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Hall IF, Kishta F, Xu Y, Baker AH, Kovacic JC. Endothelial to mesenchymal transition: at the axis of cardiovascular health and disease. Cardiovasc Res 2024; 120:223-236. [PMID: 38385523 PMCID: PMC10939465 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvae021] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Endothelial cells (ECs) line the luminal surface of blood vessels and play a major role in vascular (patho)-physiology by acting as a barrier, sensing circulating factors and intrinsic/extrinsic signals. ECs have the capacity to undergo endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT), a complex differentiation process with key roles both during embryonic development and in adulthood. EndMT can contribute to EC activation and dysfunctional alterations associated with maladaptive tissue responses in human disease. During EndMT, ECs progressively undergo changes leading to expression of mesenchymal markers while repressing EC lineage-specific traits. This phenotypic and functional switch is considered to largely exist in a continuum, being characterized by a gradation of transitioning stages. In this report, we discuss process plasticity and potential reversibility and the hypothesis that different EndMT-derived cell populations may play a different role in disease progression or resolution. In addition, we review advancements in the EndMT field, current technical challenges, as well as therapeutic options and opportunities in the context of cardiovascular biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ignacio Fernando Hall
- Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Franceska Kishta
- Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Yang Xu
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Andrew H Baker
- Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
- CARIM School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, Maastricht 6229ER, The Netherlands
| | - Jason C Kovacic
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Lowy Packer Building, 405 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
- St. Vincent’s Clinical School and University of New South Wales, 390 Victoria St, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
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Li Y, Zhu H, Xin W, Wang J, Yan C, Ying K. GDF15 affects venous thrombosis by promoting EndMT through smad2/p-smad2 pathway. Thromb J 2023; 21:98. [PMID: 37723495 PMCID: PMC10506185 DOI: 10.1186/s12959-023-00547-7] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) is a pathophysiological change in the vascular endothelium commonly seen in the cardiovascular system. Elevated serum Growth differiention factor 15 (GDF15) has been reported in VTE patients, but the relationship and mechanism between GDF15, EndMT and VTE are still unclear. METHODS We performed a retrospective clinical study, and human serum GDF15 expression levels were detected. The mouse DVT model was established through subtotal ligation of the mouse inferior vena cava, and then we detected intimal changes and thrombi in the stenotic inferior vena cava by haematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, Masson staining, and Sirius Red staining. The expression levels of GDF15 and SM22 were detected by immunohistochemistry and RT‒qPCR. Serum samples of mice were collected, and the expression level of GDF15 in serum was detected. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were stimulated with a cytokine mixture (TGF-β1 + TNF-α + IL-1β). The role and mechanism of GDF15 in EndMT and VTE were detected in HUVECs and in a DVT mice model. RESULTS We found that serum GDF15 levels in both VTE patients and mouse DVT models were higher than those in the control group. EndMT was increased in the stenotic vascular tissue of mice. Further experiments showed that GDF15 could promote the EndMT of HUVECs and reduce their anticoagulation and antifibrinolytic ability through the smad2/p-smad2/snail pathway. Inhibition of mature GDF15 release can significantly reduce venous thrombotic fibre deposition in mice. CONCLUSIONS GDF15 positively promotes EndMT through activation of the Smad2/psmad2/snail pathway, and inhibition of GDF15 expression can alleviate the EndMT process, further improving the coagulation and fibrinolytic function of endothelial cells and thus reducing the local fibre deposition of venous thrombi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeping Li
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 3 Qingchun East Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, China
| | - Huiqi Zhu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 3 Qingchun East Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, China
| | - Wanghao Xin
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 3 Qingchun East Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, China
| | - Jiaoyan Wang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 3 Qingchun East Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, China
| | - Chao Yan
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 3 Qingchun East Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, China
| | - Kejing Ying
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 3 Qingchun East Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, China.
