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Song J, Du J, Tan X, Chen H, Cong B. Bradykinin attenuates endothelial-mesenchymal transition following cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 971:176556. [PMID: 38574840 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176556] [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: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
AIMS Endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) is a crucial pathological process contributing to cardiac fibrosis. Bradykinin has been found to protect the heart against fibrosis. Whether bradykinin regulates EndMT has not been determined. MATERIALS AND METHODS Rats were subjected to ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery for 1 h and subsequent reperfusion to induce cardiac ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury. Bradykinin (0.5 μg/h) was infused by an osmotic pump implanted subcutaneously at the onset of reperfusion. Fourteen days later, the functional, histological, and molecular analyses were performed to investigate the changes in cardiac fibrosis and EndMT. Human coronary artery endothelial cells were utilized to determine the molecular mechanisms in vitro. RESULTS Bradykinin treatment improved cardiac function and decreased fibrosis following cardiac IR injury, accompanied by ameliorated EndMT and increased nitric oxide (NO) production. In vitro experiments found that bradykinin mitigated transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1)-induced EndMT. Significantly, the bradykinin B2 receptor antagonist or endothelial nitric oxide synthase inhibitor abolished the effects of bradykinin on EndMT inhibition, indicating that the bradykinin B2 receptor and NO might mediate the effects of bradykinin on EndMT inhibition. CONCLUSION Bradykinin plays an essential role in the process of cardiac fibrosis. Bradykinin preserves the cellular signature of endothelial cells, preventing them from EndMT following cardiac IR injury, possibly mediated by bradykinin B2 receptor activation and NO production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinchao Song
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shidong Hospital Affiliated to the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China; Department of Physiology, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| | - Jiankui Du
- Department of Physiology, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| | - Xing Tan
- Department of Physiology, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China; Department of Marine Biomedicine and Polar Medicine, Naval Medical Center, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| | - Haiyan Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shidong Hospital Affiliated to the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Binhai Cong
- Department of Physiology, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China.
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Fu TL, Li GR, Li DH, He RY, Liu BH, Xiong R, Xu CZ, Lu ZL, Song CK, Qiu HL, Wang WJ, Zou SS, Yi K, Li N, Geng Q. Mangiferin alleviates diabetic pulmonary fibrosis in mice via inhibiting endothelial-mesenchymal transition through AMPK/FoxO3/SIRT3 axis. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2024; 45:1002-1018. [PMID: 38225395 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-023-01202-7] [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: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus results in numerous complications. Diabetic pulmonary fibrosis (DPF), a late pulmonary complication of diabetes, has not attracted as much attention as diabetic nephropathy and cardiomyopathy. Mangiferin (MF) is a natural small molecular compound that exhibits a variety of pharmacological effects including anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-diabetes, and anti-fibrosis effects. In this study, we investigated whether long-term diabetes shock induces DPF, and explored whether MF had a protective effect against DPF. We first examined the lung tissues and sections of 20 diabetic patients obtained from discarded lung surgical resection specimens and found that pulmonary fibrosis mainly accumulated around the pulmonary vessels, accompanied by significantly enhanced endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndMT). We established a mouse model of DPF by STZ injections. Ten days after the final STZ injection, the mice were administered MF (20, 60 mg/kg, i.g.) every 3 days for 4 weeks, and kept feeding until 16 weeks and euthanized. We showed that pulmonary fibrotic lesions were developed in the diabetic mice, which began around the pulmonary vessels, while MF administration did not affect long-term blood glucose levels, but dose-dependently alleviated diabetes-induced pulmonary fibrosis. In human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), exposure to high glucose (33.3 mM) induced EndMT, which was dose-dependently inhibited by treatment with MF (10, 50 μM). Furthermore, MF treatment promoted SIRT3 expression in high glucose-exposed HUVECs by directly binding to AMPK to enhance the activity of FoxO3, which finally reversed diabetes-induced EndMT. We conclude that MF attenuates DPF by inhibiting EndMT through the AMPK/FoxO3/SIRT3 axis. MF could be a potential candidate for the early prevention and treatment of DPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Lv Fu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Guo-Rui Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Dong-Hang Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Ru-Yuan He
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Bo-Hao Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130061, China
| | - Rui Xiong
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Chen-Zhen Xu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Zi-Long Lu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Cong-Kuan Song
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Hong-Liang Qiu
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Wen-Jie Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Shi-Shi Zou
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Ke Yi
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Ning Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China.
| | - Qing Geng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China.
