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Olaniyi KS, Atuma CL, Mahmud H, Saidi AO, Sabinari IW, Akintayo CO, Ajadi IO, Olatunji LA. Restoration of cardiac metabolic flexibility by acetate in high fat diet-induced obesity is independent of ANP/BNP modulation. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2022; 100:509-520. [PMID: 35395159 DOI: 10.1139/cjpp-2021-0531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The present study hypothesized that cardiac metabolic inflexibility is dependent on cardiac ANP/BNP alteration and HDAC activity. We further sought to investigate the therapeutic potential of SCFA, acetate in high fat diet (HFD)-induced obese rat model. Adult male Wistar rats were assigned into groups (n = 6/group): Control, Obese, Sodium acetate (NaAc)-treated and Obese+ NaAc-treated groups received distilled water once daily (oral gavage), 40% HFD ad libitum, 200 mg/kg NaAc once daily (oral gavage) and 40% HFD+NaAc respectively. The treatments lasted for 12 weeks. HFD resulted in increased food intake, body weight and cardiac mass. It also caused insulin resistance and enhanced β-cell function, increased fasting insulin, lactate, plasma and cardiac triglyceride, total cholesterol, lipid peroxidation, TNF-α, IL-6, HDAC and cardiac troponin T and γ-Glutamyl transferase and decreased plasma and cardiac GSH with unaltered cardiac ANP and BNP. However, these alterations were averted when treated with acetate. Taken together, these results indicate that obesity induces defective cardiac metabolic flexibility, which is accompanied by elevated level of HDAC and not ANP/BNP alteration. The results also suggest that acetate ameliorates obesity-induced cardiac metabolic inflexibility by suppression of HDAC and independent of ANP/BNP modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kehinde Samuel Olaniyi
- Afe Babalola University, 470822, Department of Physiology, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria.,College of Health Sciences University of Ilorin P, Department of Physiology, Ilorin, Nigeria;
| | - Chukwubueze L Atuma
- Afe Babalola University, 470822, Department of Physiology, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria;
| | - Hadiza Mahmud
- Afe Babalola University, 470822, Department of Physiology, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria;
| | - Azeezat O Saidi
- Afe Babalola University, 470822, Department of Physiology, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria;
| | | | - Christopher O Akintayo
- Afe Babalola University College of Medicine and Health Sciences, 473846, Cardio/Repro-metabolic and Microbiome Research Unit, Department of Physiology, Ado Ekiti, Ekiti, Nigeria;
| | - Isaac O Ajadi
- Ladoke Akintola University of Technology College of Health Sciences, 215747, Department of Physiology, Osogbo, Osun, Nigeria;
| | - Lawrence A Olatunji
- College of Health Sciences University of Ilorin P, Department of Physiology, Ilorin, Nigeria;
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2
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Targeting CCN2 protects against progressive non-alcoholic steatohepatitis in a preclinical model induced by high-fat feeding and type 2 diabetes. J Cell Commun Signal 2022; 16:447-460. [PMID: 35038159 PMCID: PMC9411483 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-022-00667-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes is an independent risk factor for non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) progression and its mediators have not been resolved. In this study, a pathogenic role of cellular communication network factor 2 (CCN2) protein in NASH pathology, was investigated in an established preclinical NASH model. Male wild type C57BL/6 mice received either Chow or high fat diet (HFD) for 26 weeks, with some mice in each group randomly selected to receive low dose streptozotocin (STZ: 3 i.p. injections, 65 mg/kg) at 15 weeks to induce type 2 diabetes. In the final 10 of the 26 weeks mice from each group were administered i.p. either rabbit anti-CCN2 neutralizing antibody (CCN2Ab) or as control normal rabbit IgG, at a dose of 150 µg per mouse twice/week. NASH developed in the HFD plus diabetes (HFD+DM) group. Administration of CCN2Ab significantly downregulated collagen I and collagen III mRNA induction and prevented pro-inflammatory MCP-1 mRNA induction in HFD+DM mice. At the protein level, CCN2Ab significantly attenuated collagen accumulation by PSR stain and collagen I protein induction in HFD+DM. Phosphorylation of the pro-fibrotic ERK signalling pathway in liver in HFD+DM was attenuated by CCN2Ab treatment. Intrahepatic CCN1 mRNA was induced, whereas CCN3 was downregulated at both the mRNA and protein levels in HFD+DM. CCN3 down-regulation was prevented by CCN2Ab treatment. This in vivo study indicates that CCN2 is a molecular target in NASH with high fat diet and diabetes, and that regulation of ERK signalling is implicated in this process.
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3
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Rodrigues-Díez Raul R, Tejera-Muñoz A, Esteban V, Steffensen Lasse B, Rodrigues-Díez R, Orejudo M, Rayego-Mateos S, Falke Lucas L, Cannata-Ortiz P, Ortiz A, Egido J, Mallat Z, Briones Ana M, Bajo Maria A, Goldschmeding R, Ruiz-Ortega M. CCN2 (Cellular Communication Network Factor 2) Deletion Alters Vascular Integrity and Function Predisposing to Aneurysm Formation. Hypertension 2021; 79:e42-e55. [DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.121.18201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background:
CCN2 (cellular communication network factor 2) is a matricellular protein involved in cell communication and microenvironmental signaling responses. CCN2 is known to be overexpressed in several cardiovascular diseases, but its role is not completely understood.
Methods:
Here, CCN2 involvement in aortic wall homeostasis and response to vascular injury was investigated in inducible
Ccn2
-deficient mice, with induction of vascular damage by infusion of Ang II (angiotensin II; 15 days), which is known to upregulate CCN2 expression in the aorta.
Results:
Ang II infusion in CCN2-silenced mice lead to 60% mortality within 10 days due to rapid development and rupture of aortic aneurysms, as evidenced by magnetic resonance imaging, echography, and histological examination.
Ccn2
deletion decreased systolic blood pressure and caused aortic structural and functional changes, including elastin layer disruption, smooth muscle cell alterations, augmented distensibility, and increased metalloproteinase activity, which were aggravated by Ang II administration. Gene ontology analysis of RNA sequencing data identified aldosterone biosynthesis as one of the most enriched terms in CCN2-deficient aortas. Consistently, treatment with the mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist spironolactone before and during Ang II infusion reduced aneurysm formation and mortality, underscoring the importance of the aldosterone pathway in Ang II–induced aorta pathology.
Conclusions:
CCN2 is critically involved in the functional and structural homeostasis of the aorta and in maintenance of its integrity under Ang II–induced stress, at least, in part, by disruption of the aldosterone pathway. Thus, this study opens new avenues to future studies in disorders associated to vascular pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. Rodrigues-Díez Raul
- Molecular and Cellular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D.R., A.T.-M., M.O., S.R.-M., M.R.-O.)
- Red de Investigación Renal, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D.R., M.O., S.R.-M., P.C.-O., A.O., A.B.M., M.R.-O.)
- Department of Pharmacology, UAM, Instituto de Investigación-Hospital Universitario La Paz, IdiPaz, Ciber Cardiovascular, Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D., M.B.A.)
| | - Antonio Tejera-Muñoz
- Molecular and Cellular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D.R., A.T.-M., M.O., S.R.-M., M.R.-O.)
| | - Vanesa Esteban
- Department of Allergy and Immunology, FIIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, UAM, Asma, Reacciones Adversas y Alérgicas Network. Madrid, Spain (V.E.)
| | - B. Steffensen Lasse
- Unit of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense (B.S.L.)
| | | | - Macarena Orejudo
- Molecular and Cellular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D.R., A.T.-M., M.O., S.R.-M., M.R.-O.)
- Red de Investigación Renal, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D.R., M.O., S.R.-M., P.C.-O., A.O., A.B.M., M.R.-O.)
| | - Sandra Rayego-Mateos
- Molecular and Cellular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D.R., A.T.-M., M.O., S.R.-M., M.R.-O.)
- Red de Investigación Renal, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D.R., M.O., S.R.-M., P.C.-O., A.O., A.B.M., M.R.-O.)
| | - L. Falke Lucas
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, the Netherlands (L.F.L.)
| | - Pablo Cannata-Ortiz
- Red de Investigación Renal, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D.R., M.O., S.R.-M., P.C.-O., A.O., A.B.M., M.R.-O.)
- IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma Madrid, Spain (P.C.-O., A.O., J.E., R.G.)
| | - Alberto Ortiz
- Red de Investigación Renal, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D.R., M.O., S.R.-M., P.C.-O., A.O., A.B.M., M.R.-O.)
- IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma Madrid, Spain (P.C.-O., A.O., J.E., R.G.)
| | - Jesus Egido
- IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma Madrid, Spain (P.C.-O., A.O., J.E., R.G.)
- Spanish Biomedical Research Centre in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders (CIBERDEM), Spain (J.E.)
| | - Ziad Mallat
- Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom (Z.M.)
- Institut National de la Sante et de la Recherche Medicale, France, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Z.M.)
| | - M. Briones Ana
- Department of Pharmacology, UAM, Instituto de Investigación-Hospital Universitario La Paz, IdiPaz, Ciber Cardiovascular, Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D., M.B.A.)
| | - Auxiliadora Bajo Maria
- Red de Investigación Renal, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D.R., M.O., S.R.-M., P.C.-O., A.O., A.B.M., M.R.-O.)
- Department of Nephrology, Instituto de Investigación-Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain (A.B.M.)
| | - Roel Goldschmeding
- IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma Madrid, Spain (P.C.-O., A.O., J.E., R.G.)
| | - Marta Ruiz-Ortega
- Molecular and Cellular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D.R., A.T.-M., M.O., S.R.-M., M.R.-O.)
- Red de Investigación Renal, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D.R., M.O., S.R.-M., P.C.-O., A.O., A.B.M., M.R.-O.)
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Flores-Vergara R, Olmedo I, Aránguiz P, Riquelme JA, Vivar R, Pedrozo Z. Communication Between Cardiomyocytes and Fibroblasts During Cardiac Ischemia/Reperfusion and Remodeling: Roles of TGF-β, CTGF, the Renin Angiotensin Axis, and Non-coding RNA Molecules. Front Physiol 2021; 12:716721. [PMID: 34539441 PMCID: PMC8446518 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.716721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Communication between cells is a foundational concept for understanding the physiology and pathology of biological systems. Paracrine/autocrine signaling, direct cell-to-cell interplay, and extracellular matrix interactions are three types of cell communication that regulate responses to different stimuli. In the heart, cardiomyocytes, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells interact to form the cardiac tissue. Under pathological conditions, such as myocardial infarction, humoral factors released by these cells may induce tissue damage or protection, depending on the type and concentration of molecules secreted. Cardiac remodeling is also mediated by the factors secreted by cardiomyocytes and fibroblasts that are involved in the extensive reciprocal interactions between these cells. Identifying the molecules and cellular signal pathways implicated in these processes will be crucial for creating effective tissue-preserving treatments during or after reperfusion. Numerous therapies to protect cardiac tissue from reperfusion-induced injury have been explored, and ample pre-clinical research has attempted to identify drugs or techniques to mitigate cardiac damage. However, despite great success in animal models, it has not been possible to completely translate these cardioprotective effects to human applications. This review provides a current summary of the principal molecules, pathways, and mechanisms underlying cardiomyocyte and cardiac fibroblast crosstalk during ischemia/reperfusion injury. We also discuss pre-clinical molecules proposed as treatments for myocardial infarction and provide a clinical perspective on these potential therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raúl Flores-Vergara
- Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases (ACCDiS), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas y Farmacéuticas & Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile.,Programa de Fisiología y Biofísica, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Ivonne Olmedo
- Programa de Fisiopatología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile.,Red para el Estudio de Enfermedades Cardiopulmonares de alta letalidad (REECPAL), Universidad de Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Pablo Aránguiz
- Escuela de Química y Farmacia, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Andrés Bello, Viña del Mar, Chile
| | - Jaime Andrés Riquelme
- Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases (ACCDiS), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas y Farmacéuticas & Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile.,Departamento de Química Farmacológica y Toxicológica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad de Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Raúl Vivar
- Programa de Farmacología Molecular y Clínica, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Zully Pedrozo
- Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases (ACCDiS), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas y Farmacéuticas & Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile.,Programa de Fisiología y Biofísica, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile.,Red para el Estudio de Enfermedades Cardiopulmonares de alta letalidad (REECPAL), Universidad de Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile
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5
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Li H, Zeng RL, Liao YF, Fu MF, Zhang H, Wang LF, Li YM. Association of Plasma Connective Tissue Growth Factor Levels with Hyperthyroid Heart Disease. Curr Med Sci 2021; 41:348-355. [PMID: 33877553 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-021-2354-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Hyperthyroid heart disease (HHD) is one of the most severe complications of overt hyperthyroidism and increases the risk of mortality in affected patients. Early identification of patients at a higher risk of developing HHD can improve clinical outcomes through active surveillance and management. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), a secreted extracellular protein, plays a significant role in cardiac remodeling and dysfunction. We aimed to investigate the association between plasma CTGF level and the risk of HHD in this study. A total of 142 overt hyperthyroid patients without HHD and 99 patients with HHD were included. The plasma CTGF levels were measured using ELISA kits. Routine clinical medical data and echocardiography parameters were recorded for analysis. The plasma CTGF level was significantly higher in patients with HHD than in those without HHD (P=0.002). The plasma CTGF level was positively correlated with free triiodothyronin, tryrotropin receptor antibody, troponin I and lactate dehydrogenase levels and the left atrium diameters, right atrium diameters, and right ventricular end-diastolic diameters (all P<0.05). Logistic regression analysis showed that quartiles 3 and 4 of plasma CTGF levels were significantly associated with the increased risk of HHD (crude OR: 2.529; 95% CI: 1.188-5.387). However, after adjustment for the potentially confounding variables, quartile 4 alone was significantly associated with the higher risk of HHD relative to quartile 1. Hyperthyroid patients with HHD display higher plasma CTGF levels. Furthermore, CTGF is an independent risk factor for HHD. Therefore, the plasma CTGF level may be a potential biomarker for the risk of HHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Li
- Department of Endocrinology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.,Hubei Provincial Clinical Research Center for Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Ren-Li Zeng
- Department of Endocrinology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.,Hubei Provincial Clinical Research Center for Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Yun-Fei Liao
- Department of Endocrinology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.,Hubei Provincial Clinical Research Center for Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Meng-Fei Fu
- Department of Endocrinology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.,Hubei Provincial Clinical Research Center for Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Huan Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.,Hubei Provincial Clinical Research Center for Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Lin-Fang Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
| | - Yu-Ming Li
- Department of Endocrinology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China. .,Hubei Provincial Clinical Research Center for Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, Wuhan, 430022, China.
