26
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Dyslipidaemias are a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD); in particular, high levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) have been associated to a higher cardiovascular risk. Reducing LDL-C levels decreases the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD), and the greater the LDL-C reduction, the greater the decrease in cardiovascular risk. Although statins represent the first line lipid-lowering therapy, many patients do not reach the recommended goals or exhibit adverse side effects leading to therapy discontinuation; in addition, a significant percentage of statin-treated patients continue to experience cardiovascular events even in the presence of well controlled LDL-C levels, because of alterations in other lipid/lipoprotein classes, including triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. RECENT FINDINGS These conditions require further therapeutic interventions to achieve the recommended lipid goals. Several drugs have been developed to address these needs. Recent studies have shown that the association of ezetimibe with rosuvastatin or atorvastatin results in a better hypolipidaemic effect; in addition to this, PCSK9 inhibitors significantly reduce LDL-C levels and cardiovascular events. SUMMARY For patients who are intolerant to statins or not able to reach the recommended LDL-C levels, despite maximal tolerated dose of statin, or exhibiting additional lipid alterations, several drugs are available that can be used either in monotherapy or on top of the maximally tolerated dose of statins.
Collapse
|
27
|
Kishore M, Cheung KCP, Fu H, Bonacina F, Wang G, Coe D, Ward EJ, Colamatteo A, Jangani M, Baragetti A, Matarese G, Smith DM, Haas R, Mauro C, Wraith DC, Okkenhaug K, Catapano AL, De Rosa V, Norata GD, Marelli-Berg FM. Regulatory T Cell Migration Is Dependent on Glucokinase-Mediated Glycolysis. Immunity 2017; 47:875-889.e10. [PMID: 29166588 PMCID: PMC5714502 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2017.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2016] [Revised: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 10/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Migration of activated regulatory T (Treg) cells to inflamed tissue is crucial for their immune-modulatory function. While metabolic reprogramming during Treg cell differentiation has been extensively studied, the bioenergetics of Treg cell trafficking remains undefined. We have investigated the metabolic demands of migrating Treg cells in vitro and in vivo. We show that glycolysis was instrumental for their migration and was initiated by pro-migratory stimuli via a PI3K-mTORC2-mediated pathway culminating in induction of the enzyme glucokinase (GCK). Subsequently, GCK promoted cytoskeletal rearrangements by associating with actin. Treg cells lacking this pathway were functionally suppressive but failed to migrate to skin allografts and inhibit rejection. Similarly, human carriers of a loss-of-function GCK regulatory protein gene-leading to increased GCK activity-had reduced numbers of circulating Treg cells. These cells displayed enhanced migratory activity but similar suppressive function, while conventional T cells were unaffected. Thus, GCK-dependent glycolysis regulates Treg cell migration.
Collapse
|
28
|
Baragetti A, Garlaschelli K, Bonacina F, Grigore L, Ammirati E, Catapano AL, Norata GD. Effector memory T cells predict atherosclerosis progression and cardiovascular events over 4 years follow-up. Atherosclerosis 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2017.06.197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
29
|
Baragetti A, Balzarotti G, Grigore L, Pellegatta F, Guerrini U, Pisano G, Fracanzani AL, Fargion S, Norata GD, Catapano AL. PCSK9 deficiency results in increased ectopic fat accumulation in experimental models and in humans. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2017; 24:1870-1877. [DOI: 10.1177/2047487317724342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
|
30
|
Ruscica M, Baragetti A, Catapano AL, Norata GD. Translating the biology of adipokines in atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases: Gaps and open questions. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis 2017; 27:379-395. [PMID: 28237179 DOI: 10.1016/j.numecd.2016.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2016] [Revised: 12/14/2016] [Accepted: 12/16/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
AIM Critically discuss the available data, to identify the current gaps and to provide key concepts that will help clinicians in translating the biology of adipokines in the context of atherosclerosis and cardio-metabolic diseases. DATA SYNTHESIS Adipose tissue is nowadays recognized as an active endocrine organ, a function related to the ability to secrete adipokines (such as leptin and adiponectin) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor alpha and resistin). Studies in vitro and in animal models have observed that obesity status presents a chronic low-grade inflammation as the consequence of the immune cells infiltrating the adipose tissue as well as adipocytes. This inflammatory signature is often related to the presence of cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis and thrombosis. These links are less clear in humans, where the role of adipokines as prognostic marker and/or player in cardiovascular diseases is not as clear as that observed in experimental models. Moreover, plasma adipokine levels might reflect a condition of adipokine-resistance in which adipokine redundancy occurs. The investigation of the cardio-metabolic phenotype of carriers of single nucleotide polymorphisms affecting the levels or function of a specific adipokine might help determine their relevance in humans. Thus, the aim of the present review is to critically discuss the available data, identify the current gaps and provide key concepts that will help clinicians translate the biology of adipokines in the context of atherosclerosis and cardio-metabolic diseases.