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Liu J, Yu X, Braucht A, Smith S, Wang C. N-Cadherin Targeted Melanin Nanoparticles Reverse the Endothelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Vascular Endothelial Cells to Potentially Slow the Progression of Atherosclerosis and Cancer. ACS Nano 2024; 18:8229-8247. [PMID: 38427686 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c12281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) of vascular endothelial cells has recently been considered as a key player in the early progression of a variety of vascular and nonvascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, cancer, and organ fibrosis. However, current strategies attempting to identify pharmacological inhibitors to block the regulatory pathways of EndoMT suffer from poor selectivity, unwanted side effects, and a heterogeneous response from endothelial cells with different origins. Furthermore, EndoMT inhibitors focus on preventing EndoMT, leaving the endothelial cells that have already undergone EndoMT unresolved. Here, we report the design of a simple but powerful nanoparticle system (i.e., N-cadherin targeted melanin nanoparticles) to convert cytokine-activated, mesenchymal-like endothelial cells back to their original endothelial phenotype. We term this process "Reversed EndoMT" (R-EndoMT). R-EndoMT allows the impaired endothelial barriers to recover their quiescence and intactness, with significantly reduced leukocyte and cancer cell adhesion and transmigration, which could potentially stop atheromatous plaque formation and cancer metastasis in the early stages. R-EndoMT is achieved on different endothelial cell types originating from arteries, veins, and capillaries, independent of activating cytokines. We reveal that N-cadherin targeted melanin nanoparticles reverse EndoMT by downregulating an N-cadherin dependent RhoA activation pathway. Overall, this approach offers a different prospect to treat multiple EndoMT-associated diseases by designing nanoparticles to reverse the phenotypical transition of endothelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyuan Liu
- Nanoscience and Biomedical Engineering, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, 501 E St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701, United States
- BioSystems Networks & Translational Research (BioSNTR), 501 E St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701, United States
| | - Xiao Yu
- Nanoscience and Biomedical Engineering, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, 501 E St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701, United States
- BioSystems Networks & Translational Research (BioSNTR), 501 E St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701, United States
| | - Annaliese Braucht
- Nanoscience and Biomedical Engineering, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, 501 E St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701, United States
- BioSystems Networks & Translational Research (BioSNTR), 501 E St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701, United States
| | - Steve Smith
- Nanoscience and Biomedical Engineering, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, 501 E St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701, United States
- BioSystems Networks & Translational Research (BioSNTR), 501 E St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701, United States
| | - Congzhou Wang
- Nanoscience and Biomedical Engineering, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, 501 E St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701, United States
- BioSystems Networks & Translational Research (BioSNTR), 501 E St Joseph Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701, United States
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Chen L, Su H, Tao Z, Liang C, Liu Z, Dong Y, Zheng P, Liu Y. DUSP22 Ameliorates Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in HUVECs through Smad2/3 and MAPK Signaling Pathways. Cardiovasc Ther 2024; 2024:5583961. [PMID: 38495810 PMCID: PMC10942825 DOI: 10.1155/2024/5583961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) is the process by which endothelial cells lose their endothelial properties and acquire mesenchymal characteristics. Dual-specific protein phosphatase 22 (DUSP22) inactivates various protein kinases and transcription factors by dephosphorylating serine/threonine residues: hence, it plays a key role in many diseases. The aim of this study was to explore the functional role of DUSP22 in EndMT. In the transforming growth factor-β-induced EndMT model in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), we observed a downregulation of DUSP22 expression. This DUSP22 deficiency could aggravate EndMT. Conversely, the overexpression of DUSP22 could ameliorate EndMT. We used signaling pathway inhibitors to verify our results and found that DUSP22 could regulate EndMT through the smad2/3 and the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways. In summary, DUSP22 ameliorates EndMT in HUVECs in vitro through the smad2/3 and MAPK signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Chen
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hongyu Su
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zekai Tao
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Cui Liang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhongzhao Liu
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yiming Dong
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Peipei Zheng
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yuan Liu