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Mashimo K, Ohno Y. Cultured Neonatal Rat Cardiomyocytes Continue Beating Through Upregulation of CTGF Gene Expression. J NIPPON MED SCH 2020; 87:268-276. [PMID: 33311008 DOI: 10.1272/jnms.jnms.2020_87-505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Some cultured neonatal rat cardiomyocytes continue spontaneous beating even in serum-free medium. The present study explored the cause and genes responsible for this phenomenon. METHODS Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) software was used to analyze fold changes in gene expression in beating neonatal rat cardiomyocytes, as compared with non-beating cardiomyocytes, which were obtained from DNA microarray data of total RNA extracts of cardiomyocytes. To confirm the involvement of the 8 genes selected by IPA prediction, cellular protein abundances were determined by Western blot. The gene expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) was substantially higher in beating cardiomyocytes than in non-beating cardiomyocytes; thus, CTGF protein content released from cardiomyocytes into the culture medium was examined. RESULTS IPA showed that the "Apelin Cardiac Fibroblast Signaling Pathway" was significantly inhibited and that microtubule dynamics and cytoskeleton organization were significantly activated. Each fluctuation in the cellular abundances of the 8 proteins in beating cardiomyocytes, as compared with non-beating cardiomyocytes, was primarily in the same direction as that of gene expression. However, the cellular CTGF protein abundance as well as CTGF content released into the medium did not substantially differ between beating and non-beating cardiomyocytes. CONCLUSIONS The present results suggest that the large increase in CTGF gene expression in beating cardiomyocytes is not a cause but a result of beating, which may provide a putative pathway for controlling beating. Beating is sustained by developed cardiomyofibrils and directly upregulates CTGF gene expression, which is not followed by CTGF protein synthesis.
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7
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Aujla PK, Kassiri Z. Diverse origins and activation of fibroblasts in cardiac fibrosis. Cell Signal 2020; 78:109869. [PMID: 33278559 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2020.109869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac fibroblasts (cFBs) have emerged as a heterogenous cell population. Fibroblasts are considered the main cell source for synthesis of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and as such a dysregulation in cFB function, activity, or viability can lead to disrupted ECM structure or fibrosis. Fibrosis can be initiated in response to different injuries and stimuli, and can be reparative (beneficial) or reactive (damaging). FBs need to be activated to myofibroblasts (MyoFBs) which have augmented capacity in synthesizing ECM proteins, causing fibrosis. In addition to the resident FBs in the myocardium, a number of other cells (pericytes, fibrocytes, mesenchymal, and hematopoietic cells) can transform into MyoFBs, further driving the fibrotic response. Multiple molecules including hormones, cytokines, and growth factors stimulate this process leading to generation of activated MyoFBs. Contribution of different cell types to cFBs and MyoFBs can result in an exponential increase in the number of MyoFBs and an accelerated pro-fibrotic response. Given the diversity of the cell sources, and the array of interconnected signalling pathways that lead to formation of MyoFBs and subsequently fibrosis, identifying a single target to limit the fibrotic response in the myocardium has been challenging. This review article will delineate the importance and relevance of fibroblast heterogeneity in mediating fibrosis in different models of heart failure and will highlight important signalling pathways implicated in myofibroblast activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Preetinder K Aujla
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Zamaneh Kassiri
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
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Nam JM, Lim JE, Ha TW, Oh B, Kang JO. Cardiac-specific inactivation of Prdm16 effects cardiac conduction abnormalities and cardiomyopathy-associated phenotypes. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2020; 318:H764-H777. [PMID: 32083975 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00647.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
A variant in the PRDM16 locus has been correlated with QRS duration in an electrocardiogram genome-wide association study, and the deletion of PRDM16 has been implicated as a causal factor of the dilated cardiomyopathy that is linked to 1p36 deletion syndrome. We aimed to determine how a null mutation of Prdm16 affects cardiac function and study the underlying mechanism of the resulting phenotype in an appropriate mouse model. We used cardiac-specific Prdm16 conditional knockout mice to examine cardiac function by electrocardiography. QRS duration and QTc interval increased significantly in cardiac-specific Prdm16 knockout animals compared with wild-type mice. Further, we assessed cardiomyopathy-associated features by trichrome staining, densitometry, and hydroxyproline assay. Prdm16-null hearts showed greater fibrosis and cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. By quantitative real-time PCR, Prdm16-null hearts upregulated extracellular matrix-related genes (Ctgf, Timp1) and α-smooth muscle actin (Acta2), a myofibroblast marker. Moreover, TGF-β signaling was activated in Prdm16-null hearts, as evidenced by increased Tgfb1-3 transcript levels and phosphorylated Smad2. However, the inhibition of TGF-β receptor did not reverse the aberrations in conduction in cardiac-specific Prdm16 knockout mice. To determine the underlying mechanisms, we performed RNA-seq using mouse left ventricular tissue. By functional analysis, Prdm16-null hearts experienced dysregulated expression of ion channel genes, including Kcne1, Scn5a, Cacna1h, and Cacna2d2. Mice with Prdm16-null hearts develop abnormalities in cardiac conduction and cardiomyopathy-associated phenotypes, including fibrosis and cellular hypertrophy. Further, the RNA-seq findings suggest that impairments in ion homeostasis (Ca2+, K+, and Na+) may at least partially underlie the abnormal conduction in cardiac-specific Prdm16 knockout mice.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This is the first study that describes aberrant cardiac function and cardiomyopathy-associated phenotypes in an appropriate murine genetic model with cardiomyocyte-specific Prdm16-null mutation. It is noteworthy that the correlation of PRDM16 with QRS duration is replicated in a murine animal model and the potential underlying mechanism may be the impairment of ion homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong Min Nam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji Eun Lim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Tae Woong Ha
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Bermseok Oh
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji-One Kang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
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Role of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) and Its Ligands in Kidney Inflammation and Damage. Mediators Inflamm 2018; 2018:8739473. [PMID: 30670929 PMCID: PMC6323488 DOI: 10.1155/2018/8739473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Revised: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 11/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is characterized by persistent inflammation and progressive fibrosis, ultimately leading to end-stage renal disease. Although many studies have investigated the factors involved in the progressive deterioration of renal function, current therapeutic strategies only delay disease progression, leaving an unmet need for effective therapeutic interventions that target the cause behind the inflammatory process and could slow down or reverse the development and progression of CKD. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) (ERBB1), a membrane tyrosine kinase receptor expressed in the kidney, is activated after renal damage, and preclinical studies have evidenced its potential as a therapeutic target in CKD therapy. To date, seven official EGFR ligands have been described, including epidermal growth factor (EGF) (canonical ligand), transforming growth factor-α, heparin-binding epidermal growth factor, amphiregulin, betacellulin, epiregulin, and epigen. Recently, the connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) has been described as a novel EGFR ligand. The direct activation of EGFR by its ligands can exert different cellular responses, depending on the specific ligand, tissue, and pathological condition. Among all EGFR ligands, CTGF/CCN2 is of special relevance in CKD. This growth factor, by binding to EGFR and downstream signaling pathway activation, regulates renal inflammation, cell growth, and fibrosis. EGFR can also be “transactivated” by extracellular stimuli, including several key factors involved in renal disease, such as angiotensin II, transforming growth factor beta (TGFB), and other cytokines, including members of the tumor necrosis factor superfamily, showing another important mechanism involved in renal pathology. The aim of this review is to summarize the contribution of EGFR pathway activation in experimental kidney damage, with special attention to the regulation of the inflammatory response and the role of some EGFR ligands in this process. Better insights in EGFR signaling in renal disease could improve our current knowledge of renal pathology contributing to therapeutic strategies for CKD development and progression.