Collapse
|
31
|
Baragetti A, Norata GD. Long pentraxin PTX3 as a prognostic marker of cardiovascular mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease. Pol Arch Intern Med 2017; 127:152-153. [DOI: 10.20452/pamw.3989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
32
|
Mauro C, Smith J, Cucchi D, Coe D, Fu H, Bonacina F, Baragetti A, Cermenati G, Caruso D, Mitro N, Catapano AL, Ammirati E, Longhi MP, Okkenhaug K, Norata GD, Marelli-Berg FM. Obesity-Induced Metabolic Stress Leads to Biased Effector Memory CD4 + T Cell Differentiation via PI3K p110δ-Akt-Mediated Signals. Cell Metab 2017; 25:593-609. [PMID: 28190771 PMCID: PMC5355363 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2017.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2016] [Revised: 09/29/2016] [Accepted: 01/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Low-grade systemic inflammation associated to obesity leads to cardiovascular complications, caused partly by infiltration of adipose and vascular tissue by effector T cells. The signals leading to T cell differentiation and tissue infiltration during obesity are poorly understood. We tested whether saturated fatty acid-induced metabolic stress affects differentiation and trafficking patterns of CD4+ T cells. Memory CD4+ T cells primed in high-fat diet-fed donors preferentially migrated to non-lymphoid, inflammatory sites, independent of the metabolic status of the hosts. This was due to biased CD4+ T cell differentiation into CD44hi-CCR7lo-CD62Llo-CXCR3+-LFA1+ effector memory-like T cells upon priming in high-fat diet-fed animals. Similar phenotype was observed in obese subjects in a cohort of free-living people. This developmental bias was independent of any crosstalk between CD4+ T cells and dendritic cells and was mediated via direct exposure of CD4+ T cells to palmitate, leading to increased activation of a PI3K p110δ-Akt-dependent pathway upon priming.
Collapse
|
33
|
Baragetti A, Palmen J, Garlaschelli K, Grigore L, Humphries SE, Talmud PJ, Catapano AL, Norata GD. Genetically determined telomeres shortening is associated with carotid atherosclerosis progression and increased incidence of cardiovascular events. Int J Cardiol 2016; 223:43-45. [PMID: 27532233 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2016.08.164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2016] [Accepted: 08/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
|
34
|
Bonacina F, Barbieri SS, Cutuli L, Amadio P, Doni A, Sironi M, Tartari S, Mantovani A, Bottazzi B, Garlanda C, Tremoli E, Catapano AL, Norata GD. Vascular pentraxin 3 controls arterial thrombosis by targeting collagen and fibrinogen induced platelets aggregation. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2016; 1862:1182-90. [PMID: 26976330 PMCID: PMC4856734 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2016.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2015] [Revised: 02/17/2016] [Accepted: 03/10/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Aim The long pentraxin PTX3 plays a non-redundant role during acute myocardial infarction, atherosclerosis and in the orchestration of tissue repair and remodeling during vascular injury, clotting and fibrin deposition. The aim of this work is to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the protective role of PTX3 during arterial thrombosis. Methods and results PTX3 KO mice transplanted with bone marrow from WT or PTX3 KO mice presented a significant reduction in carotid artery blood flow following FeCl3 induced arterial thrombosis (− 80.36 ± 11.5% and − 95.53 ± 4.46%), while in WT mice transplanted with bone marrow from either WT or PTX3 KO mice, the reduction was less dramatic (− 45.55 ± 1.37% and − 53.39 ± 9.8%), thus pointing to a protective effect independent of a hematopoietic cell's derived PTX3. By using P-selectin/PTX3 double KO mice, we further excluded a role for P-selectin, a target of PTX3 released by neutrophils, in vascular protection played by PTX3. In agreement with a minor role for hematopoietic cell-derived PTX3, platelet activation (assessed by flow cytometric expression of markers of platelet activation) was similar in PTX3 KO and WT mice as were haemostatic properties. Histological analysis indicated that PTX3 localizes within the thrombus and the vessel wall, and specific experiments with the N-terminal and the C-terminal PTX3 domain showed the ability of PTX3 to selectively dampen either fibrinogen or collagen induced platelet adhesion and aggregation. Conclusion PTX3 interacts with fibrinogen and collagen and, by dampening their pro-thrombotic effects, plays a protective role during arterial thrombosis. PTX3 deficiency in non-hematopoietic cells results in increased arterial thrombosis. Defects in the PTX3-P-selectin axis are not responsible for increased arterial thrombosis. PTX3 might limit the pro-thrombotic potential of fibrinogen and collagen on platelets adhesion and aggregation.