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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Wu M, Hao Y, Wu X, Zhu M, Chen X, Qi J, Yu Z, Xu H. SirT7-mediated transcription of fascin in hyperglycemic glomerular endothelial cells contributes to EndMT in diabetic nephropathy. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2024; 56:586-596. [PMID: 38449390 DOI: 10.3724/abbs.2024002] [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] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is the main cause of end-stage renal disease worldwide. It is reported that the endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) in glomerular endothelial cells plays an important role in DN. As a specific form of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, EndMT may involve common regulators of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Fascin has been shown to mediate epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. In addition, SirT7 has been confir med to contribute to inflammation in hyperglycemic endothelial cells via the modulation of gene transcription. In this study, we speculate that SirT7 modulates fascin transcription and is thus involved in EndMT in hyperglycemic glomerular endothelial cells. Our data indicate that α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and fascin levels are increased, while CD31 levels are decreased in the kidneys of DN rats. Consistently, our cellular experiments reveal that high glucose treatment elevates fascin levels and induces EndMT in human glomerular endothelial cells (HGECs). Moreover, silencing of fascin inhibits EndMT in hyperglycaemic HGECs. In addition, SirT7 is found to be decreased in hyperglycemic cells and in the kidneys of DN mice. Moreover, the inhibition of SirT7 increases fascin level and mediates EndMT. An increase in SirtT7 expression decreases fascin expression, inhibits EndMT, and improves renal function in hyperglycemic cells and DN mice. SirT7 is found to bind to the promoter region of fascin. In summary, the present study indicates that SirT7 transcribes fascin to contribute to hyperglycemia-induced EndMT in DN patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengchen Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yingxiang Hao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Xinwan Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Minmin Zhu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, Department of Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xiangyuan Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Jie Qi
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Zhuang Yu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Hongjiao Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, China
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Yang Q, Cai Y, Ma Q, Xiong A, Xu P, Zhang Z, Xu J, Zhou Y, Liu Z, Zhao D, Asara J, Li W, Shi H, Caldwell RB, Sodhi A, Huo Y. Inactivation of adenosine receptor 2A suppresses endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition and inhibits subretinal fibrosis in mice. Sci Transl Med 2024; 16:eadk3868. [PMID: 38446902 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.adk3868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy has had a substantial impact on the treatment of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD), the leading cause of vision loss in older adults. Despite treatment, many patients with nAMD still develop severe and irreversible visual impairment because of the development of subretinal fibrosis. We recently reported the anti-inflammatory and antiangiogenic effects of inhibiting the gene encoding adenosine receptor 2A (Adora2a), which has been implicated in cardiovascular disease. Here, using two mouse models of subretinal fibrosis (mice with laser injury-induced CNV or mice with a deficiency in the very low-density lipoprotein receptor), we found that deletion of Adora2a either globally or specifically in endothelial cells reduced subretinal fibrosis independently of angiogenesis. We showed that Adora2a-dependent endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition contributed to the development of subretinal fibrosis in mice with laser injury-induced CNV. Deficiency of Adora2a in cultured mouse and human choroidal endothelial cells suppressed induction of the endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition. A metabolomics analysis of cultured human choroidal endothelial cells showed that ADORA2A knockdown with an siRNA reversed the increase in succinate because of decreased succinate dehydrogenase B expression under fibrotic conditions. Pharmacological inhibition of ADORA2A with a small-molecule KW6002 in both mouse models recapitulated the reduction in subretinal fibrosis observed in mice with genetic deletion of Adora2a. ADORA2A inhibition may be a therapeutic approach to treat subretinal fibrosis associated with nAMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuhua Yang
- Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Yongfeng Cai
- Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Qian Ma
- Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Albert Xiong
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33606, USA
| | - Peishan Xu
- Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Zhidan Zhang
- Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Jiean Xu
- Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Yaqi Zhou
- Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Zhiping Liu
- Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Dingwei Zhao
- Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - John Asara
- Division of Signal Transduction, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Cullen Eye Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Huidong Shi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- Georgia Cancer Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Ruth B Caldwell
- Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Akrit Sodhi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Yuqing Huo
- Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
