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Kannan S, Rutkowski JM. VEGFR-3 signaling in macrophages: friend or foe in disease? Front Immunol 2024; 15:1349500. [PMID: 38464522 PMCID: PMC10921555 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1349500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Lymphatic vessels have been increasingly appreciated in the context of immunology not only as passive conduits for immune and cancer cell transport but also as key in local tissue immunomodulation. Targeting lymphatic vessel growth and potential immune regulation often takes advantage of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-3 (VEGFR-3) signaling to manipulate lymphatic biology. A receptor tyrosine kinase, VEGFR-3, is highly expressed on lymphatic endothelial cells, and its signaling is key in lymphatic growth, development, and survival and, as a result, often considered to be "lymphatic-specific" in adults. A subset of immune cells, notably of the monocyte-derived lineage, have been identified to express VEGFR-3 in tissues from the lung to the gut and in conditions as varied as cancer and chronic kidney disease. These VEGFR-3+ macrophages are highly chemotactic toward the VEGFR-3 ligands VEGF-C and VEGF-D. VEGFR-3 signaling has also been implicated in dictating the plasticity of these cells from pro-inflammatory to anti-inflammatory phenotypes. Conversely, expression may potentially be transient during monocyte differentiation with unknown effects. Macrophages play critically important and varied roles in the onset and resolution of inflammation, tissue remodeling, and vasculogenesis: targeting lymphatic vessel growth and immunomodulation by manipulating VEGFR-3 signaling may thus impact macrophage biology and their impact on disease pathogenesis. This mini review highlights the studies and pathologies in which VEGFR-3+ macrophages have been specifically identified, as well as the activity and polarization changes that macrophage VEGFR-3 signaling may elicit, and affords some conclusions as to the importance of macrophage VEGFR-3 signaling in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joseph M. Rutkowski
- Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A&M University School of Medicine, Bryan, TX, United States
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2
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Brogowska KK, Zajkowska M, Mroczko B. Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Ligands and Receptors in Breast Cancer. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12062412. [PMID: 36983412 PMCID: PMC10056253 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12062412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most common malignancy responsible for the largest number of deaths in women worldwide. The risk of developing BC is predisposed by many factors such as age, presence of genetic mutations or body weight. The diagnosis is mostly made relatively late, which is why patients are exposed to radical surgical treatments, long-term chemotherapy and lower survival rates. There are no sufficiently sensitive and specific screening tests; therefore, researchers are still looking for new diagnostic biomarkers that would indicate the appearance of neoplastic changes in the initial stage of neoplasm. The VEGF family of proteins (VEGF-A, VEGF-B, VEGF-C, VEGF-D, EG-VEGF, PlGF) and their receptors are significant factors in the pathogenesis of BC. They play a significant role in the process of angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis in both physiological and pathological conditions. The usefulness of these proteins as potential diagnostic biomarkers has been initially proven. Moreover, the blockage of VEGF-related pathways seems to be a valid therapeutic target. Recent studies have tried to describe novel strategies, including targeting pericytes, use of miRNAs and extracellular tumor-associated vesicles, immunotherapeutic drugs and nanotechnology. This indicates their possible contribution to the formation of breast cancer and their usefulness as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Monika Zajkowska
- Department of Neurodegeneration Diagnostics, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-269 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Barbara Mroczko
- Department of Neurodegeneration Diagnostics, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-269 Bialystok, Poland
- Department of Biochemical Diagnostics, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-269 Bialystok, Poland
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3
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Zarina KZ, Pilmane M. Expression of Markers Ki-67, Nestin, VEGF, CD34 and Apoptosis in Relatively Healthy Lung Tissue with Non-Changed and Metaplastic Bronchial Epithelium. Med Sci (Basel) 2022; 11:medsci11010007. [PMID: 36649044 PMCID: PMC9844367 DOI: 10.3390/medsci11010007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 12/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Knowledge about the occurrence of processes such as proliferation, apoptosis and angiogenesis in healthy lung tissues with different bronchial epitheliums is limited, and further exploration can contribute to a better understanding of the physiological renewal of lung tissues. The processes mentioned above occur with the help of important tissue factors; therefore, the aim of the study was to determine the expression of markers Ki-67, nestin, CD34 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEFG) and detect apoptotic cells in relatively healthy lung tissue. METHODS Samples of relatively healthy lung tissue were obtained from 19 patients and divided into groups of patients with non-changed and patients with metaplastic bronchial epithelium. Tissue samples were examined by hematoxylin and eosin staining. Ki-67, nestin, VEGF and CD34-positive cells were detected by the immunohistochemistry method. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay was carried out to detect apoptotic cells. The number of positive structures was counted semi-quantitatively by microscopy. RESULTS Ki-67-positive cells were detected in only one case. An occasional to moderate number of nestin-positive structures was found in various tissues of relatively healthy lungs with different bronchial epitheliums. No apoptotic cells were seen in non-changed bronchial epithelium, compared with few apoptotic cells in metaplastic bronchial epithelium. Metaplastic bronchial epithelium contained more VEGF-positive cells than non-changed bronchial epithelium. Samples with non-changed, and metaplastic bronchial epithelium both contained a similar number of CD34-positive structures. CONCLUSIONS Proliferative activity and programmed cell death are not prominent events in normal lung tissue. A moderate number of nestin-positive cells in the alveolar epithelium and cartilage of bronchi with pseudostratified ciliated epithelium suggests a significant role of neuronal origin cells in these structures, to be intensified in metaplastic bronchial epithelium. A practically non-changed number of CD34-positive cells excludes any difference in stimulation of endothelial origin cells between lungs with different types of epithelium, while an increase in VEGF in structures with metaplastic epithelium suggests the presence/influence of tissue ischemia impact on possible development/maintenance of metaplasia.