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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 W, Li X, Li M, He H, Yang C, Wang M, Liu D, Zhang L, Shu C. Empagliflozin inhibits neointimal hyperplasia through attenuating endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition via TAK-1/NF-κB pathway. Eur J Pharmacol 2023:175826. [PMID: 37321472 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.175826] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether empagliflozin could prevent injury-induced vascular neointimal hyperplasia and to further explore its mechanism. METHODS Male C57BL/6J mice were divided into two groups with or without the empagliflozin treatment, and carotid ligation injury was performed to induce neointimal hyperplasia. The injured carotid arteries were collected for Western blotting (WB), histology and immunofluorescence analysis after four weeks. The inflammatory responses were analyzed by qRT-PCR to detect the inflammatory gene mRNA expression. To further explore its mechanism, HUVECs were treated with TGFβ-1 to induce EndMT followed by empagliflozin or vehicle treatment in vitro. A23187 (Calcimycin), an agonist of NF-κB signaling was used in the experiment. RESULTS The wall thickness and the neointima area was significantly reduced in the empagliflozin treatment group on day 28 after artery ligation. The Ki-67 positive cells were 28.33 ± 12.66% and 48.83 ± 10.41% in the empagliflozin-treated group and control group, respectively (P < 0.05). The mRNA expression levels of the inflammatory genes and inflammatory cells were decreased in the empagliflozin treatment group, as well as the MMP2 and MMP9. Meanwhile, empagliflozin can significantly reduce the migratory ability of inflammatory-treated HUVECs. The CD31 was increased in the TGFβ1+empagliflozin group, whereas the FSP-1, phosphorylation of TAK-1 (p-TAK-1) and phosphorylation of NF-κB (p- NF-κB) expression level were decreased, compared to the control group without empagliflozin treatment. However, the expression level of FSP-1 and p-NF-κB were reversed after co-treatment with A23187, whereas the (p-TAK-1 expression level was without any significant difference. CONCLUSION Empagliflozin inhibits the inflammation-induced EndMT via the TAK-1/NF-κB signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weichang Zhang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Number 139, Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, PR China; Vascular Disease Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, PR China.
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Number 139, Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, PR China; Vascular Disease Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, PR China.
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Number 139, Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, PR China; Vascular Disease Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, PR China.
| | - Hao He
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Number 139, Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, PR China; Vascular Disease Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, PR China.
| | - Chenzi Yang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Number 139, Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, PR China; Vascular Disease Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, PR China.
| | - Mo Wang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Number 139, Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, PR China; Vascular Disease Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, PR China.
| | - Dingxiao Liu
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Number 139, Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, PR China; Vascular Disease Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, PR China.
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Number 139, Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, PR China; Vascular Disease Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, PR China.
| | - Chang Shu
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Number 139, Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Center of Vascular Surgery, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 10037, PR China; Vascular Disease Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, PR China.
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Zhang X, Ren Z, Jiang Z. EndMT-derived mesenchymal stem cells: a new therapeutic target to atherosclerosis treatment. Mol Cell Biochem 2022; 478:755-765. [PMID: 36083511 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-022-04544-8] [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: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases, such as coronary artery disease and stroke, are the main threats to human health worldwide. Atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disorder, plays a role as an initiator of all of the above-mentioned diseases. Cell therapy for diseases has attracted widespread attention. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a type of stem cell that still exist in adults and have the characteristics of self-renewal ability, pluripotent differentiation potential, immunomodulation, tissue regeneration, anti-inflammation and low immunogenicity. In light of the properties of MSCs, some researchers have begun to target MSCs to create a possible way to alleviate atherosclerosis. Most of these studies are focused on MSC transplantation, injecting MSCs to modulate macrophages, the key inflammatory cell in atherosclerosis plaque. According to recent studies, researchers found that endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) has something to do with atherosclerosis development. A new cell type MSC might also appear during the EndMT process. In this article, we summarize the characteristics of MSCs, the latest progress of MSC research and its application prospects, and in view of the process of EndMT occurring in atherosclerosis, we propose some new ideas for the treatment of atherosclerosis by targeting MSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofan Zhang
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Lab for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, International Joint Laboratory for Arteriosclerotic Disease Research of Hunan Province, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Zhong Ren
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Lab for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, International Joint Laboratory for Arteriosclerotic Disease Research of Hunan Province, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Zhisheng Jiang
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Lab for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, International Joint Laboratory for Arteriosclerotic Disease Research of Hunan Province, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China.