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Gao H, Sun M, Gao Z, Song J, Tang D, Liu R. Hsa_circ_0001707 regulates endothelial-mesenchymal transition in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma via miR-203a-3p/Snail2 pathway. Environ Toxicol 2024; 39:1210-1220. [PMID: 37921085 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23998] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a malignant tumor with high mortality and poor prognosis. Despite intensive research focused on tumor suppression, the 5-year survival rate of ESCC is lower than 15%. Therefore, investigate fundamental mechanisms involved in ESCC is on-demand crucial for diagnostics and developing targeted therapeutic drugs. Circular RNAs (circRNAs), as an emerging class of non-coding RNA, have been elucidated that circRNAs participated in regulating a variety of pathological processes and tumorigenesis. Nevertheless, the functional role of circRNAs in the occurrence and development of ESCC remains unclear. We identify a novel circRNA (hsa_circ_0001707), which was highly expressed in ESCC patients' tissues and cell lines. Furthermore, gain- and loss-of-function assays were performed and found that overexpression of hsa_circ_0001707 significantly promote tumor proliferation, metastasis, and invasion. By functioning as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA), the dual-luciferase activity assay verified that hsa_circ_0001707 can endogenously bind with miR-203a-3p and regulate its downstream gene Snail2. Rescue assay further confirms that hsa_circ_0001707 downregulation could partially attenuate the facilitation effect of miR-203a-3p, thereby inhibiting the endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process of ESCC. Our results suggested that hsa_circ_0001707 play an oncogenic role in the pathogenesis of ESCC, which might be a potential biomarker for diagnostics and targeting therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Gao
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mingjun Sun
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhikui Gao
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jing Song
- Institute of Nephrology, Zhongda Hospital Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Derong Tang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Affiliated Huaian No. 1 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huaian, China
| | - Ran Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
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Zhang Z, Guo Q, Ma C, Zhao Z, Shi Q, Yu H, Rao L, Li M. USF1 transcriptionally activates USP14 to drive atherosclerosis by promoting EndMT through NLRC5/Smad2/3 axis. Mol Med 2024; 30:32. [PMID: 38424494 PMCID: PMC10905873 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-024-00798-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transformation (EndMT) plays key roles in endothelial dysfunction during the pathological progression of atherosclerosis; however, its detailed mechanism remains unclear. Herein, we explored the biological function and mechanisms of upstream stimulating factor 1 (USF1) in EndMT during atherosclerosis. METHODS The in vivo and in vitro atherosclerotic models were established in high fat diet-fed ApoE-/- mice and ox-LDL-exposed human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The plaque formation, collagen and lipid deposition, and morphological changes in the aortic tissues were evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin (HE), Masson, Oil red O and Verhoeff-Van Gieson (EVG) staining, respectively. EndMT was determined by expression levels of EndMT-related proteins. Target molecule expression was detected by RT-qPCR and Western blotting. The release of pro-inflammatory cytokines was measured by ELISA. Migration of HUVECs was detected by transwell and scratch assays. Molecular mechanism was investigated by dual-luciferase reporter assay, ChIP, and Co-IP assays. RESULTS USF1 was up-regulated in atherosclerosis patients. USF1 knockdown inhibited EndMT by up-regulating CD31 and VE-Cadherin, while down-regulating α-SMA and vimentin, thereby repressing inflammation, and migration in ox-LDL-exposed HUVECs. In addition, USF1 transcriptionally activated ubiquitin-specific protease 14 (USP14), which promoted de-ubiquitination and up-regulation of NLR Family CARD Domain Containing 5 (NLRC5) and subsequent Smad2/3 pathway activation. The inhibitory effect of sh-USF1 or sh-USP14 on EndMT was partly reversed by USP14 or NLRC5 overexpression. Finally, USF1 knockdown delayed atherosclerosis progression via inhibiting EndMT in mice. CONCLUSION Our findings indicate the contribution of the USF1/USP14/NLRC5 axis to atherosclerosis development via promoting EndMT, which provide effective therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwen Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Zhengzhou University People's Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450000, China
- Department of Cardiology, Central China Fuwai Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450000, China
| | - Quan Guo
- Department of Cardiology, Zhengzhou University People's Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450000, China
- Department of Cardiology, Central China Fuwai Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450000, China
| | - Chao Ma
- Department of Cardiology, Central China Fuwai Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450000, China
| | - Zhenzhou Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, Central China Fuwai Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450000, China
| | - Qingbo Shi
- Department of Cardiology, Central China Fuwai Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450000, China
| | - Haosen Yu
- Department of Cardiology, Central China Fuwai Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450000, China
| | - Lixin Rao
- Department of Cardiology, Central China Fuwai Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450000, China
| | - Muwei Li
- Department of Cardiology, Zhengzhou University People's Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450000, China.
