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Shah H, Alim S, Akther S, Irfan M, Rahmatova J, Arshad A, Kok CHP, Zahra SA. Update on cardiac imaging: A critical analysis. CLINICA E INVESTIGACION EN ARTERIOSCLEROSIS : PUBLICACION OFICIAL DE LA SOCIEDAD ESPANOLA DE ARTERIOSCLEROSIS 2024; 36:304-313. [PMID: 38594128 DOI: 10.1016/j.arteri.2024.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Imaging is instrumental in diagnosing and directing the management of atherosclerosis. In 1958 the first diagnostic coronary angiography (CA) was performed, and since then further development has led to new methods such as coronary CT angiography (CTA), optical coherence tomography (OCT), positron tomography (PET), and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS). Currently, CA remains powerful for visualizing coronary arteries; however, recent studies show the benefits of using other non-invasive techniques. This review identifies optimum imaging techniques for diagnosing and monitoring plaque stability. This becomes even direr now, given the rapidly rising incidence of atherosclerosis in society today. Many acute coronary events, including acute myocardial infarctions and sudden deaths, are attributable to plaque rupture. Although fatal, these events can be preventable. We discuss the factors affecting plaque integrity, such as increased inflammation, medications like statins, and increased lipid content. Some of these precipitating factors are identifiable through imaging. However, we also highlight significant complications arising in some modalities; in CA this can include ventricular arrhythmia and even death. Extending this, we elucidated from the literature that risk can also vary based on the location of arteries and their plaques. Promisingly, there are less invasive methods being trialled for assessing plaque stability, such as Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (CMR), which is already in use for other cardiac diseases like cardiomyopathies. Therefore, future research focusing on using imaging modalities in conjunction may be sensible, to bridge between the effectiveness of modalities, at the expense of increased complications, and vice versa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halia Shah
- St George's, University of London Medical School, United Kingdom
| | - Samina Alim
- St George's, University of London Medical School, United Kingdom
| | - Sonia Akther
- University of Leeds Medical School, United Kingdom
| | - Mahnoor Irfan
- St George's, University of London Medical School, United Kingdom
| | - Jamolbi Rahmatova
- Pilgrim Hospital, United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust, United Kingdom
| | - Aneesa Arshad
- St George's, University of London Medical School, United Kingdom
| | | | - Syeda Anum Zahra
- Imperial College School of Medicine, United Kingdom; The Hillingdon Hospital NHS Trust, United Kingdom.
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2
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Efentakis P, Varela A, Lamprou S, Papanagnou ED, Chatzistefanou M, Christodoulou A, Davos CH, Gavriatopoulou M, Trougakos I, Dimopoulos MA, Terpos E, Andreadou I. Implications and hidden toxicity of cardiometabolic syndrome and early-stage heart failure in carfilzomib-induced cardiotoxicity. Br J Pharmacol 2024; 181:2964-2990. [PMID: 38679957 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Cancer therapy-related cardiovascular adverse events (CAEs) in presence of comorbidities, are in the spotlight of the cardio-oncology guidelines. Carfilzomib (Cfz), indicated for relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (MM), presents with serious CAEs. MM is often accompanied with co-existing comorbidities. However, Cfz use in MM patients with cardiometabolic syndrome (CMS) or in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), is questionable. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH ApoE-/- and C57BL6/J male mice received 14 weeks Western Diet (WD) (CMS models). C57BL6/J male mice underwent permanent LAD ligation for 14 days (early-stage HFrEF model). CMS- and HFrEF-burdened mice received Cfz for two consecutive or six alternate days. Daily metformin and atorvastatin administrations were performed additionally to Cfz, as prophylactic interventions. Mice underwent echocardiography, while proteasome activity, biochemical and molecular analyses were conducted. KEY RESULTS CMS did not exacerbate Cfz left ventricular (LV) dysfunction, whereas Cfz led to metabolic complications in both CMS models. Cfz induced autophagy and Ca2+ homeostasis dysregulation, whereas metformin and atorvastatin prevented Cfz-mediated LV dysfunction and molecular deficits in the CMS-burdened myocardium. Early-stage HFrEF led to depressed LV function and increased protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) activity. Cfz further increased myocardial PP2A activity, inflammation and Ca2+-cycling dysregulation. Metformin co-administration exerted an anti-inflammatory potential on the myocardium without improving LV function. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS CMS and HFrEF seem to exacerbate Cfz-induced CAEs, by presenting metabolism-related hidden toxicity and PP2A-related cardiac inflammation, respectively. Metformin retains its prophylactic potential in the presence of CMS, while mitigating inflammation and Ca2+ signalling dysregulation in the HFrEF myocardium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Efentakis
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Aimilia Varela
- Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Sofia Lamprou
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Michail Chatzistefanou
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Andriana Christodoulou
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Maria Gavriatopoulou
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, Plasma Cell Dyscrasias Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - Ioannis Trougakos
- Department of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Meletios Athanasios Dimopoulos
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, Plasma Cell Dyscrasias Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelos Terpos
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, Plasma Cell Dyscrasias Unit, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - Ioanna Andreadou
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Vuong TNAM, Bartolf‐Kopp M, Andelovic K, Jungst T, Farbehi N, Wise SG, Hayward C, Stevens MC, Rnjak‐Kovacina J. Integrating Computational and Biological Hemodynamic Approaches to Improve Modeling of Atherosclerotic Arteries. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2307627. [PMID: 38704690 PMCID: PMC11234431 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202307627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is the primary cause of cardiovascular disease, resulting in mortality, elevated healthcare costs, diminished productivity, and reduced quality of life for individuals and their communities. This is exacerbated by the limited understanding of its underlying causes and limitations in current therapeutic interventions, highlighting the need for sophisticated models of atherosclerosis. This review critically evaluates the computational and biological models of atherosclerosis, focusing on the study of hemodynamics in atherosclerotic coronary arteries. Computational models account for the geometrical complexities and hemodynamics of the blood vessels and stenoses, but they fail to capture the complex biological processes involved in atherosclerosis. Different in vitro and in vivo biological models can capture aspects of the biological complexity of healthy and stenosed vessels, but rarely mimic the human anatomy and physiological hemodynamics, and require significantly more time, cost, and resources. Therefore, emerging strategies are examined that integrate computational and biological models, and the potential of advances in imaging, biofabrication, and machine learning is explored in developing more effective models of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael Bartolf‐Kopp
- Department of Functional Materials in Medicine and DentistryInstitute of Functional Materials and Biofabrication (IFB)KeyLab Polymers for Medicine of the Bavarian Polymer Institute (BPI)University of WürzburgPleicherwall 297070WürzburgGermany
| | - Kristina Andelovic
- Department of Functional Materials in Medicine and DentistryInstitute of Functional Materials and Biofabrication (IFB)KeyLab Polymers for Medicine of the Bavarian Polymer Institute (BPI)University of WürzburgPleicherwall 297070WürzburgGermany
| | - Tomasz Jungst
- Department of Functional Materials in Medicine and DentistryInstitute of Functional Materials and Biofabrication (IFB)KeyLab Polymers for Medicine of the Bavarian Polymer Institute (BPI)University of WürzburgPleicherwall 297070WürzburgGermany
- Department of Orthopedics, Regenerative Medicine Center UtrechtUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUtrecht3584Netherlands
| | - Nona Farbehi
- Graduate School of Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of New South WalesSydney2052Australia
- Tyree Institute of Health EngineeringUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSW2052Australia
- Garvan Weizmann Center for Cellular GenomicsGarvan Institute of Medical ResearchSydneyNSW2010Australia
| | - Steven G. Wise
- School of Medical SciencesUniversity of SydneySydneyNSW2006Australia
| | - Christopher Hayward
- St Vincent's HospitalSydneyVictor Chang Cardiac Research InstituteSydney2010Australia
| | | | - Jelena Rnjak‐Kovacina
- Graduate School of Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of New South WalesSydney2052Australia
- Tyree Institute of Health EngineeringUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSW2052Australia
- Australian Centre for NanoMedicine (ACN)University of New South WalesSydneyNSW2052Australia
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4
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Huang YW, Luo F, Zhang M, Wang L, Meng W, Hu D, Yang J, Sheng J, Wang X. 20( S )-Protopanaxatriol Improves Atherosclerosis by Inhibiting Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor Degradation in ApoE KO Mice. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2024; 84:45-57. [PMID: 38922585 PMCID: PMC11230660 DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0000000000001566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Atherosclerosis (AS) is a chronic progressive disease caused by various factors and causes various cerebrovascular and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Reducing the plasma levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol is the primary goal in preventing and treating AS. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) plays a crucial role in regulating low-density lipoprotein cholesterol metabolism. Panax notoginseng has potent lipid-reducing effects and protects against CVDs, and its saponins induce vascular dilatation, inhibit thrombus formation, and are used in treating CVDs. However, the anti-AS effect of the secondary metabolite, 20( S )-protopanaxatriol (20( S )-PPT), remains unclear. In this study, the anti-AS effect and molecular mechanism of 20( S )-PPT were investigated in vivo and in vitro by Western blotting, real-time polymerase chain reaction, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, immunofluorescence staining, and other assays. The in vitro experiments revealed that 20( S )-PPT reduced the levels of PCSK9 in the supernatant of HepG2 cells, upregulated low-density lipoprotein receptor protein levels, promoted low-density lipoprotein uptake by HepG2 cells, and reduced PCSK9 mRNA transcription by upregulating the levels of forkhead box O3 protein and mRNA and decreasing the levels of HNF1α and SREBP2 protein and mRNA. The in vivo experiments revealed that 20( S )-PPT upregulated aortic α-smooth muscle actin expression, increased the stability of atherosclerotic plaques, and reduced aortic plaque formation induced by a high-cholesterol diet in ApoE -/- mice (high-cholesterol diet-fed group). Additionally, 20( S )-PPT reduced the aortic expression of CD68, reduced inflammation in the aortic root, and alleviated the hepatic lesions in the high-cholesterol diet-fed group. The study revealed that 20( S )-PPT inhibited low-density lipoprotein receptor degradation via PCSK9 to alleviate AS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye-wei Huang
- Key Laboratory of Pu-er Tea Science, Ministry of Education, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China
| | - Fang Luo
- Key Laboratory of Pu-er Tea Science, Ministry of Education, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China
- College of Food Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Pu-er Tea Science, Ministry of Education, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China
- College of Life and Environment Science, Huangshan University, Huangshan, China
| | - Litian Wang
- Key Laboratory of Pu-er Tea Science, Ministry of Education, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China
- College of Food Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China
| | - WenLuer Meng
- Key Laboratory of Pu-er Tea Science, Ministry of Education, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China
- College of Food Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China
| | - Dandan Hu
- Key Laboratory of Pu-er Tea Science, Ministry of Education, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China
- College of Science, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China
| | - Jinbo Yang
- Key Laboratory of Pu-er Tea Science, Ministry of Education, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China
- College of Food Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China
| | - Jun Sheng
- Key Laboratory of Pu-er Tea Science, Ministry of Education, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, Kunming, China; and
| | - Xuanjun Wang
- School of Chinese Materia Medical and Yunnan Key Laboratory of Southern Medicinal Resource, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, China
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5
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Deng X, Wang J, Yu S, Tan S, Yu T, Xu Q, Chen N, Zhang S, Zhang M, Hu K, Xiao Z. Advances in the treatment of atherosclerosis with ligand-modified nanocarriers. EXPLORATION (BEIJING, CHINA) 2024; 4:20230090. [PMID: 38939861 PMCID: PMC11189587 DOI: 10.1002/exp.20230090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis, a chronic disease associated with metabolism, poses a significant risk to human well-being. Currently, existing treatments for atherosclerosis lack sufficient efficiency, while the utilization of surface-modified nanoparticles holds the potential to deliver highly effective therapeutic outcomes. These nanoparticles can target and bind to specific receptors that are abnormally over-expressed in atherosclerotic conditions. This paper reviews recent research (2018-present) advances in various ligand-modified nanoparticle systems targeting atherosclerosis by specifically targeting signature molecules in the hope of precise treatment at the molecular level and concludes with a discussion of the challenges and prospects in this field. The intention of this review is to inspire novel concepts for the design and advancement of targeted nanomedicines tailored specifically for the treatment of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiujiao Deng
- Department of PharmacyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan UniversityGuangzhouChina
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Research on Chronic DiseasesJinan UniversityGuangzhouChina
- Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical SciencesSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Jinghao Wang
- Department of PharmacyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan UniversityGuangzhouChina
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Research on Chronic DiseasesJinan UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Shanshan Yu
- Department of PharmacyZhujiang HospitalSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Suiyi Tan
- Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical SciencesSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Tingting Yu
- Department of PharmacyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan UniversityGuangzhouChina
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Research on Chronic DiseasesJinan UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Qiaxin Xu
- Department of PharmacyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan UniversityGuangzhouChina
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Research on Chronic DiseasesJinan UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Nenghua Chen
- Department of PharmacyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan UniversityGuangzhouChina
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Research on Chronic DiseasesJinan UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Siqi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Ming‐Rong Zhang
- Department of Advanced Nuclear Medicine Sciences, Institute of Quantum Medical, ScienceNational Institutes for Quantum Science and TechnologyChibaJapan
| | - Kuan Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
- Department of Advanced Nuclear Medicine Sciences, Institute of Quantum Medical, ScienceNational Institutes for Quantum Science and TechnologyChibaJapan
| | - Zeyu Xiao
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Research on Chronic DiseasesJinan UniversityGuangzhouChina
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Imaging for Clinical TranslationJinan UniversityGuangzhouChina
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6
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Xin Y, Zhang Z, Lv S, Xu S, Liu A, Li H, Li P, Han H, Liu Y. Elucidating VSMC phenotypic transition mechanisms to bridge insights into cardiovascular disease implications. Front Cardiovasc Med 2024; 11:1400780. [PMID: 38803664 PMCID: PMC11128571 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2024.1400780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death worldwide, despite advances in understanding cardiovascular health. Significant barriers still exist in effectively preventing and managing these diseases. Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are crucial for maintaining vascular integrity and can switch between contractile and synthetic functions in response to stimuli such as hypoxia and inflammation. These transformations play a pivotal role in the progression of cardiovascular diseases, facilitating vascular modifications and disease advancement. This article synthesizes the current understanding of the mechanisms and signaling pathways regulating VSMC phenotypic transitions, highlighting their potential as therapeutic targets in cardiovascular disease interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuning Xin
- Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Zipei Zhang
- Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Shan Lv
- Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital to Changchun University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Shan Xu
- Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital to Changchun University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Aidong Liu
- Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Hongyu Li
- Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Pengfei Li
- Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital to Changchun University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Huize Han
- Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Yinghui Liu
- Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
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7
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Trinh J, Shin J, Rai V, Agrawal DK. Targeting Oncostatin M Receptor to Attenuate Carotid Artery Plaque Vulnerability in Hypercholesterolemic Microswine. CARDIOLOGY AND CARDIOVASCULAR MEDICINE 2024; 8:206-214. [PMID: 38817407 PMCID: PMC11138392 DOI: 10.26502/fccm.92920380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease that leads to acute embolism via the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. Plaque formation is first induced by fatty deposition along the arterial intima. Inflammation, bacterial infection, and the released endotoxins can lead to dysfunction and phenotypic changes of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), advancing the plaque from stable to unstable form and prone to rupture. Stable plaques are characterized by increased VSMCs and less inflammation while vulnerable plaques develop due to chronic inflammation and less VSMCs. Oncostatin M (OSM), an inflammatory cytokine, plays a role in endothelial cells and VSMC proliferation. This effect of OSM could be modulated by p27KIP1, a cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitor. However, the role of OSM in plaque vulnerability has not been investigated. To better understand the role of OSM and its downstream signaling including p27KIP1 in plaque vulnerability, we characterized the previously collected carotid arteries from hyperlipidemic Yucatan microswine using hematoxylin and eosin stain, Movat Pentachrome stain, and gene and protein expression of OSM and p27KIP1 using immunostaining and real-time polymerase chain reaction. OSM and p27KIP1 expression in carotid arteries with angioplasty and treatment with either scrambled peptide or LR12, an inhibitor of triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cell (TREM)-1, were compared between the experimental groups and with contralateral carotid artery. The results of this study elucidated the presence of OSM and p27KIP1 in carotid arteries with plaque and their association with arterial plaque and vulnerability. The findings suggest that targeting OSM and p27KIP1 axis regulating VSMC proliferation may have therapeutic significance to stabilize plaque.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerry Trinh
- Department of Translational Research, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, California 91763, USA
| | - Jennifer Shin
- Department of Translational Research, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, California 91763, USA
| | - Vikrant Rai
- Department of Translational Research, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, California 91763, USA
| | - Devendra K Agrawal
- Department of Translational Research, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, California 91763, USA
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Zhou ZY, Wu L, Liu YF, Tang MY, Tang JY, Deng YQ, Liu L, Nie BB, Zou ZK, Huang L. IRE1α: from the function to the potential therapeutic target in atherosclerosis. Mol Cell Biochem 2024; 479:1079-1092. [PMID: 37310588 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-023-04780-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Inositol requiring enzyme 1 (IRE1) is generally thought to control the most conserved pathway in the unfolded protein response (UPR). Two isoforms of IRE1, IRE1α and IRE1β, have been reported in mammals. IRE1α is a ubiquitously expressed protein whose knockout shows marked lethality. In contrast, the expression of IRE1β is exclusively restricted in the epithelial cells of the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts, and IRE1β-knockout mice are phenotypically normal. As research continues to deepen, IRE1α was showed to be tightly linked to inflammation, lipid metabolism regulation, cell death and so on. Growing evidence also suggests an important role for IRE1α in promoting atherosclerosis (AS) progression and acute cardiovascular events through disrupting lipid metabolism balance, facilitating cells apoptosis, accelerating inflammatory responses and promoting foam cell formation. In addition, IRE1α was recognized as novel potential therapeutic target in AS prevention. This review provides some clues about the relationship between IRE1α and AS, hoping to contribute to further understanding roles of IRE1α in atherogenesis and to be helpful for the design of novel efficacious therapeutics agents targeting IRE1α-related pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng-Yang Zhou
- The Laboratory of Translational Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Wu
- The Laboratory of Translational Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi-Fan Liu
- The Laboratory of Translational Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Mu-Yao Tang
- The Laboratory of Translational Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing-Yi Tang
- The Laboratory of Translational Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Ya-Qian Deng
- The Laboratory of Translational Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Liu
- The Laboratory of Translational Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin-Bin Nie
- The Laboratory of Translational Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Zi-Kai Zou
- The Laboratory of Translational Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang Huang
- The Laboratory of Translational Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
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9
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Szukiewicz D. CX3CL1 (Fractalkine)-CX3CR1 Axis in Inflammation-Induced Angiogenesis and Tumorigenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4679. [PMID: 38731899 PMCID: PMC11083509 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The chemotactic cytokine fractalkine (FKN, chemokine CX3CL1) has unique properties resulting from the combination of chemoattractants and adhesion molecules. The soluble form (sFKN) has chemotactic properties and strongly attracts T cells and monocytes. The membrane-bound form (mFKN) facilitates diapedesis and is responsible for cell-to-cell adhesion, especially by promoting the strong adhesion of leukocytes (monocytes) to activated endothelial cells with the subsequent formation of an extracellular matrix and angiogenesis. FKN signaling occurs via CX3CR1, which is the only known member of the CX3C chemokine receptor subfamily. Signaling within the FKN-CX3CR1 axis plays an important role in many processes related to inflammation and the immune response, which often occur simultaneously and overlap. FKN is strongly upregulated by hypoxia and/or inflammation-induced inflammatory cytokine release, and it may act locally as a key angiogenic factor in the highly hypoxic tumor microenvironment. The importance of the FKN/CX3CR1 signaling pathway in tumorigenesis and cancer metastasis results from its influence on cell adhesion, apoptosis, and cell migration. This review presents the role of the FKN signaling pathway in the context of angiogenesis in inflammation and cancer. The mechanisms determining the pro- or anti-tumor effects are presented, which are the cause of the seemingly contradictory results that create confusion regarding the therapeutic goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dariusz Szukiewicz
- Department of Biophysics, Physiology & Pathophysiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-004 Warsaw, Poland
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10
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Trinh J, Shin J, Rai V, Agrawal DK. Therapeutic Potential of Targeting p27 kip1 in Plaque Vulnerability. ARCHIVES OF INTERNAL MEDICINE RESEARCH 2024; 7:73-79. [PMID: 38737892 PMCID: PMC11087066 DOI: 10.26502/aimr.0167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis, a critical contributor to coronary artery diseases, involves the accumulation of cholesterol, fibrin, and lipids within arterial walls, inciting inflammatory reactions culminating in plaque formation. This multifaceted interplay encompasses excessive fibrosis, fatty plaque development, vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation, and leukocyte migration in response to inflammatory pathways. While stable plaques demonstrate resilience against complications, vulnerable ones, with lipid-rich cores, necrosis, and thin fibrous caps, lead to thrombosis, myocardial infarction, stroke, and acute cerebrovascular accidents. The nuanced phenotypes of VSMCs, modulated by gene regulation and environmental cues, remain pivotal. Essential markers like alpha-SMA, myosin heavy chain, and calponin regulate VSMC migration and contraction, exhibiting diminished expression during VSMC de-differentiation and proliferation. p27kip, a CDK inhibitor, shows promise in regulating VSMC proliferation and appears associated with TNF-α-induced pathways impacting unstable plaques. Oncostatin M (OSM), an IL-6 family cytokine, correlates with MMP upregulation and foam cell formation, influencing plaque development. Efforts targeting mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibition, notably using rapamycin and its analogs, demonstrate potential but pose challenges due to associated adverse effects. Exploration of the impact of p27kip impact on plaque macrophages presents promising avenues, yet its complete therapeutic potential remains untapped. Similarly, while OSM has exhibited potential in inducing cell cycle arrest via p27kip, direct links necessitate further investigation. This critical review discusses the role of mTOR, p27kip, and OSM in VSMC proliferation and differentiation followed by the therapeutic potential of targeting these mediators in atherosclerosis to attenuate plaque vulnerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerry Trinh
- Department of Translational Research, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona CA 91766, USA
| | - Jennifer Shin
- Department of Translational Research, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona CA 91766, USA
| | - Vikrant Rai
- Department of Translational Research, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona CA 91766, USA
| | - Devendra K Agrawal
- Department of Translational Research, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona CA 91766, USA
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11
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Wang C, Liu Y, Huan W, Wu J, Jin J, Zou S, Chen Y, Qu L. YKL40 potentially via activating the P38 pathway in decreasing atherosclerotic plaque stability. Chin Med J (Engl) 2024; 137:1003-1005. [PMID: 38533556 PMCID: PMC11046017 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000003038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Chao Wang
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Changzheng Hospital Affiliated to the Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Yandong Liu
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Changzheng Hospital Affiliated to the Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
- Department of Emergency, Navy 905th Hospital, Shanghai 200050, China
| | - Wei Huan
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Changzheng Hospital Affiliated to the Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Jianjin Wu
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Changzheng Hospital Affiliated to the Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Jie Jin
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Changzheng Hospital Affiliated to the Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Sili Zou
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Changzheng Hospital Affiliated to the Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Clinical Research Institute of Integrative Medicine, Yueyang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200437, China
| | - Lefeng Qu
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Changzheng Hospital Affiliated to the Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
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12
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Park JY, Kim HJ, Chae JR, Cho YL, Kang WJ. Preclinical evaluation of an 18F-labeled Tenascin-C aptamer for PET imaging of atherosclerotic plaque in mouse models of atherosclerosis. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 703:149650. [PMID: 38377941 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.149650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Tenascin-C is an extracellular matrix glycoprotein strongly expressed in coronary atherosclerotic plaque. Aptamers are single-stranded oligonucleotides that bind to specific target molecules with high affinity. This study hypothesized that tenascin-C expression at atherosclerotic plaque in vivo could be detected by tenascin-C specific aptamers using positron emission tomography (PET). This paper reports the radiosynthesis of a fluorine-18 (18F)-labeled tenascin-C aptamer for the biodistribution and PET imaging of the tenascin-C expression in apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE-/-) mice. The aortas ApoE-/- mice showed significantly increased positive areas of Oil red O staining than control C57BL/6 mice, and tenascin-C expression was detected in foam cells accumulated in the subendothelial lesions of ApoE-/- mice. The ex vivo biodistribution of the 18F-labeled tenascin-C aptamer showed significantly increased uptake at the aorta of ApoE-/- mice, and ex vivo autoradiography of aorta revealed the high accumulation of the 18F-labeled tenascin-C aptamer in the atherosclerotic lesions of ApoE-/- mice, which was consistent with the location of the atherosclerotic plaques detected by Oil red O staining. PET imaging of the 18F-labeled tenascin-C aptamer revealed a significantly higher mean standardized uptake in the aorta of the ApoE-/- mice than the control C57BL/6 mice. These data highlight the potential use of tenascin-C aptamer to diagnose atherosclerotic lesions in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Young Park
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Jeong Kim
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Yongin Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 363 Dongbaekjukjeon-daero, Giheung-gu, Yongin, 16995, Republic of Korea
| | - Ju Ri Chae
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Ye Lim Cho
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Jun Kang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea.
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13
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Zhang T, Cao RJ, Niu JL, Chen ZH, Mu SQ, Cao T, Pang JX, Dong LH. G6PD maintains the VSMC synthetic phenotype and accelerates vascular neointimal hyperplasia by inhibiting the VDAC1-Bax-mediated mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2024; 29:47. [PMID: 38589823 PMCID: PMC11003121 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-024-00566-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) plays an important role in vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) phenotypic switching, which is an early pathogenic event in various vascular remodeling diseases (VRDs). However, the underlying mechanism is not fully understood. METHODS An IP‒LC‒MS/MS assay was conducted to identify new binding partners of G6PD involved in the regulation of VSMC phenotypic switching under platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) stimulation. Co-IP, GST pull-down, and immunofluorescence colocalization were employed to clarify the interaction between G6PD and voltage-dependent anion-selective channel protein 1 (VDAC1). The molecular mechanisms involved were elucidated by examining the interaction between VDAC1 and apoptosis-related biomarkers, as well as the oligomerization state of VDAC1. RESULTS The G6PD level was significantly elevated and positively correlated with the synthetic characteristics of VSMCs induced by PDGF-BB. We identified VDAC1 as a novel G6PD-interacting molecule essential for apoptosis. Specifically, the G6PD-NTD region was found to predominantly contribute to this interaction. G6PD promotes VSMC survival and accelerates vascular neointimal hyperplasia by inhibiting VSMC apoptosis. Mechanistically, G6PD interacts with VDAC1 upon stimulation with PDGF-BB. By competing with Bax for VDAC1 binding, G6PD reduces VDAC1 oligomerization and counteracts VDAC1-Bax-mediated apoptosis, thereby accelerating neointimal hyperplasia. CONCLUSION Our study showed that the G6PD-VDAC1-Bax axis is a vital switch in VSMC apoptosis and is essential for VSMC phenotypic switching and neointimal hyperplasia, providing mechanistic insight into early VRDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Cardiovascular Medical Science Center, Key Laboratory of Vascular Biology of Hebei Province, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050011, China
| | - Rui-Jie Cao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Cardiovascular Medical Science Center, Key Laboratory of Vascular Biology of Hebei Province, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China
| | - Jiang-Ling Niu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Cardiovascular Medical Science Center, Key Laboratory of Vascular Biology of Hebei Province, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China
| | - Zhi-Huan Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Cardiovascular Medical Science Center, Key Laboratory of Vascular Biology of Hebei Province, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China
| | - Shi-Qing Mu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Cardiovascular Medical Science Center, Key Laboratory of Vascular Biology of Hebei Province, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China
| | - Tong Cao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Cardiovascular Medical Science Center, Key Laboratory of Vascular Biology of Hebei Province, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China
| | - Jie-Xin Pang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Cardiovascular Medical Science Center, Key Laboratory of Vascular Biology of Hebei Province, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China
| | - Li-Hua Dong
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Cardiovascular Medical Science Center, Key Laboratory of Vascular Biology of Hebei Province, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China.