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10
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Gheinani AH, Köck I, Vasquez E, Baumgartner U, Bigger-Allen A, Sack BS, Burkhard FC, Adam RM, Monastyrskaya K. Concordant miRNA and mRNA expression profiles in humans and mice with bladder outlet obstruction. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL UROLOGY 2018; 6:219-233. [PMID: 30697578 PMCID: PMC6334198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) leads to lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and urodynamic changes of the bladder function. Previously we identified microRNA (miRNA) and mRNA expression profiles associated with different states of BOO-induced LUTD in human patients. Bladder wall remodeling resulting from obstruction is widely studied in animal models of experimentally-induced partial BOO (pBOO). Here we determined the expression profiles of miRNAs and selected mRNAs in pBOO mice and compared the observed changes to human patients. Similar to results from human patients, we observed a down-regulation of smooth muscle-associated miRNAs mmu-miR-1, mmu-miR-143, mmu-miR-145, mmu-miR-486 and mmu-miR-133a in pBOO mouse bladders. Pro-fibrotic miRNAs mmu-miR-142-3p and mmu-miR-21 were up-regulated, and anti-fibrotic miRNA mmu-miR-29c was down-regulated. Pathway analysis in human BOO patients identified TNF-alpha as the top upstream regulator. Although there was evidence of hypertrophic changes in pBOO mice, contrary to human data, we observed no regulation of TNF-responsive genes in the mouse model. Experimentally-induced pBOO in mice led to significant gene expression changes, including alteration of pro-fibrotic mRNAs and miRNAs resembling human BOO patients. Gene expression changes were also validated in a mouse model of bladder inflammation. Lack of evidence of TNF-alpha-induced miRNA and mRNA regulation might indicate a different pathophysiological mechanism of organ remodeling in pBOO model compared to the human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Hashemi Gheinani
- Department of Urology, Boston Children’s HospitalBoston, MA, USA
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical SchoolBoston, MA, USA
| | - Ivonne Köck
- Urology Research Laboratory, Department of Clinical Research, University of BernSwitzerland
| | - Evalynn Vasquez
- Department of Urology, Boston Children’s HospitalBoston, MA, USA
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical SchoolBoston, MA, USA
- Division of Urology, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern CaliforniaLos Angeles, CA 90027, USA
| | | | - Alexander Bigger-Allen
- Department of Urology, Boston Children’s HospitalBoston, MA, USA
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences PhD Program, Harvard Medical SchoolBoston, MA, USA
| | - Bryan S Sack
- Department of Urology, Boston Children’s HospitalBoston, MA, USA
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical SchoolBoston, MA, USA
- Department of Urology, Mott Children’s Hospital and University of MichiganAnn Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | | | - Rosalyn M Adam
- Department of Urology, Boston Children’s HospitalBoston, MA, USA
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical SchoolBoston, MA, USA
| | - Katia Monastyrskaya
- Urology Research Laboratory, Department of Clinical Research, University of BernSwitzerland
- Department of Urology, University HospitalBern, Switzerland
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11
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Wong CKS, Falkenham A, Myers T, Légaré JF. Connective tissue growth factor expression after angiotensin II exposure is dependent on transforming growth factor-β signaling via the canonical Smad-dependent pathway in hypertensive induced myocardial fibrosis. J Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone Syst 2018; 19:1470320318759358. [PMID: 29575960 PMCID: PMC5888824 DOI: 10.1177/1470320318759358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) are often described as the initial pro-fibrotic mediators upregulated early in fibrosis models dependent on angiotensin II (Ang-II). In the present study, we explore the mechanistic link between TGF-β and CTGF expression by using a novel TGF-β trap. Materials and methods: NIH/3T3 fibroblasts were subjected to TGF-β with or without TGF-β trap or 1D11 antibody, CTGF or CTGF plus TGF-β for six or 24 hours, and then used for quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) or immunocytochemistry. Male C57BL/6 mice were infused with Ang-II and randomly assigned TGF-β trap for six or 24 hours. Hearts were harvested for histological analyses, qRT-PCR and western blotting. Results: Exogenous TGF-β-induced fibroblasts resulted in significant upregulation of CTGF, TGF-β and type I collagen transcript levels in vitro. Additionally, TGF-β promoted the differentiation of fibroblasts into α-SMA+ myofibroblasts. CTGF expression was reduced by the addition of TGF-β trap or neutralizing antibody, confirming that its expression is dependent on TGF-β signaling. In contrast, exogenous CTGF did not appear to have an effect on fibroblast production of pro-fibrotic transcripts or fibroblast differentiation. Ang-II infusion in vivo led to a significant increase in TGF-β and CTGF mRNA expression at six and 24 hours with corresponding changes in Smad2 phosphorylation (pSmad2), indicative of increased TGF-β signaling. Ang-II animals that received the TGF-β trap demonstrated reduced CTGF mRNA levels and pSmad2 at six hours, suggesting that early CTGF expression is dependent on TGF-β signaling. Conclusions: We demonstrated that CTGF expression is dependent on TGF-β signaling both in vitro and in vivo in a model of myocardial fibrosis. This also suggests that early myocardial CTGF mRNA expression (six hours) after Ang-II exposure is likely dependent on latent TGF-β activation via the canonical Smad-dependent pathway in resident cardiac cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alec Falkenham
- 1 Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Tanya Myers
- 2 Department of Surgery, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Jean-Francois Légaré
- 1 Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.,2 Department of Surgery, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.,3 Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick, Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada.,4 Cardiovascular Research New Brunswick, New Brunswick Heart Centre, Saint John Regional Hospital, Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
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12
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Ma ZG, Yuan YP, Wu HM, Zhang X, Tang QZ. Cardiac fibrosis: new insights into the pathogenesis. Int J Biol Sci 2018; 14:1645-1657. [PMID: 30416379 PMCID: PMC6216032 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.28103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 202] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis is defined as the imbalance of extracellular matrix (ECM) production and degradation, thus contributing to cardiac dysfunction in many cardiac pathophysiologic conditions. This review discusses specific markers and origin of cardiac fibroblasts (CFs), and the underlying mechanism involved in the development of cardiac fibrosis. Currently, there are no CFs-specific molecular markers. Most studies use co-labelling with panels of antibodies that can recognize CFs. Origin of fibroblasts is heterogeneous. After fibrotic stimuli, the levels of myocardial pro-fibrotic growth factors and cytokines are increased. These pro-fibrotic growth factors and cytokines bind to its receptors and then trigger the activation of signaling pathway and transcriptional factors via Smad-dependent or Smad independent-manners. These fibrosis-related transcriptional factors regulate gene expression that are involved in the fibrosis to amplify the fibrotic response. Understanding the mechanisms responsible for initiation, progression, and amplification of cardiac fibrosis are of great clinical significance to find drugs that can prevent the progression of cardiac fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Guo Ma
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, RP China.,Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, RP China.,Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan 430060, RP China
| | - Yu-Pei Yuan
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, RP China.,Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, RP China.,Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan 430060, RP China
| | - Hai-Ming Wu
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, RP China.,Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, RP China.,Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan 430060, RP China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, RP China.,Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, RP China.,Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan 430060, RP China
| | - Qi-Zhu Tang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, RP China.,Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, RP China.,Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan 430060, RP China
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13
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Dorn LE, Petrosino JM, Wright P, Accornero F. CTGF/CCN2 is an autocrine regulator of cardiac fibrosis. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2018; 121:205-211. [PMID: 30040954 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2018.07.130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2018] [Revised: 07/04/2018] [Accepted: 07/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis is a common pathologic consequence of stress insult to the heart and is characterized by abnormal deposition of fibrotic extracellular matrix that compromises cardiac function. Cardiac fibroblasts are key mediators of fibrotic remodeling and are regulated by secreted stress-response proteins. The matricellular protein connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), or CCN2, is strongly produced by injured cardiomyocytes and although it is considered a pro-fibrotic factor in many organ systems, its role in cardiac fibrosis is controversial. Here we adopted a cell-specific genetic approach to conditionally delete CCN2 in either cardiomyocytes or activated fibroblasts. Fibrosis was induced by angiotensin II-based neurohumoral stimulation, an insult that strongly induces CCN2 expression from cardiomyocytes and to a lesser extent in fibroblasts. Remarkably, only CCN2 deletion from activated fibroblasts inhibited the fibrotic remodeling while deletion from cardiomyocytes (the main source of CCN2 in the heart) had no effects. In vitro experiments revealed that although efficiently secreted by both fibroblasts and cardiomyocytes, only fibroblast-derived CCN2 is proficient in its ability to fully activate fibroblasts. These results overall indicate that although secreted into the extracellular matrix, CCN2 acts in an autocrine fashion. Secretion of CCN2 by cardiomyocytes is not pro-fibrotic, while fibroblast-derived CCN2 can modulate fibrosis in the heart. In conclusion we found that cardiomyocyte-derived CCN2 is dispensable for cardiac fibrosis, while inhibiting CCN2 induction in activated fibroblasts is sufficient to abrogate the cardiac fibrotic response to angiotensin II. Hence, CCN2 is an autocrine factor in the heart.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa E Dorn
- Department of Physiology & Cell Biology, Dorothy M. Davis Heart & Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jennifer M Petrosino
- Department of Physiology & Cell Biology, Dorothy M. Davis Heart & Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Patrick Wright
- Department of Physiology & Cell Biology, Dorothy M. Davis Heart & Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Federica Accornero
- Department of Physiology & Cell Biology, Dorothy M. Davis Heart & Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
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14
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Hunt KJ, Jaffa MA, Garrett SM, Luttrell DK, Lipson KE, Lopes-Virella MF, Luttrell LM, Jaffa AA, Lopes-Virella MF, Hunt KJ, Baker NL, Virella G, Moritz T. Plasma Connective Tissue Growth Factor (CTGF/CCN2) Levels Predict Myocardial Infarction in the Veterans Affairs Diabetes Trial (VADT) Cohort. Diabetes Care 2018; 41:840-846. [PMID: 29382658 PMCID: PMC5860844 DOI: 10.2337/dc17-2083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), also known as CCN2, is a potent chemotactic and extracellular matrix-inducing matricellular protein that has been implicated in progression of inflammatory and fibroproliferative disorders. An emerging role of CTGF/CCN2 is that of a prosclerotic factor implicated in the development of cardiac disease. Our objective was to determine the role of CTGF/CCN2 as a predictor of cardiovascular events in type 2 diabetes in the Veterans Affairs Diabetes Trial (VADT) cohort. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Levels of CTGF/CCN2 were measured in 952 VADT patients a median of 1.9 years after entry into the study. Participants were followed for an average of 3.3 years for vascular outcomes. CTGF/CCN2 categories were defined as below the detectable limit (referent, 54.5%), lower half of detectable values (22.8%), and upper half of detectable values (22.7%). Hazard ratios (HRs) for cardiovascular end points in relation to CTGF/CCN2 categories were calculated by Cox proportional hazards models. RESULTS During follow-up, 4.8% had a myocardial infarction (MI), 6.9% had an MI or cardiovascular death, and 6.9% died. After adjustments by conventional risk factors, individuals in the highest category of CTGF/CCN2 were at higher risk of MI (HR 2.43 [95% CI 1.15, 5.14]), MI or cardiovascular death (HR 2.71 [95% CI 1.44, 5.08]), and all-cause mortality (HR 2.70 [95% CI 1.43, 5.08]) relative to individuals with CTGF below the detectable limit. CONCLUSIONS Our study indicates that high levels of CTGF/CCN2 predict future MI and cardiovascular death in patients with type 2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly J. Hunt
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC
| | - Miran A. Jaffa
- Epidemiology and Population Health Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Sara M. Garrett
- Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Deirdre K. Luttrell
- Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | | | - Maria F. Lopes-Virella
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC
- Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Louis M. Luttrell
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC
- Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Ayad A. Jaffa
- Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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15