Collapse
|
35
|
Baragetti A, Pisano G, Bertelli C, Garlaschelli K, Grigore L, Fracanzani AL, Fargion S, Norata GD, Catapano AL. Subclinical atherosclerosis is associated with Epicardial Fat Thickness and hepatic steatosis in the general population. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis 2016; 26:141-153. [PMID: 26777475 DOI: 10.1016/j.numecd.2015.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2015] [Accepted: 10/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Abdominal obesity and hepatic steatosis are ectopic fat depots associated with Metabolic Syndrome (MetS). Epicardial Fat Thickness (EFT) is a newly discovered one, increasing with obesity, insulin resistance and MetS. Therefore we studied whether different ectopic fat markers, and EFT in particular, are associated with MetS and markers of subclinical cardiovascular disease. METHODS AND RESULTS 868 subjects from the PLIC Study were included, EFT, aortic calcifications, carotid Intima-Media Thickness (c-IMT) and echocardiographic parameters were determined by ultrasound; extra-cardiac atherosclerotic lesions were defined in presence of plaques at both carotid and aortic levels. Hepatic steatosis degrees were defined according to a scoring system. Abdominal adiposity was determined using Dual X-ray Absorbimetry (DEXA). Independently from age, women showed higher EFT versus men (4.5 (0.20-9.00) mm vs 4.00 (0.10-8.00) mm, p = 0.013); EFT was thicker in post-menopausal women (independently from hormone-replacement therapy). EFT, liver steatosis and abdominal adiposity increased with MetS (p < 0.001). EFT was the only ectopic fat marker associated with cardiac dysfunction (OR = 1.340 [1.088-1.651 95% C.I., p = 0.006); liver steatosis and EFT were associated with extra-cardiac plaques (OR = 2.529 [1.328-4.819] 95% C.I., p < 0.001 and OR = 1.195 [1.008-1.299] 95% C.I., p = 0.042; respectively). On top of cardiovascular risk factors, only EFT improved the discrimination of subjects with cardiac dysfunction and atherosclerotic plaques. CONCLUSIONS EFT is associated with left ventricular dysfunction and subclinical atherosclerosis. Our data suggest that EFT may represent an additional tool for the stratification of cardiovascular risk.
Collapse
|
36
|
Liao X, Norata GD, Polak JF, Stehouwer CDA, Catapano A, Rundek T, Ezhov M, Sander D, Thompson SG, Lorenz MW, Balakhonova T, Safarova M, Grigore L, Empana JP, Lin HJ, McLachlan S, Bokemark L, Ronkainen K, Schminke U, Lind L, Willeit P, Yanez DN, Steinmetz H, Poppert H, Desvarieux M, Ikram MA, Johnsen SH, Iglseder B, Friera A, Xie W, Plichart M, Su TC, Srinivasan SR, Schmidt C, Tuomainen TP, Völzke H, Nijpels G, Willeit J, Franco OH, Suarez C, Zhao D, Ducimetiere P, Chien KL, Robertson C, Bergström G, Kauhanen J, Dörr M, Dekker JM, Kiechl S, Sitzer M, Bickel H, Sacco RL, Hofman A, Mathiesen EB, Gabriel R, Liu J, Berenson G, Kavousi M, Price JF. Normative values for carotid intima media thickness and its progression: Are they transferrable outside of their cohort of origin? Eur J Prev Cardiol 2016; 23:1165-73. [DOI: 10.1177/2047487315625543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2015] [Accepted: 12/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
37
|
Lorenz MW, Price JF, Robertson C, Bots ML, Polak JF, Poppert H, Kavousi M, Dörr M, Stensland E, Ducimetiere P, Ronkainen K, Kiechl S, Sitzer M, Rundek T, Lind L, Liu J, Bergström G, Grigore L, Bokemark L, Friera A, Yanez D, Bickel H, Ikram MA, Völzke H, Johnsen SH, Empana JP, Tuomainen TP, Willeit P, Steinmetz H, Desvarieux M, Xie W, Schmidt C, Norata GD, Suarez C, Sander D, Hofman A, Schminke U, Mathiesen E, Plichart M, Kauhanen J, Willeit J, Sacco RL, McLachlan S, Zhao D, Fagerberg B, Catapano AL, Gabriel R, Franco OH, Bülbül A, Scheckenbach F, Pflug A, Gao L, Thompson SG. Carotid intima-media thickness progression and risk of vascular events in people with diabetes: results from the PROG-IMT collaboration. Diabetes Care 2015; 38:1921-9. [PMID: 26180107 PMCID: PMC4580609 DOI: 10.2337/dc14-2732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2014] [Accepted: 06/20/2015] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) is a marker of subclinical organ damage and predicts cardiovascular disease (CVD) events in the general population. It has also been associated with vascular risk in people with diabetes. However, the association of CIMT change in repeated examinations with subsequent CVD events is uncertain, and its use as a surrogate end point in clinical trials is controversial. We aimed at determining the relation of CIMT change to CVD events in people with diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS In a comprehensive meta-analysis of individual participant data, we collated data from 3,902 adults (age 33-92 years) with type 2 diabetes from 21 population-based cohorts. We calculated the hazard ratio (HR) per standard deviation (SD) difference in mean common carotid artery intima-media thickness (CCA-IMT) or in CCA-IMT progression, both calculated from two examinations on average 3.6 years apart, for each cohort, and combined the estimates with random-effects meta-analysis. RESULTS Average mean CCA-IMT ranged from 0.72 to 0.97 mm across cohorts in people with diabetes. The HR of CVD events was 1.22 (95% CI 1.12-1.33) per SD difference in mean CCA-IMT, after adjustment for age, sex, and cardiometabolic risk factors. Average mean CCA-IMT progression in people with diabetes ranged between -0.09 and 0.04 mm/year. The HR per SD difference in mean CCA-IMT progression was 0.99 (0.91-1.08). CONCLUSIONS Despite reproducing the association between CIMT level and vascular risk in subjects with diabetes, we did not find an association between CIMT change and vascular risk. These results do not support the use of CIMT progression as a surrogate end point in clinical trials in people with diabetes.