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14
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Sun J, Wang M, Jia F, Song J, Ren J, Hu B. FTO Stabilizes MIS12 to Inhibit Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Senescence in Atherosclerotic Plaque. J Inflamm Res 2024; 17:1857-1871. [PMID: 38523689 PMCID: PMC10961024 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s447379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Atherosclerosis is the main cause of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD). Here, we aimed to uncover the role and mechanisms of fat mass and obesity-associated genes (FTO) in the regulation of vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) senescence in atherosclerotic plaques. Methods ApoE-/- mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD) were used to establish an atherosclerotic animal model. Immunohistochemistry, and the staining of hematoxylin-eosin, Oil Red O, Sirius red, and Masson were performed to confirm the role of FTO in atherosclerosis in vivo. Subsequently, FTO expression in primary VSMCs is either upregulated or downregulated. Oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) was used to treat VSMCs, followed by EdU staining, flow cytometry, senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) staining, immunofluorescence, telomere detection, RT-qPCR, and Western blotting to determine the molecular mechanisms by which FTO inhibits VSMC senescence. Results Decreased FTO expression was observed in progressive atherosclerotic plaques of ApoE-/- mice fed with HFD. FTO upregulation inhibits atherosclerotic lesions in mice. FTO inhibits VSMC aging in atherosclerotic plaques by helping VSMC withstand ox-LDL-induced cell cycle arrest and senescence. This process is achieved by stabilizing the MIS12 protein in VSMC through a proteasome-mediated pathway. Conclusion FTO inhibits VSMC senescence and subsequently slows the progression of atherosclerotic plaques by stabilizing the MIS12 protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingzhao Sun
- Department of Emergency, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mengqi Wang
- Department of Emergency, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fengming Jia
- Department of Emergency, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiantao Song
- Department of Emergency, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jinlin Ren
- Department of Emergency, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bo Hu
- Department of Emergency, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, People’s Republic of China
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15
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Paloschi V, Pauli J, Winski G, Wu Z, Li Z, Botti L, Meucci S, Conti P, Rogowitz F, Glukha N, Hummel N, Busch A, Chernogubova E, Jin H, Sachs N, Eckstein HH, Dueck A, Boon RA, Bausch AR, Maegdefessel L. Utilization of an Artery-on-a-Chip to Unravel Novel Regulators and Therapeutic Targets in Vascular Diseases. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2302907. [PMID: 37797407 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202302907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
In this study, organ-on-chip technology is used to develop an in vitro model of medium-to-large size arteries, the artery-on-a-chip (AoC), with the objective to recapitulate the structure of the arterial wall and the relevant hemodynamic forces affecting luminal cells. AoCs exposed either to in vivo-like shear stress values or kept in static conditions are assessed to generate a panel of novel genes modulated by shear stress. Considering the crucial role played by shear stress alterations in carotid arteries affected by atherosclerosis (CAD) and abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) disease development/progression, a patient cohort of hemodynamically relevant specimens is utilized, consisting of diseased and non-diseased (internal control) vessel regions from the same patient. Genes activated by shear stress follow the same expression pattern in non-diseased segments of human vessels. Single cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) enables to discriminate the unique cell subpopulations between non-diseased and diseased vessel portions, revealing an enrichment of flow activated genes in structural cells originating from non-diseased specimens. Furthermore, the AoC served as a platform for drug-testing. It reproduced the effects of a therapeutic agent (lenvatinib) previously used in preclinical AAA studies, therefore extending the understanding of its therapeutic effect through a multicellular structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Paloschi
- Department for Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Technical University of Munich, 80333, Munich, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research DZHK, Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, 80336, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jessica Pauli
- Department for Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Technical University of Munich, 80333, Munich, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research DZHK, Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, 80336, Berlin, Germany
| | - Greg Winski
- Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Unit, Karolinska Institute, 171 77, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Zhiyuan Wu
- Department for Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Technical University of Munich, 80333, Munich, Germany
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, 10073, P. R. China
| | - Zhaolong Li
- Department for Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Technical University of Munich, 80333, Munich, Germany
| | - Lorenzo Botti
- Department of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, 24129, Italy
| | - Sandro Meucci
- Micronit Microtechnologies, Enschede, 15 7521, The Netherlands
| | - Pierangelo Conti
- Department of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, 24129, Italy
| | | | - Nadiya Glukha
- Department for Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Technical University of Munich, 80333, Munich, Germany
| | - Nora Hummel
- Department for Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Technical University of Munich, 80333, Munich, Germany
| | - Albert Busch
- Department for Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Technical University of Munich, 80333, Munich, Germany
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Department for Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus and University Hospital, Technical University Dresden, 01069, Dresden, Germany
| | - Ekaterina Chernogubova
- Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Unit, Karolinska Institute, 171 77, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hong Jin
- Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Unit, Karolinska Institute, 171 77, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nadja Sachs
- Department for Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Technical University of Munich, 80333, Munich, Germany
| | - Hans-Henning Eckstein
- Department for Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Technical University of Munich, 80333, Munich, Germany
| | - Anne Dueck
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research DZHK, Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, 80336, Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Technical University of Munich, 80333, Munich, Germany
| | - Reinier A Boon
- Department of Physiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences (ACS), Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, 1081 HV, The Netherlands
- Institute of Cardiovascular Regeneration, Center of Molecular Medicine, Goethe-University, 60323, Frankfurt, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research DZHK, Partner Site Frankfurt Rhine-Main, 10785, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas R Bausch
- Department of Cellular Biophysics, Technical University of Munich, 80333, Munich, Germany
| | - Lars Maegdefessel
- Department for Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Technical University of Munich, 80333, Munich, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research DZHK, Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, 80336, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Unit, Karolinska Institute, 171 77, Stockholm, Sweden
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16
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Mytych W, Bartusik-Aebisher D, Łoś A, Dynarowicz K, Myśliwiec A, Aebisher D. Photodynamic Therapy for Atherosclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1958. [PMID: 38396639 PMCID: PMC10888721 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25041958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis, which currently contributes to 31% of deaths globally, is of critical cardiovascular concern. Current diagnostic tools and biomarkers are limited, emphasizing the need for early detection. Lifestyle modifications and medications form the basis of treatment, and emerging therapies such as photodynamic therapy are being developed. Photodynamic therapy involves a photosensitizer selectively targeting components of atherosclerotic plaques. When activated by specific light wavelengths, it induces localized oxidative stress aiming to stabilize plaques and reduce inflammation. The key advantage lies in its selective targeting, sparing healthy tissues. While preclinical studies are encouraging, ongoing research and clinical trials are crucial for optimizing protocols and ensuring long-term safety and efficacy. The potential combination with other therapies makes photodynamic therapy a versatile and promising avenue for addressing atherosclerosis and associated cardiovascular disease. The investigations underscore the possibility of utilizing photodynamic therapy as a valuable treatment choice for atherosclerosis. As advancements in research continue, photodynamic therapy might become more seamlessly incorporated into clinical approaches for managing atherosclerosis, providing a blend of efficacy and limited invasiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wiktoria Mytych
- Students English Division Science Club, Medical College of the University of Rzeszów, 35-959 Rzeszów, Poland; (W.M.); (A.Ł.)
| | - Dorota Bartusik-Aebisher
- Department of Biochemistry and General Chemistry, Medical College of the University of Rzeszów, 35-959 Rzeszów, Poland;
| | - Aleksandra Łoś
- Students English Division Science Club, Medical College of the University of Rzeszów, 35-959 Rzeszów, Poland; (W.M.); (A.Ł.)
| | - Klaudia Dynarowicz
- Center for Innovative Research in Medical and Natural Sciences, Medical College of the University of Rzeszów, 35-310 Rzeszów, Poland; (K.D.); (A.M.)
| | - Angelika Myśliwiec
- Center for Innovative Research in Medical and Natural Sciences, Medical College of the University of Rzeszów, 35-310 Rzeszów, Poland; (K.D.); (A.M.)
| | - David Aebisher
- Department of Photomedicine and Physical Chemistry, Medical College of the University of Rzeszów, 35-959 Rzeszów, Poland
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17
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Wang X, Gui N, Ma X, Zeng Y, Mo T, Zhang M. Proliferation, migration and phenotypic transformation of VSMC induced via Hcy related to up-expression of WWP2 and p-STAT3. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0296359. [PMID: 38166045 PMCID: PMC10760878 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0296359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024] Open
Abstract
To provide a theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis (AS), the current study aimed to investigate the mechanism underlying the effect of homocysteine (Hcy) on regulating the proliferation, migration and phenotypic transformation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) via sirtuin-1 (SIRT1)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) through Nedd4-like E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase WWP2 (WWP2). Here, Based on the establishment of ApoE-/- mouse models of high Hcy As and the model of Hcy stimulation of VSMC in vitro to observe the interaction between WWP2 and STAT3 and its effect on the proliferation, migration, and phenotypic transformation of Hcy-induced VSMC, which has not been previously reported. This study revealed that WWP2 could promote the proliferation, migration, and phenotype switch of Hcy-induced VSMC by up-regulating the phosphorylation of SIRT1/STAT3 signaling. Furthermore, Hcy might up-regulate WWP2 expression by inhibiting histone H3K27me3 expression through up-regulated UTX. These data suggest that WWP2 is a novel and important regulator of Hcy-induced VSMC proliferation, migration, and phenotypic transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuyu Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Metabolic Cardiovascular Diseases Research of National Health Commission, Ningxia Key Laboratory of Vascular Injury and Repair Research, Yinchuan, Ningxia, P.R. China
| | - Na Gui
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, P.R. China
| | - Xing Ma
- Key Laboratory of Metabolic Cardiovascular Diseases Research of National Health Commission, Ningxia Key Laboratory of Vascular Injury and Repair Research, Yinchuan, Ningxia, P.R. China
| | - Yue Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Metabolic Cardiovascular Diseases Research of National Health Commission, Ningxia Key Laboratory of Vascular Injury and Repair Research, Yinchuan, Ningxia, P.R. China
| | - Tingrun Mo
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, P.R. China
| | - Minghao Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Metabolic Cardiovascular Diseases Research of National Health Commission, Ningxia Key Laboratory of Vascular Injury and Repair Research, Yinchuan, Ningxia, P.R. China
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18
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Zheng C, Chen S, Deng YY, Qian XP, Chen YY, Hong CZ, Zeng YF, Li QM, Pan LH, Luo JP, Li XY, Zha XQ. Purification, structural characteristics and anti-atherosclerosis activity of a novel green tea polysaccharide. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 254:127705. [PMID: 37913884 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
A new homogeneous polysaccharide (TPS3A) was isolated and purified from Tianzhu Xianyue fried green tea by DEAE-52 cellulose and Sephacryl S-500 column chromatography. Structural characterization indicated that TPS3A mainly consisted of arabinose, galactose, galacturonic acid and rhamnose in a molar ratio of 5.84: 4.15: 2.06: 1, with an average molecular weight of 1.596 × 104 kDa. The structure of TPS3A was characterized as a repeating unit consisting of 1,3-Galp, 1,4-Galp, 1,3,6-Galp, 1,3-Araf, 1,5-Araf, 1,2,4-Rhap and 1-GalpA, with two branches on the C6 of 1,3,6-Galp and C2 of 1,2,4-Rhap, respectively. To investigate the preventive effects of TPS3A on atherosclerosis, TPS3A was administered orally to ApoE-deficient (ApoE-/-) mice. Results revealed that TPS3A intervention could effectively delay the atherosclerotic plaque progression, modulate dyslipidemia, and reduce the transformation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) from contractile phenotype to synthetic phenotype by activating the expression of contractile marker alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and inhibiting the expression of synthetic marker osteopontin (OPN) in high-fat diet-induced ApoE-/- mice. Our findings suggested that TPS3A markedly alleviated atherosclerosis by regulating dyslipidemia and phenotypic transition of VSMCs, and might be used as a novel functional ingredient to promote cardiovascular health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Zheng
- Engineering Research Centre of Bioprocess of Ministry of Education, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, No. 193 Tunxi Road, Hefei 230009, People's Republic of China; School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, No. 193 Tunxi Road, Hefei 230009, People's Republic of China
| | - Shun Chen
- Engineering Research Centre of Bioprocess of Ministry of Education, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, No. 193 Tunxi Road, Hefei 230009, People's Republic of China; School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, No. 193 Tunxi Road, Hefei 230009, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Deng
- Sericultural and Agri-Food Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou 510610, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin-Ping Qian
- Engineering Research Centre of Bioprocess of Ministry of Education, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, No. 193 Tunxi Road, Hefei 230009, People's Republic of China; School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, No. 193 Tunxi Road, Hefei 230009, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying-Ying Chen
- Engineering Research Centre of Bioprocess of Ministry of Education, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, No. 193 Tunxi Road, Hefei 230009, People's Republic of China; School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, No. 193 Tunxi Road, Hefei 230009, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng-Zhi Hong
- Engineering Research Centre of Bioprocess of Ministry of Education, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, No. 193 Tunxi Road, Hefei 230009, People's Republic of China; School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, No. 193 Tunxi Road, Hefei 230009, People's Republic of China
| | - Ya-Fan Zeng
- Engineering Research Centre of Bioprocess of Ministry of Education, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, No. 193 Tunxi Road, Hefei 230009, People's Republic of China; School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, No. 193 Tunxi Road, Hefei 230009, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiang-Ming Li
- Engineering Research Centre of Bioprocess of Ministry of Education, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, No. 193 Tunxi Road, Hefei 230009, People's Republic of China; School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, No. 193 Tunxi Road, Hefei 230009, People's Republic of China
| | - Li-Hua Pan
- Engineering Research Centre of Bioprocess of Ministry of Education, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, No. 193 Tunxi Road, Hefei 230009, People's Republic of China; School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, No. 193 Tunxi Road, Hefei 230009, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian-Ping Luo
- Engineering Research Centre of Bioprocess of Ministry of Education, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, No. 193 Tunxi Road, Hefei 230009, People's Republic of China; School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, No. 193 Tunxi Road, Hefei 230009, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue-Ying Li
- Engineering Research Centre of Bioprocess of Ministry of Education, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, No. 193 Tunxi Road, Hefei 230009, People's Republic of China; School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, No. 193 Tunxi Road, Hefei 230009, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xue-Qiang Zha
- Engineering Research Centre of Bioprocess of Ministry of Education, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, No. 193 Tunxi Road, Hefei 230009, People's Republic of China; School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, No. 193 Tunxi Road, Hefei 230009, People's Republic of China.