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Chatterjee A, Barnard J, Moravec C, Desnoyer R, Tirupula K, Karnik SS. Connective tissue growth factor dependent collagen gene expression induced by MAS agonist AR234960 in human cardiac fibroblasts. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0190217. [PMID: 29287092 PMCID: PMC5747466 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0190217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Perspectives on whether the functions of MAS, a G protein-coupled receptor, are beneficial or deleterious in the heart remain controversial. MAS gene knockout reduces coronary vasodilatation leading to ischemic injury. G protein signaling activated by MAS has been implicated in progression of adaptive cardiac hypertrophy to heart failure and fibrosis. In the present study, we observed increased expression of MAS, connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and collagen genes in failing (HF) human heart samples when compared to non-failing (NF). Expression levels of MAS are correlated with CTGF in HF and NF leading to our hypothesis that MAS controls CTGF production and the ensuing expression of collagen genes. In support of this hypothesis we show that the non-peptide MAS agonist AR234960 increases both mRNA and protein levels of CTGF via ERK1/2 signaling in HEK293-MAS cells and adult human cardiac fibroblasts. MAS-mediated CTGF expression can be specifically blocked by MAS inverse agonist AR244555 and also by MEK1 inhibition. Expression of CTGF gene was essential for MAS-mediated up-regulation of different collagen subtype genes in HEK293-MAS cells and human cardiac fibroblasts. Knockdown of CTGF by RNAi disrupted collagen gene regulation by the MAS-agonist. Our data indicate that CTGF mediates the profibrotic effects of MAS in cardiac fibroblasts. Blocking MAS-CTGF-collagen pathway should be considered for pharmacological intervention for HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arunachal Chatterjee
- Department of Molecular Cardiology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
- Department of Zoology, Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose College, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - John Barnard
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Christine Moravec
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Heart and Vascular Institute, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Russell Desnoyer
- Department of Molecular Cardiology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Kalyan Tirupula
- Department of Molecular Cardiology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Sadashiva S. Karnik
- Department of Molecular Cardiology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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16
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Derangeon M, Montnach J, Cerpa CO, Jagu B, Patin J, Toumaniantz G, Girardeau A, Huang CLH, Colledge WH, Grace AA, Baró I, Charpentier F. Transforming growth factor β receptor inhibition prevents ventricular fibrosis in a mouse model of progressive cardiac conduction disease. Cardiovasc Res 2017; 113:464-474. [PMID: 28339646 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvx026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2015] [Accepted: 02/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Aims Loss-of-function mutations in SCN5A, the gene encoding NaV1.5 channel, have been associated with inherited progressive cardiac conduction disease (PCCD). We have proposed that Scn5a heterozygous knock-out (Scn5a+/-) mice, which are characterized by ventricular fibrotic remodelling with ageing, represent a model for PCCD. Our objectives were to identify the molecular pathway involved in fibrosis development and prevent its activation. Methods and results Our study shows that myocardial interstitial fibrosis occurred in Scn5a+/- mice only after 45 weeks of age. Fibrosis was triggered by transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) pathway activation. Younger Scn5a+/- mice were characterized by a higher connexin 43 expression than wild-type (WT) mice. After the age of 45 weeks, connexin 43 expression decreased in both WT and Scn5a+/- mice, although the decrease was larger in Scn5a+/- mice. Chronic inhibition of cardiac sodium current with flecainide (50 mg/kg/day p.o) in WT mice from the age of 6 weeks to the age of 60 weeks did not lead to TGF-β pathway activation and fibrosis. Chronic inhibition of TGF-β receptors with GW788388 (5 mg/kg/day p.o.) in Scn5a+/- mice from the age of 45 weeks to the age of 60 weeks prevented the occurrence of fibrosis. However, current data could not detect reduction in QRS duration with GW788388. Conclusion Myocardial fibrosis secondary to a loss of NaV1.5 is triggered by TGF-β signalling pathway. Those events are more likely secondary to the decreased NaV1.5 sarcolemmal expression rather than the decreased Na+ current per se. TGF-β receptor inhibition prevents age-dependent development of ventricular fibrosis in Scn5a+/- mouse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mickael Derangeon
- INSERM, UMR1087, l'institut du thorax, quai Moncousu, Nantes F-44000, France.,CNRS, UMR6291, quai Moncousu, Nantes F-44000, France.,Université de Nantes, quai Moncousu, Nantes F-44000, France
| | - Jérôme Montnach
- INSERM, UMR1087, l'institut du thorax, quai Moncousu, Nantes F-44000, France.,CNRS, UMR6291, quai Moncousu, Nantes F-44000, France.,Université de Nantes, quai Moncousu, Nantes F-44000, France
| | - Cynthia Ore Cerpa
- INSERM, UMR1087, l'institut du thorax, quai Moncousu, Nantes F-44000, France.,CNRS, UMR6291, quai Moncousu, Nantes F-44000, France.,Université de Nantes, quai Moncousu, Nantes F-44000, France
| | - Benoit Jagu
- INSERM, UMR1087, l'institut du thorax, quai Moncousu, Nantes F-44000, France.,CNRS, UMR6291, quai Moncousu, Nantes F-44000, France.,Université de Nantes, quai Moncousu, Nantes F-44000, France
| | - Justine Patin
- INSERM, UMR1087, l'institut du thorax, quai Moncousu, Nantes F-44000, France.,CNRS, UMR6291, quai Moncousu, Nantes F-44000, France.,Université de Nantes, quai Moncousu, Nantes F-44000, France
| | - Gilles Toumaniantz
- INSERM, UMR1087, l'institut du thorax, quai Moncousu, Nantes F-44000, France.,CNRS, UMR6291, quai Moncousu, Nantes F-44000, France.,Université de Nantes, quai Moncousu, Nantes F-44000, France
| | - Aurore Girardeau
- INSERM, UMR1087, l'institut du thorax, quai Moncousu, Nantes F-44000, France.,CNRS, UMR6291, quai Moncousu, Nantes F-44000, France.,Université de Nantes, quai Moncousu, Nantes F-44000, France
| | - Christopher L H Huang
- The Section of Cardiovascular Biology, Departments of Biochemistry and Physiology, University of Cambridge, Downing street, Cambridge CB23EG, UK
| | - William H Colledge
- The Section of Cardiovascular Biology, Departments of Biochemistry and Physiology, University of Cambridge, Downing street, Cambridge CB23EG, UK
| | - Andrew A Grace
- The Section of Cardiovascular Biology, Departments of Biochemistry and Physiology, University of Cambridge, Downing street, Cambridge CB23EG, UK
| | - Isabelle Baró
- INSERM, UMR1087, l'institut du thorax, quai Moncousu, Nantes F-44000, France.,CNRS, UMR6291, quai Moncousu, Nantes F-44000, France.,Université de Nantes, quai Moncousu, Nantes F-44000, France
| | - Flavien Charpentier
- INSERM, UMR1087, l'institut du thorax, quai Moncousu, Nantes F-44000, France.,CNRS, UMR6291, quai Moncousu, Nantes F-44000, France.,Université de Nantes, quai Moncousu, Nantes F-44000, France.,CHU Nantes, Alexis Ricordeau, Nantes F-44000, France
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17
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Nuglozeh E. Connective Tissue Growth Factor Transgenic Mouse Develops Cardiac Hypertrophy, Lean Body Mass and Alopecia. J Clin Diagn Res 2017; 11:GC01-GC05. [PMID: 28892929 DOI: 10.7860/jcdr/2017/28158.10284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2017] [Accepted: 06/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Connective Tissue Growth Factor (CTGF/CCN2) is one of the six members of cysteine-rich, heparin-binding proteins, secreted as modular protein and recognised to play a major function in cell processes such as adhesion, migration, proliferation and differentiation as well as chondrogenesis, skeletogenesis, angiogenesis and wound healing. The capacity of CTGF to interact with different growth factors lends an important role during early and late development, especially in the anterior region of the embryo. CTGF Knockout (KO) mice have several craniofacial defects and bone miss shaped due to an impairment of the vascular system development during chondrogenesis. AIM The aim of the study was to establish an association between multiple modular functions of CTGF and the phenotype and cardiovascular functions in transgenic mouse. MATERIALS AND METHODS Bicistronic cassette was constructed using pIRES expressing vector (Clontech, Palo Alto, CA). The construct harbours mouse cDNA in tandem with LacZ cDNA as a reporter gene under the control of Cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter. The plasmid was linearised with NotI restriction enzyme, and 50 ng of linearised plasmid was injected into mouse pronucleus for the chimaera production. Immunohistochemical methods were used to assess the colocalisation renin and CTGF as well as morphology and rheology of the cardiovascular system. RESULTS The chimeric mice were backcrossed against the wild-type C57BL/6 to generate hemizygous (F1) mouse. Most of the offsprings died as a result of respiratory distress and those that survived have low CTGF gene copy number, approximately 40 molecules per mouse genome. The copy number assessment on the dead pups showed 5×103 molecules per mouse genome explaining the threshold of the gene in terms of toxicity. Interestingly, the result of this cross showed 85% of the progenies to be positive deviating from Mendelian first law. All F2 progenies died excluding the possibility of establishing the CTGF transgenic mouse line, situation that compelled us to work at the level of hemizygosity. The histological characterisation of left ventricle shows cardiac hypertrophy together with decrease in body mass and alopecia, this compared to the wild type. The immunohistochemical staining of aorta root showed hyperplasia with increased expression and colocalisation of renin and CTGF demonstrating that CTGF may be involved in vascular tone control. CONCLUSION Genetic engineering is a noble avenue to investigate the function of new or existing genes. Our data have shown that CTGF transgenic mouse has cardiac and aorta root hypertrophy and abnormal renin accumulation in aorta root as compared to the wild-type animals. The transgenic animals developed alopecia and lean body mass adding two new functions on pre-existing CTGF multiple functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edem Nuglozeh
- Assistant Professor, Department of Biochemistry, University of Hail, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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18
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The sirtuin 6 prevents angiotensin II-mediated myocardial fibrosis and injury by targeting AMPK-ACE2 signaling. Oncotarget 2017; 8:72302-72314. [PMID: 29069788 PMCID: PMC5641131 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.20305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2017] [Accepted: 07/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Sirtuin 6 (SIRT6) is an important modulator of cardiovascular functions in health and diseases. However, the exact role of SIRT6 in heart disease is poorly defined. We hypothesized that SIRT6 is a negative regulator of angiotensin II (Ang II)-mediated myocardial remodeling, fibrosis and injury. The male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized to Ang II (200 ng/kg/min) infusion with an osmotic minipump and pretreated with recombinant plasmids adeno-associated viral vector (AAV)-SIRT6 (pAAV-SIRT6) or pAAV-GFP for 4 weeks. Ang II triggered downregulated levels of SIRT6 and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and upregulated expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and proinflammatory chemokine fractalkine (FKN), contributing to enhanced cardiac fibrosis and ultrastructural injury. Reduced levels of phosphorylated pAMPK-α, increased myocardial hypertrophy and impaired heart dysfunction were observed in both Ang II-induced hypertensive rats and ACE2 knockout rats, characterized with increases in heart weight and left ventricular (LV) posterior wall thickness and decreases in LV ejection fraction and LV fractional shortening. More importantly, pAAV-SIRT6 treatment strikingly potentiated cardiac levels of pAMPKα and ACE2 as well as decreased levels of CTGF, FKN, TGFβ1, collagen I and collagen III, resulting in alleviation of Ang II-induced pathological hypertrophy, myocardial fibrosis, cardiac dysfunction and ultrastructural injury in hypertensive rats. In conclusion, our findings confirmed cardioprotective effects of SIRT6 on pathological remodeling, fibrosis and myocardial injury through activation of AMPK-ACE2 signaling and suppression of CTGF-FKN pathway, indicating that SIRT6 functions as a partial agonist of ACE2 and targeting SIRT6 has potential therapeutic importance for cardiac fibrosis and heart disease.
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19
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Chang C, Zhao Q, Gonzalez JP, Kim JH, Alzahrani K, Del Re D, Fraidenraich D. Hematopoietic Id Deletion Triggers Endomyocardial Fibrotic and Vascular Defects in the Adult Heart. Sci Rep 2017; 7:3079. [PMID: 28596553 PMCID: PMC5465087 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-03160-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 04/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibitor of DNA binding (Id) proteins play important roles in regulating cardiac development via paracrine signaling. Id1/Id3 knockout mice die at mid-gestation with multiple cardiac defects. Single Id knockout studies have not reported cardiomyopathies. To bypass embryonic lethality we used Tie2CRE-mediated recombination to conditionally delete Id1 against global Id3 ablation (Id cDKOs), which develops adult-onset dilated cardiomyopathy. We confirm upregulation of thrombospondin-1 (TSP1) in Id cDKO hearts. Colocalization studies reveal increased TSP1 expression in the vicinity of endothelial cells and near regions of endocardial fibrosis/disruption. Downstream fibrotic molecules were upregulated. Endocardial capillary density was reduced with evidence of vascular distention. Treatment of Id cDKO cardiac explants with LSKL, a peptide antagonist of TSP1 activation of TGFβ, reversed the increased expression of fibrotic molecules. We conducted bone marrow transplant experiments in which we transferred bone marrow cells from Id cDKO mice into lethally irradiated WT mice. The majority of WT recipients of Id cDKO bone marrow cells phenocopied Id cDKO cardiac fibrosis 4 months post-transplantation. Injection of LSKL into adult Id cDKO mice led to downregulation of fibrotic molecules. The results prompt caution when bone marrow transfers from individuals potentially carrying mutations in the Id axis are applied in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corey Chang
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, 185 South Orange Avenue/Medical Science Building G-624, Newark, NJ, 07103-2501, United States of America
| | - Qingshi Zhao
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, 185 South Orange Avenue/Medical Science Building G-624, Newark, NJ, 07103-2501, United States of America
| | - J Patrick Gonzalez
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, 185 South Orange Avenue/Medical Science Building G-624, Newark, NJ, 07103-2501, United States of America
| | - Jung H Kim
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, 185 South Orange Avenue/Medical Science Building G-624, Newark, NJ, 07103-2501, United States of America
| | - Kamal Alzahrani
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, 185 South Orange Avenue/Medical Science Building G-624, Newark, NJ, 07103-2501, United States of America
| | - Dominic Del Re
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, 185 South Orange Avenue/Medical Science Building G-624, Newark, NJ, 07103-2501, United States of America
| | - Diego Fraidenraich
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, 185 South Orange Avenue/Medical Science Building G-624, Newark, NJ, 07103-2501, United States of America.