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Tortonese DJ. Hypophysial angiogenesis decodes annual time and underlies physiological adaptation to seasonal changes in the environment. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY. PART A, ECOLOGICAL AND INTEGRATIVE PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 337:939-951. [PMID: 35844178 PMCID: PMC9796326 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Adaptation to annual changes in the environment is controlled by hypophysial hormones. In temperate zones, photoperiod is the primary external cue that regulates annual biological cycles and is translated by the pattern of melatonin secretion acting primarily in the hypophysial pars tuberalis. Angiogenic mechanisms within this tissue contribute to decode the melatonin signal through alternative splicing of the vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) gene in both the pars tuberalis and the capillary loops of the infundibulum. The resulting melatonin-evoked differential productions of VEGF-A isoforms will induce seasonal remodeling of the vascular connection between the hypothalamus and hypophysis, and act as paracrine messengers in the pars distalis to generate the required seasonal endocrine response. Specifically, the long melatonin signal in winter upregulates antiangiogenic VEGF-A isoforms, which will reduce the number of vascular loops and the density of VEGF receptors in endocrine and folliculo-stellate (FS) cells, inhibit prolactin secretion, and stimulate FSH. In contrast, the short melatonin signal in summer upregulates proangiogenic VEGF-A isoforms that will increase the number of vascular loops and the density of VEGF receptors in endocrine and FS cells, stimulate prolactin secretion, and suppress FSH. A similar system has been identified in long day seasonal breeders, revealing that this is a conserved mechanism of adaptation across species. Thus, an angiogenesis-based, intrahypophysial system for annual time measurement controls local microvascular plasticity and conveys the photoperiodic signal readout from the melatonin sensitive pars tuberalis to the endocrine cells of the pars distalis to regulate seasonal adaptation to the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domingo J. Tortonese
- Laboratories for Integrative Neuroscience and Endocrinology, Faculty of Health SciencesUniversity of BristolBristolUK
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Fiestas Solórzano VE, de Lima RC, de Azeredo EL. The Role of Growth Factors in the Pathogenesis of Dengue: A Scoping Review. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11101179. [PMID: 36297236 PMCID: PMC9608673 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11101179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Growth factors (GFs) have a role in tissue repair and in the modulation of the expression of inflammatory cells in damage caused by pathogens. This study aims to systematize the evidence on the role of GFs in the pathogenesis of dengue. This scoping review considered all published peer-reviewed studies in the MEDLINE and Embase databases. Ultimately, 58 studies that analyzed GFs in dengue patients, published between 1998 and 2021, were included. DENV-2 infection and secondary infection were more frequent in the patients studied. ELISA and multiplex immunoassay (Luminex) were the most used measurement techniques. Increased levels of vascular endothelial growth factor, granulocyte–macrophage colony-stimulating factor, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, transforming growth factor beta, and hepatocyte growth factor as well as reduced levels of platelet-derived growth factor and epidermal growth factor were observed in severe dengue in most studies. Vascular endothelial growth factor and hepatocyte growth factor were identified as biomarkers of severity. In addition, there is evidence that the dengue virus can use the growth factor pathway to facilitate its entry into the cell and promote its viral replication. The use of tyrosine kinase inhibitors is an alternative treatment for dengue that is being studied.