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19
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Meijer E, Giles R, van Dijk CGM, Maringanti R, Wissing TB, Appels Y, Chrifi I, Crielaard H, Verhaar MC, Smits AI, Cheng C. Effect of Mechanical Stimuli on the Phenotypic Plasticity of Induced Pluripotent Stem-Cell-Derived Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells in a 3D Hydrogel. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2023; 6:5716-5729. [PMID: 38032545 PMCID: PMC10731661 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c00840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) play a pivotal role in vascular homeostasis, with dysregulation leading to vascular complications. Human-induced pluripotent stem-cell (hiPSC)-derived VSMCs offer prospects for personalized disease modeling and regenerative strategies. Current research lacks comparative studies on the impact of three-dimensional (3D) substrate properties under cyclic strain on phenotypic adaptation in hiPSC-derived VSMCs. Here, we aim to investigate the impact of intrinsic substrate properties, such as the hydrogel's elastic modulus and cross-linking density in a 3D static and dynamic environment, on the phenotypical adaptation of human mural cells derived from hiPSC-derived organoids (ODMCs), compared to aortic VSMCs. Methods and results: ODMCs were cultured in two-dimensional (2D) conditions with synthetic or contractile differentiation medium or in 3D Gelatin Methacryloyl (GelMa) substrates with varying degrees of functionalization and percentages to modulate Young's modulus and cross-linking density. Cells in 3D substrates were exposed to cyclic, unidirectional strain. Phenotype characterization was conducted using specific markers through immunofluorescence and gene expression analysis. Under static 2D culture, ODMCs derived from hiPSCs exhibited a VSMC phenotype, expressing key mural markers, and demonstrated a level of phenotypic plasticity similar to primary human VSMCs. In static 3D culture, a substrate with a higher Young's modulus and cross-linking density promoted a contractile phenotype in ODMCs and VSMCs. Dynamic stimulation in the 3D substrate promoted a switch toward a contractile phenotype in both cell types. Conclusion: Our study demonstrates phenotypic plasticity of human ODMCs in response to 2D biological and 3D mechanical stimuli that equals that of primary human VSMCs. These findings may contribute to the advancement of tailored approaches for vascular disease modeling and regenerative strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elana
M. Meijer
- Department
of Nephrology and Hypertension, Division of Internal Medicine and
Dermatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht 3508 GA, The Netherlands
- Regenerative
Medicine Center Utrecht, University Medical
Center Utrecht, Utrecht 3508 GA, The Netherlands
| | - Rachel Giles
- Department
of Nephrology and Hypertension, Division of Internal Medicine and
Dermatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht 3508 GA, The Netherlands
- Regenerative
Medicine Center Utrecht, University Medical
Center Utrecht, Utrecht 3508 GA, The Netherlands
| | - Christian G. M. van Dijk
- Department
of Nephrology and Hypertension, Division of Internal Medicine and
Dermatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht 3508 GA, The Netherlands
- Regenerative
Medicine Center Utrecht, University Medical
Center Utrecht, Utrecht 3508 GA, The Netherlands
| | - Ranganath Maringanti
- Department
of Nephrology and Hypertension, Division of Internal Medicine and
Dermatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht 3508 GA, The Netherlands
- Regenerative
Medicine Center Utrecht, University Medical
Center Utrecht, Utrecht 3508 GA, The Netherlands
- Experimental
Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, Thorax
Center Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3000 CA, The Netherlands
| | - Tamar B. Wissing
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University
of Technology; Eindhoven 5612 AE, The Netherlands
- Institute
for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven
University of Technology; Eindhoven 5612 AE, The Netherlands
| | - Ymke Appels
- Department
of Nephrology and Hypertension, Division of Internal Medicine and
Dermatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht 3508 GA, The Netherlands
- Regenerative
Medicine Center Utrecht, University Medical
Center Utrecht, Utrecht 3508 GA, The Netherlands
| | - Ihsan Chrifi
- Department
of Nephrology and Hypertension, Division of Internal Medicine and
Dermatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht 3508 GA, The Netherlands
- Regenerative
Medicine Center Utrecht, University Medical
Center Utrecht, Utrecht 3508 GA, The Netherlands
- Experimental
Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, Thorax
Center Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3000 CA, The Netherlands
| | - Hanneke Crielaard
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Erasmus Medical
Center, Rotterdam 3000 CA, The Netherlands
| | - Marianne C. Verhaar
- Department
of Nephrology and Hypertension, Division of Internal Medicine and
Dermatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht 3508 GA, The Netherlands
- Regenerative
Medicine Center Utrecht, University Medical
Center Utrecht, Utrecht 3508 GA, The Netherlands
| | - Anthal I.P.M. Smits
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University
of Technology; Eindhoven 5612 AE, The Netherlands
- Institute
for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven
University of Technology; Eindhoven 5612 AE, The Netherlands
| | - Caroline Cheng
- Department
of Nephrology and Hypertension, Division of Internal Medicine and
Dermatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht 3508 GA, The Netherlands
- Regenerative
Medicine Center Utrecht, University Medical
Center Utrecht, Utrecht 3508 GA, The Netherlands
- Experimental
Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, Thorax
Center Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3000 CA, The Netherlands
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20
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Subramaniam NK, Gagnon N, Makhani K, Kukolj N, Mouradian MH, Giles BH, Srikannan H, Fruh V, Meliker J, Wellenius GA, Mann KK. In vitro and in vivo approaches to assess atherosclerosis following exposure to low-dose mixtures of arsenic and cadmium. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2023; 481:116763. [PMID: 37980961 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2023.116763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
Worldwide, millions of people are co-exposed to arsenic and cadmium. Environmental exposure to both metals is linked with a higher risk of atherosclerosis. While studies have characterized the pro-atherosclerotic effects of arsenic and cadmium as single agents, little is known about the potential effects of metal mixtures, particularly at low doses. Here, we used a combination of in vitro and in vivo models to assess the effects of low-dose metals individually and as mixtures on early events and plaque development associated with atherosclerosis. In vitro, we investigated early pro-atherogenic changes in macrophages and endothelial cells with metal treatments. The combined cytotoxic effects of both metals at low concentrations were dose interactive, specifically, synergistic in macrophages, but antagonistic in endothelial cells. Despite this differential behavior across cell types, the mixtures did not initiate early pro-atherogenic events: neither reactive oxygen species generation in macrophages nor adhesion molecule expression on endothelial cells. In vivo, we utilized the well-characterized hyperlipidemic apolipoprotein E knock-out (ApoE-/-) mouse model. Previously, we have shown that low concentrations of arsenic (down to 10 ppb) enhance atherosclerosis in ApoE-/- mice. This model has also been used with cadmium to demonstrate pro-atherogenic effects, although at concentrations above human-relevant exposures. In both sexes, there are some small increases in atherosclerotic lesion size, but very few changes in plaque constituents in the ApoE-/- mouse model. Together, these results suggests that low-dose metal mixtures are not significantly more pro-atherogenic than either metal alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nivetha K Subramaniam
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Natascha Gagnon
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Kiran Makhani
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Nikola Kukolj
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Michael H Mouradian
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Braeden H Giles
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Harinee Srikannan
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Victoria Fruh
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Jaymie Meliker
- Program in Public Health, Department of Family, Population, & Preventive Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA.
| | - Gregory A Wellenius
- Center for Climate and Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Koren K Mann
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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21
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Luo L, Fu C, Bell CF, Wang Y, Leeper NJ. Role of vascular smooth muscle cell clonality in atherosclerosis. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1273596. [PMID: 38089777 PMCID: PMC10713728 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1273596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide. While many cell types contribute to the growing atherosclerotic plaque, the vascular smooth muscle cell (SMC) is a major contributor due in part to its remarkable plasticity and ability to undergo phenotype switching in response to injury. SMCs can migrate into the fibrous cap, presumably stabilizing the plaque, or accumulate within the lesional core, possibly accelerating vascular inflammation. How SMCs expand and react to disease stimuli has been a controversial topic for many decades. While early studies relying on X-chromosome inactivation were inconclusive due to low resolution and sensitivity, recent advances in multi-color lineage tracing models have revitalized the concept that SMCs likely expand in an oligoclonal fashion during atherogenesis. Current efforts are focused on determining whether all SMCs have equal capacity for clonal expansion or if a "stem-like" progenitor cell may exist, and to understand how constituents of the clone decide which phenotype they will ultimately adopt as the disease progresses. Mechanistic studies are also beginning to dissect the processes which confer cells with their overall survival advantage, test whether these properties are attributable to intrinsic features of the expanding clone, and define the role of cross-talk between proliferating SMCs and other plaque constituents such as neighboring macrophages. In this review, we aim to summarize the historical perspectives on SMC clonality, highlight unanswered questions, and identify translational issues which may need to be considered as therapeutics directed against SMC clonality are developed as a novel approach to targeting atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingfeng Luo
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Changhao Fu
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Caitlin F. Bell
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford, CA, United States
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Nicholas J. Leeper
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford, CA, United States
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
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22
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Macarie RD, Tucureanu MM, Ciortan L, Gan AM, Butoi E, Mânduțeanu I. Ficolin-2 amplifies inflammation in macrophage-smooth muscle cell cross-talk and increases monocyte transmigration by mechanisms involving IL-1β and IL-6. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19431. [PMID: 37940674 PMCID: PMC10632380 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46770-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Ficolin-2, recently identified in atherosclerotic plaques, has been correlated with future acute cardiovascular events, but its role remains unknown. We hypothesize that it could influence plaque vulnerability by interfering in the cross-talk between macrophages (MØ) and smooth muscle cells (SMC). To examine its role and mechanism of action, we exposed an in-vitro co-culture system of SMC and MØ to ficolin-2 (10 µg/mL) and then performed cytokine array, protease array, ELISA, qPCR, Western Blot, and monocyte transmigration assay. Carotid plaque samples from atherosclerotic patients with high plasma levels of ficolin-2 were analyzed by immunofluorescence. We show that ficolin-2: (i) promotes a pro-inflammatory phenotype in SMC following interaction with MØ by elevating the gene expression of MCP-1, upregulating gene and protein expression of IL-6 and TLR4, and by activating ERK/MAPK and NF-KB signaling pathways; (ii) increased IL-1β, IL-6, and MIP-1β in MØ beyond the level induced by cellular interaction with SMC; (iii) elevated the secretion of IL-1β, IL-6, and CCL4 in the conditioned medium; (iv) enhanced monocyte transmigration and (v) in atherosclerotic plaques from patients with high plasma levels of ficolin-2, we observed co-localization of ficolin-2 with SMC marker αSMA and the cytokines IL-1β and IL-6. These findings shed light on previously unknown mechanisms underlying ficolin-2-dependent pathological inflammation in atherosclerotic plaques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Răzvan Daniel Macarie
- Biopathology and Therapy of Inflammation Department, Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology "Nicolae Simionescu", Bucharest, Romania
| | - Monica Mădălina Tucureanu
- Biopathology and Therapy of Inflammation Department, Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology "Nicolae Simionescu", Bucharest, Romania.
| | - Letiția Ciortan
- Biopathology and Therapy of Inflammation Department, Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology "Nicolae Simionescu", Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ana-Maria Gan
- Biopathology and Therapy of Inflammation Department, Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology "Nicolae Simionescu", Bucharest, Romania
| | - Elena Butoi
- Biopathology and Therapy of Inflammation Department, Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology "Nicolae Simionescu", Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ileana Mânduțeanu
- Biopathology and Therapy of Inflammation Department, Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology "Nicolae Simionescu", Bucharest, Romania
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23
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Yan A, Gotlieb AI. The microenvironment of the atheroma expresses phenotypes of plaque instability. Cardiovasc Pathol 2023; 67:107572. [PMID: 37595697 DOI: 10.1016/j.carpath.2023.107572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Data from histopathology studies of human atherosclerotic tissue specimens and from vascular imaging studies support the concept that the local arterial microenvironment of a stable atheroma promotes destabilizing conditions that result in the transition to an unstable atheroma. Destabilization is characterized by several different plaque phenotypes that cause major clinical events such as acute coronary syndrome and cerebrovascular strokes. There are several rupture-associated phenotypes causing thrombotic vascular occlusion including simple fibrous cap rupture of an atheroma, fibrous cap rupture at site of previous rupture-and-repair of an atheroma, and nodular calcification with rupture. Endothelial erosion without rupture has more recently been shown to be a common phenotype to promote thrombosis as well. Microenvironment features that are linked to these phenotypes of plaque instability are neovascularization arising from the vasa vasorum network leading to necrotic core expansion, intraplaque hemorrhage, and cap rupture; activation of adventitial and perivascular adipose tissue cells leading to secretion of cytokines, growth factors, adipokines in the outer artery wall that destabilize plaque structure; and vascular smooth muscle cell phenotypic switching through transdifferentiation and stem/progenitor cell activation resulting in the promotion of inflammation, calcification, and secretion of extracellular matrix, altering fibrous cap structure, and necrotic core growth. As the technology evolves, studies using noninvasive vascular imaging will be able to investigate the transition of stable to unstable atheromas in real time. A limitation in the field, however, is that reliable and predictable experimental models of spontaneous plaque rupture and/or erosion are not currently available to study the cell and molecular mechanisms that regulate the conversion of the stable atheroma to an unstable plaque.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Yan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Avrum I Gotlieb
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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24
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Patel P, Rai V, Agrawal DK. Role of oncostatin-M in ECM remodeling and plaque vulnerability. Mol Cell Biochem 2023; 478:2451-2460. [PMID: 36856919 PMCID: PMC10579161 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-023-04673-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a multifactorial inflammatory disease characterized by the development of plaque formation leading to occlusion of the vessel and hypoxia of the tissue supplied by the vessel. Chronic inflammation and altered collagen expression render stable plaque to unstable and increase plaque vulnerability. Thinned and weakened fibrous cap results in plaque rupture and formation of thrombosis and emboli formation leading to acute ischemic events such as stroke and myocardial infarction. Inflammatory mediators including TREM-1, TLRs, MMPs, and immune cells play a critical role in plaque vulnerability. Among the other inflammatory mediators, oncostatin-M (OSM), a pro-inflammatory cytokine, play an important role in the development and progression of atherosclerosis, however, the role of OSM in plaque vulnerability and extracellular matrix remodeling (ECM) is not well understood and studied. Since ECM remodeling plays an important role in atherosclerosis and plaque vulnerability, a detailed investigation on the role of OSM in ECM remodeling and plaque vulnerability is critical. This is important because the role of OSM has been discussed in the context of proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells and regulation of cytokine expression but the role of OSM is scarcely discussed in relation to ECM remodeling and plaque vulnerability. This review focuses on critically discussing the role of OSM in ECM remodeling and plaque vulnerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parth Patel
- Department of Translational Research, College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, 309 E. Second Street, Pomona, CA, 91766-1854, USA
| | - Vikrant Rai
- Department of Translational Research, College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, 309 E. Second Street, Pomona, CA, 91766-1854, USA
| | - Devendra K Agrawal
- Department of Translational Research, College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, 309 E. Second Street, Pomona, CA, 91766-1854, USA.