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20
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Rutkovskiy A, Sagave J, Czibik G, Baysa A, Zihlavnikova Enayati K, Hillestad V, Dahl CP, Fiane A, Gullestad L, Gravning J, Ahmed S, Attramadal H, Valen G, Vaage J. Connective tissue growth factor and bone morphogenetic protein 2 are induced following myocardial ischemia in mice and humans. Scandinavian Journal of Clinical and Laboratory Investigation 2017; 77:321-331. [PMID: 28460577 DOI: 10.1080/00365513.2017.1318447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
We aimed to study the cardiac expression of bone morphogenetic protein 2, its receptor 1 b, and connective tissue growth factor, factors implicated in cardiac embryogenesis, following ischemia/hypoxia, heart failure, and in remodeling hearts from humans and mice. Biopsies from the left ventricle of patients with end-stage heart failure due to dilated cardiomyopathy or coronary artery disease were compared with donor hearts and biopsies from patients with normal heart function undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting. Mouse model of post-infarction remodeling was made by permanent ligation of the left coronary artery. Hearts were analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting after 24 hours and after 2 and 4 weeks. Patients with dilated cardiomyopathy and mice post-infarction had increased cardiac expression of connective tissue growth factor. Bone morphogenetic protein 2 was increased in human hearts failing due to coronary artery disease and in mice post-infarction. Gene expression of bone morphogenetic protein receptor 1 beta was reduced in hearts of patients with failure, but increased two weeks following permanent ligation of the left coronary artery in mice. In conclusion, connective tissue growth factor is upregulated in hearts of humans with dilated cardiomyopathy, bone morphogenetic protein 2 is upregulated in remodeling due to myocardial infarction while its receptor 1 b in human failing hearts is downregulated. A potential explanation might be an attempt to engage regenerative processes, which should be addressed by further, mechanistic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arkady Rutkovskiy
- a Division of Physiology, Department of Molecular Medicine , Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo , Oslo , Norway.,b International Laboratory of Bioinformatics and Genomics, ITMO University , Saint-Petersburg , Russia
| | - Julia Sagave
- a Division of Physiology, Department of Molecular Medicine , Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo , Oslo , Norway
| | - Gabor Czibik
- a Division of Physiology, Department of Molecular Medicine , Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo , Oslo , Norway
| | - Anton Baysa
- a Division of Physiology, Department of Molecular Medicine , Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo , Oslo , Norway
| | - Katarina Zihlavnikova Enayati
- a Division of Physiology, Department of Molecular Medicine , Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo , Oslo , Norway
| | - Vigdis Hillestad
- c Institute for Experimental Medical Research, Oslo University Hospital, Ullevål , Oslo , Norway
| | | | - Arnt Fiane
- e Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery , Oslo University Hospital , Oslo , Norway
| | - Lars Gullestad
- d Department of Cardiology , Oslo University Hospital , Oslo , Norway
| | - Jørgen Gravning
- f Division of Medicine , Akershus University Hospital , Lørenskog , Norway
| | - Shakil Ahmed
- c Institute for Experimental Medical Research, Oslo University Hospital, Ullevål , Oslo , Norway
| | - Håvard Attramadal
- c Institute for Experimental Medical Research, Oslo University Hospital, Ullevål , Oslo , Norway
| | - Guro Valen
- a Division of Physiology, Department of Molecular Medicine , Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo , Oslo , Norway
| | - Jarle Vaage
- g Department of Emergency Medicine and Intensive Care , Oslo University Hospital , Oslo , Norway
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21
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Frangogiannis NG. The role of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β in the infarcted myocardium. J Thorac Dis 2017; 9:S52-S63. [PMID: 28446968 DOI: 10.21037/jtd.2016.11.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The adult mammalian heart has negligible regenerative capacity. Following myocardial infarction, sudden necrosis of cardiomyocytes triggers an intense inflammatory reaction that clears the wound from dead cells and matrix debris, while activating a reparative program. A growing body of evidence suggests that members of the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β family critically regulate the inflammatory and reparative response following infarction. Although all three TGF-β isoforms (TGF-β1, -β2 and -β3) are markedly upregulated in the infarcted myocardium, information on isoform-specific actions is limited. Experimental studies have suggested that TGF-β exerts a wide range of actions on cardiomyocytes, fibroblasts, immune cells, and vascular cells. The findings are often conflicting, reflecting the context-dependence of TGF-β-mediated effects; conclusions are often based exclusively on in vitro studies and on associative evidence. TGF-β has been reported to modulate cardiomyocyte survival responses, promote monocyte recruitment, inhibit macrophage pro-inflammatory gene expression, suppress adhesion molecule synthesis by endothelial cells, promote myofibroblast conversion and extracellular matrix synthesis, and mediate both angiogenic and angiostatic effects. This review manuscript discusses our understanding of the cell biological effects of TGF-β in myocardial infarction. We discuss the relative significance of downstream TGF-β-mediated Smad-dependent and -independent pathways, and the risks and challenges of therapeutic TGF-β targeting. Considering the high significance of TGF-β-mediated actions in vivo, study of cell-specific effects and dissection of downstream signaling pathways are needed in order to design safe and effective therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos G Frangogiannis
- The Wilf Family Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine (Cardiology), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
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22
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Zhang Y, Yan H, Guang GC, Deng ZR. Overexpressed connective tissue growth factor in cardiomyocytes attenuates left ventricular remodeling induced by angiotensin II perfusion. Clin Exp Hypertens 2017; 39:168-174. [PMID: 28287886 DOI: 10.1080/10641963.2016.1226893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhang
- First Ward of West Yard, Shaanxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Hua Yan
- First Ward of West Yard, Shaanxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Gong-chang Guang
- Department of Cardiovasology, Shaanxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Zheng-rong Deng
- Department of Cardiovasology, Shaanxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, China
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23
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Yokoi H, Mukoyama M. Analysis of Pathological Activities of CCN Proteins in Fibrotic Diseases: Kidney Fibrosis. Methods Mol Biol 2017; 1489:431-443. [PMID: 27734395 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-6430-7_36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Renal fibrosis is characterized by glomerulosclerosis and tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is postulated to play a central role in the development of both fibrotic processes. Extracellular matrix proteins, particularly type I collagen and fibronectin, accumulate in the tissue during renal fibrogenesis. CCN2, also known as connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), is increased in the setting of fibrosis and modulates a number of downstream signaling pathways involved in the fibrogenic properties of TGF-β. Unilateral ureteral obstruction is one of the most widely used models of renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Herein, we describe unilateral ureteral obstruction in mice as an animal model of renal fibrosis and methods for immunohistochemical analyses of extracellular matrix proteins and CCN2. In addition, we describe the construction of podocyte-specific CCN2-transgenic mice for analyzing mesangial matrix expansion and glomerulosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideki Yokoi
- Department of Nephrology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan
| | - Masashi Mukoyama
- Department of Nephrology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan.
- Department of Nephrology, Kumamoto University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan.
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24
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Ruegsegger GN, Toedebusch RG, Braselton JF, Childs TE, Booth FW. Left ventricle transcriptomic analysis reveals connective tissue accumulation associates with initial age-dependent decline in V̇o2peak from its lifetime apex. Physiol Genomics 2016; 49:53-66. [PMID: 27913688 DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00083.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2016] [Revised: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 11/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Peak oxygen consumption (V̇o2peak) strongly predicts morbidity and mortality better than other established risk factors, yet mechanisms associated with its age-associated decline are unknown. Our laboratory has shown that V̇o2peak first begins to decrease at the same age of 19-20 wk in both sedentary and wheel-running, female Wistar rats (Toedebusch et al., Physiol Genomics 48: 101-115, 2016). Here, we employed a total systemic approach using unsupervised interrogation of mRNA with RNA sequencing. The purpose of our study was to analyze transcriptomic profiles from both sedentary (SED) and wheel-running (RUN) conditions as a strategy to identify pathways in the left ventricle that may contribute to the initial reductions in V̇o2peak occurring between 19 and 27 wk of age. Transcriptomic comparisons were made within both SED and RUN rats between 19 and 27 wk (n = 5-8). Analysis of mRNAs shared in SED and RUN between 19 and 27 wk found 17 upregulated (e.g., Adra1d, Rpl17, Xpo7) and 8 downregulated (e.g., Cdo1, Ctfg, Sfrp1) mRNAs, at 19 wk, respectively. Furthermore, bioinformatics analysis of mRNAs common to SED and RUN produced networks suggestive of increased connective tissue development at 27 vs. 19 wk. Additionally, Ctfg mRNA was negatively associated with V̇o2peak in both SED and RUN (P < 0.05). In summary, transcriptomic analysis revealed mRNAs and networks associated with increased connective tissue development, decreased α-adrenergic activity, and decreased protein translation in the left ventricle that could, in part, potentially influence the initiation of the lifelong reduction in V̇o2peak, independent of physical activity levels.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ryan G Toedebusch
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Joshua F Braselton
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Thomas E Childs
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Frank W Booth
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri; .,Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri.,Department of Nutrition and Exercise Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri; and.,Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
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25
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Abstract
Postoperative atrial fibrillation (PoAF), a common complication of cardiac surgery, contributes significantly to morbidity, mortality, and increasing healthcare costs. Despite advances in surgical and medical management, the overall incidence of PoAF has not changed significantly, partly because of the limited understanding of mechanisms underlying acute surgery-related factors, such as myocardial injury, inflammation, sympathetic activation, and oxidative stress, which play an important role in the initiation of PoAF, whereas a preexisting atrial substrate appears to be more important in the maintenance of this dysrhythmia. Thus, in a majority of patients, PoAF becomes a manifestation of an underlying arrhythmogenic substrate that is unmasked after acute surgical stress. As such, the ability to identify which patients have this proarrhythmic substrate and are, therefore, at high risk for developing AF postoperatively, is important for the improved selection for prophylactic interventions, closer monitoring for complications, and establishing the probability of AF in the long term. This review highlights the role of the underlying substrate in promoting PoAF, proposed mechanisms, and the potential role of serum biomarkers to identify patients at risk for PoAF.
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26
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Relevance of mouse models of cardiac fibrosis and hypertrophy in cardiac research. Mol Cell Biochem 2016; 424:123-145. [PMID: 27766529 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-016-2849-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2016] [Accepted: 10/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Heart disease causing cardiac cell death due to ischemia-reperfusion injury is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States. Coronary heart disease and cardiomyopathies are the major cause for congestive heart failure, and thrombosis of the coronary arteries is the most common cause of myocardial infarction. Cardiac injury is followed by post-injury cardiac remodeling or fibrosis. Cardiac fibrosis is characterized by net accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins in the cardiac interstitium and results in both systolic and diastolic dysfunctions. It has been suggested by both experimental and clinical evidence that fibrotic changes in the heart are reversible. Hence, it is vital to understand the mechanism involved in the initiation, progression, and resolution of cardiac fibrosis to design anti-fibrotic treatment modalities. Animal models are of great importance for cardiovascular research studies. With the developing research field, the choice of selecting an animal model for the proposed research study is crucial for its outcome and translational purpose. Compared to large animal models for cardiac research, the mouse model is preferred by many investigators because of genetic manipulations and easier handling. This critical review is focused to provide insight to young researchers about the various mouse models, advantages and disadvantages, and their use in research pertaining to cardiac fibrosis and hypertrophy.
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27
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Gerritsen KG, Falke LL, van Vuuren SH, Leeuwis JW, Broekhuizen R, Nguyen TQ, de Borst GJ, Nathoe HM, Verhaar MC, Kok RJ, Goldschmeding R, Visseren FL. Plasma CTGF is independently related to an increased risk of cardiovascular events and mortality in patients with atherosclerotic disease: the SMART study. Growth Factors 2016; 34:149-58. [PMID: 27686612 DOI: 10.1080/08977194.2016.1210142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) plays a key role in tissue fibrogenesis and growing evidence indicates a pathogenic role in cardiovascular disease. Aim of this study is to investigate the association of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) with cardiovascular risk and mortality in patients with manifest vascular disease. METHODS AND RESULTS Plasma CTGF was measured by ELISA in a prospective cohort study of 1227 patients with manifest vascular disease (mean age 59.0 ± 9.9 years). Linear regression analysis was performed to quantify the association between CTGF and cardiovascular risk factors. Results are expressed as beta (β) regression coefficients with 95% confidence intervals (CI). The relation between CTGF and the occurrence of new cardiovascular events and mortality was assessed with Cox proportional hazard analysis. Adjustments were made for potential confounding factors. Plasma CTGF was positively related to total cholesterol (β 0.040;95%CI 0.013-0.067) and LDL cholesterol (β 0.031;95%CI 0.000-0.062) and inversely to glomerular filtration rate (β -0.004;95%CI -0.005 to -0.002). CTGF was significantly lower in patients with cerebrovascular disease. During a median follow-up of 6.5 years (IQR 5.3-7.4) 131 subjects died, 92 experienced an ischemic cardiac complication and 45 an ischemic stroke. CTGF was associated with an increased risk of new vascular events (HR 1.21;95%CI 1.04-1.42), ischemic cardiac events (HR 1.41;95%CI 1.18-1.67) and all-cause mortality (HR 1.18;95%CI 1.00-1.38) for every 1 nmol/L increase in CTGF. No relation was observed between CTGF and the occurrence of ischemic stroke. CONCLUSIONS In patients with manifest vascular disease, elevated plasma CTGF confers an increased risk of new cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin G Gerritsen
- a Department of Pathology
- b Department of Nephrology and Hypertension
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Hendrik M Nathoe
- d Department of Cardiology , University Medical Center Utrecht , Utrecht , The Netherlands
| | | | - Robbert J Kok
- e Department of Pharmaceutics , Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University , Utrecht , The Netherlands , and
| | | | - Frank L Visseren
- f Department of Vascular Medicine , University Medical Center Utrecht , Utrecht , The Netherlands
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28