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Zhang M, Ding L, Zhou Z, Liu C, Wang C, Chen B, Chen X, Zhang Y. The VEGFR2/mTOR/S6K1 pathway involved in the angiogenic effects of roxarsone in vitro and in vivo. Toxicology 2022; 478:153290. [PMID: 35985552 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2022.153290] [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: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Roxarsone, an organoarsenic compound used in poultry industry to increase weight gain, is widely used as a feed additive in some developing countries. Roxarsone has a low absorption rate and is mostly excreted with feces, which could pose a risk to human health through environmental and animal food routes. Roxarsone has been demonstrated to have tumor-promoting and proangiogenic effects. Herein, we report the role of VEGFR2/mTOR/S6K1 signaling in roxarsone-promoted vessel endothelial cell growth and angiogenesis in the Matrigel plug model and the mouse B16 cell tumor transplantation model. In angiogenesis-related experiments in vitro, 1.0 μM roxarsone significantly increased the activity, proliferation, migration, and tube formation of rat vascular endothelial cells. In addition, 1.0 μM roxarsone upregulated the protein levels of mTOR, phosphorylated mTOR, S6K1, and phosphorylated S6K1 and significantly increase the expression of Mtor and S6k1 mRNA. Rapamycin and SU5416 significantly inhibited the effects of 1.0 μM roxarsone on cell growth. Furthermore, the weight, volume, and CD31 expression of B16-F10 xenografts and Matrigel plugs in mice were upregulated by 25 mg/kg roxarsone. The protein and mRNA levels of mTOR, S6K1 and its phosphorylated protein were significantly increased in the roxarsone treatment group in xenografts. SU5416 and a short hairpin RNA targeting Vegfr2 significantly reduced roxarsone-promoted xenograft and Matrigel plug growth. In summary, this study indicated that the VEGFR2/mTOR/S6K1 signaling plays a regulatory role in roxarsone-mediated promotion angiogenesis and enhanced tumor growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China
| | - Lijun Ding
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Jiangsu Agri-animal Husbandry Vocational College, Taizhou, Jiangsu 225300, China
| | - Zhiqiang Zhou
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China
| | - Chang Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China
| | - Cunkai Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China
| | - Binlin Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China
| | - Xin Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China
| | - Yumei Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China.
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Turco C, Esposito G, Iaiza A, Goeman F, Benedetti A, Gallo E, Daralioti T, Perracchio L, Sacconi A, Pasanisi P, Muti P, Pulito C, Strano S, Ianniello Z, Fatica A, Forcato M, Fazi F, Blandino G, Fontemaggi G. MALAT1-dependent hsa_circ_0076611 regulates translation rate in triple-negative breast cancer. Commun Biol 2022; 5:598. [PMID: 35710947 PMCID: PMC9203778 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03539-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A (VEGFA) is the most commonly expressed angiogenic growth factor in solid tumors and is generated as multiple isoforms through alternative mRNA splicing. Here, we show that lncRNA MALAT1 (metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1) and ID4 (inhibitor of DNA-binding 4) protein, previously referred to as regulators of linear isoforms of VEGFA, induce back-splicing of VEGFA exon 7, producing circular RNA circ_0076611. Circ_0076611 is detectable in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells and tissues, in exosomes released from TNBC cells and in the serum of breast cancer patients. Circ_0076611 interacts with a variety of proliferation-related transcripts, included MYC and VEGFA mRNAs, and increases cell proliferation and migration of TNBC cells. Mechanistically, circ_0076611 favors the expression of its target mRNAs by facilitating their interaction with components of the translation initiation machinery. These results add further complexity to the multiple VEGFA isoforms expressed in cancer cells and highlight the relevance of post-transcriptional regulation of VEGFA expression in TNBC cells. The circular isoform of VEGFA mRNA (circ_0076611), associated with size and pathogenesis of triple-negative breast tumors, is produced via back splicing of exon-7 by a RNP complex comprising lncRNA-MALAT1, ID4 and SRSF1, and secreted through exosomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Turco
- Oncogenomic and Epigenetic Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriella Esposito
- Oncogenomic and Epigenetic Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessia Iaiza
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Section of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Rome, Italy
| | - Frauke Goeman
- UOSD SAFU, Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostics, and Technological Innovation, Translational Research Area, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Benedetti
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Section of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Rome, Italy
| | - Enzo Gallo
- Department of Pathology, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Theodora Daralioti
- Department of Pathology, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Letizia Perracchio
- Department of Pathology, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Sacconi
- UOSD Clinical Trial Center, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizia Pasanisi
- Unit of Epidemiology and Prevention, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Muti
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.,Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, "Università degli Studi di Milano", Milan, Italy
| | - Claudio Pulito
- Oncogenomic and Epigenetic Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Sabrina Strano
- UOSD SAFU, Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostics, and Technological Innovation, Translational Research Area, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Zaira Ianniello
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Charles Darwin", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Fatica
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Charles Darwin", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mattia Forcato
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Francesco Fazi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Section of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Rome, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Blandino
- Oncogenomic and Epigenetic Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy.
| | - Giulia Fontemaggi
- Oncogenomic and Epigenetic Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy.