Collapse
|
38
|
Doni A, Musso T, Morone D, Bastone A, Zambelli V, Sironi M, Castagnoli C, Cambieri I, Stravalaci M, Pasqualini F, Laface I, Valentino S, Tartari S, Ponzetta A, Maina V, Barbieri SS, Tremoli E, Catapano AL, Norata GD, Bottazzi B, Garlanda C, Mantovani A. An acidic microenvironment sets the humoral pattern recognition molecule PTX3 in a tissue repair mode. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 212:905-25. [PMID: 25964372 PMCID: PMC4451130 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20141268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2014] [Accepted: 04/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Doni et al. use four tissue damage models in mice and find that the fluid phase pattern recognition molecule pentraxin 3 (PTX3) plays a role in tissue remodeling and repair. PTX3 binds fibrinogen/fibrin and plasminogen at an acidic pH within tissues. Mice deficient in PTX3 present defects in fibrin deposition, clot formation, collagen deposition, and macrophage-mediated fibrinolysis. Pentraxin 3 (PTX3) is a fluid-phase pattern recognition molecule and a key component of the humoral arm of innate immunity. In four different models of tissue damage in mice, PTX3 deficiency was associated with increased fibrin deposition and persistence, and thicker clots, followed by increased collagen deposition, when compared with controls. Ptx3-deficient macrophages showed defective pericellular fibrinolysis in vitro. PTX3-bound fibrinogen/fibrin and plasminogen at acidic pH and increased plasmin-mediated fibrinolysis. The second exon-encoded N-terminal domain of PTX3 recapitulated the activity of the intact molecule. Thus, a prototypic component of humoral innate immunity, PTX3, plays a nonredundant role in the orchestration of tissue repair and remodeling. Tissue acidification resulting from metabolic adaptation during tissue repair sets PTX3 in a tissue remodeling and repair mode, suggesting that matrix and microbial recognition are common, ancestral features of the humoral arm of innate immunity.
Collapse
|
39
|
Baragetti A, Palmen J, Garlaschelli K, Grigore L, Pellegatta F, Tragni E, Catapano AL, Humphries SE, Norata GD, Talmud PJ. Telomere shortening over 6 years is associated with increased subclinical carotid vascular damage and worse cardiovascular prognosis in the general population. J Intern Med 2015; 277:478-87. [PMID: 25040775 DOI: 10.1111/joim.12282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Leucocyte telomere length (LTL) is an important determinant of telomere function and cellular replicative capacity. The aim of the present study was to examine prospectively the associations between telomere shortening (TS) and both the progression of atherosclerosis and the incidence of cardiovascular events (CVEs). MATERIALS AND METHODS Leucocyte telomere length was measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction to determine the ratio of telomere length to single-copy gene (T/S) in 768 subjects (462 female and 306 male) enrolled in a large general population survey [the Progressione della Lesione Intimale Carotidea (PLIC study)]. Common carotid artery intima-media thickness was determined at baseline and after 6 years of follow-up, and the associations between TS and the progression of atherosclerosis and incidence of CVEs were evaluated. RESULTS Mean LTL was 1.25 ± 0.92 T/S (median 1.14) at baseline and 0.70 ± 0.37 T/S (median 0.70) after 6 years of follow-up. Median 6-year LTL change was -0.46 T/S [interquartile range (IQR) -0.57 to 1.06], equating to -0.078 T/S [IQR(-0.092 to 0.176)] per year. Of note, telomere lengthening occurred in 30.4% of subjects. After adjustment for classical cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors (age, gender, smoking, physical activity, alcohol consumption, systolic blood pressure, glucose levels, lipid profile and therapies), TS was associated with incident subclinical carotid vascular damage [hazard ratio (HR) 5.19, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.20-22.4, P = 0.028]. Finally, subjects in whom LTL shortened over time showed an increased risk of incident CVE, compared to those in whom LTL lengthened (HR 1.69, CI 1.02-2.78, P = 0.041). CONCLUSION These data indicate that TS is associated with increased risk of subclinical carotid vascular damage and increased incidence of CVEs beyond CVD risk factors in the general population, whereas LTL lengthening is protective.
Collapse
|
40
|
Garetto S, Trovato AE, Lleo A, Sala F, Martini E, Betz AG, Norata GD, Invernizzi P, Kallikourdis M. Peak inflammation in atherosclerosis, primary biliary cirrhosis and autoimmune arthritis is counter-intuitively associated with regulatory T cell enrichment. Immunobiology 2015; 220:1025-9. [PMID: 25770018 PMCID: PMC4457006 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2015.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2014] [Revised: 02/03/2015] [Accepted: 02/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Treg) influence the development of autoimmunity and their use is increasingly proposed for clinical applications. The well-characterized suppressive potential of Treg frequently leads to the assumption that Treg presence in prevailing numbers is indicative of immunosuppression. We hypothesized that this assumption may be false. We examined models of three different diseases caused by organ-specific autoimmune responses: primary biliary cirrhosis, atherosclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We examined indicators of relative abundance of Treg compared to pro-inflammatory T cells, during peak inflammation. In all cases, the results were compatible with a relative enrichment of Treg at the site of inflammation or its most proximal draining lymph node. Conversely, in healthy mice or mice successfully protected from disease via a Treg-mediated mechanism, the data did not suggest that any Treg accumulation was occurring. This counter-intuitive finding may appear to be at odds with the immunosuppressive nature of Treg. Yet extensive previous studies in RA show that an accumulation of Treg occurs at peak inflammation, albeit without resulting in suppression, as the Treg suppressive function is overcome by the cytokine-rich environment. We suggest that this is a ubiquitous feature of autoimmune inflammation. Treg abundance in patient samples is increasingly used as an indicator of a state of immunosuppression. We conclude that this strategy should be revisited as it may potentially be a source of misinterpretation.