- Department of Cardiology, Central China Fuwai Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450000, China.
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9
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Wang Y, Yu J, Ou C, Zhao Y, Chen L, Cai W, Wang H, Huang S, Hu J, Sun G, Li L. miRNA-146a-5p Inhibits Hypoxia-Induced Myocardial Fibrosis Through EndMT. Cardiovasc Toxicol 2024; 24:133-145. [PMID: 38180639 DOI: 10.1007/s12012-023-09818-1] [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: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Cardiac Vascular disease particularly myocardial infarction (MI) is a threat to health worldwide. microRNAs (miRNAs) have been shown to regulate myocardial fibrosis. Therefore, it is potential to investigate the mechanism of miRNA and fibrosis following myocardial infarction. Hypoxia human cardiac microvascular endothelial cells (HCMECs) were selected for the vitro experimental model. The miR-146a-5p expression was tested via RT-qPCR. The level of endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) and fibrosis markers were detected by Western blotting and immunofluorescence. Then, the inflammation, cell viability and apoptosis were investigated. The target was predicted by an online database and verified by a dual-luciferase activity assay. An MI mouse model was created to validate that miR-146a-5p regulates cardiac fibrosis in vivo. MI mouse was transfected with miR-146a-5p lentivirus. Subsequently, its effect on cardiac fibrosis of infarcted hearts was assessed by In situ hybridization (ISH), Immunohistochemistry (IHC), Triphenylterazolium chloride (TTC) staining and Masson staining. Herein, we confirmed that miR-146a-5p was down-regulated in hypoxia HCMECs. Overexpression of miR-146a-5p inhibited hypoxia-induced cardiac fibrosis following myocardial infarction by inhibiting EndMT in HCMECs. Thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) was a target that was negatively regulated by miR-146a-5p. Up-regulation of miR-146a-5p inhibited cardiac fibrosis via regulating EndMT by targeting TXNIP, and it also regulated EndMT to inhibit cardiac fibrosis in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Laboratory of Molecular Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, No. 295 Xichang Rd, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China.
| | - Jie Yu
- Department of Thoracocardiac Surgery, 920th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of Chinese People's Liberation Army, No. 212 Daguan Rd, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China.
| | - Chunxia Ou
- Laboratory of Molecular Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, No. 295 Xichang Rd, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China
| | - Yue Zhao
- Laboratory of Molecular Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, No. 295 Xichang Rd, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China
| | - Lixing Chen
- Laboratory of Molecular Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, No. 295 Xichang Rd, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China
| | - Wenke Cai
- Department of Thoracocardiac Surgery, 920th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of Chinese People's Liberation Army, No. 212 Daguan Rd, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China
| | - Huawei Wang
- Laboratory of Molecular Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, No. 295 Xichang Rd, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China
| | - Shiying Huang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, No. 295 Xichang Rd, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China
| | - Jie Hu
- Laboratory of Molecular Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, No. 295 Xichang Rd, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China
| | - Guihu Sun
- Laboratory of Molecular Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, No. 295 Xichang Rd, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China
| | - Longjun Li
- Laboratory of Molecular Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, No. 295 Xichang Rd, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China
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Takahashi K, Kobayashi M, Katsumata H, Tokizaki S, Anzai T, Ikeda Y, Alcaide DM, Maeda K, Ishihara M, Tahara K, Kubota Y, Itoh F, Park J, Takahashi K, Matsunaga YT, Yoshimatsu Y, Podyma‐Inoue KA, Watabe T. CD40 is expressed in the subsets of endothelial cells undergoing partial endothelial-mesenchymal transition in tumor microenvironment. Cancer Sci 2024; 115:490-506. [PMID: 38111334 PMCID: PMC10859613 DOI: 10.1111/cas.16045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor progression and metastasis are regulated by endothelial cells undergoing endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT), a cellular differentiation process in which endothelial cells lose their properties and differentiate into mesenchymal cells. The cells undergoing EndoMT differentiate through a spectrum of intermediate phases, suggesting that some cells remain in a partial EndoMT state and exhibit an endothelial/mesenchymal phenotype. However, detailed analysis of partial EndoMT has been hampered by the lack of specific markers. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) plays a central role in the induction of EndoMT. Here, we showed that inhibition of TGF-β signaling suppressed EndoMT in a human oral cancer cell xenograft mouse model. By using genetic labeling of endothelial cell lineage, we also established a novel EndoMT reporter cell system, the EndoMT reporter endothelial cells (EMRECs), which allow visualization of sequential changes during TGF-β-induced EndoMT. Using EMRECs, we characterized the gene profiles of multiple EndoMT stages and identified CD40 as a novel partial EndoMT-specific marker. CD40 expression was upregulated in the cells undergoing partial EndoMT, but decreased in the full EndoMT cells. Furthermore, single-cell RNA sequencing analysis of human tumors revealed that CD40 expression was enriched in the population of cells expressing both endothelial and mesenchymal cell markers. Moreover, decreased expression of CD40 in EMRECs enhanced TGF-β-induced EndoMT, suggesting that CD40 expressed during partial EndoMT inhibits transition to full EndoMT. The present findings provide a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying TGF-β-induced EndoMT and will facilitate the development of novel therapeutic strategies targeting EndoMT-driven cancer progression and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuki Takahashi