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Zhang Y, Zhang M, Xie W, Wan J, Tao X, Liu M, Zhen Y, Lin F, Wu B, Zhai Z, Wang C. Gremlin-1 is a key regulator of endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition in human pulmonary artery endothelial cells. Exp Cell Res 2020; 390:111941. [PMID: 32145252 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2020.111941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) has been implicated in initiation and progression of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Gremlin-1 promotes vascular remodeling of PAH and mediates epithelial-mesenchymal transition, which is similar to EndMT. In the present study we investigated the potential role of gremlin-1 plays in EndMT of pulmonary artery endothelial cells (PAECs). METHODS Immunofluorescence staining was performed to detect the expression of alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and von Willebrand factor (VWF). Migration and angiogenic responses of PAECs were determined by transwell assay and tube formation assay, respectively. Protein expression levels were determined by western blotting. RESULTS Gremlin-1 induced EndMT of PAECs in a phospho-smad2/3-dependent manner. This was characterized by the loss of platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule 1 and an increase in protein levels of a-SMA, nerve-cadherin, and matrix metalloproteinase 2. It was also determined that gremlin-1 facilitated the migration and angiogenic responses of PAECs in a dose-dependent manner. Bone morphogenetic protein 7 (BMP-7) was found to attenuate gremlin-1-mediated EndMT, migration and angiogenesis of PAECs by inducing phosphorylation of Smad1/5/8 and suppressing phosphorylation of Smad2/3. CONCLUSION Gremlin-1 mediates EndMT in PAECs, and BMP-7 reverses gremlin-1-induced EndMT by an induction of p-Smad1/5/8 and suppression of p-Smad2/3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunxia Zhang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Center of Respiratory Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, NO 2, East Yinghua Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China; Institute of Respiratory Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NO 2, East Yinghua Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China; National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, NO 2, East Yinghua Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, NO 2, Anzhen Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Wanmu Xie
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Center of Respiratory Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, NO 2, East Yinghua Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China; Institute of Respiratory Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NO 2, East Yinghua Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China; National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, NO 2, East Yinghua Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Jun Wan
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Center of Respiratory Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, NO 2, East Yinghua Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China; Institute of Respiratory Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NO 2, East Yinghua Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China; National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, NO 2, East Yinghua Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Xincao Tao
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Center of Respiratory Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, NO 2, East Yinghua Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China; Institute of Respiratory Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NO 2, East Yinghua Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China; National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, NO 2, East Yinghua Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Min Liu
- Department of Radiology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, NO 2, East Yinghua Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Yanan Zhen
- Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, NO 2, East Yinghua Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Fan Lin
- Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, NO 2, East Yinghua Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Bo Wu
- Department of Lung Transplantation, the People's Hospital of Wuxi, 299 Qingyang Rd, Wuxi, 214023, China
| | - Zhenguo Zhai
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Center of Respiratory Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, NO 2, East Yinghua Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China; Institute of Respiratory Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NO 2, East Yinghua Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China; National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, NO 2, East Yinghua Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Chen Wang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Center of Respiratory Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, NO 2, East Yinghua Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China; Institute of Respiratory Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NO 2, East Yinghua Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China; National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, NO 2, East Yinghua Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100029, China; Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, No.1 Shuaifuyuan, Wangfujing, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China.
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Jiang Y, Zhou X, Hu R, Dai A. TGF-β1-induced SMAD2/3/4 activation promotes RELM-β transcription to modulate the endothelium-mesenchymal transition in human endothelial cells. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2018; 105:52-60. [PMID: 30120989 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2018.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [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: 12/19/2017] [Revised: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT), which is characterized by increased proliferation, migration and invasion of endothelial cells, increased expression of mesenchymal markers and reduced expression of endothelial markers, has been reported to be closely related to the pathogenesis of several diseases, including pulmonary fibrosis. Resistin-like molecule-β (RELM-β), also known as "found in inflammatory zone 2″ (FIIZ2), plays an essential role in airway remodeling and pulmonary fibrosis; however, its role and mechanism in EndMT remain unclear. Herein, we used TGF-β1-induced EndMT cell model in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and human primary pulmonary artery endothelial cells (HPAECs) to investigate the function and mechanism of RELM-β in TGF-β1-induced EndMT in endothelial cell lines. We found that TGF-β1 stimulation significantly upregulated RELM-β expression; RELM-β knockdown could attenuate TGF-β1-induced cell proliferation and migration of endothelial cell lines and changes in protein levels of EndMT markers. SB432542, an inhibitor of SMADs, could partially reverse TGF-β1-induced RELM-β expression, endothelial cell migration and changes in EndMT marker protein levels. SMADs complex exerted its effects through SMAD2/3/4 complex mediating RELM-β transcription. In conclusion, TGF-β1 induces RELM-β transcription to promote EndMT in HUVECs and HPAECs through activation of SMAD2/3/4; blocking SMADs-mediated RELM-β transcription might ameliorate TGF-β1-induced EndMT in endothelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongliang Jiang
- Respiratory Medicine, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, 410016, China
| | - Xuanfen Zhou
- University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China; Respiratory Medicine, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, 410016, China
| | - Ruicheng Hu
- Respiratory Medicine, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, 410016, China
| | - Aiguo Dai
- Respiratory Medicine, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, 410016, China; University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China; Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Changsha Medical University, Changsha, Hunan, 410219, China.