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Younis A, Hardowar L, Barker S, Hulse RP. The consequence of endothelial remodelling on the blood spinal cord barrier and nociception. Curr Res Physiol 2022; 5:184-192. [PMID: 35434652 PMCID: PMC9010889 DOI: 10.1016/j.crphys.2022.03.005] [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: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Nociception is a fundamental acute protective mechanism that prevents harm to an organism. Understanding the integral processes that control nociceptive processing are fundamental to our appreciation of which cellular and molecular features underlie this process. There is an extensive understanding of how sensory neurons interpret differing sensory modalities and intensities. However, it is widely appreciated that the sensory neurons do not act alone. These work in harmony with inflammatory and vascular systems to modulate pain perception. The spinal cord has an extensive interaction with the capillary network in the form of a blood spinal cord barrier to ensure homeostatic control of the spinal cord neuron milieu. However, there is an extensive appreciation that disturbances in the blood spinal cord barrier contribute to the onset of chronic pain. Enhanced vascular permeability and impaired blood perfusion have both been highlighted as contributors to chronic pain manifestation. Here, we discuss the evidence that demonstrates alterations in the blood spinal cord barrier influences nociceptive processing and perception of pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Awais Younis
- School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, NG11 8NS, UK
| | - Lydia Hardowar
- School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, NG11 8NS, UK
| | - Sarah Barker
- School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, NG11 8NS, UK
| | - Richard Philip Hulse
- School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, NG11 8NS, UK
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9
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Fan LJ, Kan HM, Chen XT, Sun YY, Chen LP, Shen W. Vascular endothelial growth factor-A/vascular endothelial growth factor2 signaling in spinal neurons contributes to bone cancer pain. Mol Pain 2022; 18:17448069221075891. [PMID: 35083936 PMCID: PMC8874205 DOI: 10.1177/17448069221075891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor metastasis to bone is often accompanied by a severe pain syndrome (cancer-induced bone pain, CIBP) that is frequently unresponsive to analgesics, which markedly reduces patient quality of life and cancer treatment tolerance in patients. Prolonged pain can induce hypersensitivity via spinal plasticity, and several recent studies have implicated the involvement of vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) signaling in this process. Here, we speculated that CIBP is associated with VEGF-A/VEGFR2 signaling in the spinal cord. A mouse model of CIBP was established by intramedullary injection of Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cells in the mouse femur. Pain sensitization and potential amelioration via VEGF-A/VEGFR2 blockade were measured using paw withdrawal threshold to mechanical stimulation and paw withdrawal latency to thermal. Spinal VEGF-A/VEGFR2 signaling was blocked by intrathecal injection of the VEGF-A antibody or the specific VEGFR2 inhibitor ZM323881. Changes in the expression levels of VEGF-A, VEGFR2, and other pain-related signaling factors were measured using western blotting and immunofluorescence staining. Mice after LLC injection demonstrated mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia, both of which were suppressed via anti-VEGF-A antibody or ZM323881. Conversely, the intrathecal injection of exogenous VEGF-A was sufficient to cause pain hypersensitivity in naïve mice via the VEGFR2-mediated activation of protein kinase C. Moreover, the spinal blockade of VEGF-A or VEGFR2 also suppressed N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) activation and downstream Ca2+-dependent signaling. Thus, spinal VEGF-A/VEGFR2/NMDAR signaling pathways may be critical mediators of CIBP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Jun Fan
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Hou-Ming Kan
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Xue-Tai Chen
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Sun
- Department of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou First People’s Hospital, Xuzhou, China
| | - Li-ping Chen
- Department of Pain Management, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou, Xuzhou, China
| | - Wen Shen
- Department of Pain Management, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou, Xuzhou, China
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10
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Critchley WR, Fearnley GWF, Abdul-Zani I, Molina-Paris C, Bendtsen C, Zachary IC, Harrison MA, Ponnambalam S. Monitoring VEGF-Stimulated Calcium Ion Flux in Endothelial Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2475:113-124. [PMID: 35451752 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2217-9_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The endothelial response to vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) regulates many aspects of animal physiology in health and disease. Such VEGF-A-regulated phenomena include vasculogenesis, angiogenesis, tumor growth and progression. VEGF-A binding to receptor tyrosine kinases such as vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2 ) activates multiple signal transduction pathways and changes in homeostasis, metabolism, gene expression, cell proliferation, migration, and survival. One such VEGF-A-regulated response is a rapid rise in cytosolic calcium ion levels which modulates different biochemical events and impacts on endothelial-specific responses. Here, we present a series of detailed and robust protocols for evaluating ligand-stimulated cytosolic calcium ion flux in endothelial cells. By monitoring an endogenous endothelial transcription factor (NFATc2 ) which displays calcium-sensitive redistribution, we can assess the relevance of cytosolic calcium to protein function. This protocol can be easily applied to both adherent and non-adherent cultured cells to evaluate calcium ion flux in response to exogenous stimuli such as VEGF-A.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Izma Abdul-Zani