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medical and Dental SciencesTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
- Institute of Industrial ScienceThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Miho Kobayashi
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medical and Dental SciencesTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Hisae Katsumata
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medical and Dental SciencesTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Shiori Tokizaki
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medical and Dental SciencesTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgical Oncology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental SciencesTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Tatsuhiko Anzai
- Department of Biostatistics, M&D Data Science CenterTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Yukinori Ikeda
- Institute of Industrial ScienceThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | | | - Kentaro Maeda
- Laboratory of Oncology, School of Life SciencesTokyo University of Pharmacy and Life SciencesTokyoJapan
| | - Makoto Ishihara
- Scientific Affairs Section, Life Science Sales Department, Life Science Business Division, Medical Business GroupSony CorporationKanagawaJapan
| | - Katsutoshi Tahara
- Section 1, Product Design Department 2, Medical Product Design Division, Medical Business GroupSony CorporationKanagawaJapan
| | - Yoshiaki Kubota
- Department of AnatomyKeio University School of MedicineTokyoJapan
| | - Fumiko Itoh
- Laboratory of Stem Cells RegulationsTokyo University of Pharmacy and Life SciencesTokyoJapan
| | - Jihwan Park
- School of Life SciencesGwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST)GwangjuSouth Korea
| | - Kunihiko Takahashi
- Department of Biostatistics, M&D Data Science CenterTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
| | | | - Yasuhiro Yoshimatsu
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medical and Dental SciencesTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
- Laboratory of Oncology, School of Life SciencesTokyo University of Pharmacy and Life SciencesTokyoJapan
- Division of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental SciencesNiigata UniversityNiigataJapan
| | - Katarzyna A. Podyma‐Inoue
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medical and Dental SciencesTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Tetsuro Watabe
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medical and Dental SciencesTokyo Medical and Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
- Laboratory of Oncology, School of Life SciencesTokyo University of Pharmacy and Life SciencesTokyoJapan
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11
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Jiang S, Xing X, Hong M, Zhang X, Xu F, Zhang GH. Hsa_circ_0081065 exacerbates IH-induced EndMT via regulating miR-665/HIF-1α signal axis and HIF-1α nuclear translocation. Sci Rep 2024; 14:904. [PMID: 38195914 PMCID: PMC10776741 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-51471-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
CircRNAs play an important role in various physiological and pathological biological processes. Despite their widespread involvement, the function of circRNAs in intermittent hypoxia (IH) remain incompletely understood. This study aims to clarify the molecular mechanism of it in IH. Differentially expressed circRNAs were identified by transcriptome sequencing analysis in intermittent hypoxia (IH) model. GO and KEGG enrichment analys were performed on the identified differentially expressed circRNAs. The circular characteristics of hsa_circ_0081065 in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were detected by RT-qPCR. The sublocalization of hsa_circ_0081065 was examined by FISH. The effect of hsa_circ_0081065 on endothelial to mesenchymal transition (EndMT) was estimated by detecting the expression of EndMT related markers. Various techniques, including RNA-pull down, RIP, EMSA, dual-luciferase reporter assay and immunofluorescence staining were used to investigate the relationship among hsa_circ_0081065, miR-665 and HIF-1α. A total of 13,304 circRNAs were identified in HUVECs treatment with IH, among which 73 were differentially expressed, including 24 upregulated circRNAs and 49 downregulated circRNAs. Notably, hsa_circ_0081065 demonstrated a significantly upregulation. Hsa_circ_0081065 exhibited the circular characteristics of circRNA and was predominantly localized in the cytoplasm. Knockdown of hsa_circ_0081065 inhibited EndMT. Mechanically, we demonstrated that hsa_circ_0081065 acts as a sponge for miR-665 to up-regulate HIF-1α and exacerbate HIF-1α nuclear translocation in HUVECs. We have demonstrated that hsa_circ_0081065 is significantly upregulated in HUVECs treated with IH. Our findings indicate that hsa_circ_0081065 exacerbates IH-induced EndMT through the regulation of the miR-665/HIF-1α signal axis and facilitating HIF-1α nuclear translocation. These results provide a theoretical basis for considering of EndMT as a potential therapeutic target for OSAHS intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Jiang
- Department of Emergency, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaowei Xing
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Shandong, China
| | - Ming Hong
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Shandong, China
| | - Xingqian Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Shandong, China
| | - Fei Xu
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Shandong, China
| | - Guang-Hao Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Shandong, China.