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Takada S, Hojo M, Takebe N, Tanigaki K, Miyamoto S. Role of Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in the Pathogenesis of Central Nervous System Hemangioblastomas. World Neurosurg 2018; 117:e187-e193. [PMID: 29886300 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2018.05.235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [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: 11/08/2017] [Revised: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 05/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Hemangioblastomas (HBs) are benign vascular tumors of the central nervous system and histologically contain abundant microvessels. Therefore, they clinically exhibit vascular malformation-like characteristics. It has been described that endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) contributes to the pathogenesis of cerebral cavernous malformations. However, it remains unknown whether EndMT contributes to the pathogenesis of central nervous system HBs. The aim of our study was to investigate whether EndMT occurs in central nervous system HBs. METHODS Ten central nervous system HBs were immunohistochemically investigated. RESULTS Cluster of differentiation (CD) 31 (an endothelial marker) and EndMT markers, such as α-smooth muscle actin (a mesenchymal marker) and CD44 (a mesenchymal stem cell marker), were expressed in the endothelial layer of microvessels in all cases. These findings suggest that endothelial cells (ECs) of microvessels in central nervous system HBs have acquired mesenchymal and stem cell-like characteristics and undergone EndMT. In all cases, both ephrin-B2 and EphB4, which are not detected in adult normal brain vessels, were expressed in the endothelial layer of microvessels. These data suggest that ECs of microvessels in central nervous system HBs are immature or malformed cells and have both arterial and venous characteristics. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this is the first report showing the possibility that EndMT contributes to the pathogenesis of central nervous system HBs. It is likely that ECs of microvessels in central nervous system HBs are immature or malformed cells and have both arterial and venous characteristics. EndMT is expected to be a new therapeutic target in central nervous system HBs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigeki Takada
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan; Research Institute, Shiga Medical Center, Moriyama, Shiga, Japan
| | - Masato Hojo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan; Department of Neurosurgery, Shiga Medical Center for Adults, Moriyama, Shiga, Japan.
| | - Noriyoshi Takebe
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan; Research Institute, Shiga Medical Center, Moriyama, Shiga, Japan
| | - Kenji Tanigaki
- Research Institute, Shiga Medical Center, Moriyama, Shiga, Japan
| | - Susumu Miyamoto
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
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Takada S, Hojo M, Tanigaki K, Miyamoto S. Contribution of Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition to the Pathogenesis of Human Cerebral and Orbital Cavernous Malformations. Neurosurgery 2018; 81:176-183. [PMID: 28368503 DOI: 10.1093/neuros/nyx078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [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: 02/10/2016] [Accepted: 01/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The analysis of gene-targeted mouse mutants has demonstrated that endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) is crucial to the onset and progression of cerebral cavernous malformations (CMs). It has also been shown that Notch and ephrin/Eph signaling are involved in EndMT. However, their roles in the pathogenesis of human intracranial CMs remain unclear. OBJECTIVE To elucidate the contribution of EndMT, the Notch pathway, and ephrin-B2/EphB4 signaling to the pathogenesis of human intracranial CMs. METHODS Eight human intracranial CMs (5 cerebral and 3 orbital CMs) were immunohistochemically investigated. RESULTS CD31 (an endothelial marker) and EndMT markers, such as α-smooth muscle actin (a mesenchymal marker) and CD44 (a mesenchymal stem cell marker), were expressed in the endothelial layer of vascular sinusoids in all cases, suggesting that endothelial cells (ECs) have acquired mesenchymal and stem-cell-like characteristics and undergone EndMT in all cerebral and orbital CMs. EndMT was observed in about 70% and 35% of ECs in cerebral and orbital CMs, respectively. In all cases, Notch3 was expressed in the endothelial layer, indicating that ECs of vascular sinusoids have acquired mesenchymal features. In all cases, both ephrin-B2 and EphB4 were detected in the endothelial layer, suggesting that ECs of vascular sinusoids are immature or malformed cells and have both arterial and venous characteristics. CONCLUSION EndMT plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of human cerebral and orbital CMs. Modulating EndMT is expected to be a new therapeutic strategy for cerebral and orbital CMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigeki Takada
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan.,Research Institute, Shiga Medical Center, Shiga, Japan