- School of Molecular & Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | | | | | - Ian C Zachary
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Medicine, University College London, London, UK
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11
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Chalphin AV, Lazow SP, Labuz DF, Tracy SA, Kycia I, Zurakowski D, Fauza DO. Transamniotic Stem Cell Therapy for Experimental Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: Structural, Transcriptional, and Cell Kinetics Analyses in the Nitrofen Model. Fetal Diagn Ther 2021; 48:381-391. [PMID: 33853064 DOI: 10.1159/000515277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE We examined select pulmonary effects and donor cell kinetics after transamniotic stem cell therapy (TRASCET) in a model of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). METHODS Pregnant dams (n = 58) received nitrofen on gestational day 9.5 (E9) to induce fetal CDH. Fetuses (n = 681) were divided into 4 groups: untreated (n = 99) and 3 groups receiving volume-matched intra-amniotic injections on E17 of either saline (n = 142), luciferase-labeled amniotic fluid-derived mesenchymal stem cells (afMSCs; n = 299), or acellular recombinant luciferase (n = 141). Pulmonary morphometry, quantitative gene expression of pulmonary vascular tone mediators, or screening for labeled afMSCs were performed at term (E22). Statistical comparisons were by Mann-Whitney U-test, nested ANOVA, and Wald test. RESULTS TRASCET led to significant downregulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase and endothelin receptor-A expressions compared to both untreated and saline groups (both p < 0.001). TRASCET also led to a significant decrease in arteriole wall thickness compared to the untreated group (p < 0.001) but not the saline group (p = 0.180). Donor afMSCs were identified in the bone marrow and umbilical cord (p = 0.035 and 0.015, respectively, vs. plain luciferase controls). CONCLUSIONS The effects of TRASCET in experimental CDH appear to be centered on the pulmonary vasculature and to derive from circulating donor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander V Chalphin
- Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Stefanie P Lazow
- Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Daniel F Labuz
- Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sarah A Tracy
- Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ina Kycia
- Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - David Zurakowski
- Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Dario O Fauza
- Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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12
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Shaik F, Cuthbert GA, Homer-Vanniasinkam S, Muench SP, Ponnambalam S, Harrison MA. Structural Basis for Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor Activation and Implications for Disease Therapy. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10121673. [PMID: 33333800 PMCID: PMC7765180 DOI: 10.3390/biom10121673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 12/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) bind to membrane receptors on a wide variety of cells to regulate diverse biological responses. The VEGF-A family member promotes vasculogenesis and angiogenesis, processes which are essential for vascular development and physiology. As angiogenesis can be subverted in many disease states, including tumour development and progression, there is much interest in understanding the mechanistic basis for how VEGF-A regulates cell and tissue function. VEGF-A binds with high affinity to two VEGF receptor tyrosine kinases (VEGFR1, VEGFR2) and with lower affinity to co-receptors called neuropilin-1 and neuropilin-2 (NRP1, NRP2). Here, we use a structural viewpoint to summarise our current knowledge of VEGF-VEGFR activation and signal transduction. As targeting VEGF-VEGFR activation holds much therapeutic promise, we examine the structural basis for anti-angiogenic therapy using small-molecule compounds such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors that block VEGFR activation and downstream signalling. This review provides a rational basis towards reconciling VEGF and VEGFR structure and function in developing new therapeutics for a diverse range of ailments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faheem Shaik
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK;
- William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, UK
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-207-8824207
| | - Gary A. Cuthbert
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK; (G.A.C.); (S.H.-V.); (M.A.H.)
| | | | - Stephen P. Muench
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK;
| | | | - Michael A. Harrison
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK; (G.A.C.); (S.H.-V.); (M.A.H.)