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12
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Zhou K, Luo W, Gui DD, Ren Z, Wei DH, Liu LS, Li GH, Tang ZH, Xiong WH, Hu HJ, Jiang ZS. Hydrogen sulfide attenuates atherosclerosis induced by low shear stress by sulfhydrylating endothelium NFIL3 to restrain MEST mediated endothelial mesenchymal transformation. Nitric Oxide 2024; 142:47-57. [PMID: 38049061 DOI: 10.1016/j.niox.2023.11.005] [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: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) induced by low shear stress plays an important role in the development of atherosclerosis. However, little is known about the correlation between hydrogen sulfide (H2S), a protective gaseous mediator in atherosclerosis and the process of EndMT. METHODS We constructed a stable low-shear-stress-induced(2 dyn/cm2) EndMT model, acombined with the pretreatment method of hydrogen sulfide slow release agent(GYY4137). The level of MEST was detected in the common carotid artery of ApoE-/- mice with local carotid artery ligation. The effect of MEST on atherosclerosis development in vivo was verified using ApoE-/- mice were given tail-vein injection of endothelial-specific overexpressed and knock-down MEST adeno-associated virus (AAV). RESULTS These findings confirmed that MEST is up-regulated in low-shear-stress-induced EndMT and atherosclerosis. In vivo experiments showed that MEST gene overexpression significantly promoted EndMT and aggravated the development of atherosclerotic plaques and MEST gene knockdown significantly inhibited EndMT and delayed the process of atherosclerosis. In vitro, H2S inhibits the expression of MEST and EndMT induced by low shear stress and inhibits EndMT induced by MEST overexpression. Knockdown of NFIL3 inhibit the up regulation of MEST and EndMT induced by low shear stress in HUVECs. CHIP-qPCR assay and Luciferase Reporter assay confirmed that NFIL3 binds to MEST DNA, increases its transcription and H2S inhibits the binding of NFIL3 and MEST DNA, weakening NFIL3's transcriptional promotion of MEST. Mechanistically, H2S increased the sulfhydrylation level of NFIL3, an important upstream transcription factors of MEST. In part, transcription factor NFIL3 restrain its binding to MEST DNA by sulfhydration. CONCLUSIONS H2S negatively regulate the expression of MEST by sulfhydrylation of NFIL3, thereby inhibiting low-shear-stress-induced EndMT and atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Zhou
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Lab for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China.
| | - Wen Luo
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Lab for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China; Department of Basic Medicine, Changsha Health Vocational College, Changsha, 410699, China.
| | - Dan-Dan Gui
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Lab for Arteriosclerology 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, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China.
| | - Dang-Heng Wei
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Lab for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China.
| | - Lu-Shan Liu
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Lab for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China.
| | - Guo-Hua Li
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Lab for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China.
| | - Zhi-Han Tang
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Lab for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China.
| | - Wen-Hao Xiong
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Lab for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China.
| | - Heng-Jing Hu
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang City, Hunan Province, 421001, China.
| | - Zhi-Sheng Jiang
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Lab for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China.