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25
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Kurata A, Harada Y, Fujita K, Ohno SI, Takanashi M, Yoshizawa S, Nagashima Y, Nagao T, Yamaguchi J, Kuroda M. Smooth muscle differentiation of coronary intima in autopsy tissues after sirolimus-eluting stent implantation. Cardiovasc Pathol 2023; 66:107554. [PMID: 37321466 DOI: 10.1016/j.carpath.2023.107554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In coronary atherosclerotic disease, the proliferation of intimal smooth muscle cells (SMCs) is regarded as beneficial with respect to stable and unstable plaques, but is thought detrimental in discussions on coronary stent restenosis. To resolve this discrepancy, we focused on the quality, not quantity, of intimal SMCs in coronary atherosclerotic disease. METHODS Autopsied coronary artery specimens from seven patients implanted with bare metal stents (BMS), three with paclitaxel-eluting stents (PES), and 10 with sirolimus (rapamycin)-eluting stents (SES) were immunostained for SMC markers. Cultured human coronary artery SMCs were also treated with sirolimus and paclitaxel. RESULTS Intimal SMC differentiation, estimated by the ratio of h-caldesmon+ cells to α-smooth muscle actin+ (α-SMA+) cells, was significantly increased whereas dedifferentiation, estimated from the ratio of fibroblast activation protein alpha (FAPα)+ cells to α-SMA+ cells, was significantly decreased, in tissues of SES compared with BMS cases. No difference in the degree of differentiation was found between PES and BMS cases or between the three groups in nonstented arteries used as controls. Correlation analyses for each field of view revealed a significant positive correlation between h-caldesmon and calponin staining but significant negative correlations with FAPα staining in α-SMA+ cells. Cultured SMCs were shorter (dedifferentiated) and showed an increased FAPα/α-SMA protein when treated with paclitaxel, whereas they became elongated (differentiated) and showed increased calponin/α-SMA proteins with sirolimus. CONCLUSIONS The SMCs of the coronary intima may differentiate after SES implantation. SMC differentiation may explain both the plaque stabilization and reduced risk of reintervention associated with SES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Kurata
- Department of Pathology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Yuichiro Harada
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Tokyo Medical University, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koji Fujita
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Tokyo Medical University, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shin-Ichiro Ohno
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Tokyo Medical University, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masakatsu Takanashi
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Tokyo Medical University, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Saeko Yoshizawa
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Tokyo Women's Medical University Hospital, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoji Nagashima
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Tokyo Women's Medical University Hospital, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toshitaka Nagao
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, Tokyo Medical University, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Junichi Yamaguchi
- Department of Cardiology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masahiko Kuroda
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Tokyo Medical University, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan
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26
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Xu R, Li T, Li Z, Kong W, Wang T, Zhang X, Luo J, Li W, Jiao L. Knowledge fields and emerging trends about extracellular matrix in carotid artery disease from 1990 to 2021: analysis of the scientific literature. Eur J Med Res 2023; 28:284. [PMID: 37587506 PMCID: PMC10428572 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-023-01259-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stroke is a heavy burden in modern society, and carotid artery disease is a major cause. The role of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in the development and progression of carotid artery disease has become a popular research focus. However, there is no published bibliometric analysis to derive the main publication features and trends in this scientific area. We aim to conduct a bibliometric analysis to reveal current status of ECM in carotid artery disease and to predict future hot spots. METHODS We searched and downloaded articles from the Web of Science Core Collection with "Carotid" and "Extracellular Matrix" as subject words from 1990 to 2021. The complete bibliographic data were analyzed by Bibliometrics, BICOMB, gCLUTO and CiteSpace softwares. RESULTS Since 1990, the United States has been the leader in the number of publications in the field of ECM in carotid artery disease, followed by China, Japan and Germany. Among institutions, Institut National De La Sante Et De La Recherche Medicale Inserm, University of Washington Seattle and Harvard University are in the top 3. "Arteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology" is the most popular journal and "Circulation" is the most cited journal. "Clowes AW", "Hedin Ulf" and "Nilsson Jan" are the top three authors of published articles. Finally, we investigated the frontiers through the strongest citation bursts, conducted keyword biclustering analysis, and discovered five clusters of research hotspots. Our research provided a comprehensive analysis of the fundamental data, knowledge organization, and dynamic evolution of research about ECM in carotid artery disease. CONCLUSIONS The field of ECM in carotid artery disease has received increasing attention. We summarized the history of the field and predicted five future hotspots through bibliometric analysis. This study provided a reference for researchers in this fields, and the methodology can be extended to other fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), Beijing, China
| | - Tianhua Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), Beijing, China
| | - Zhiqing Li
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Science, Ministry of Education, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Kong
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Science, Ministry of Education, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), Beijing, China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), Beijing, China
| | - Jichang Luo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), Beijing, China
| | - Wenjing Li
- Laboratory of Computational Biology and Machine Intelligence, National Laboratory of Pattern Recognition, Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Liqun Jiao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
- China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), Beijing, China.
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
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Han Z, Hu H, Yin M, Lin Y, Yan Y, Han P, Liu B, Jing B. HOXA1 participates in VSMC-to-macrophage-like cell transformation via regulation of NF-κB p65 and KLF4: a potential mechanism of atherosclerosis pathogenesis. Mol Med 2023; 29:104. [PMID: 37528397 PMCID: PMC10394793 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-023-00685-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Macrophage-like transformation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) is a risk factor of atherosclerosis (AS) progression. Transcription factor homeobox A1 (HOXA1) plays functional roles in differentiation and development. This study aims to explore the role of HOXA1 in VSMC transformation, thereby providing evidence for the potential mechanism of AS pathogenesis. METHODS High fat diet (HFD)-fed apolipoprotein E knockout (ApoE-/-) mice were applied as an in vivo model to imitate AS, while 1-palmitoyl-2-(5-oxovaleroyl)-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POV-PC)-treated VSMCs were applied as an in vitro model. Recombinant adeno-associated-virus-1 (AAV-1) vectors that express short-hairpin RNAs targeting HOXA1, herein referred as AAV1-shHOXA1, were generated for the loss-of-function experiments throughout the study. RESULTS In the aortic root of AS mice, lipid deposition was severer and HOXA1 expression was higher than the wide-type mice fed with normal diet or HFD. Silencing of HOXA1 inhibited the AS-induced weight gain, inflammatory response, serum and liver lipid metabolism disorder and atherosclerotic plaque formation. Besides, lesions from AS mice with HOXA1 knockdown showed less trans-differentiation of VSMCs to macrophage-like cells, along with a suppression of krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) and nuclear factor (NF)-κB RelA (p65) expression. In vitro experiments consistently confirmed that HOXA1 knockdown suppressed lipid accumulation, VSMC-to-macrophage phenotypic switch and inflammation in POV-PC-treated VSMCs. Mechanism investigations further illustrated that HOXA1 transcriptionally activated RelA and KLF4 to participate in the pathological manifestations of VSMCs. CONCLUSIONS HOXA1 participates in AS progression by regulating VSMCs plasticity via regulation of NF-κB p65 and KLF4. HOXA1 has the potential to be a biomarker or therapeutic target for AS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyang Han
- Department of Vascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, No. 23, Youzheng Street, Harbin, 150001, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Haidi Hu
- Department of General and Vascular Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - MingZhu Yin
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Human Engineering Research Center of Skin Health and Disease, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Yu Lin
- Department of Vascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, No. 23, Youzheng Street, Harbin, 150001, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yan Yan
- Department of Vascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, No. 23, Youzheng Street, Harbin, 150001, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Peng Han
- Department of Vascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, No. 23, Youzheng Street, Harbin, 150001, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Bing Liu
- Department of Vascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, No. 23, Youzheng Street, Harbin, 150001, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Bao Jing
- Department of Vascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, No. 23, Youzheng Street, Harbin, 150001, Heilongjiang, China.
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Hu Y, Cai Z, He B. Smooth Muscle Heterogeneity and Plasticity in Health and Aortic Aneurysmal Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11701. [PMID: 37511460 PMCID: PMC10380637 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are the predominant cell type in the medial layer of the aorta, which plays a critical role in the maintenance of aortic wall integrity. VSMCs have been suggested to have contractile and synthetic phenotypes and undergo phenotypic switching to contribute to the deteriorating aortic wall structure. Recently, the unprecedented heterogeneity and diversity of VSMCs and their complex relationship to aortic aneurysms (AAs) have been revealed by high-resolution research methods, such as lineage tracing and single-cell RNA sequencing. The aortic wall consists of VSMCs from different embryonic origins that respond unevenly to genetic defects that directly or indirectly regulate VSMC contractile phenotype. This difference predisposes to hereditary AAs in the aortic root and ascending aorta. Several VSMC phenotypes with different functions, for example, secreting VSMCs, proliferative VSMCs, mesenchymal stem cell-like VSMCs, immune-related VSMCs, proinflammatory VSMCs, senescent VSMCs, and stressed VSMCs are identified in non-hereditary AAs. The transformation of VSMCs into different phenotypes is an adaptive response to deleterious stimuli but can also trigger pathological remodeling that exacerbates the pathogenesis and development of AAs. This review is intended to contribute to the understanding of VSMC diversity in health and aneurysmal diseases. Papers that give an update on VSMC phenotype diversity in health and aneurysmal disease are summarized and recent insights on the role of VSMCs in AAs are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunwen Hu
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Zhaohua Cai
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Ben He
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200030, China
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Petkovic A, Erceg S, Munjas J, Ninic A, Vladimirov S, Davidovic A, Vukmirovic L, Milanov M, Cvijanovic D, Mitic T, Sopic M. LncRNAs as Regulators of Atherosclerotic Plaque Stability. Cells 2023; 12:1832. [PMID: 37508497 PMCID: PMC10378138 DOI: 10.3390/cells12141832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Current clinical data show that, despite constant efforts to develop novel therapies and clinical approaches, atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD) are still one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Advanced and unstable atherosclerotic plaques most often trigger acute coronary events that can lead to fatal outcomes. However, despite the fact that different plaque phenotypes may require different treatments, current approaches to prognosis, diagnosis, and classification of acute coronary syndrome do not consider the diversity of plaque phenotypes. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) represent an important class of molecules that are implicated in epigenetic control of numerous cellular processes. Here we review the latest knowledge about lncRNAs' influence on plaque development and stability through regulation of immune response, lipid metabolism, extracellular matrix remodelling, endothelial cell function, and vascular smooth muscle function, with special emphasis on pro-atherogenic and anti-atherogenic lncRNA functions. In addition, we present current challenges in the research of lncRNAs' role in atherosclerosis and translation of the findings from animal models to humans. Finally, we present the directions for future lncRNA-oriented research, which may ultimately result in patient-oriented therapeutic strategies for ASCVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksa Petkovic
- Clinical-Hospital Centre "Dr Dragiša Mišović-Dedinje", 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Sanja Erceg
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jelena Munjas
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ana Ninic
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Sandra Vladimirov
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Aleksandar Davidovic
- Intern Clinic, Clinical Ward for Cardiovascular Diseases, Clinical-Hospital Centre Zvezdara, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Department for Internal Medicine, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Luka Vukmirovic
- Intern Clinic, Clinical Ward for Cardiovascular Diseases, Clinical-Hospital Centre Zvezdara, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marko Milanov
- Intern Clinic, Clinical Ward for Cardiovascular Diseases, Clinical-Hospital Centre Zvezdara, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Dane Cvijanovic
- Intern Clinic, Clinical Ward for Cardiovascular Diseases, Clinical-Hospital Centre Zvezdara, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Tijana Mitic
- Centre for Cardiovascular Science, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Miron Sopic
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
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Markina YV, Kirichenko TV, Tolstik TV, Bogatyreva AI, Zotova US, Cherednichenko VR, Postnov AY, Markin AM. Target and Cell Therapy for Atherosclerosis and CVD. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10308. [PMID: 37373454 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241210308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and, in particular, atherosclerosis, remain the main cause of death in the world today. Unfortunately, in most cases, CVD therapy begins after the onset of clinical symptoms and is aimed at eliminating them. In this regard, early pathogenetic therapy for CVD remains an urgent problem in modern science and healthcare. Cell therapy, aimed at eliminating tissue damage underlying the pathogenesis of some pathologies, including CVD, by replacing it with various cells, is of the greatest interest. Currently, cell therapy is the most actively developed and potentially the most effective treatment strategy for CVD associated with atherosclerosis. However, this type of therapy has some limitations. In this review, we have tried to summarize the main targets of cell therapy for CVD and atherosclerosis in particular based on the analysis using the PubMed and Scopus databases up to May 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuliya V Markina
- Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, Moscow 119991, Russia
| | | | - Taisiya V Tolstik
- Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, Moscow 119991, Russia
| | | | - Ulyana S Zotova
- Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, Moscow 119991, Russia
| | | | - Anton Yu Postnov
- Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, Moscow 119991, Russia
| | - Alexander M Markin
- Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, Moscow 119991, Russia
- Peoples' Friendship University of Russia named after Patrice Lumumba (RUDN University), Moscow 117198, Russia
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31