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Luo B, Wu Y, Liu SL, Li XY, Zhu HR, Zhang L, Zheng F, Liu XY, Guo LY, Wang L, Song HX, Lv YX, Cheng ZS, Chen SY, Wang JN, Tang JM. Vagus nerve stimulation optimized cardiomyocyte phenotype, sarcomere organization and energy metabolism in infarcted heart through FoxO3A-VEGF signaling. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:971. [PMID: 33184264 PMCID: PMC7665220 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-03142-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) restores autonomic balance, suppresses inflammation action and minimizes cardiomyocyte injury. However, little knowledge is known about the VNS’ role in cardiomyocyte phenotype, sarcomere organization, and energy metabolism of infarcted hearts. VNS in vivo and acetylcholine (ACh) in vitro optimized the levels of α/β-MHC and α-Actinin positive sarcomere organization in cardiomyocytes while reducing F-actin assembly of cardiomyocytes. Consistently, ACh improved glucose uptake while decreasing lipid deposition in myocytes, correlating both with the increase of Glut4 and CPT1α and the decrease of PDK4 in infarcted hearts in vivo and myocytes in vitro, attributing to improvement in both glycolysis by VEGF-A and lipid uptake by VEGF-B in response to Ach. This led to increased ATP levels accompanied by the repaired mitochondrial function and the decreased oxygen consumption. Functionally, VNS improved the left ventricular performance. In contrast, ACh-m/nAChR inhibitor or knockdown of VEGF-A/B by shRNA powerfully abrogated these effects mediated by VNS. On mechanism, ACh decreased the levels of nuclear translocation of FoxO3A in myocytes due to phosphorylation of FoxO3A by activating AKT. FoxO3A overexpression or knockdown could reverse the specific effects of ACh on the expression of VEGF-A/B, α/β-MHC, Glut4, and CPT1α, sarcomere organization, glucose uptake and ATP production. Taken together, VNS optimized cardiomyocytes sarcomere organization and energy metabolism to improve heart function of the infarcted heart during the process of delaying and/or blocking the switch from compensated hypertrophy to decompensated heart failure, which were associated with activation of both P13K/AKT-FoxO3A-VEGF-A/B signaling cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Luo
- Department of Physiology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, School of Basic Medicine Science, Hubei University of Medicine, 442000, Hubei, China.,Institute of Biomedicine, Hubei University of Medicine, 442000, Hubei, China
| | - Yan Wu
- Department of Physiology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, School of Basic Medicine Science, Hubei University of Medicine, 442000, Hubei, China.,Institute of Biomedicine, Hubei University of Medicine, 442000, Hubei, China
| | - Shu-Lin Liu
- Department of Physiology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, School of Basic Medicine Science, Hubei University of Medicine, 442000, Hubei, China.,Institute of Clinical Medicine and Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, 442000, Shiyan, Hubei, China
| | - Xing-Yuan Li
- Institute of Clinical Medicine and Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, 442000, Shiyan, Hubei, China
| | - Hong-Rui Zhu
- Department of Physiology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, School of Basic Medicine Science, Hubei University of Medicine, 442000, Hubei, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Institute of Biomedicine, Hubei University of Medicine, 442000, Hubei, China.,Institute of Clinical Medicine and Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, 442000, Shiyan, Hubei, China
| | - Fei Zheng
- Institute of Clinical Medicine and Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, 442000, Shiyan, Hubei, China
| | - Xiao-Yao Liu
- Department of Physiology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, School of Basic Medicine Science, Hubei University of Medicine, 442000, Hubei, China
| | - Ling-Yun Guo
- Institute of Clinical Medicine and Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, 442000, Shiyan, Hubei, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Institute of Clinical Medicine and Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, 442000, Shiyan, Hubei, China
| | - Hong-Xian Song
- Institute of Clinical Medicine and Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, 442000, Shiyan, Hubei, China
| | - Yan-Xia Lv
- Department of Physiology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, School of Basic Medicine Science, Hubei University of Medicine, 442000, Hubei, China.,Institute of Biomedicine, Hubei University of Medicine, 442000, Hubei, China
| | - Zhong-Shan Cheng
- Applied Bioinformatics Center, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Shi-You Chen
- The Department of Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Jia-Ning Wang
- Institute of Biomedicine, Hubei University of Medicine, 442000, Hubei, China.,Institute of Clinical Medicine and Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, 442000, Shiyan, Hubei, China
| | - Jun-Ming Tang
- Department of Physiology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, School of Basic Medicine Science, Hubei University of Medicine, 442000, Hubei, China. .,Institute of Biomedicine, Hubei University of Medicine, 442000, Hubei, China. .,Institute of Clinical Medicine and Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, 442000, Shiyan, Hubei, China.
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14
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Dardente H, English WR, Valluru MK, Kanthou C, Simpson D. Debunking the Myth of the Endogenous Antiangiogenic Vegfaxxxb Transcripts. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2020; 31:398-409. [PMID: 32396842 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2020.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Revised: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
In this opinion article we critically assess evidence for the existence of a family of antiangiogenic vascular endothelial growth factor (Vegfaxxxb) transcripts, arising from the use of a phylogenetically conserved alternative distal splice site within exon 8 of the VEGFA gene. We explain that prior evidence for Vegfaxxxb transcripts in tissues rests heavily upon flawed RT-PCR methodologies, with the extensive use of 5'-tailing in primer design being the main issue. Furthermore, our analysis of large RNA-seq data sets (human and ovine) fails to identify a single Vegfaxxxb transcript. Therefore, we challenge the very existence of Vegfaxxxb transcripts, which further questions the physiological relevance of studies based on the use of 'anti-VEGFAxxxb' antibodies. Our analysis has implications for the proposed therapeutic use of isoform-specific anti-VEGFA strategies for treating cancer and retinopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugues Dardente
- PRC, INRA, CNRS, IFCE, Université de Tours, 37380 Nouzilly, France.