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Chatzifrangkeskou M, Le Dour C, Wu W, Morrow JP, Joseph LC, Beuvin M, Sera F, Homma S, Vignier N, Mougenot N, Bonne G, Lipson KE, Worman HJ, Muchir A. ERK1/2 directly acts on CTGF/CCN2 expression to mediate myocardial fibrosis in cardiomyopathy caused by mutations in the lamin A/C gene. Hum Mol Genet 2016; 25:2220-2233. [PMID: 27131347 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddw090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2016] [Accepted: 03/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiomyopathy caused by lamin A/C gene mutations (LMNA cardiomyopathy) is characterized by increased myocardial fibrosis, which impairs left ventricular relaxation and predisposes to heart failure, and cardiac conduction abnormalities. While we previously discovered abnormally elevated extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) activities in heart in LMNA cardiomyopathy, its role on the development of myocardial fibrosis remains unclear. We now showed that transforming growth factor (TGF)-β/Smad signaling participates in the activation of ERK1/2 signaling in LMNA cardiomyopathy. ERK1/2 acts on connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) expression to mediate the myocardial fibrosis and left ventricular dysfunction. Studies in vivo demonstrate that inhibiting CTGF/CCN2 using a specific antibody decreases myocardial fibrosis and improves the left ventricular dysfunction. Together, these findings show that cardiac ERK1/2 activity is modulated in part by TGF-β/Smad signaling, leading to altered activation of CTGF/CCN2 to mediate fibrosis and alter cardiac function. This identifies a novel mechanism in the development of LMNA cardiomyopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Chatzifrangkeskou
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM UMRS974, CNRS FRE3617, Center for Research in Myology, Institut de Myologie, G.H. Pitié Salpêtrière, 75651 Paris Cedex 13, France
| | - Caroline Le Dour
- Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Wei Wu
- Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - John P Morrow
- Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Leroy C Joseph
- Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Maud Beuvin
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM UMRS974, CNRS FRE3617, Center for Research in Myology, Institut de Myologie, G.H. Pitié Salpêtrière, 75651 Paris Cedex 13, France
| | - Fusako Sera
- Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Shunichi Homma
- Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Nicolas Vignier
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM UMRS974, CNRS FRE3617, Center for Research in Myology, Institut de Myologie, G.H. Pitié Salpêtrière, 75651 Paris Cedex 13, France
| | - Nathalie Mougenot
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Paris 06, INSERM UMS28 Phénotypage du petit animal, Faculté de Médecine Pierre et Marie Curie, F-75013, Paris, France
| | - Gisèle Bonne
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM UMRS974, CNRS FRE3617, Center for Research in Myology, Institut de Myologie, G.H. Pitié Salpêtrière, 75651 Paris Cedex 13, France
| | | | - Howard J Worman
- Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Antoine Muchir
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM UMRS974, CNRS FRE3617, Center for Research in Myology, Institut de Myologie, G.H. Pitié Salpêtrière, 75651 Paris Cedex 13, France Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
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29
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Kaasbøll OJ, Moe IT, Ahmed MS, Stang E, Hagelin EMV, Attramadal H. CTGF/CCN2 Postconditioning Increases Tolerance of Murine Hearts towards Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0149000. [PMID: 26872261 PMCID: PMC4752337 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0149000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Accepted: 01/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose Previous studies of ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) in hearts from mice with cardiac-restricted overexpression of CCN2 have shown that CCN2 increases tolerance towards IRI. The objectives of this study were to investigate to what extent post-ischemic administration of recombinant human CCN2 (rhCCN2) would limit infarct size and improve functional recovery and what signaling pathways are involved. Experimental Approach Isolated mice hearts were perfused ad modum Langendorff, subjected to no-flow, global ischemia, and subsequently, exposed to mammalian cell derived, full-length (38-40kDa) rhCCN2 (250 nM) or vehicle during the first 15 min of a 60 min reperfusion period. Key Results Post-ischemic administration of rhCCN2 resulted in attenuation of infarct size from 58 ± 4% to 34 ± 2% (p < 0.001) which was abrogated by concomitant administration of the PI3 kinase inhibitor LY294002 (45 ± 3% vs. 50 ± 3%, ns). In congruence with reduction of infarct size rhCCN2 also improved recovery of left ventricular developed pressure (p < 0.05). Western blot analyses of extracts of ex vivo-perfused murine hearts also revealed that rhCCN2 evoked concentration-dependent increase of cardiac phospho-GSK3β (serine-9) contents. Conclusions and Implications We demonstrate that post-ischemic administration of rhCCN2 increases the tolerance of ex vivo-perfused murine hearts to IRI. Mechanistically, this postconditioning effect of rhCCN2 appeared to be mediated by activation of the reperfusion injury salvage kinase pathway as demonstrated by sensitivity to PI3 kinase inhibition and increased CCN2-induced phosphorylation of GSK3β (Ser-9). Thus, the rationale for testing rhCCN2-mediated post-ischemic conditioning of the heart in more complex models is established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ole Jørgen Kaasbøll
- Institute for Surgical Research, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Center for Heart Failure Research, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ingvild Tronstad Moe
- Institute for Surgical Research, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Center for Heart Failure Research, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Mohammad Shakil Ahmed
- Institute for Surgical Research, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Center for Heart Failure Research, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Espen Stang
- Dept. of Pathology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Else Marie Valbjørn Hagelin
- Institute for Surgical Research, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Center for Heart Failure Research, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Håvard Attramadal
- Institute for Surgical Research, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Center for Heart Failure Research, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- * E-mail:
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30
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Sundararaj K, Pleasant DL, Moschella PC, Panneerselvam K, Balasubramanian S, Kuppuswamy D. mTOR Complexes Repress Hypertrophic Agonist-Stimulated Expression of Connective Tissue Growth Factor in Adult Cardiac Muscle Cells. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2016; 67:110-20. [PMID: 26371948 PMCID: PMC7334753 DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0000000000000322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a fibrogenic cytokine that promotes fibrosis in various organs. In the heart, both cardiomyocytes (CM) and cardiac fibroblasts have been reported as a source of CTGF expression, aiding cardiac fibrosis. Although the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) forms 2 distinct complexes, mTORC1 and mTORC2, and plays a central role in integrating biochemical signals for protein synthesis and cellular homeostasis, we explored its role in CTGF expression in adult feline CM. CM were stimulated with 10 μM phenylephrine (PE), 200 nM angiotensin (Ang), or 100 nM insulin for 24 hours. PE and Ang, but not insulin, caused an increase in CTGF mRNA expression with the highest expression observed with PE. Inhibition of mTOR with torin1 but not rapamycin significantly enhanced PE-stimulated CTGF expression. Furthermore, silencing of raptor and rictor using shRNA adenoviral vectors to suppress mTORC1 and mTORC2, respectively, or blocking phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling with LY294002 (LY) or Akt signaling by dominant-negative Akt expression caused a substantial increase in PE-stimulated CTGF expression as measured by both mRNA and secreted protein levels. However, studies with dominant-negative delta isoform of protein kinase C demonstrate that delta isoform of protein kinase C is required for both agonist-induced CTGF expression and mTORC2/Akt-mediated CTGF suppression. Finally, PE-stimulated CTGF expression was accompanied with a corresponding increase in Smad3 phosphorylation and pretreatment of cells with SIS3, a Smad3 specific inhibitor, partially blocked the PE-stimulated CTGF expression. Therefore, a PI3K/mTOR/Akt axis plays a suppressive role on agonist-stimulated CTGF expression where the loss of this mechanism could be a contributing factor for the onset of cardiac fibrosis in the hypertrophying myocardium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamala Sundararaj
- Cardiology Division of the Department of Medicine, Gazes Cardiac Research Institute, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425-2221
| | - Dorea L. Pleasant
- Cardiology Division of the Department of Medicine, Gazes Cardiac Research Institute, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425-2221
| | - Phillip C. Moschella
- Cardiology Division of the Department of Medicine, Gazes Cardiac Research Institute, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425-2221
| | - Kavin Panneerselvam
- Cardiology Division of the Department of Medicine, Gazes Cardiac Research Institute, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425-2221
| | - Sundaravadivel Balasubramanian
- Cardiology Division of the Department of Medicine, Gazes Cardiac Research Institute, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425-2221
| | - Dhandapani Kuppuswamy
- Cardiology Division of the Department of Medicine, Gazes Cardiac Research Institute, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425-2221
- Corresponding author at: Gazes Cardiac Research Institute, Medical University of South Carolina, 114 Doughty Street, Charleston, South Carolina 29425-2221 Telephone: 843-876 5067; Fax: 843-876 5068;
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31
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Koshman YE, Sternlicht MD, Kim T, O'Hara CP, Koczor CA, Lewis W, Seeley TW, Lipson KE, Samarel AM. Connective tissue growth factor regulates cardiac function and tissue remodeling in a mouse model of dilated cardiomyopathy. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2015; 89:214-22. [PMID: 26549358 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2015.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2015] [Revised: 10/20/2015] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac structural changes associated with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) include cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and myocardial fibrosis. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) has been associated with tissue remodeling and is highly expressed in failing hearts. Our aim was to test if inhibition of CTGF would alter the course of cardiac remodeling and preserve cardiac function in the protein kinase Cε (PKCε) mouse model of DCM. Transgenic mice expressing constitutively active PKCε in cardiomyocytes develop cardiac dysfunction that was evident by 3 months of age, and that progressed to cardiac fibrosis, heart failure, and increased mortality. Beginning at 3 months of age, PKCε mice were treated with a neutralizing monoclonal antibody to CTGF (FG-3149) for an additional 3 months. CTGF inhibition significantly improved left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic functions in PKCε mice, and slowed the progression of LV dilatation. Using gene arrays and quantitative PCR, the expression of many genes associated with tissue remodeling was elevated in PKCε mice, but significantly decreased by CTGF inhibition. However total collagen deposition was not attenuated. The observation of significantly improved LV function by CTGF inhibition in PKCε mice suggests that CTGF inhibition may benefit patients with DCM. Additional studies to explore this potential are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yevgeniya E Koshman
- The Cardiovascular Research Institute, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL 60153, United States
| | | | - Taehoon Kim
- The Cardiovascular Research Institute, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL 60153, United States
| | - Christopher P O'Hara
- The Cardiovascular Research Institute, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL 60153, United States
| | - Christopher A Koczor
- Department of Pathology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States
| | - William Lewis
- Department of Pathology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States
| | - Todd W Seeley
- FibroGen, Inc., San Francisco, CA 94158, United States
| | | | - Allen M Samarel
- The Cardiovascular Research Institute, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL 60153, United States.
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32
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Ting WJ, Kuo WW, Hsieh DJY, Yeh YL, Day CH, Chen YH, Chen RJ, Padma VV, Chen YH, Huang CY. Heat Killed Lactobacillus reuteri GMNL-263 Reduces Fibrosis Effects on the Liver and Heart in High Fat Diet-Hamsters via TGF-β Suppression. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:25881-96. [PMID: 26516851 PMCID: PMC4632831 DOI: 10.3390/ijms161025881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2015] [Revised: 10/16/2015] [Accepted: 10/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity is one of the major risk factors for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and NAFLD is highly associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Scholars have suggested that certain probiotics may significantly impact cardiovascular health, particularly certain Lactobacillus species, such as Lactobacillus reuteri GMNL-263 (Lr263) probiotics, which have been shown to reduce obesity and arteriosclerosis in vivo. In the present study, we examined the potential of heat-killed bacteria to attenuate high fat diet (HFD)-induced hepatic and cardiac damages and the possible underlying mechanism of the positive effects of heat-killed Lr263 oral supplements. Heat-killed Lr263 treatments (625 and 3125 mg/kg-hamster/day) were provided as a daily supplement by oral gavage to HFD-fed hamsters for eight weeks. The results show that heat-killed Lr263 treatments reduce fatty liver syndrome. Moreover, heat-killed Lactobacillus reuteri GMNL-263 supplementation in HFD hamsters also reduced fibrosis in the liver and heart by reducing transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) expression levels. In conclusion, heat-killed Lr263 can reduce lipid metabolic stress in HFD hamsters and decrease the risk of fatty liver and cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Jen Ting
- Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan.
| | - Wei-Wen Kuo
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan.
| | - Dennis Jine-Yuan Hsieh
- School of Medical Laboratory and Biotechnology, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan.
| | - Yu-Lan Yeh
- Department of Pathology, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua 50006, Taiwan.
- Jen-Teh Junior College of Medicine, Nursing and Management, Miaoli 35664, Taiwan.
| | | | - Ya-Hui Chen
- Research and Development Department, GenMont Biotech Incorporation, Tainan 74144, Taiwan.
| | - Ray-Jade Chen
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan.
| | | | - Yi-Hsing Chen
- Research and Development Department, GenMont Biotech Incorporation, Tainan 74144, Taiwan.
| | - Chih-Yang Huang
- Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan.
- Graduate Institute of Chinese Medical Science, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan.
- Department of Health and Nutrition Biotechnology, Asia University, Taichung 41354, Taiwan.
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33
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p63RhoGEF regulates auto- and paracrine signaling in cardiac fibroblasts. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2015; 88:39-54. [PMID: 26392029 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2015.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2015] [Revised: 09/04/2015] [Accepted: 09/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Cardiac remodeling, a hallmark of heart disease, is associated with intense auto- and paracrine signaling leading to cardiac fibrosis. We hypothesized that the specific mediator of Gq/11-dependent RhoA activation p63RhoGEF, which is expressed in cardiac fibroblasts, plays a role in the underlying processes. We could show that p63RhoGEF is up-regulated in mouse hearts subjected to transverse aortic constriction (TAC). In an engineered heart muscle model (EHM), p63RhoGEF expression in cardiac fibroblasts increased resting and twitch tensions, and the dominant negative p63ΔN decreased both. In an engineered connective tissue model (ECT), p63RhoGEF increased tissue stiffness and its knockdown as well as p63ΔN reduced stiffness. In 2D cultures of neonatal rat cardiac fibroblasts, p63RhoGEF regulated the angiotensin II (Ang II)-dependent RhoA activation, the activation of the serum response factor, and the expression and secretion of the connective tissue growth factor (CTGF). All these processes were inhibited by the knockdown of p63RhoGEF or by p63ΔN likely based on their negative influence on the actin cytoskeleton. Moreover, we show that p63RhoGEF also regulates CTGF in engineered tissues and correlates with it in the TAC model. Finally, confocal studies revealed a closely related localization of p63RhoGEF and CTGF in the trans-Golgi network.