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Keeter WC, Moriarty AK, Akers R, Ma S, Mussbacher M, Nadler JL, Galkina EV. Neutrophil-specific STAT4 deficiency attenuates atherosclerotic burden and improves plaque stability via reduction in neutrophil activation and recruitment into aortas of Ldlr-/- mice. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1175673. [PMID: 37396582 PMCID: PMC10313069 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1175673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and aims Neutrophils drive atheroprogression and directly contribute to plaque instability. We recently identified signal transducer and activator of transcription 4 (STAT4) as a critical component for bacterial host defense in neutrophils. The STAT4-dependent functions of neutrophils in atherogenesis are unknown. Therefore, we investigated a contributory role of STAT4 in neutrophils during advanced atherosclerosis. Methods We generated myeloid-specific Stat4ΔLysMLdlr-/-, neutrophil-specific Stat4ΔS100A8Ldlr-/-, and control Stat4fl/flLdlr-/- mice. All groups were fed a high-fat/cholesterol diet (HFD-C) for 28 weeks to establish advanced atherosclerosis. Aortic root plaque burden and stability were assessed histologically by Movat pentachrome staining. Nanostring gene expression analysis was performed on isolated blood neutrophils. Flow cytometry was utilized to analyze hematopoiesis and blood neutrophil activation. In vivo homing of neutrophils to atherosclerotic plaques was performed by adoptively transferring prelabeled Stat4ΔLysMLdlr-/- and Stat4fl/flLdlr-/- bone marrow cells into aged atherosclerotic Apoe-/- mice and detected by flow cytometry. Results STAT4 deficiency in both myeloid-specific and neutrophil-specific mice provided similar reductions in aortic root plaque burden and improvements in plaque stability via reduction in necrotic core size, improved fibrous cap area, and increased vascular smooth muscle cell content within the fibrous cap. Myeloid-specific STAT4 deficiency resulted in decreased circulating neutrophils via reduced production of granulocyte-monocyte progenitors in the bone marrow. Neutrophil activation was dampened in HFD-C fed Stat4ΔLysMLdlr-/- mice via reduced mitochondrial superoxide production, attenuated surface expression of degranulation marker CD63, and reduced frequency of neutrophil-platelet aggregates. Myeloid-specific STAT4 deficiency diminished expression of chemokine receptors CCR1 and CCR2 and impaired in vivo neutrophil trafficking to atherosclerotic aorta. Conclusions Our work indicates a pro-atherogenic role for STAT4-dependent neutrophil activation and how it contributes to multiple factors of plaque instability during advanced atherosclerosis in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- W. Coles Keeter
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Cell Biology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, United States
| | - Alina K. Moriarty
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Cell Biology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, United States
- Center for Integrative Neuroscience and Inflammatory Diseases, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, United States
| | - Rachel Akers
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Cell Biology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, United States
- Rush Medical College, Rush University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Shelby Ma
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Cell Biology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, United States
| | - Marion Mussbacher
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Cell Biology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, United States
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Jerry L. Nadler
- Department of Medicine and Pharmacology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States
| | - Elena V. Galkina
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Cell Biology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, United States
- Center for Integrative Neuroscience and Inflammatory Diseases, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, United States
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32
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Worssam MD, Lambert J, Oc S, Taylor JCK, Taylor AL, Dobnikar L, Chappell J, Harman JL, Figg NL, Finigan A, Foote K, Uryga AK, Bennett MR, Spivakov M, Jørgensen HF. Cellular mechanisms of oligoclonal vascular smooth muscle cell expansion in cardiovascular disease. Cardiovasc Res 2023; 119:1279-1294. [PMID: 35994249 PMCID: PMC10202649 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvac138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Quiescent, differentiated adult vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) can be induced to proliferate and switch phenotype. Such plasticity underlies blood vessel homeostasis and contributes to vascular disease development. Oligoclonal VSMC contribution is a hallmark of end-stage vascular disease. Here, we aim to understand cellular mechanisms underpinning generation of this VSMC oligoclonality. METHODS AND RESULTS We investigate the dynamics of VSMC clone formation using confocal microscopy and single-cell transcriptomics in VSMC-lineage-traced animal models. We find that activation of medial VSMC proliferation occurs at low frequency after vascular injury and that only a subset of expanding clones migrate, which together drives formation of oligoclonal neointimal lesions. VSMC contribution in small atherosclerotic lesions is typically from one or two clones, similar to observations in mature lesions. Low frequency (<0.1%) of clonal VSMC proliferation is also observed in vitro. Single-cell RNA-sequencing revealed progressive cell state changes across a contiguous VSMC population at onset of injury-induced proliferation. Proliferating VSMCs mapped selectively to one of two distinct trajectories and were associated with cells showing extensive phenotypic switching. A proliferation-associated transitory state shared pronounced similarities with atypical SCA1+ VSMCs from uninjured mouse arteries and VSMCs in healthy human aorta. We show functionally that clonal expansion of SCA1+ VSMCs from healthy arteries occurs at higher rate and frequency compared with SCA1- cells. CONCLUSION Our data suggest that activation of proliferation at low frequency is a general, cell-intrinsic feature of VSMCs. We show that rare VSMCs in healthy arteries display VSMC phenotypic switching akin to that observed in pathological vessel remodelling and that this is a conserved feature of mouse and human healthy arteries. The increased proliferation of modulated VSMCs from healthy arteries suggests that these cells respond more readily to disease-inducing cues and could drive oligoclonal VSMC expansion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matt D Worssam
- Section of Cardiorespiratory Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Papworth Road, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0BB, UK
| | - Jordi Lambert
- Section of Cardiorespiratory Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Papworth Road, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0BB, UK
| | - Sebnem Oc
- Section of Cardiorespiratory Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Papworth Road, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0BB, UK
| | - James C K Taylor
- Section of Cardiorespiratory Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Papworth Road, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0BB, UK
| | - Annabel L Taylor
- Section of Cardiorespiratory Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Papworth Road, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0BB, UK
| | - Lina Dobnikar
- Section of Cardiorespiratory Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Papworth Road, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0BB, UK
- Babraham Institute, Cambridge, UK
| | - Joel Chappell
- Section of Cardiorespiratory Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Papworth Road, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0BB, UK
| | - Jennifer L Harman
- Section of Cardiorespiratory Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Papworth Road, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0BB, UK
| | - Nichola L Figg
- Section of Cardiorespiratory Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Papworth Road, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0BB, UK
| | - Alison Finigan
- Section of Cardiorespiratory Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Papworth Road, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0BB, UK
| | - Kirsty Foote
- Section of Cardiorespiratory Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Papworth Road, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0BB, UK
| | - Anna K Uryga
- Section of Cardiorespiratory Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Papworth Road, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0BB, UK
| | - Martin R Bennett
- Section of Cardiorespiratory Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Papworth Road, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0BB, UK
| | - Mikhail Spivakov
- Functional Gene Control Group, MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, London, UK
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Helle F Jørgensen
- Section of Cardiorespiratory Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Papworth Road, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0BB, UK
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An J, Ouyang L, Yu C, Carr SM, Ramprasath T, Liu Z, Song P, Zou MH, Ding Y. Nicotine exacerbates atherosclerosis and plaque instability via NLRP3 inflammasome activation in vascular smooth muscle cells. Theranostics 2023; 13:2825-2842. [PMID: 37284455 PMCID: PMC10240824 DOI: 10.7150/thno.81388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Nicotine has been reported to be a strong risk factor for atherosclerosis. However, the underlying mechanism by which nicotine controls atherosclerotic plaque stability remain largely unknown. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of lysosomal dysfunction mediated NLRP3 inflammasome activation in vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) on atherosclerotic plaque formation and stability in advanced atherosclerosis at the brachiocephalic arteries (BA). Methods and Results: Features of atherosclerotic plaque stability and the markers for NLR Family Pyrin Domain Containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome were monitored in the BA from nicotine or vehicle-treated apolipoprotein E deficient (Apoe-/-) mice fed with Western-type diet (WD). Nicotine treatment for 6 weeks accelerated atherosclerotic plaque formation and enhanced the hallmarks of plaque instability in BA of Apoe-/- mice. Moreover, nicotine elevated interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) in serum and aorta and was preferred to activate NLRP3 inflammasome in aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). Importantly, pharmacological inhibition of Caspase1, a key downstream target of NLRP3 inflammasome complex, and genetic inactivation of NLRP3 significantly restrained nicotine-elevated IL-1β in serum and aorta, as well as nicotine-stimulated atherosclerotic plaque formation and plaque destabilization in BA. We further confirmed the role of VSMC-derived NLRP3 inflammasome in nicotine-induced plaque instability by using VSMC specific TXNIP (upstream regulator of NLRP3 inflammasome) deletion mice. Mechanistic study further showed that nicotine induced lysosomal dysfunction resulted in cathepsin B cytoplasmic release. Inhibition or knockdown of cathepsin B blocked nicotine-dependent inflammasome activation. Conclusions: Nicotine promotes atherosclerotic plaque instability by lysosomal dysfunction-mediated NLRP3 inflammasome activation in vascular smooth muscle cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Ye Ding
- Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Georgia State University, 157 Decatur Street SE, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
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Fu X, Fu P, Yang T, Niu T. Homeobox A9 is a novel mediator of vascular smooth muscle cell phenotypic switching and proliferation by regulating methyl-CpG binding protein 2. Cell Signal 2023; 108:110695. [PMID: 37127144 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2023.110695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Aberrant proliferation and phenotypic switching of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are considered to be the main pathological processes of atherosclerotic plaque formation. Methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MECP2) affects cell differentiation via modulating VSMC-specific gene expression and acts as a driver for the development of atherosclerosis (AS). Here, we aimed to elucidate (Rafieian-Kopaei et al., 2014 [1]) the role of homeobox A9 (HOXA9) on aberrant VSMCs upon injury or AS, and (Rana et al., 2021 [2]) whether HOXA9-mediated VSMC injury was associated with MECP2. Adeno-associated virus serotype 8-mediated knockdown of HOXA9 rescued aortic pathological injury of apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE-/-) mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD), characterized by the reduction of lipid accumulation and foam cell formation. Further in vitro evidence suggested that proliferation and migration of primary mouse VSMCs (mVSMCs) stimulated by oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) were inhibited after HOXA9 silencing. In addition, HOXA9 silencing blocked VSMC phenotypic switching from contractile to a pathological synthetic state. HOXA9 overexpression caused opposite alterations in ox-LDL-stimulated mVSMCs. Mechanistically, MECP2 was transcriptionally activated by HOXA9. Forced expression of MECP2 impaired the anti-proliferation, anti-migration, and phenotypic switching abilities of HOXA9 silencing in VSMCs upon ox-LDL stimulation. Collectively, our findings reveal that the role of HOXA9 in pathological vascular remodeling may attribute to transcriptional regulation of MECP2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Fu
- Department of Cardiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning, China
| | - Peng Fu
- Department of Cardiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning, China
| | - Tiangui Yang
- Department of Cardiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning, China
| | - Tiesheng Niu
- Department of Cardiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning, China.
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Ghai S, Young A, Su KH. Proteotoxic stress response in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease: Emerging role of heat shock factor 1. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1155444. [PMID: 37077734 PMCID: PMC10106699 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1155444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Hypercholesterolemia has been both clinically and experimentally linked to cardiovascular disease and is involved in the initiation of atherosclerosis. Heat shock factor 1 (HSF1) is involved in the control of atherosclerosis. HSF1 is a critical transcriptional factor of the proteotoxic stress response that regulates the production of heat shock proteins (HSPs) and other important activities such as lipid metabolism. Recently, HSF1 is reported to directly interact with and inhibit AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) to promote lipogenesis and cholesterol synthesis. This review highlights roles of HSF1 and HSPs in critical metabolic pathways of atherosclerosis, including lipogenesis and proteome homeostasis.
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Bianchi L, Damiani I, Castiglioni S, Carleo A, De Salvo R, Rossi C, Corsini A, Bellosta S. Smooth Muscle Cell Phenotypic Switch Induced by Traditional Cigarette Smoke Condensate: A Holistic Overview. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076431. [PMID: 37047404 PMCID: PMC10094728 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cigarette smoke (CS) is a risk factor for inflammatory diseases, such as atherosclerosis. CS condensate (CSC) contains lipophilic components that may represent a systemic cardiac risk factor. To better understand CSC effects, we incubated mouse and human aortic smooth muscle cells (SMCs) with CSC. We evaluated specific markers for contractile [i.e., actin, aortic smooth muscle (ACTA2), calponin-1 (CNN1), the Kruppel-like factor 4 (KLF4), and myocardin (MYOCD) genes] and inflammatory [i.e., IL-1β, and IL-6, IL-8, and galectin-3 (LGALS-3) genes] phenotypes. CSC increased the expression of inflammatory markers and reduced the contractile ones in both cell types, with KLF4 modulating the SMC phenotypic switch. Next, we performed a mass spectrometry-based differential proteomic approach on human SMCs and could show 11 proteins were significantly affected by exposition to CSC (FC ≥ 2.7, p ≤ 0.05). These proteins are active in signaling pathways related to expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and IFN, inflammasome assembly and activation, cytoskeleton regulation and SMC contraction, mitochondrial integrity and cellular response to oxidative stress, proteostasis control via ubiquitination, and cell proliferation and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Through specific bioinformatics resources, we showed their tight functional correlation in a close interaction niche mainly orchestrated by the interferon-induced double-stranded RNA-activated protein kinase (alternative name: protein kinase RNA-activated; PKR) (EIF2AK2/PKR). Finally, by combining gene expression and protein abundance data we obtained a hybrid network showing reciprocal integration of the CSC-deregulated factors and indicating KLF4 and PKR as the most relevant factors.