Collapse
|
41
|
Cefalù AB, Norata GD, Ghiglioni DG, Noto D, Uboldi P, Garlaschelli K, Baragetti A, Spina R, Valenti V, Pederiva C, Riva E, Terracciano L, Zoja A, Grigore L, Averna MR, Catapano AL. Homozygous familial hypobetalipoproteinemia: two novel mutations in the splicing sites of apolipoprotein B gene and review of the literature. Atherosclerosis 2015; 239:209-17. [PMID: 25618028 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2015.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2014] [Revised: 12/21/2014] [Accepted: 01/13/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Familial hypobetalipoproteinemia (FHBL) is autosomal codominant disorder of lipoprotein metabolism characterized by low plasma levels of total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) and apolipoprotein B (apoB) below the 5(th) percentile of the distribution in the population. Patients with the clinical diagnosis of homozygous FHBL (Ho-FHBL) are extremely rare and few patients have been characterized at the molecular level. Here we report the medical history and the molecular characterization of one paediatric patient with clinical features of Ho-FHBL. METHODS A one month old infant with failure to thrive, severe hypocholesterolemia and acanthocytosis was clinically and genetically characterized. Molecular characterization of the proband and her parents was performed by direct sequencing of the APOB gene and functional role of the identified mutations was assessed by the minigene methodology. RESULTS The proband was found carrying two novel splicing mutations of the APOB gene (c.3696+1G > C and c.3697-1G > A). CHOK1H8 cells expressing minigenes harbouring the mutations showed that these two mutations were associated with the retention of intron 23 and skipping of exon 24, resulting in two truncated apoB fragments of approximate size of 26-28 % of ApoB-100 and the total absence of apoB. CONCLUSION We describe the first case of Ho-FHBL due to two splicing mutations affecting both the donor and the acceptor splice sites of the same intron of the APOB gene occurring in the same patient. The clinical management of the proband is discussed and a review of the clinical and genetic features of the published Ho-FHBL cases is reported.
Collapse
|
42
|
Willeit P, Thompson SG, Agewall S, Bergström G, Bickel H, Catapano AL, Chien KL, de Groot E, Empana JP, Etgen T, Franco OH, Iglseder B, Johnsen SH, Kavousi M, Lind L, Liu J, Mathiesen EB, Norata GD, Olsen MH, Papagianni A, Poppert H, Price JF, Sacco RL, Yanez DN, Zhao D, Schminke U, Bülbül A, Polak JF, Sitzer M, Hofman A, Grigore L, Dörr M, Su TC, Ducimetière P, Xie W, Ronkainen K, Kiechl S, Rundek T, Robertson C, Fagerberg B, Bokemark L, Steinmetz H, Ikram MA, Völzke H, Lin HJ, Plichart M, Tuomainen TP, Desvarieux M, McLachlan S, Schmidt C, Kauhanen J, Willeit J, Lorenz MW, Sander D. Inflammatory markers and extent and progression of early atherosclerosis: Meta-analysis of individual-participant-data from 20 prospective studies of the PROG-IMT collaboration. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2014; 23:194-205. [PMID: 25416041 DOI: 10.1177/2047487314560664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2014] [Accepted: 10/31/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Large-scale epidemiological evidence on the role of inflammation in early atherosclerosis, assessed by carotid ultrasound, is lacking. We aimed to quantify cross-sectional and longitudinal associations of inflammatory markers with common-carotid-artery intima-media thickness (CCA-IMT) in the general population. METHODS Information on high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, fibrinogen, leucocyte count and CCA-IMT was available in 20 prospective cohort studies of the PROG-IMT collaboration involving 49,097 participants free of pre-existing cardiovascular disease. Estimates of associations were calculated within each study and then combined using random-effects meta-analyses. RESULTS Mean baseline CCA-IMT amounted to 0.74 mm (SD = 0.18) and mean CCA-IMT progression over a mean of 3.9 years to 0.011 mm/year (SD = 0.039). Cross-sectional analyses showed positive linear associations between inflammatory markers and baseline CCA-IMT. After adjustment for traditional cardiovascular risk factors, mean differences in baseline CCA-IMT per one-SD higher inflammatory marker were: 0.0082 mm for high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (p < 0.001); 0.0072 mm for fibrinogen (p < 0.001); and 0.0025 mm for leucocyte count (p = 0.033). 'Inflammatory load', defined as the number of elevated inflammatory markers (i.e. in upper two quintiles), showed a positive linear association with baseline CCA-IMT (p < 0.001). Longitudinal associations of baseline inflammatory markers and changes therein with CCA-IMT progression were null or at most weak. Participants with the highest 'inflammatory load' had a greater CCA-IMT progression (p = 0.015). CONCLUSION Inflammation was independently associated with CCA-IMT cross-sectionally. The lack of clear associations with CCA-IMT progression may be explained by imprecision in its assessment within a limited time period. Our findings for 'inflammatory load' suggest important combined effects of the three inflammatory markers on early atherosclerosis.