| | - Masato Hojo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Neurosurgery, Shiga Medical Center for Adults, Shiga, Japan
| | | | - Susumu Miyamoto
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
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Al-Soudi A, Kaaij MH, Tas SW. Endothelial cells: From innocent bystanders to active participants in immune responses. Autoimmun Rev 2017; 16:951-962. [PMID: 28698091 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2017.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [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: 06/03/2017] [Accepted: 06/05/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The endothelium is crucially important for the delivery of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body under homeostatic conditions. However, it also contributes to pathology, including the initiation and perpetuation of inflammation. Understanding the function of endothelial cells (ECs) in inflammatory diseases and molecular mechanisms involved may lead to novel approaches to dampen inflammation and restore homeostasis. In this article, we discuss the various functions of ECs in inflammation with a focus on pathological angiogenesis, attraction of immune cells, antigen presentation, immunoregulatory properties and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT). We also review the current literature on approaches to target these processes in ECs to modulate immune responses and advance anti-inflammatory therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Al-Soudi
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Department of Clinical Immunology & Rheumatology and Laboratory for Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center/University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M H Kaaij
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Department of Clinical Immunology & Rheumatology and Laboratory for Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center/University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S W Tas
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Department of Clinical Immunology & Rheumatology and Laboratory for Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center/University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Liang X, Duan N, Wang Y, Shu S, Xiang X, Guo T, Yang L, Zhang S, Tang X, Zhang J. Advanced oxidation protein products induce endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition in human renal glomerular endothelial cells through induction of endoplasmic reticulum stress. J Diabetes Complications 2016; 30:573-9. [PMID: 26861949 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdiacomp.2016.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2015] [Revised: 01/07/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) in renal glomerular endothelial cells plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy (DN). Furthermore, advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs) have been shown to contribute to the progression of DN. However, whether AOPPs induce EndMT in renal glomerular endothelial cells remains unclear. Thus, we investigated the effect of AOPPs on human renal glomerular endothelial cells (HRGECs) and the mechanisms underlying the effects. Our results showed that AOPP treatment lowered the expression of vascular endothelial cadherin, CD31, and claudin 5 and induced the overexpression of α-smooth muscle actin, vimentin, and fibroblast-specific protein 1, which indicated that AOPPs induced EndMT in HRGECs. Furthermore, AOPP stimulation increased the expression of glucose-regulated protein 78 and CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein-homologous protein, which suggested that AOPPs triggered endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in HRGECs. Notably, the aforementioned AOPP effects were reversed following the treatment of cells with salubrinal, an inhibitor of ER stress, whereas the effects were reproduced after exposure to thapsigargin, an inducer of ER stress. Collectively, our results indicate that AOPPs trigger EndMT in HRGECs through the induction of ER stress. These findings suggest novel therapeutic strategies for inhibiting renal fibrosis by targeting ER stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiujie Liang
- Department of Nephrology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Na Duan
- Department of Nephrology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yue Wang
- Department of Nephrology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Shuangshuang Shu
- Department of Nephrology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xiaohong Xiang
- Department of Nephrology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Tingting Guo
- Department of Nephrology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Lei Yang
- Department of Nephrology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Shaojie Zhang
- College of Arts and Science, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Xun Tang
- Department of Nephrology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, Guangdong Province, China.
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, Guangdong Province, China.
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