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37
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Keeter WC, Moriarty AK, Akers R, Ma S, Mussbacher M, Nadler JL, Galkina EV. Neutrophil-specific STAT4 deficiency attenuates atherosclerotic burden and improves plaque stability via reduction in neutrophil activation and recruitment into aortas of Ldlr -/- mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.22.529608. [PMID: 36865098 PMCID: PMC9980123 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.22.529608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
Background and Aims Neutrophils drive atheroprogression and directly contribute to plaque instability. We recently identified signal transducer and activator of transcription 4 (STAT4) as a critical component for bacterial host defense in neutrophils. The STAT4-dependent functions of neutrophils in atherogenesis are unknown. Therefore, we investigated a contributory role of STAT4 in neutrophils during advanced atherosclerosis. Methods We generated myeloid-specific Stat4 ΔLysM Ldlr -/- , neutrophil-specific Stat4 ΔS100A8 Ldlr -/- , and control Stat4 fl/fl Ldlr -/- mice. All groups were fed a high-fat/cholesterol diet (HFD-C) for 28 weeks to establish advanced atherosclerosis. Aortic root plaque burden and stability were assessed histologically by Movat Pentachrome staining. Nanostring gene expression analysis was performed on isolated blood neutrophils. Flow cytometry was utilized to analyze hematopoiesis and blood neutrophil activation. In vivo homing of neutrophils to atherosclerotic plaques was performed by adoptively transferring prelabeled Stat4 ΔLysM Ldlr -/- and Stat4 fl/fl Ldlr -/- bone marrow cells into aged atherosclerotic Apoe -/- mice and detected by flow cytometry. Results STAT4 deficiency in both myeloid-specific and neutrophil-specific mice provided similar reductions in aortic root plaque burden and improvements in plaque stability via reduction in necrotic core size, improved fibrous cap area, and increased vascular smooth muscle cell content within the fibrous cap. Myeloid-specific STAT4 deficiency resulted in decreased circulating neutrophils via reduced production of granulocyte-monocyte progenitors in the bone marrow. Neutrophil activation was dampened in Stat4 ΔLysM Ldlr -/- mice via reduced mitochondrial superoxide production, attenuated surface expression of degranulation marker CD63, and reduced frequency of neutrophil-platelet aggregates. Myeloid-specific STAT4 deficiency diminished expression of chemokine receptors CCR1 and CCR2 and impaired in vivo neutrophil trafficking to atherosclerotic aorta. Conclusions Our work indicates a pro-atherogenic role for STAT4-dependent neutrophil activation and how it contributes to multiple factors of plaque instability during advanced atherosclerosis in mice.
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Wang Y, Nguyen DT, Anesi J, Alramahi A, Witting PK, Chai Z, Khan AW, Kelly J, Denton KM, Golledge J. Moxonidine Increases Uptake of Oxidised Low-Density Lipoprotein in Cultured Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells and Inhibits Atherosclerosis in Apolipoprotein E-Deficient Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043857. [PMID: 36835270 PMCID: PMC9960795 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the effect of the sympatholytic drug moxonidine on atherosclerosis. The effects of moxonidine on oxidised low-density lipoprotein (LDL) uptake, inflammatory gene expression and cellular migration were investigated in vitro in cultured vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). The effect of moxonidine on atherosclerosis was measured by examining aortic arch Sudan IV staining and quantifying the intima-to-media ratio of the left common carotid artery in apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE-/-) mice infused with angiotensin II. The levels of circulating lipid hydroperoxides in mouse plasma were measured by ferrous oxidation-xylenol orange assay. Moxonidine administration increased oxidised LDL uptake by VSMCs via activation of α2 adrenoceptors. Moxonidine increased the expression of LDL receptors and the lipid efflux transporter ABCG1. Moxonidine inhibited mRNA expression of inflammatory genes and increased VSMC migration. Moxonidine administration to ApoE-/- mice (18 mg/kg/day) decreased atherosclerosis formation in the aortic arch and left common carotid artery, associated with increased plasma lipid hydroperoxide levels. In conclusion, moxonidine inhibited atherosclerosis in ApoE-/- mice, which was accompanied by an increase in oxidised LDL uptake by VSMCs, VSMC migration, ABCG1 expression in VSMCs and lipid hydroperoxide levels in the plasma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutang Wang
- Discipline of Life Science, Institute of Innovation, Science and Sustainability, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC 3350, Australia
- Correspondence:
| | - Dinh Tam Nguyen
- Discipline of Life Science, Institute of Innovation, Science and Sustainability, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC 3350, Australia
| | - Jack Anesi
- Discipline of Life Science, Institute of Innovation, Science and Sustainability, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC 3350, Australia
| | - Ahmed Alramahi
- Discipline of Life Science, Institute of Innovation, Science and Sustainability, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC 3350, Australia
| | - Paul K. Witting
- Molecular Biomedicine Theme, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Zhonglin Chai
- Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Abdul Waheed Khan
- Department of Diabetes, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Jason Kelly
- Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, Ballarat, VIC 3350, Australia
| | - Kate M. Denton
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Jonathan Golledge
- Queensland Research Centre for Peripheral Vascular Disease, College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, The Townsville University Hospital, Townsville, QLD 4814, Australia
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Zhi W, Liu Y, Wang X, Zhang H. Recent advances of traditional Chinese medicine for the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 301:115749. [PMID: 36181983 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Atherosclerosis (AS) is a common systemic disease with increasing morbidity and mortality worldwide. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) with characteristics of multiple pathways and targets, presents advantages in the diagnosis and treatment of atherosclerosis. AIM OF THE STUDY With the modernization of TCM, the active ingredients and molecular mechanisms of TCM for AS treatment have been gradually revealed. Therefore, it is necessary to examine the existing studies on TCM therapies aimed at regulating AS over the past two decades. MATERIALS AND METHODS Using "atherosclerosis" and "Traditional Chinese medicine" as keywords, all relevant TCM literature published in the last 10 years was collected from electronic databases (such as Elsevier, Springer, PubMed, CNKI, and Web of Science), books and papers until March 2022, and the critical information was statistically analyzed. RESULTS In this review, we highlighted extracts of 8 single herbs, a total of 41 single active ingredients, 20 TCM formulae, and 25 patented drugs, which were described with chemical structure, source, model, efficacy and potential mechanism. CONCLUSION We summarized the cytopathological basis for the development of atherosclerosis involving vascular endothelial cells, macrophages and vascular smooth muscle cells, and categorically elaborated the medicinal TCM used for AS, all of which provide the current evidence on the better management of atherosclerosis by TCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenbing Zhi
- Shaanxi Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Shaanxi Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital), Xi'an, 710003, PR China.
| | - Yang Liu
- Shaanxi Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Shaanxi Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital), Xi'an, 710003, PR China
| | - Xiumei Wang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Hong Zhang
- Shaanxi Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Shaanxi Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital), Xi'an, 710003, PR China.
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Li G, Chen Q. lncRNA PCA3 Suppressed Carotid Artery Stenosis and Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Function via Negatively Modulating the miR-124-3p/ITGB1 Axis. Clin Appl Thromb Hemost 2023; 29:10760296231190383. [PMID: 37583257 PMCID: PMC10467385 DOI: 10.1177/10760296231190383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES Due to the hidden pathogen, carotid artery stenosis (CAS) always occurred at an advanced stage leading to serious sequelae and even deaths. The significance of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) prostate cancer antigen 3 (PCA3) in CAS incidence and progression were evaluated aiming to explore a potential target for its therapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS Serum samples were collected from 83 asymptomatic CAS patients and 52 healthy individuals and PCA3 was compared using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The PCA3 levels were compared between stable and unstable plaque in CAS patients. The effect of PCA3 on vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) proliferation and motility was assessed by CCK8 and transwell assay. RESULTS PCA3 was downregulated in CAS patients and their unstable plaque tissues compared with healthy individuals and stable plaque, respectively. Reduced PCA3 could discriminate CAS patients with relatively high sensitivity and specificity and were associated with higher total cholesterol level and stenosis degree, unstable plaque, and complications. PCA3 downregulation predicted the adverse outcomes of CAS patients. In VSMCs, overexpressing PCA3 significantly suppressed cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, which was alleviated by miR-124-3p/ITGB1 axis. CONCLUSION PCA3 served as a biomarker of CAS and regulates the function of VSMCs through sponging miR-124-3p/ITGB1 and indirectly influence the stability of plaque.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guosheng Li
- The Affiliated Taizhou Second People's Hospital of Yangzhou University, Taizhou, China
| | - Qiang Chen
- Department of Neurology, Huai'an Hospital Affiliated to Xuzhou Medical University, Huai'an, China
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Lee S, Affandi J, Waters S, Price P. Human Cytomegalovirus Infection and Cardiovascular Disease: Current Perspectives. Viral Immunol 2023; 36:13-24. [PMID: 36622943 DOI: 10.1089/vim.2022.0139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Infections with human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) are often asymptomatic in healthy adults but can be severe in people with a compromised immune system. While several studies have demonstrated associations between cardiovascular disease in older adults and HCMV seropositivity, the underlying mechanisms are unclear. We review evidence published within the last 5 years establishing how HCMV can contribute directly and indirectly to the development and progression of atherosclerotic plaques. We also discuss associations between HCMV infection and cardiovascular outcomes in populations with a high or very high burden of HCMV, including patients with renal or autoimmune disease, transplant recipients, and people living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Lee
- Department of Microbiology, Pathwest Laboratory Medicine, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Department of Advanced Clinical and Translational Cardiovascular Imaging, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia.,Curtin Medical School and the Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute (CHIRI); Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jacquita Affandi
- Curtin School of Population Health; Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Shelley Waters
- Curtin Medical School and the Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute (CHIRI); Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Patricia Price
- Curtin Medical School and the Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute (CHIRI); Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
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Qin HL, Bao JH, Tang JJ, Xu DY, Shen L. Arterial remodeling: the role of mitochondrial metabolism in vascular smooth muscle cells. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2023; 324:C183-C192. [PMID: 36468843 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00074.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Arterial remodeling is a common pathological basis of cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, vascular restenosis, hypertension, pulmonary hypertension, aortic dissection, and aneurysm. Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are not only the main cellular components in the middle layer of the arterial wall but also the main cells involved in arterial remodeling. Dedifferentiated VSMCs lose their contractile properties and are converted to a synthetic, secretory, proliferative, and migratory phenotype, playing key roles in the pathogenesis of arterial remodeling. As mitochondria are the main site of biological oxidation and energy transformation in eukaryotic cells, mitochondrial numbers and function are very important in maintaining the metabolic processes in VSMCs. Mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress are novel triggers of the phenotypic transformation of VSMCs, leading to the onset and development of arterial remodeling. Therefore, pharmacological measures that alleviate mitochondrial dysfunction reverse arterial remodeling by ameliorating VSMCs metabolic dysfunction and phenotypic transformation, providing new options for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases related to arterial remodeling. This review summarizes the relationship between mitochondrial dysfunction and cardiovascular diseases associated with arterial remodeling and then discusses the potential mechanism by which mitochondrial dysfunction participates in pathological arterial remodeling. Furthermore, maintaining or improving mitochondrial function may be a new intervention strategy to prevent the progression of arterial remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua-Li Qin
- Department of Internal Cardiovascular Medicine, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jing-Hui Bao
- Department of Internal Cardiovascular Medicine, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jian-Jun Tang
- Department of Internal Cardiovascular Medicine, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Dan-Yan Xu
- Department of Internal Cardiovascular Medicine, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Li Shen
- Department of Internal Cardiovascular Medicine, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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Macvanin M, Gluvic Z, Radovanovic J, Essack M, Gao X, Isenovic ER. New insights on the cardiovascular effects of IGF-1. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1142644. [PMID: 36843588 PMCID: PMC9947133 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1142644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cardiovascular (CV) disorders are steadily increasing, making them the world's most prevalent health issue. New research highlights the importance of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) for maintaining CV health. METHODS We searched PubMed and MEDLINE for English and non-English articles with English abstracts published between 1957 (when the first report on IGF-1 identification was published) and 2022. The top search terms were: IGF-1, cardiovascular disease, IGF-1 receptors, IGF-1 and microRNAs, therapeutic interventions with IGF-1, IGF-1 and diabetes, IGF-1 and cardiovascular disease. The search retrieved original peer-reviewed articles, which were further analyzed, focusing on the role of IGF-1 in pathophysiological conditions. We specifically focused on including the most recent findings published in the past five years. RESULTS IGF-1, an anabolic growth factor, regulates cell division, proliferation, and survival. In addition to its well-known growth-promoting and metabolic effects, there is mounting evidence that IGF-1 plays a specialized role in the complex activities that underpin CV function. IGF-1 promotes cardiac development and improves cardiac output, stroke volume, contractility, and ejection fraction. Furthermore, IGF-1 mediates many growth hormones (GH) actions. IGF-1 stimulates contractility and tissue remodeling in humans to improve heart function after myocardial infarction. IGF-1 also improves the lipid profile, lowers insulin levels, increases insulin sensitivity, and promotes glucose metabolism. These findings point to the intriguing medicinal potential of IGF-1. Human studies associate low serum levels of free or total IGF-1 with an increased risk of CV and cerebrovascular illness. Extensive human trials are being conducted to investigate the therapeutic efficacy and outcomes of IGF-1-related therapy. DISCUSSION We anticipate the development of novel IGF-1-related therapy with minimal side effects. This review discusses recent findings on the role of IGF-1 in the cardiovascular (CVD) system, including both normal and pathological conditions. We also discuss progress in therapeutic interventions aimed at targeting the IGF axis and provide insights into the epigenetic regulation of IGF-1 mediated by microRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirjana Macvanin
- Department of Radiobiology and Molecular Genetics, VINČA Institute of Nuclear Sciences - National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- *Correspondence: Mirjana Macvanin,
| | - Zoran Gluvic
- Clinic for Internal Medicine, Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Zemun Clinical Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jelena Radovanovic
- Department of Radiobiology and Molecular Genetics, VINČA Institute of Nuclear Sciences - National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Magbubah Essack
- Computational Bioscience Research Center (CBRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
- Computer Science Program, Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Sciences and Engineering Division (CEMSE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
| | - Xin Gao
- Computational Bioscience Research Center (CBRC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
- Computer Science Program, Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Sciences and Engineering Division (CEMSE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
| | - Esma R. Isenovic
- Department of Radiobiology and Molecular Genetics, VINČA Institute of Nuclear Sciences - National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
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Reed E, Fellows A, Lu R, Rienks M, Schmidt L, Yin X, Duregotti E, Brandt M, Krasemann S, Hartmann K, Barallobre-Barreiro J, Addison O, Cuello F, Hansen A, Mayr M. Extracellular Matrix Profiling and Disease Modelling in Engineered Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Tissues. Matrix Biol Plus 2022; 16:100122. [PMID: 36193159 PMCID: PMC9526190 DOI: 10.1016/j.mbplus.2022.100122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Aortic smooth muscle cells (SMCs) have an intrinsic role in regulating vessel homeostasis and pathological remodelling. In two-dimensional (2D) cell culture formats, however, SMCs are not embedded in their physiological extracellular matrix (ECM) environment. To overcome the limitations of conventional 2D SMC cultures, we established a 3D in vitro model of engineered vascular smooth muscle cell tissues (EVTs). EVTs were casted from primary murine aortic SMCs by suspending a SMC-fibrin master mix between two flexible silicon-posts at day 0 before prolonged culture up to 14 days. Immunohistochemical analysis of EVT longitudinal sections demonstrated that SMCs were aligned, viable and secretory. Mass spectrometry-based proteomics analysis of murine EVT lysates was performed and identified 135 matrisome proteins. Proteoglycans, including the large aggregating proteoglycan versican, accumulated within EVTs by day 7 of culture. This was followed by the deposition of collagens, elastin-binding proteins and matrix regulators up to day 14 of culture. In contrast to 2D SMC controls, accumulation of versican occurred in parallel to an increase in versikine, a cleavage product mediated by proteases of the A Disintegrin and Metalloproteinase with Thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS) family. Next, we tested the response of EVTs to stimulation with transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGFβ-1). EVTs contracted in response to TGFβ-1 stimulation with altered ECM composition. In contrast, treatment with the pharmacological activin-like kinase inhibitor (ALKi) SB 431542 suppressed ECM secretion. As a disease stimulus, we performed calcification assays. The ECM acts as a nidus for calcium phosphate deposition in the arterial wall. We compared the onset and extent of calcification in EVTs and 2D SMCs cultured under high calcium and phosphate conditions for 7 days. Calcified EVTs displayed increased tissue stiffness by up to 30 % compared to non-calcified controls. Unlike the rapid calcification of SMCs in 2D cultures, EVTs sustained expression of the calcification inhibitor matrix Gla protein and allowed for better discrimination of the calcification propensity between independent biological replicates. In summary, EVTs are an intuitive and versatile model to investigate ECM synthesis and turnover by SMCs in a 3D environment. Unlike conventional 2D cultures, EVTs provide a more relevant pathophysiological model for retention of the nascent ECM produced by SMCs.