Collapse
|
43
|
Demetz E, Schroll A, Auer K, Heim C, Patsch JR, Eller P, Theurl M, Theurl I, Theurl M, Seifert M, Lener D, Stanzl U, Haschka D, Asshoff M, Dichtl S, Nairz M, Huber E, Stadlinger M, Moschen AR, Li X, Pallweber P, Scharnagl H, Stojakovic T, März W, Kleber ME, Garlaschelli K, Uboldi P, Catapano AL, Stellaard F, Rudling M, Kuba K, Imai Y, Arita M, Schuetz JD, Pramstaller PP, Tietge UJF, Trauner M, Norata GD, Claudel T, Hicks AA, Weiss G, Tancevski I. The arachidonic acid metabolome serves as a conserved regulator of cholesterol metabolism. Cell Metab 2014; 20:787-798. [PMID: 25444678 PMCID: PMC4232508 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2014.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2014] [Revised: 08/10/2014] [Accepted: 09/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cholesterol metabolism is closely interrelated with cardiovascular disease in humans. Dietary supplementation with omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids including arachidonic acid (AA) was shown to favorably affect plasma LDL-C and HDL-C. However, the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. By combining data from a GWAS screening in >100,000 individuals of European ancestry, mediator lipidomics, and functional validation studies in mice, we identify the AA metabolome as an important regulator of cholesterol homeostasis. Pharmacological modulation of AA metabolism by aspirin induced hepatic generation of leukotrienes (LTs) and lipoxins (LXs), thereby increasing hepatic expression of the bile salt export pump Abcb11. Induction of Abcb11 translated in enhanced reverse cholesterol transport, one key function of HDL. Further characterization of the bioactive AA-derivatives identified LX mimetics to lower plasma LDL-C. Our results define the AA metabolomeasconserved regulator of cholesterol metabolism, and identify AA derivatives as promising therapeutics to treat cardiovascular disease in humans.
Collapse
|
44
|
Ammirati E, Bozzolo EP, Contri R, Baragetti A, Palini AG, Cianflone D, Banfi M, Uboldi P, Bottoni G, Scotti I, Pirillo A, Grigore L, Garlaschelli K, Monaco C, Catapano AL, Sabbadini MG, Manfredi AA, Norata GD. Cardiometabolic and immune factors associated with increased common carotid artery intima-media thickness and cardiovascular disease in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis 2014; 24:751-759. [PMID: 24787906 DOI: 10.1016/j.numecd.2014.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2013] [Revised: 11/26/2013] [Accepted: 01/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have a higher prevalence of subclinical atherosclerosis and higher risk of cardiovascular (CV) events compared to the general population. The relative contribution of CV-, immune- and disease-related risk factors to accelerated atherogenesis in SLE is unclear. METHODS AND RESULTS Fifty SLE patients with long-lasting disease (mean age 44 ± 10 years, 86% female) and 50 sex- and age-matched control subjects were studied. Common carotid artery intima-media thickness (CCA-IMT) was used as a surrogate marker of atherosclerosis. We evaluated traditional and immune- and disease-related factors, assessed multiple T-cell subsets by 10-parameter-eight-colour polychromatic flow cytometry and addressed the effect of pharmacological therapies on CCA-IMT. In SLE patients, among several cardiometabolic risk factors, only high-density lipoprotein levels (HDL) and their adenosine triphosphate-binding cassette transporter 1 (ABCA-1)-dependent cholesterol efflux capacity were markedly reduced (p < 0.01), whereas the CCA-IMT was significantly increased (p = 0.03) compared to controls. CCA-IMT correlated with systolic blood pressure, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and body mass index (BMI), but not with disease activity and duration. The activated CD4(+)HLA-DR(+) and CCR5(+) T-cell subsets were expanded in SLE patients. Patients under hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) therapy showed lower CCA-IMT (0.62 ± 0.08 vs. 0.68 ± 0.10 mm; p = 0.03) and better risk-factor profile and presented reduced circulating pro-atherogenic effector memory T-cell subsets and a parallel increased percentage of naïve T-cell subsets. CONCLUSION HDL represents the main metabolic parameter altered in SLE patients. The increased CCA-IMT in SLE patients may represent the net result of a process in which 'classic' CV risk factors give a continuous contribution, together with immunological factors (CD4(+)HLA-DR(+) T cells) which, on the contrary, could contribute through flares of activity of various degrees over time. Patients under HCQ therapy present a modified metabolic profile, a reduced T-cell activation associated with decreased subclinical atherosclerosis.
Collapse
|
45
|
Abstract
High-density lipoproteins (HDL) are a target for drug development because of their proposed anti-atherogenic properties. In this review, we will briefly discuss the currently established drugs for increasing HDL-C, namely niacin and fibrates, and some of their limitations. Next, we will focus on novel alternative therapies that are currently being developed for raising HDL-C, such as CETP inhibitors. Finally, we will conclude with a review of novel drugs that are being developed for modulating the function of HDL based on HDL mimetics. Gaps in our knowledge and the challenges that will have to be overcome for these new HDL based therapies will also be discussed.