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Abstract
Aging results in progressive deteriorations in the structure and function of the heart and is a dominant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, the leading cause of death in Western populations. Although the phenotypes of cardiac aging have been well characterized, the molecular mechanisms of cardiac aging are just beginning to be revealed. With the continuously growing elderly population, there is a great need for interventions in cardiac aging. This article will provide an overview of the phenotypic changes of cardiac aging, the molecular mechanisms underlying these changes, and will present some of the recent advances in the development of interventions to delay or reverse cardiac aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Ann Chiao
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195
| | - Peter S Rabinovitch
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195
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35
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Abstract
Cardiac hypertrophy is characterized by complex multicellular alterations, such as cardiomyocyte growth, angiogenesis, fibrosis, and inflammation. The heart consists of myocytes and nonmyocytes, such as fibroblasts, vascular cells, and blood cells, and these cells communicate with each other directly or indirectly via a variety of autocrine or paracrine mediators. Accumulating evidence has suggested that nonmyocytes actively participate in the development of cardiac hypertrophy. In this review, recent progress in our understanding of the importance of nonmyocytes as a hub for induction of cardiac hypertrophy is summarized with an emphasis of the contribution of noncontact communication mediated by diffusible factors between cardiomyocytes and nonmyocytes in the heart.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takehiro Kamo
- From the Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan (T.K., H.A., I.K.); and Core Research for Evolutional Science and Technology (CREST), Japan Science and Technology Agency, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan (H.A., I.K.)
| | - Hiroshi Akazawa
- From the Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan (T.K., H.A., I.K.); and Core Research for Evolutional Science and Technology (CREST), Japan Science and Technology Agency, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan (H.A., I.K.)
| | - Issei Komuro
- From the Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan (T.K., H.A., I.K.); and Core Research for Evolutional Science and Technology (CREST), Japan Science and Technology Agency, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan (H.A., I.K.)
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36
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Abstract
Fibrotic diseases are a significant global burden for which there are limited treatment options. The effector cells of fibrosis are activated fibroblasts called myofibroblasts, a highly contractile cell type characterized by the appearance of α-smooth muscle actin stress fibers. The underlying mechanism behind myofibroblast differentiation and persistence has been under much investigation and is known to involve a complex signaling network involving transforming growth factor-β, endothelin-1, angiotensin II, CCN2 (connective tissue growth factor), and platelet-derived growth factor. This review addresses the contribution of these signaling molecules to cardiac fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Leask
- From the Departments of Dentistry and Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.
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37
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Lim SL, Lam CSP, Segers VFM, Brutsaert DL, De Keulenaer GW. Cardiac endothelium-myocyte interaction: clinical opportunities for new heart failure therapies regardless of ejection fraction. Eur Heart J 2015; 36:2050-2060. [PMID: 25911648 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehv132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2014] [Accepted: 04/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Heart failure (HF) is an important global health problem with great socioeconomic burden. Outcomes remain sub-optimal. Endothelium-cardiomyocyte interactions play essential roles in cardiovascular homeostasis, and deranged endothelium-related signalling pathways have been implicated in the pathophysiology of HF. In particular, disturbances in nitric oxide (NO)-mediated pathway and neuregulin-mediated pathway have been shown to contribute to the development of HF. These signalling pathways hold the potential as pathophysiological targets for new HF therapies, and may aid in patient selection for future HF trials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Vincent F M Segers
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology (Building T2), University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
| | - Dirk L Brutsaert
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology (Building T2), University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
| | - Gilles W De Keulenaer
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology (Building T2), University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
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38
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Genetic Analysis of Connective Tissue Growth Factor as an Effector of Transforming Growth Factor β Signaling and Cardiac Remodeling. Mol Cell Biol 2015; 35:2154-64. [PMID: 25870108 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.00199-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2015] [Accepted: 04/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The matricellular secreted protein connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is upregulated in response to cardiac injury or with transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) stimulation, where it has been suggested to function as a fibrotic effector. Here we generated transgenic mice with inducible heart-specific CTGF overexpression, mice with heart-specific expression of an activated TGF-β mutant protein, mice with heart-specific deletion of Ctgf, and mice in which Ctgf was also deleted from fibroblasts in the heart. Remarkably, neither gain nor loss of CTGF in the heart affected cardiac pathology and propensity toward early lethality due to TGF-β overactivation in the heart. Also, neither heart-specific Ctgf deletion nor CTGF overexpression altered cardiac remodeling and function with aging or after multiple acute stress stimuli. Cardiac fibrosis was also unchanged by modulation of CTGF levels in the heart with aging, pressure overload, agonist infusion, or TGF-β overexpression. However, CTGF mildly altered the overall cardiac response to TGF-β when pressure overload stimulation was applied. CTGF has been proposed to function as a critical TGF-β effector in underlying tissue remodeling and fibrosis throughout the body, although our results suggest that CTGF is of minimal importance and is an unlikely therapeutic vantage point for the heart.
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39
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Weise M, Vettel C, Spiger K, Gilsbach R, Hein L, Lorenz K, Wieland T, Aktories K, Orth JHC. A systemic Pasteurella multocida toxin aggravates cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis in mice. Cell Microbiol 2015; 17:1320-31. [PMID: 25759205 DOI: 10.1111/cmi.12436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2014] [Revised: 02/20/2015] [Accepted: 03/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Pasteurella multocida toxin (PMT) persistently activates heterotrimeric G proteins of the Gαq/11 , Gα12/13 and Gαi family without interaction with G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). We show that PMT acts on heart tissue in vivo and on cardiomyocytes and cardiac fibroblasts in vitro by deamidation of heterotrimeric G proteins. Increased normalized ventricle weights and fibrosis were detected after intraperitoneal administration of PMT in combination with the GPCR agonist phenylephrine. In neonatal rat cardiomyocytes, PMT stimulated the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway, which is crucial for the development of cellular hypertrophy. The toxin induced phosphorylation of the canonical phosphorylation sites of the extracellular-regulated kinase 1/2 and, additionally, caused phosphorylation of the recently recognized autophosphorylation site, which appears to be important for the development of cellular hypertrophy. Moreover, PMT stimulated the small GTPases Rac1 and RhoA. Both switch proteins are involved in cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. In addition, PMT stimulated RhoA and Rac1 in neonatal rat cardiac fibroblasts. RhoA and Rac1 have been implicated in the regulation of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) secretion and expression. Accordingly, we show that PMT treatment increased secretion and expression of CTGF in cardiac fibroblasts. Altogether, the data indicate that PMT is an inducer of pathological remodelling of cardiac cells and identifies the toxin as a promising tool for studying heterotrimeric G protein-dependent signalling in cardiac cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Weise
- Institut für Experimentelle und Klinische Pharmakologie und Toxikologie, Dept. I, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Albertstr. 25, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
| | - Christiane Vettel
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Katharina Spiger
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Ralf Gilsbach
- Institut für Experimentelle und Klinische Pharmakologie und Toxikologie, Dept. II, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Lutz Hein
- Institut für Experimentelle und Klinische Pharmakologie und Toxikologie, Dept. II, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Kristina Lorenz
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.,Comprehensive Heart Failure Center, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Wieland
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Klaus Aktories
- Institut für Experimentelle und Klinische Pharmakologie und Toxikologie, Dept. I, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Albertstr. 25, Freiburg, 79104, Germany.,BIOSS Centre for Biological Signalling Studies, Universität Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Joachim H C Orth
- Institut für Experimentelle und Klinische Pharmakologie und Toxikologie, Dept. I, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Albertstr. 25, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
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40
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Samal R, Ameling S, Dhople V, Sappa PK, Wenzel K, Völker U, Felix SB, Hammer E, Könemann S. Brain derived neurotrophic factor contributes to the cardiogenic potential of adult resident progenitor cells in failing murine heart. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0120360. [PMID: 25799225 PMCID: PMC4370398 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0120360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2014] [Accepted: 02/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims Resident cardiac progenitor cells show homing properties when injected into the injured but not to the healthy myocardium. The molecular background behind this difference in behavior needs to be studied to elucidate how adult progenitor cells can restore cardiac function of the damaged myocardium. Since the brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) moderates cardioprotection in injured hearts, we focused on delineating its regulatory role in the damaged myocardium. Methods and Results Comparative gene expression profiling of freshly isolated undifferentiated Sca-1 progenitor cells derived either from heart failure transgenic αMHC-CyclinT1/Gαq overexpressing mice or wildtype littermates revealed transcriptional variations. Bdnf expression was up regulated 5-fold during heart failure which was verified by qRT-PCR and confirmed at protein level. The migratory capacity of Sca-1 cells from transgenic hearts was improved by 15% in the presence of 25ng/ml BDNF. Furthermore, BDNF-mediated effects on Sca-1 cells were studied via pulsed Stable Isotope Labeling of Amino acids in Cell Culture (pSILAC) proteomics approach. After BDNF treatment significant differences between newly synthesized proteins in Sca-1 cells from control and transgenic hearts were observed for CDK1, SRRT, HDGF, and MAP2K3 which are known to regulate cell cycle, survival and differentiation. Moreover BDNF repressed the proliferation of Sca-1 cells from transgenic hearts. Conclusion Comparative profiling of resident Sca-1 cells revealed elevated BDNF levels in the failing heart. Exogenous BDNF (i) stimulated migration, which might improve the homing ability of Sca-1 cells derived from the failing heart and (ii) repressed the cell cycle progression suggesting its potency to ameliorate heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasmita Samal
- Department of Internal Medicine B, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
- Interfaculty Institute for Genetics and Functional Genomics, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Sabine Ameling
- Interfaculty Institute for Genetics and Functional Genomics, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Vishnu Dhople
- Interfaculty Institute for Genetics and Functional Genomics, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Praveen Kumar Sappa
- Interfaculty Institute for Genetics and Functional Genomics, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Kristin Wenzel
- Department of Internal Medicine B, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) partner site, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Uwe Völker
- Interfaculty Institute for Genetics and Functional Genomics, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) partner site, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Stephan B. Felix
- Department of Internal Medicine B, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) partner site, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Elke Hammer
- Interfaculty Institute for Genetics and Functional Genomics, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) partner site, Greifswald, Germany
- * E-mail: (EH); (SK)
| | - Stephanie Könemann
- Department of Internal Medicine B, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) partner site, Greifswald, Germany
- * E-mail: (EH); (SK)
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Takawale A, Sakamuri SS, Kassiri Z. Extracellular Matrix Communication and Turnover in Cardiac Physiology and Pathology. Compr Physiol 2015; 5:687-719. [DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c140045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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42
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Rodrigues-Diez RR, Garcia-Redondo AB, Orejudo M, Rodrigues-Diez R, Briones AM, Bosch-Panadero E, Kery G, Pato J, Ortiz A, Salaices M, Egido J, Ruiz-Ortega M. The C-terminal module IV of connective tissue growth factor, through EGFR/Nox1 signaling, activates the NF-κB pathway and proinflammatory factors in vascular smooth muscle cells. Antioxid Redox Signal 2015; 22:29-47. [PMID: 25065408 PMCID: PMC4270131 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2013.5500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) is a developmental gene upregulated in pathological conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, whose product is a matricellular protein that can be degraded to biologically active fragments. Among them, the C-terminal module IV [CCN2(IV)] regulates many cellular functions, but there are no data about redox process. Therefore, we investigated whether CCN2(IV) through redox signaling regulates vascular responses. RESULTS CCN2(IV) increased superoxide anion (O2(•-)) production in murine aorta (ex vivo and in vivo) and in cultured vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). In isolated murine aorta, CCN2(IV), via O2(•-), increased phenylephrine-induced vascular contraction. CCN2(IV) in vivo regulated several redox-related processes in mice aorta, including increased nonphagocytic NAD(P)H oxidases (Nox)1 activity, protein nitrosylation, endothelial dysfunction, and activation of the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway and its related proinflammatory factors. The role of Nox1 in CCN2(IV)-mediated vascular responses in vivo was investigated by gene silencing. The administration of a Nox1 morpholino diminished aortic O2(•-) production, endothelial dysfunction, NF-κB activation, and overexpression of proinflammatory genes in CCN2(IV)-injected mice. The link CCN2(IV)/Nox1/NF-κB/inflammation was confirmed in cultured VSMCs. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a known CCN2 receptor. In VSMCs, CCN2(IV) activates EGFR signaling. Moreover, EGFR kinase inhibition blocked vascular responses in CCN2(IV)-injected mice. INNOVATION AND CONCLUSION CCN2(IV) is a novel prooxidant factor that in VSMCs induces O2(•-) production via EGFR/Nox1 activation. Our in vivo data demonstrate that CCN2(IV) through EGFR/Nox1 signaling pathway induces endothelial dysfunction and activation of the NF-κB inflammatory pathway. Therefore, CCN2(IV) could be considered a potential therapeutic target for redox-related cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raúl R Rodrigues-Diez
