses drive genetic and epigenetic changes that expand the tumorigenic program, including modifications to the ability of cancer cells to migrate. The best-characterized group of changes is collectively known as the epithelial–mesenchymal transition, or EMT. This is a complex phenomenon classically described using biochemistry, cell biology and genetics. However, these methods require enormous, often slow, efforts to identify and validate novel therapeutic targets. Systems biology can complement and accelerate discoveries in this field. One example of such an approach is Boolean networks, which make complex biological problems tractable by modeling data (“nodes”) connected by logical operators. Here, we focus on virus-induced cellular plasticity and cell reprogramming in mammals, and how Boolean networks could provide novel insights into the ability of some viruses to trigger uncontrolled cell proliferation and EMT, two key hallmarks of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Paola Alfaro-García
- Molecular and Translation Medicine Group, Faculty of Medicine, University of Antioquia, Medellin 050010, Colombia; (J.P.A.-G.); (M.C.G.-A.)
| | - María Camila Granados-Alzate
- Molecular and Translation Medicine Group, Faculty of Medicine, University of Antioquia, Medellin 050010, Colombia; (J.P.A.-G.); (M.C.G.-A.)
| | - Miguel Vicente-Manzanares
- Molecular Mechanisms Program, Centro de Investigación del Cáncer, Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)-University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
- Correspondence: (M.V.-M.); (J.C.G.-G.)
| | - Juan Carlos Gallego-Gómez
- Molecular and Translation Medicine Group, Faculty of Medicine, University of Antioquia, Medellin 050010, Colombia; (J.P.A.-G.); (M.C.G.-A.)
- Correspondence: (M.V.-M.); (J.C.G.-G.)
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15
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Fang JS, Hultgren NW, Hughes CCW. Regulation of Partial and Reversible Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in Angiogenesis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:702021. [PMID: 34692672 PMCID: PMC8529039 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.702021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
During development and in several diseases, endothelial cells (EC) can undergo complete endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT or EndMT) to generate endothelial-derived mesenchymal cells. Emerging evidence suggests that ECs can also undergo a partial EndoMT to generate cells with intermediate endothelial- and mesenchymal-character. This partial EndoMT event is transient, reversible, and supports both developmental and pathological angiogenesis. Here, we discuss possible regulatory mechanisms that may control the EndoMT program to dictate whether cells undergo complete or partial mesenchymal transition, and we further consider how these pathways might be targeted therapeutically in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer S. Fang
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Nan W. Hultgren
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stein Eye Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Christopher C. W. Hughes
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
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16
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Di Benedetto P, Ruscitti P, Berardicurti O, Vomero M, Navarini L, Dolo V, Cipriani P, Giacomelli R. Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition in systemic sclerosis. Clin Exp Immunol 2021; 205:12-27. [PMID: 33772754 DOI: 10.1111/cei.13599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by significant vascular alterations and multi-organ fibrosis. Microvascular alterations are the first event of SSc and injured endothelial cells (ECs) may transdifferentiate towards myofibroblasts, the cells responsible for fibrosis and collagen deposition. This process is identified as endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT), and understanding of its development is pivotal to identify early pathogenetic events and new therapeutic targets for SSc. In this review, we have highlighted the molecular mechanisms of EndMT and summarize the evidence of the role played by EndMT during the development of progressive fibrosis in SSc, also exploring the possible therapeutic role of its inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Di Benedetto
- Clinical Pathology Unit, Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - P Ruscitti
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - O Berardicurti
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - M Vomero
- Unit of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Rome 'Campus Biomedico', Rome, Italy
| | - L Navarini
- Unit of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Rome 'Campus Biomedico', Rome, Italy
| | - V Dolo
- Clinical Pathology Unit, Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - P Cipriani
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - R Giacomelli
- Unit of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Rome 'Campus Biomedico', Rome, Italy