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Key Words
- 2D, Two-dimensional
- 3D cell culture
- 3D, Three-dimensional
- ADAMTS, A disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs
- ALKi, Activin-like kinase inhibitor
- Calcification
- ECM
- ECM, Extracellular matrix
- EHT, Engineered heart tissue
- EVT, Engineered vascular smooth muscle cell tissue
- LC-MS/MS, Liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry
- Proteomics
- SMC, Smooth muscle cell
- Smooth muscle cells
- TCP, Tissue culture polystyrene
- TGFβ-1, Transforming growth factor beta-1
- Tissue engineering
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Affiliation(s)
- Ella Reed
- King's British Heart Foundation Centre, School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine and Sciences, London SE5 9NU, UK
| | - Adam Fellows
- King's British Heart Foundation Centre, School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine and Sciences, London SE5 9NU, UK
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - Ruifang Lu
- King's British Heart Foundation Centre, School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine and Sciences, London SE5 9NU, UK
| | - Marieke Rienks
- King's British Heart Foundation Centre, School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine and Sciences, London SE5 9NU, UK
| | - Lukas Schmidt
- King's British Heart Foundation Centre, School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine and Sciences, London SE5 9NU, UK
| | - Xiaoke Yin
- King's British Heart Foundation Centre, School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine and Sciences, London SE5 9NU, UK
| | - Elisa Duregotti
- King's British Heart Foundation Centre, School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine and Sciences, London SE5 9NU, UK
| | - Mona Brandt
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Hamburg/Lübeck/Kiel, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | - Susanne Krasemann
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Kristin Hartmann
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Javier Barallobre-Barreiro
- King's British Heart Foundation Centre, School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine and Sciences, London SE5 9NU, UK
| | - Owen Addison
- Centre of Oral, Clinical & Translational Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, Guy’s Hospital, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Friederike Cuello
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Hamburg/Lübeck/Kiel, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | - Arne Hansen
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Hamburg/Lübeck/Kiel, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | - Manuel Mayr
- King's British Heart Foundation Centre, School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine and Sciences, London SE5 9NU, UK
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Li Z, Zhang R, Mu H, Zhang W, Zeng J, Li H, Wang S, Zhao X, Chen W, Dong J, Yang R. Oral Administration of Branched-Chain Amino Acids Attenuates Atherosclerosis by Inhibiting the Inflammatory Response and Regulating the Gut Microbiota in ApoE-Deficient Mice. Nutrients 2022; 14:5065. [PMID: 36501095 PMCID: PMC9739883 DOI: 10.3390/nu14235065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease that serves as a common pathogenic underpinning for various cardiovascular diseases. Although high circulating branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) levels may represent a risk factor for AS, it is unclear whether dietary BCAA supplementation causes elevated levels of circulating BCAAs and hence influences AS, and the related mechanisms are not well understood. Here, ApoE-deficient mice (ApoE-/-) were fed a diet supplemented with or without BCAAs to investigate the effects of BCAAs on AS and determine potential related mechanisms. In this study, compared with the high-fat diet (HFD), high-fat diet supplemented with BCAAs (HFB) reduced the atherosclerotic lesion area and caused a significant decrease in serum cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels. BCAA supplementation suppressed the systemic inflammatory response by reducing macrophage infiltration; lowering serum levels of inflammatory factors, including monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-6 (IL-6); and suppressing inflammatory related signaling pathways. Furthermore, BCAA supplementation altered the gut bacterial beta diversity and composition, especially reducing harmful bacteria and increasing probiotic bacteria, along with increasing bile acid (BA) excretion. In addition, the levels of total BAs, primary BAs, 12α-hydroxylated bile acids (12α-OH BAs) and non-12α-hydroxylated bile acids (non-12α-OH BAs) in cecal and colonic contents were increased in the HFB group of mice compared with the HFD group. Overall, these data indicate that dietary BCAA supplementation can attenuate atherosclerosis induced by HFD in ApoE-/- mice through improved dyslipidemia and inflammation, mechanisms involving the intestinal microbiota, and promotion of BA excretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyun Li
- The Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology of National Health Commission, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Ranran Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology of National Health Commission, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Hongna Mu
- The Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology of National Health Commission, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Wenduo Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Jie Zeng
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Hongxia Li
- The Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology of National Health Commission, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Siming Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology of National Health Commission, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Xianghui Zhao
- The Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology of National Health Commission, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Wenxiang Chen
- The Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology of National Health Commission, Beijing 100730, China
- National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Jun Dong
- The Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology of National Health Commission, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Ruiyue Yang
- The Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing Hospital/National Center of Gerontology of National Health Commission, Beijing 100730, China
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Rai V, Singh H, Agrawal DK. Targeting the Crosstalk of Immune Response and Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells Phenotype Switch for Arteriovenous Fistula Maturation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:12012. [PMID: 36233314 PMCID: PMC9570261 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231912012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Plaque formation, thrombosis, and embolism are the underlying causes of acute cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction and stroke while early thrombosis and stenosis are common pathologies for the maturation failure of arteriovenous fistula (AVF). Chronic inflammation is a common underlying pathogenesis mediated by innate and adaptive immune response involving infiltration of immune cells and secretion of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Impaired immune cell infiltration and change in vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) phenotype play a crucial role in the underlying pathophysiology. However, the change in the phenotype of VSMCs in a microenvironment of immune cell infiltration and increased secretion of cytokines have not been investigated. Since change in VSMC phenotype regulates vessel remodeling after intimal injury, in this study, we investigated the effect of macrophages and pro-inflammatory cytokines, IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α, on the change in VSMC phenotype under in vitro conditions. We also investigated the expression of the markers of VSMC phenotypes in arteries with atherosclerotic plaques and VSMCs isolated from control arteries. We found that the inhibition of cytokine downstream signaling may mitigate the effect of cytokines on the change in VSMCs phenotype. The results of this study support that regulating or targeting immune cell infiltration and function might be a therapeutic strategy to mitigate the effects of chronic inflammation to attenuate plaque formation, early thrombosis, and stenosis, and thus enhance AVF maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Devendra K. Agrawal
- Department of Translational Research, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA 91766, USA
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Soleimani AA, Mohammadi A, Ghasempour G, Abkenar BR, Shokri N, Najafi M. Dexamethasone suppresses the proliferation and migration of VSMCs by FAK in high glucose conditions. BMC Pharmacol Toxicol 2022; 23:63. [PMID: 35978346 PMCID: PMC9382766 DOI: 10.1186/s40360-022-00604-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background High glucose conditions cause some changes in the vessels of diabetes through the signal transduction pathways. Dexamethasone and other corticosteroids have a wide range of biological effects in immunological events. In the present study, the effects of dexamethasone were investigated on the VSMC (vascular smooth muscle cell) proliferation, and migration based on the FAK gene and protein changes in high glucose conditions. Methods and materials The vascular smooth muscle cells were cultured in DMEM and were treated with dexamethasone (10–7 M, 10–6 M, and 10–5 M) for 24, and 48 h in high glucose conditions. The cell viability was estimated by MTT method. The FAK gene expression levels and pFAK protein values were determined by RT-qPCR and western blotting techniques, respectively. A scratch assay was used to evaluate cellular migration. Results The FAK gene expression levels decreased significantly dependent on dexamethasone doses at 24 and 48 h. The pFAK protein values decreased significantly with a time lag at 24- and 48-h periods as compared with gene expression levels. Conclusion The results showed that the inhibition of VSMC proliferation and migration by dexamethasone in the high glucose conditions may be related to the changes of FAK. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40360-022-00604-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Akbar Soleimani
- Clinical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Asghar Mohammadi
- Clinical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ghasem Ghasempour
- Clinical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Borhan Rahimi Abkenar
- Clinical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nafiseh Shokri
- Clinical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Najafi
- Clinical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. .,Microbial Biotechnology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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S S, Dahal S, Bastola S, Dayal S, Yau J, Ramamurthi A. Stem Cell Based Approaches to Modulate the Matrix Milieu in Vascular Disorders. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:879977. [PMID: 35783852 PMCID: PMC9242410 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.879977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) represents a complex and dynamic framework for cells, characterized by tissue-specific biophysical, mechanical, and biochemical properties. ECM components in vascular tissues provide structural support to vascular cells and modulate their function through interaction with specific cell-surface receptors. ECM–cell interactions, together with neurotransmitters, cytokines, hormones and mechanical forces imposed by blood flow, modulate the structural organization of the vascular wall. Changes in the ECM microenvironment, as in post-injury degradation or remodeling, lead to both altered tissue function and exacerbation of vascular pathologies. Regeneration and repair of the ECM are thus critical toward reinstating vascular homeostasis. The self-renewal and transdifferentiating potential of stem cells (SCs) into other cell lineages represents a potentially useful approach in regenerative medicine, and SC-based approaches hold great promise in the development of novel therapeutics toward ECM repair. Certain adult SCs, including mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), possess a broader plasticity and differentiation potential, and thus represent a viable option for SC-based therapeutics. However, there are significant challenges to SC therapies including, but not limited to cell processing and scaleup, quality control, phenotypic integrity in a disease milieu in vivo, and inefficient delivery to the site of tissue injury. SC-derived or -inspired strategies as a putative surrogate for conventional cell therapy are thus gaining momentum. In this article, we review current knowledge on the patho-mechanistic roles of ECM components in common vascular disorders and the prospects of developing adult SC based/inspired therapies to modulate the vascular tissue environment and reinstate vessel homeostasis in these disorders.
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Cysteine-Rich LIM-Only Protein 4 (CRP4) Promotes Atherogenesis in the ApoE -/- Mouse Model. Cells 2022; 11:cells11081364. [PMID: 35456043 PMCID: PMC9032522 DOI: 10.3390/cells11081364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) can switch from their contractile state to a synthetic phenotype resulting in high migratory and proliferative capacity and driving atherosclerotic lesion formation. The cysteine-rich LIM-only protein 4 (CRP4) reportedly modulates VSM-like transcriptional signatures, which are perturbed in VSMCs undergoing phenotypic switching. Thus, we hypothesized that CRP4 contributes to adverse VSMC behaviours and thereby to atherogenesis in vivo. The atherogenic properties of CRP4 were investigated in plaque-prone apolipoprotein E (ApoE) and CRP4 double-knockout (dKO) as well as ApoE-deficient CRP4 wildtype mice. dKO mice exhibited lower plaque numbers and lesion areas as well as a reduced content of α-smooth muscle actin positive cells in the lesion area, while lesion-associated cell proliferation was elevated in vessels lacking CRP4. Reduced plaque volumes in dKO correlated with significantly less intra-plaque oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL), presumably due to upregulation of the antioxidant factor peroxiredoxin-4 (PRDX4). This study identifies CRP4 as a novel pro-atherogenic factor that facilitates plaque oxLDL deposition and identifies the invasion of atherosclerotic lesions by VSMCs as important determinants of plaque vulnerability. Thus, targeting of VSMC CRP4 should be considered in plaque-stabilizing pharmacological strategies.
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Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and atherosclerosis: common mechanisms and novel therapeutics. Clin Sci (Lond) 2022; 136:405-423. [PMID: 35319068 PMCID: PMC8968302 DOI: 10.1042/cs20210835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and atherosclerosis are chronic irreversible diseases, that share a number of common causative factors including cigarette smoking. Atherosclerosis drastically impairs blood flow and oxygen availability to tissues, leading to life-threatening outcomes including myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke. Patients with COPD are most likely to die as a result of a cardiovascular event, with 30% of all COPD-related deaths being attributed to cardiovascular disease (CVD). Both atherosclerosis and COPD involve significant local (i.e. lung, vasculature) and systemic inflammation and oxidative stress, of which current pharmacological treatments have limited efficacy, hence the urgency for the development of novel life-saving therapeutics. Currently these diseases must be treated individually, with no therapies available that can effectively reduce the likelihood of comorbid CVD other than cessation of cigarette smoking. In this review, the important mechanisms that drive atherosclerosis and CVD in people with COPD are explained and we propose that modulation of both the oxidative stress and the inflammatory burden will provide a novel therapeutic strategy to treat both the pulmonary and systemic manifestations related to these diseases.
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