Collapse
|
46
|
Baragetti A, Knoflach M, Cuccovillo I, Grigore L, Casula M, Garlaschelli K, Mantovani A, Wick G, Kiechl S, Willeit J, Bottazzi B, Catapano AL, Norata GD. Pentraxin 3 (PTX3) plasma levels and carotid intima media thickness progression in the general population. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis 2014; 24:518-523. [PMID: 24462365 DOI: 10.1016/j.numecd.2013.10.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2013] [Revised: 10/11/2013] [Accepted: 10/22/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Pentraxin 3 (PTX3) is an essential component of the humoral arm of innate immunity and, like C-reactive protein, is independently associated with the risk of developing vascular events. Aim of this study was to investigate, in two large population-based surveys, the Bruneck Study and the PLIC Study, whether PTX3 plasma levels predict the progression of common carotid artery intima-media thickness (CCA-IMT), a surrogate marker of atherosclerosis, in the general population during 5 or 6 years of follow-up. RESULTS In the Bruneck Study, PTX3 plasma levels did not predict a faster progression of CCA-IMT either in the carotid artery or in the femoral artery. This finding was confirmed in the PLIC Study where subjects within the highest tertile of PTX3 did not show an increased progression of CCA-IMT. PTX3 plasma levels were also not associated with the fastest maximum IMT progression. In summary, in more than 2400 subjects from the general population, PTX3 plasma level is neither an independent predictor of progression of subclinical atherosclerosis in different arterial territories, including carotid and femoral arteries nor of incident cardiovascular events. CONCLUSION These findings support the relevance of investigating the predictive value of PTX3 plasma levels only in specific settings, like overt CVD, heart failure or acute myocardial infarction.
Collapse
|
47
|
Norata GD, Biava PM, Di Pierro F. The zebrafish embryo derivative affects cell viability of epidermal cells: a possible role in the treatment of psoriasis. GIORN ITAL DERMAT V 2013; 148:479-483. [PMID: 24005140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
In patients affected by psoriasis, use of a topical formula containing a derivative of zebrafish embryos was associated with reduced skin inflammation and dermal turnover, as well as a generally better outcome. In an attempt to understand the molecular mechanisms lying beyond these findings, we investigated the anti-proliferative effects of the zebrafish embryos derivative by addressing the mitochondrial function (MTT assay) and cell nuclei distribution (Hoestch staining). In cell cultures stimulated with fetal calf serum (FCS) or epidermal growth factor (EGF), the zebrafish derivative significantly inhibited cell proliferation induced by either approach, although the effect was stronger in cells stimulated with FCS. These results suggest that the zebrafish embryos derivative may dampen increased cell proliferation; this observation may be relevant to cutaneous pathologies related to altered proliferative mechanisms, including psoriasis.
Collapse
|
48
|
Baragetti A, Norata GD, Sarcina C, Rastelli F, Grigore L, Garlaschelli K, Uboldi P, Baragetti I, Pozzi C, Catapano AL. High density lipoprotein cholesterol levels are an independent predictor of the progression of chronic kidney disease. J Intern Med 2013; 274:252-62. [PMID: 23607805 DOI: 10.1111/joim.12081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) often present with reduced plasma HDL cholesterol (HDL-C) levels. Whether this reduction in an epiphenomenon or is involved in disease progression is unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the relation between HDL-C levels/function and CKD progression in patients with different degrees of disease. DESIGN A total of 176 patients with CKD [glomerular filtration rate (GFR) 50.3 ± 29.1 mL min⁻¹] were recruited and followed for up to 84 months. Lipid profile, metabolic status and kidney function were evaluated at predetermined times. Age-matched control subjects were selected from the PLIC study (n = 453). Scavenger receptor class B member 1 (SR-BI) and ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA-1)-dependent efflux of cholesterol were measured in CKD patients and in age-matched control subjects. RESULTS Low HDL-C levels, diabetes and hypertension were associated with reduced GFR. At follow-up, low HDL-C levels were associated with earlier entry in dialysis or doubling of the plasma creatinine level (P = 0.017); HDL-C levels were the only lipid parameter that affected the progression of CKD (hazard ratio 0.951, 95% confidence interval 0.917-0.986, P = 0.007), independently of the presence of diabetes. Only SR-BI-mediated serum cholesterol efflux was significantly reduced in the group of CKD patients with low HDL-C levels compared to the control group. CONCLUSIONS CKD patients with low levels of plasma HDL-C have a poor prognosis. HDL functionality is also impaired in renal dysfunction. These data support the relevance of HDL in influencing CKD progression.