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Iop L. Toward the Effective Bioengineering of a Pathological Tissue for Cardiovascular Disease Modeling: Old Strategies and New Frontiers for Prevention, Diagnosis, and Therapy. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 7:591583. [PMID: 33748193 PMCID: PMC7969521 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2020.591583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) still represent the primary cause of mortality worldwide. Preclinical modeling by recapitulating human pathophysiology is fundamental to advance the comprehension of these diseases and propose effective strategies for their prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. In silico, in vivo, and in vitro models have been applied to dissect many cardiovascular pathologies. Computational and bioinformatic simulations allow developing algorithmic disease models considering all known variables and severity degrees of disease. In vivo studies based on small or large animals have a long tradition and largely contribute to the current treatment and management of CVDs. In vitro investigation with two-dimensional cell culture demonstrates its suitability to analyze the behavior of single, diseased cellular types. The introduction of induced pluripotent stem cell technology and the application of bioengineering principles raised the bar toward in vitro three-dimensional modeling by enabling the development of pathological tissue equivalents. This review article intends to describe the advantages and disadvantages of past and present modeling approaches applied to provide insights on some of the most relevant congenital and acquired CVDs, such as rhythm disturbances, bicuspid aortic valve, cardiac infections and autoimmunity, cardiovascular fibrosis, atherosclerosis, and calcific aortic valve stenosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Iop
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic Vascular Sciences, and Public Health, University of Padua Medical School, Padua, Italy
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18
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Mikula M, Najjar S, El Jabbour T, Dalvi S, Umrau K, Li H, Koo BH, Lee H. Increased Cytoplasmic Yes-associated Protein (YAP) Expression in Mismatch Repair Protein-Proficient Colorectal Cancer With High-grade Tumor Budding and Reduced Autophagy Activity. Appl Immunohistochem Mol Morphol 2021; 29:305-12. [PMID: 33264106 DOI: 10.1097/PAI.0000000000000888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Yes-associated protein (YAP) is a transcriptional coactivator regulated by autophagy that stimulates colorectal cancer (CRC) progression through activation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), represented by tumor budding. The associations between these components in CRC are unknown. Archived surgically resected CRCs with known mismatch repair protein (MMR) status were retrieved (n=81; 2010 to 2016). Electronic medical records were reviewed for clinicopathologic variables including pathologic TNM stage and clinical stage. Tumor budding was graded according to consensus guidelines. Cytoplasmic and nuclear YAP and p62 (autophagy substrate) immunoreactivity were semiquantitatively scored within tumor samples. The Student t test, Fisher exact test, χ2 test, and Spearman correlation coefficient were performed with P<0.05 as a significance level. MMR proficiency (MMR-P) status correlated with high-grade tumor budding. The extent of cytoplasmic YAP staining and pathologic N stage was associated with tumor budding in multivariate analysis. Cytoplasmic YAP expression correlated with higher cytoplasmic p62 expression, suggesting an inverse correlation between autophagy activation and cytoplasmic YAP expression. Nuclear YAP expression correlated with pathologic N stage and clinical stage. A correlation between MMR-P status and tumor budding, combined with correlations between cytoplasmic YAP, tumor budding and p62 raise the possibility of 2 distinct neoplastic pathways concerning autophagy and YAP; one displaying relative activation of YAP and EMT, being commonly observed in MMR-P, and another with less active YAP and EMT, but active autophagy, being commonly seen in MMR-deficient CRC. Nuclear YAP staining could be useful in prognostication.
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19
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Bocci F, Onuchic JN, Jolly MK. Understanding the Principles of Pattern Formation Driven by Notch Signaling by Integrating Experiments and Theoretical Models. Front Physiol 2020; 11:929. [PMID: 32848867 PMCID: PMC7411240 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [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: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Notch signaling is an evolutionary conserved cell-cell communication pathway. Besides regulating cell-fate decisions at an individual cell level, Notch signaling coordinates the emergent spatiotemporal patterning in a tissue through ligand-receptor interactions among transmembrane molecules of neighboring cells, as seen in embryonic development, angiogenesis, or wound healing. Due to its ubiquitous nature, Notch signaling is also implicated in several aspects of cancer progression, including tumor angiogenesis, stemness of cancer cells and cellular invasion. Here, we review experimental and computational models that help understand the operating principles of cell patterning driven by Notch signaling. First, we discuss the basic mechanisms of spatial patterning via canonical lateral inhibition and lateral induction mechanisms, including examples from angiogenesis, inner ear development and cancer metastasis. Next, we analyze additional layers of complexity in the Notch pathway, including the effect of varying cell sizes and shapes, ligand-receptor binding within the same cell, variable binding affinity of different ligand/receptor subtypes, and filopodia. Finally, we discuss some recent evidence of mechanosensitivity in the Notch pathway in driving collective epithelial cell migration and cardiovascular morphogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Bocci
- Center for Theoretical Biological Physics, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
| | - José Nelson Onuchic
- Center for Theoretical Biological Physics, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Biosciences, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Mohit Kumar Jolly
- Centre for BioSystems Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, India
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