- 1 Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma Madrid , Madrid, Spain
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43
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Falke LL, Goldschmeding R, Nguyen TQ. A perspective on anti-CCN2 therapy for chronic kidney disease. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2014; 29 Suppl 1:i30-i37. [PMID: 24493868 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gft430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Kidney fibrosis is the common end point of chronic kidney disease independent of aetiology. Currently, no effective therapy exists to reduce kidney fibrosis. CCN2 appears to be an interesting candidate for anti-fibrotic drug targeting, because it holds a central position in the development of kidney fibrosis and interacts with a variety of factors that are involved in the fibrotic response, including transforming growth factor (TGF) β and Bone morphogenetic proteins. Although CCN2 modifies many pathways, it does not appear to have a membrane receptor of its own. Numerous experimental and clinical studies lowering CCN2 bioavailability have shown promising results with minimal adverse side effects. This review aims to provide an overview of the current state of CCN2 research with a focus on anti-fibrotic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas L Falke
- Department of Pathology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
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44
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Gingery A, Yang TH, Passe SM, An KN, Zhao C, Amadio PC. TGF-β signaling regulates fibrotic expression and activity in carpal tunnel syndrome. J Orthop Res 2014; 32:1444-50. [PMID: 25073432 PMCID: PMC4222071 DOI: 10.1002/jor.22694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2014] [Accepted: 06/23/2014] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis of the subsynovial connective tissue (SSCT) is a predominant feature of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). While the nature of CTS has been extensively studied, little is known about the etiology of this disease. We investigated SSCT tissue from patients with CTS and control subjects using fibrosis arrays and cell culture analysis. Twofold changes in fibrotic gene expression were found in multiple genes from patient SSCT using fibrosis arrays. This data was confirmed via qRT-PCR on a subset of genes; collagen I (Col1), collagen III (Col3), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), transforming growth factor β (TGF-β), and SMAD3 (P < 0.05) which significantly corroborate the fold changes found in the fibrosis arrays. To further explore the nature of SSCT fibrosis, cells were isolated from patient and control tissue. Col1, Col3, TGF-β, and SMAD3 were highly expressed in patient SSCT fibroblasts as compared to control (P < 0.05). Further, fibrotic genes expression was decreased by inhibiting TGF-β receptor I (TβRI) activity (P < 0.05). TGF-β second messenger SMAD activity was significantly activated in SSCT fibroblasts from patients and this activation was abrogated by inhibiting TβRI signaling (P < 0.05). These findings suggest that blocking TGF-β signaling may be an important therapeutic approach to treating the underlying fibrosis of SSCT in CTS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Gingery
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomechanics and Tendon & Soft Tissue Biology Laboratory Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Tai-Hua Yang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Biomechanics and Tendon & Soft Tissue Biology Laboratory Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Sandra M. Passe
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Biomechanics and Tendon & Soft Tissue Biology Laboratory Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Kai-Nan An
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Biomechanics and Tendon & Soft Tissue Biology Laboratory Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Chunfeng Zhao
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Biomechanics and Tendon & Soft Tissue Biology Laboratory Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Peter C. Amadio
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Biomechanics and Tendon & Soft Tissue Biology Laboratory Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
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Posch MG, Schmidt G, Steinhoff L, Perrot A, Drews T, Dandel M, Krabatsch T, Hetzer R, Potapov EV. A promoter polymorphism -945C>G in the connective tissue growth factor in heart failure patients with mechanical circulatory support: a new marker for bridge to recovery? Eur J Cardiothorac Surg 2014; 47:e29-33. [PMID: 25349161 DOI: 10.1093/ejcts/ezu402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) creates improvement of cardiac function in a small portion of patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (iDCM). Among other factors, cardiomyocyte hypertrophy seems to represent an important prerequisite for MCS-related cardiac recovery. We have previously shown that connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) leads to adaptive cardiomyocyte hypertrophy associated with a protective cardiac function in transgenic mice. To test whether a functional genetic variant in the CTGF promoter impacts MCS-related cardiac recovery, three groups of iDCM patients with and without cardiac recovery on MCS were genotyped. METHODS The CTGF promoter variant (c.-945C>G) was analysed in 314 patients with iDCM receiving medical treatment only (Group I). Forty-nine iDCM patients who were either weaned from MCS for more than 6 months (Group II; n=20) or bridged to cardiac transplantation (Group III: n=29) were also genotyped. Patients on MCS were followed up for at least 12 months. Clinical characteristics and outcome on MCS were correlated with the respective genotypes. RESULTS The c.-945C>G allele frequencies in 314 iDCM patients (Group I) were similar to controls deposited in the HapMap database or those published in a recent study. There were no differences in allele prevalence between patients with mild to moderate iDCM (Group I) compared with patients with severe iDCM requiring MCS (Groups II and III). Intriguingly, 50% of patients who were weaned from MCS (Group II) were homozygous for the G allele compared with only 17.2% of patients included in Group III, which is a significant difference (P=0.03). CONCLUSIONS Homozygosity of the promoter-activating G allele in the CTGF_c.-945C>G variant is overrepresented in patients with cardiac recovery on MCS when compared with iDCM patients without cardiac recovery. Further studies are needed to evaluate c.-945C>G as a genetic predictor for clinical outcome on MCS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian G Posch
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Deutsches Herzzentrum Berlin (DHZB), Berlin, Germany Charité Research Organisation GmbH, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gunther Schmidt
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Deutsches Herzzentrum Berlin (DHZB), Berlin, Germany
| | - Laura Steinhoff
- Cardiovascular Genetics, Experimental and Clinical Research Center (ECRC), a Joint Cooperation of the Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin and the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Perrot
- Cardiovascular Genetics, Experimental and Clinical Research Center (ECRC), a Joint Cooperation of the Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin and the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Thorsten Drews
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Deutsches Herzzentrum Berlin (DHZB), Berlin, Germany
| | - Michael Dandel
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Deutsches Herzzentrum Berlin (DHZB), Berlin, Germany
| | - Thomas Krabatsch
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Deutsches Herzzentrum Berlin (DHZB), Berlin, Germany
| | - Roland Hetzer
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Deutsches Herzzentrum Berlin (DHZB), Berlin, Germany
| | - Evgenij V Potapov
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Deutsches Herzzentrum Berlin (DHZB), Berlin, Germany
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Kok HM, Falke LL, Goldschmeding R, Nguyen TQ. Targeting CTGF, EGF and PDGF pathways to prevent progression of kidney disease. Nat Rev Nephrol 2014; 10:700-11. [PMID: 25311535 DOI: 10.1038/nrneph.2014.184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major health and economic burden with a rising incidence. During progression of CKD, the sustained release of proinflammatory and profibrotic cytokines and growth factors leads to an excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix. Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) and angiotensin II are considered to be the two main driving forces in fibrotic development. Blockade of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system has become the mainstay therapy for preservation of kidney function, but this treatment is not sufficient to prevent progression of fibrosis and CKD. Several factors that induce fibrosis have been identified, not only by TGF-β-dependent mechanisms, but also by TGF-β-independent mechanisms. Among these factors are the (partially) TGF-β-independent profibrotic pathways involving connective tissue growth factor, epidermal growth factor and platelet-derived growth factor and their receptors. In this Review, we discuss the specific roles of these pathways, their interactions and preclinical evidence supporting their qualification as additional targets for novel antifibrotic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena M Kok
- Department of Pathology, H04.312, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Lucas L Falke
- Department of Pathology, H04.312, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Roel Goldschmeding
- Department of Pathology, H04.312, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Tri Q Nguyen
- Department of Pathology, H04.312, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, Netherlands
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Elrod JW, van Berlo JH. Unraveling the complexities of cardiac remodeling and hypertrophy - high-content screening and computational modeling. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2014; 72:360-3. [PMID: 24742541 PMCID: PMC4413011 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2014.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2014] [Accepted: 03/19/2014] [Indexed: 10/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- John W Elrod
- Center for Translational Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Jop H van Berlo
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
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Rienks M, Papageorgiou AP, Frangogiannis NG, Heymans S. Myocardial extracellular matrix: an ever-changing and diverse entity. Circ Res 2014; 114:872-88. [PMID: 24577967 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.114.302533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 232] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The cardiac extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex architectural network consisting of structural and nonstructural proteins, creating strength and plasticity. The nonstructural compartment of the ECM houses a variety of proteins, which are vital for ECM plasticity, and can be divided into 3 major groups: glycoproteins, proteoglycans, and glycosaminoglycans. The common denominator for these groups is glycosylation, which refers to the decoration of proteins or lipids with sugars. This review will discuss the fundamental role of the matrix in cardiac development, homeostasis, and remodeling, from a glycobiology point of view. Glycoproteins (eg, thrombospondins, secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine, tenascins), proteoglycans (eg, versican, syndecans, biglycan), and glycosaminoglycans (eg, hyaluronan, heparan sulfate) are upregulated on cardiac injury and regulate key processes in the remodeling myocardium such as inflammation, fibrosis, and angiogenesis. Albeit some parallels can be made regarding the processes these proteins are involved in, their specific functions are extremely diverse. In fact, under varying conditions, individual proteins can even have opposing functions, making spatiotemporal contribution of these proteins in the rearrangement of multifaceted ECM very hard to grasp. Alterations of protein characteristics by the addition of sugars may explain the immense, yet tightly regulated, variability of the remodeling cardiac matrix. Understanding the role of glycosylation in altering the ultimate function of glycoproteins, proteoglycans, and glycosaminoglycans in the myocardium may lead to the development of new biochemical structures or compounds with great therapeutic potential for patients with heart disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marieke Rienks
- From Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Talasaz AH, Khalili H, Jenab Y, Salarifar M, Broumand MA, Darabi F. N-Acetylcysteine effects on transforming growth factor-β and tumor necrosis factor-α serum levels as pro-fibrotic and inflammatory biomarkers in patients following ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. Drugs R D 2014; 13:199-205. [PMID: 24048773 PMCID: PMC3784054 DOI: 10.1007/s40268-013-0025-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Ischemia following acute myocardial infarction (AMI) increases the level of pro-fibrotic and inflammatory cytokines, including transforming growth factor (TGF)-β and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) has therapeutic benefits in the management of patients with AMI. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that has evaluated the effect of NAC on TNF-α and TGF-β levels in patients with AMI. Methods Following confirmation of AMI, 88 patients were randomly administered NAC 600 mg (Fluimucil®, Zambon, Ticino, Switzerland) or placebo orally twice daily for 3 days. For quantification of TGF-β and TNF-α serum levels after 24 and 72 h of NAC or placebo administration, peripheral venous blood (10 mL) samples were collected at these time points. Results Comparisons between levels of TGF-β and TNF-α after 24 and 72 h within the NAC or placebo groups revealed that there was not any significant difference except for TGF-β levels in the placebo group, which increased significantly over time (p = 0.042). Significant relationships existed between patients’ ejection fraction (p = 0.005) and TGF-β levels. Conclusions Receiving NAC could prevent TGF-β levels from increasing after 72 h as compared with not receiving NAC. As TGF-β had strong correlations with the ejection fraction, its antagonism seems to be important in the prevention of remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azita Hajhossein Talasaz
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran Heart Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,
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Szabó Z, Magga J, Alakoski T, Ulvila J, Piuhola J, Vainio L, Kivirikko KI, Vuolteenaho O, Ruskoaho H, Lipson KE, Signore P, Kerkelä R. Connective tissue growth factor inhibition attenuates left ventricular remodeling and dysfunction in pressure overload-induced heart failure. Hypertension 2014; 63:1235-40. [PMID: 24688123 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.114.03279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is involved in the pathogenesis of various fibrotic disorders. However, its role in the heart is not clear. To investigate the role of CTGF in regulating the development of cardiac fibrosis and heart failure, we subjected mice to thoracic aortic constriction (TAC) or angiotensin II infusion, and antagonized the function of CTGF with CTGF monoclonal antibody (mAb). After 8 weeks of TAC, mice treated with CTGF mAb had significantly better preserved left ventricular (LV) systolic function and reduced LV dilatation compared with mice treated with control immunoglobulin G. CTGF mAb-treated mice exhibited significantly smaller cardiomyocyte cross-sectional area and reduced expression of hypertrophic marker genes. CTGF mAb treatment reduced the TAC-induced production of collagen 1 but did not significantly attenuate TAC-induced accumulation of interstitial fibrosis. Analysis of genes regulating extracellular matrix proteolysis showed decreased expression of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 and matrix metalloproteinase-2 in mice treated with CTGF mAb. In contrast to TAC, antagonizing the function of CTGF had no effect on LV dysfunction or LV hypertrophy in mice subjected to 4-week angiotensin II infusion. Further analysis showed that angiotensin II-induced expression of hypertrophic marker genes or collagens was not affected by treatment with CTGF mAb. In conclusion, CTGF mAb protects from adverse LV remodeling and LV dysfunction in hearts subjected to pressure overload by TAC. Antagonizing the function of CTGF may offer protection from cardiac end-organ damage in patients with hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoltán Szabó
- University of Oulu, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, P.O. Box 5000, FIN-90220 Oulu, Finland.
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