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Wang W, Li X, Ning Z. The Study of Endothelial-Mesenchymal Transition in an Atrial Fibrillation Rat Model. Altern Ther Health Med 2024; 30:179-185. [PMID: 37773672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Background Activated fibroblasts are reported partly of endothelial origin, derived through endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndMT). Few studies have investigated EndMT in atrial fibrillation (AF), which may have a potential effect on cardiac fibrosis. Objective To investigate whether EndMT occurs in an animal model of AF. Methods A total of 80 Sprague‒Dawley rats (8 weeks, male, 200-250 g) were randomly divided into two groups: the control group and the AF group (n = 40 in each group). Rats in the AF group received a daily intravenous injection of acetylcholine-calcium chloride for seven days to establish an AF model, and rats in the control rats were injected with saline in the same way. At different time points (Day 3, Day 5, Day 7, Day 9, Day 11, Day 13, Day 15, and Day 17), we observed changes in EndMT-related indexes (CD31, VE-cadherin, FSP-1, TGF-β1 and collagen) and HIF-1α in the rat atria of two groups, as well as immunofluorescence co-expression of CD31/FSP-1 and VE-cadherin/FSP-1 in the endocardial endocardium of the atria. Results In the AF group, atrial EndMT was observed and enhanced with time. Compared with the control group, the levels of CD31 and VE-cadherin in the AF group decreased, while mesenchymal marker (FSP-1) and EndMT inducer (TGF-β1) were dynamically increased after Day 3. The co-expression of CD31/FSP-1 and VE-cadherin/FSP-1 was observed from Day 3 to the end of observation time Day 17 by immunofluorescence in AF rat hearts, indicating the existence of EndMT. In addition, the level of HIF-1α in the hearts of AF rats was increased. Conclusion As far as we know, this is the first study to explore the dynamic process of EndMT in an AF rat model. The presence of EndMT was verified in the atria of the AF rat model, and Day 7-Day 17 was the best observation time point for the model. This may lead to a better understanding of the pathological changes and mechanisms in AF with a short modeling cycle.
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Ning Y, Zhou X, Wang G, Zhang L, Wang J. Exosome miR-30a-5p Regulates Glomerular Endothelial Cells' EndMT and Angiogenesis by Modulating Notch1/VEGF Signaling Pathway. Curr Gene Ther 2024; 24:159-177. [PMID: 37767799 DOI: 10.2174/0115665232258527230919071328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the microvascular complications of diabetes. Endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) and endothelial damage lead to abnormal angiogenesis in DN. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate the role of exosome miR-30a-5p in high glucose (HG)-induced glomerular endothelial cells (GECs) dysfunction and explore the underlying mechanisms. METHODS GECs were cultured in normal glucose (5.5 mM) and HG (30 mM) conditions. The recipient GECs were transfected with exosome or miR-30a-5p mimic/inhibitor and then detected by using CCK-8 and flow cytometry assay. Luciferase analysis was used to verify miR-30a-5p acted on notch homolog protein 1 (Notch1). RT-qPCR and Western blot were used to detect the expression of VE-cadherin, α-SMA, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and Notch1. In vivo, exosome miR-30a-5p was administered to DN mice, and periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining, UTP levels, and HbA1c levels were measured. RESULTS The expression of miR-30a-5p was downregulated in HG-treated GECs. Exosome miR-30a-5p significantly promoted cell proliferation, and migration and reduced apoptosis of GECs under HG conditions. MiR-30a-5p directly targeted the 3-UTR region of Notch1. Exosome miR-30a-5p reduced the expression levels of Notch1 and VEGF, both at mRNA and protein levels. Furthermore, exosome miR-30a-5p inhibited HG-induced EndMT, as evidenced by increased VE-cadherin and reduced α-SMA. In vivo studies demonstrated that exosome miR-30a-5p reduced serum HbA1c levels and 24-hour urine protein quantification. CONCLUSION This study provides evidence that exosome miR-30a-5p suppresses EndMT and abnormal angiogenesis of GECs by modulating the Notch1/VEGF signaling pathway. These findings suggest that exosome miR-30a-5p could be a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of DN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaxian Ning
- Department of Nephrology, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, Gansu, China
| | - Xiaochun Zhou
- Department of Nephrology, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, Gansu, China
| | - Gouqin Wang
- Department of Nephrology, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, Gansu, China
| | - Lili Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, Gansu, China
| | - Jianqin Wang
- Department of Nephrology, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, Gansu, China
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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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