| | - William R English
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Tumour Microcirculation Group, University of Sheffield, School of Medicine, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield, S10 2RX, UK
| | - Manoj K Valluru
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Tumour Microcirculation Group, University of Sheffield, School of Medicine, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield, S10 2RX, UK
| | - Chryso Kanthou
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Tumour Microcirculation Group, University of Sheffield, School of Medicine, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield, S10 2RX, UK
| | - David Simpson
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, BT7 1NN, UK
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15
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Chalphin AV, Tracy SA, Lazow SP, Kycia I, Zurakowski D, Fauza DO. Congenital diaphragmatic hernia as a potential target for transamniotic stem cell therapy. J Pediatr Surg 2020; 55:249-252. [PMID: 31753611 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2019.10.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2019] [Accepted: 10/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE We sought to determine whether TRASCET could impact congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). METHODS Twelve pregnant dams received Nitrofen on gestational day 9.5 (E9; term = 22 days) to induce fetal CDH. Fetuses were divided into three groups: untreated (n = 31) and two groups receiving volume-matched intraamniotic injections of either saline (n = 37) or a suspension of 2 × 106 cells/mL of amniotic fluid-derived mesenchymal stem cells (afMSCs; n = 65) on E17. Animals were euthanized at term. Expression of fibroblast growth factor-10 (FGF-10), vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A), and surfactant protein-C (SPC) was quantified by qRT-PCR. Statistical analysis was by the Mann-Whitney U test with Bonferroni adjusted criterion (p ≤ 0.01). RESULTS Among survivors with CDH (n = 27/133), the TRASCET group showed significant downregulation of FGF-10 and VEGF-A gene expressions compared to the untreated (p < 0.001 for both) and saline groups (p = 0.005 and p = 0.004, respectively). SPC expression was higher in the TRASCET group compared to the untreated group (p = 0.01), but not the saline group (p = 0.043). Lung laterality had minimal impact on these comparisons. CONCLUSIONS Transamniotic stem cell therapy affects select processes of lung development in experimental congenital diaphragmatic hernia. Further scrutiny into this novel therapy as a potential component of the prenatal management of this disease is warranted. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE N/A (animal and laboratory study).
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander V Chalphin
- Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sarah A Tracy
- Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Stefanie P Lazow
- Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ina Kycia
- Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David Zurakowski
- Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Dario O Fauza
- Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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16
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Preeclampsia – Prediction and Monitoring Factors. SERBIAN JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL AND CLINICAL RESEARCH 2019. [DOI: 10.2478/sjecr-2018-0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Preeclampsia is one of the leading causes of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality, usually characterized by hypertension and proteinuria. Despite high incidence of preeclampsia the pathophysiological basis of preeclampsia is still not clear and there are a number of mechanisms and signaling pathways that intertwine. It is very important to develop specific and reliable predictive algorithms in order to enable early initiation of therapy due to facts that incidence of preeclampsia has upward trend and that cause adverse maternal and fetal outcome. Some of the most commonly used methods for prediction of preeclampsia include uterine artery Doppler velocimetry, determination of some microRNA, such as miR-210, and assessment of various pro-angiogenic and anti-angiogenic factors from blood. Angiogenic factors that possibly have most important role in pathogenesis of preeclampsia are vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and placental growth factor (PlGF), which promote angiogenesis, and soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt1) and soluble form of endoglin (s-Eng), which exhibit anti-angiogenic properties. Aggravating circumstance is that preeclampsia has heterogeneous origin, and due to this fact, the value of individual markers can vary significantly. There is a constant tendency for creating comprehensive algorithm for prediction of preeclampsia which would be sufficiently specific and sensitive, and in the same time cheap and available. In that sense, new clinical studies are needed to show the most effective combination of parameters in the predeclampsia prediction.
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17
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Fearnley GW, Latham AM, Hollstein M, Odell AF, Ponnambalam S. ATF-2 and Tpl2 regulation of endothelial cell cycle progression and apoptosis. Cell Signal 2019; 66:109481. [PMID: 31760171 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2019.109481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Revised: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cells respond to soluble and membrane-bound factors to activate signalling cascades that control cell proliferation and cell death. Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) is a soluble ligand that modulates a variety of cellular responses including cell proliferation and apoptosis. It is not well understood how VEGF-A signalling pathways regulate cell proliferation and cell death. To address this, we examined VEGF-A-regulated signalling pathways in the cytosol and nucleus and functional requirement for such cellular responses. The VEGF-A-regulated transcription factor, ATF-2, is required for cell cycle proteins such as p53, p21 and Cyclin D1. A cytosolic serine/threonine protein kinase (Tpl2) modulates ATF-2-regulated effects on the endothelial cell cycle. Such regulatory effects impact on endothelial cell proliferation, cell viability and apoptosis. These cellular effects influence complex cell-based organisation such as endothelial tubulogenesis. Our study now provides a framework for incorporating VEGF-A-stimulated signalling events from the cytosol to the nucleus which helps to understand how cell proliferation and apoptosis are controlled.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antony M Latham
- School of Molecular & Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, UK
| | | | - Adam F Odell