Collapse
|
49
|
Codd V, Nelson CP, Albrecht E, Mangino M, Deelen J, Buxton JL, Hottenga JJ, Fischer K, Esko T, Surakka I, Broer L, Nyholt DR, Mateo Leach I, Salo P, Hägg S, Matthews MK, Palmen J, Norata GD, O'Reilly PF, Saleheen D, Amin N, Balmforth AJ, Beekman M, de Boer RA, Böhringer S, Braund PS, Burton PR, de Craen AJM, Denniff M, Dong Y, Douroudis K, Dubinina E, Eriksson JG, Garlaschelli K, Guo D, Hartikainen AL, Henders AK, Houwing-Duistermaat JJ, Kananen L, Karssen LC, Kettunen J, Klopp N, Lagou V, van Leeuwen EM, Madden PA, Mägi R, Magnusson PKE, Männistö S, McCarthy MI, Medland SE, Mihailov E, Montgomery GW, Oostra BA, Palotie A, Peters A, Pollard H, Pouta A, Prokopenko I, Ripatti S, Salomaa V, Suchiman HED, Valdes AM, Verweij N, Viñuela A, Wang X, Wichmann HE, Widen E, Willemsen G, Wright MJ, Xia K, Xiao X, van Veldhuisen DJ, Catapano AL, Tobin MD, Hall AS, Blakemore AIF, van Gilst WH, Zhu H, Erdmann J, Reilly MP, Kathiresan S, Schunkert H, Talmud PJ, Pedersen NL, Perola M, Ouwehand W, Kaprio J, Martin NG, van Duijn CM, Hovatta I, Gieger C, Metspalu A, Boomsma DI, Jarvelin MR, Slagboom PE, Thompson JR, Spector TD, van der Harst P, Samani NJ. Identification of seven loci affecting mean telomere length and their association with disease. Nat Genet 2013. [PMID: 23535734 DOI: 10.1038/ng.2528.427-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
Interindividual variation in mean leukocyte telomere length (LTL) is associated with cancer and several age-associated diseases. We report here a genome-wide meta-analysis of 37,684 individuals with replication of selected variants in an additional 10,739 individuals. We identified seven loci, including five new loci, associated with mean LTL (P < 5 × 10(-8)). Five of the loci contain candidate genes (TERC, TERT, NAF1, OBFC1 and RTEL1) that are known to be involved in telomere biology. Lead SNPs at two loci (TERC and TERT) associate with several cancers and other diseases, including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Moreover, a genetic risk score analysis combining lead variants at all 7 loci in 22,233 coronary artery disease cases and 64,762 controls showed an association of the alleles associated with shorter LTL with increased risk of coronary artery disease (21% (95% confidence interval, 5-35%) per standard deviation in LTL, P = 0.014). Our findings support a causal role of telomere-length variation in some age-related diseases.
Collapse
|
50
|
Codd V, Nelson CP, Albrecht E, Mangino M, Deelen J, Buxton JL, Jan Hottenga J, Fischer K, Esko T, Surakka I, Broer L, Nyholt DR, Mateo Leach I, Salo P, Hägg S, Matthews MK, Palmen J, Norata GD, O’Reilly PF, Saleheen D, Amin N, Balmforth AJ, Beekman M, de Boer RA, Böhringer S, Braund PS, Burton PR, de Craen AJM, Denniff M, Dong Y, Douroudis K, Dubinina E, Eriksson JG, Garlaschelli K, Guo D, Hartikainen AL, Henders AK, Houwing-Duistermaat JJ, Kananen L, Karssen LC, Kettunen J, Klopp N, Lagou V, van Leeuwen EM, Madden PA, Mägi R, Magnusson PK, Männistö S, McCarthy MI, Medland SE, Mihailov E, Montgomery GW, Oostra BA, Palotie A, Peters A, Pollard H, Pouta A, Prokopenko I, Ripatti S, Salomaa V, Suchiman HED, Valdes AM, Verweij N, Viñuela A, Wang X, Wichmann HE, Widen E, Willemsen G, Wright MJ, Xia K, Xiao X, van Veldhuisen DJ, Catapano AL, Tobin MD, Hall AS, Blakemore AI, van Gilst WH, Zhu H, Erdmann J, Reilly MP, Kathiresan S, Schunkert H, Talmud PJ, Pedersen NL, Perola M, Ouwehand W, Kaprio J, Martin NG, van Duijn CM, Hovatta I, Gieger C, Metspalu A, Boomsma DI, Jarvelin MR, Slagboom PE, Thompson JR, Spector TD, van der Harst P, Samani NJ. Identification of seven loci affecting mean telomere length and their association with disease. Nat Genet 2013; 45:422-7, 427e1-2. [PMID: 23535734 PMCID: PMC4006270 DOI: 10.1038/ng.2528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 699] [Impact Index Per Article: 63.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2012] [Accepted: 12/19/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Interindividual variation in mean leukocyte telomere length (LTL) is associated with cancer and several age-associated diseases. We report here a genome-wide meta-analysis of 37,684 individuals with replication of selected variants in an additional 10,739 individuals. We identified seven loci, including five new loci, associated with mean LTL (P < 5 × 10(-8)). Five of the loci contain candidate genes (TERC, TERT, NAF1, OBFC1 and RTEL1) that are known to be involved in telomere biology. Lead SNPs at two loci (TERC and TERT) associate with several cancers and other diseases, including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Moreover, a genetic risk score analysis combining lead variants at all 7 loci in 22,233 coronary artery disease cases and 64,762 controls showed an association of the alleles associated with shorter LTL with increased risk of coronary artery disease (21% (95% confidence interval, 5-35%) per standard deviation in LTL, P = 0.014). Our findings support a causal role of telomere-length variation in some age-related diseases.
Collapse
|