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St James's, University of Leeds, UK; School of Health Sciences, York St. John University, Lord Mayor's Walk, York, UK
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18
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Ravichandran S, Srivastav S, Kamble PH, Chambial S, Shukla R, Sharma P, Sharma RK. VEGF-A and cardiac autonomic function in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus: A cross-sectional study at a tertiary care center. J Family Med Prim Care 2019; 8:3185-3190. [PMID: 31742140 PMCID: PMC6857358 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_537_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Revised: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Cardiac autonomic neuropathy (CAN) is a key complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (Ty2DM). Vascular endothelial-derived growth factor (VEGF-A) plays a key role in diabetic macrovascular and microvascular complications. It is shown to be elevated in diabetic neuropathy and has the potential to serve as a biomarker in Ty2DM. We evaluated VEGF-A levels and cardiac autonomic function in newly diagnosed Ty2DM patients. Materials and Methods: Forty-four newly diagnosed patients (with symptoms within 1 year from the date of recruitment) were included in the study. Cardiac autonomic function was assessed using heart rate variability (HRV) and Ewing's battery tests. Ewing's scores were computed and tabulated. VEGF-A levels were estimated using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: The patients demonstrated normal responses to the reactivity tests. Ewing's scores were 0 (0-0) and 0 (0-0) for sympathetic and parasympathetic parameters, respectively. The autonomic tone was impaired as assessed by HRV parameters. VEGF-A levels were elevated (308.3 ± 167.2 pg/mL) when compared with the previous literature. Discussion: Impaired tone with normal reactivity was suggestive of early stage of autonomic neuropathy. Elevated VEGF-A levels may be attributed to a protective action of the factor seen in early stages of neuropathy in Ty2DM. Serial VEGF-A estimation in large cohorts of newly diagnosed diabetics may validate it as a biomarker in CAN seen in Ty2DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suresh Ravichandran
- Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Shival Srivastav
- Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| | | | - Shailja Chambial
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Ravindra Shukla
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Praveen Sharma
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Rajesh Kumar Sharma
- Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
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Lechner J, Hombrebueno JR, Pedrini E, Chen M, Xu H. Sustained intraocular vascular endothelial growth factor neutralisation does not affect retinal and choroidal vasculature in Ins2 Akita diabetic mice. Diab Vasc Dis Res 2019; 16:440-449. [PMID: 31023085 DOI: 10.1177/1479164119843092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to understand the influence of sustained intravitreal vascular endothelial growth factor neutralisation on the retinal and choroidal vasculature in diabetic eyes. Ins2Akita diabetic mice received five intravitreal injections of anti-mouse vascular endothelial growth factor antibody or goat immunoglobulin G (0.2 µg/µL/eye) over a 4-month period. Retinal and choroidal vascular changes were analysed by confocal microscopy of tissue flat-mounts. Retinal gene expression of vascular endothelial growth factor family members (vascular endothelial growth factors A, B, C and D), vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (sVEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2) and tight junctions (claudin 1, 2, 5; occludin and zonula occludens-1) were analysed by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Vascular endothelial growth factor A and claudin 5 were significantly increased in diabetic retinae. Gene expression was unaffected by anti-vascular endothelial growth factor treatment. The number of acellular vessels was increased in diabetic retinae and reduced following anti-vascular endothelial growth factor treatment. Retinal and choroidal vascular density and area were unaffected by sustained vascular endothelial growth factor neutralisation. Our results suggest that five consecutive intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injections do not cause significant vascular changes in the retina and choroid in diabetic and non-diabetic mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith Lechner
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Jose R Hombrebueno
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Edoardo Pedrini
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Mei Chen
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Heping Xu
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
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Reduced vascular endothelial growth factor levels in the cerebrospinal fluid in patients with treatment resistant major depression and the effects of electroconvulsive therapy-A pilot study. J Affect Disord 2019; 253:449-453. [PMID: 31103810 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2019.04.080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Revised: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several lines of evidence are pointing towards an involvement of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the pathophysiology of depression. There are studies analyzing blood levels of VEGF in patients with depression compared to controls, but a data on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels of VEGF in patients with depression are lacking. METHOD CSF VEGF levels were measured in patients (n = 12) with a severe, treatment-resistant depressive episode before and after the antidepressant treatment by a course of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and compared to age- and sex-matched controls (n = 20). RESULTS The patients with depression showed lower mean VEGF levels in the CSF prior to ECT than the controls (p = 0.041). Regarding the patients, CSF VEGF concentration at baseline and after the complete ECT treatment did not differ from each other (p = 0.78). LIMITATIONS Major limitations of this study are the small sample size and that data from corresponding serum levels cannot be provided. Another limitation is that the controls were not completely healthy, as they were recruited from a memory clinic with subjective complaints. The timing of the second sample might have been suboptimal, when taking into account that there might be an on-going phase of re-equilibrating after ECT. CONCLUSIONS CSF VEGF concentrations were lower in a clinical sample of patients with treatment-resistant depression compared with matched controls. Additionally, no change in CSF VEGF levels during a course of ECT could be detected.
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