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Zhang L, He Y, Wu C, Wu M, Chen X, Luo J, Cai Y, Xia P, Chen B. Altered expression of glucose metabolism associated genes in a tacrolimus‑induced post‑transplantation diabetes mellitus in rat model. Int J Mol Med 2019; 44:1495-1504. [PMID: 31432104 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2019.4313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2017] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Post‑transplantation diabetes mellitus (PTDM) is a known side effect in transplant recipients administered with immunosuppressant drugs, such as tacrolimus (Tac). Although injury of islet cells is considered a major reason for Tac‑induced PTDM, the involvement of insulin resistance in PTDM remains unknown. In the present study, expression levels of adipocytokines, glucose metabolism associated genes and peroxisome proliferator‑activated receptor (PPAR)‑γ in adipose, muscular and liver tissues from a rat model induced with Tac (1 mg/kg/day) were examined. Rats developed hyperglycemia and glucose intolerance after 10 days of Tac administration. A subgroup of diabetic rats was further treated with rosiglitazone (4 mg/kg), a PPAR‑γ activator. Adipose, muscle and liver tissues were obtained on day 15 after induction and the results demonstrated that expression levels of adipocytokines, PPAR‑γ and proteins in the insulin associated signaling pathway varied in the different groups. Rosiglitazone administration significantly improved hyperglycemia, glucose intolerance and expression levels of proteins associated with insulin signaling, as well as adipocytokines expression. The results of this study demonstrated that adipocytokines and PPAR‑γ signaling may serve important roles in the pathogenesis of Tac‑induced PTDM, which may provide a promising application in the treatment of PTDM in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Yunqiang He
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Jiangsu Province Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China
| | - Cunzao Wu
- Department of Transplantation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Minmin Wu
- Key Laboratory of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Xuehai Chen
- Key Laboratory of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Jiao Luo
- Key Laboratory of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Yong Cai
- Department of Transplantation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Peng Xia
- Department of Transplantation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
| | - Bicheng Chen
- Key Laboratory of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, P.R. China
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Liu Y, Yang F, Zou S, Qu L. Rapamycin: A Bacteria-Derived Immunosuppressant That Has Anti-atherosclerotic Effects and Its Clinical Application. Front Pharmacol 2019; 9:1520. [PMID: 30666207 PMCID: PMC6330346 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.01520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis (AS) is the leading cause of stroke and death worldwide. Although many lipid-lowering or antiplatelet medicines have been used to prevent the devastating outcomes caused by AS, the serious side effects of these medicines cannot be ignored. Moreover, these medicines are aimed at preventing end-point events rather than addressing the formation and progression of the lesion. Rapamycin (sirolimus), a fermentation product derived from soil samples, has immunosuppressive and anti-proliferation effects. It is an inhibitor of mammalian targets of rapamycin, thereby stimulating autophagy pathways. Several lines of evidence have demonstrated that rapamycin possess multiple protective effects against AS through various molecular mechanisms. Moreover, it has been used successfully as an anti-proliferation agent to prevent in-stent restenosis or vascular graft stenosis in patients with coronary artery disease. A thorough understanding of the biomedical regulatory mechanism of rapamycin in AS might reveal pathways for retarding AS. This review summarizes the current knowledge of biomedical mechanisms by which rapamycin retards AS through action on various cells (endothelial cells, macrophages, vascular smooth muscle cells, and T-cells) in early and advanced AS and describes clinical and potential clinical applications of the agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yandong Liu
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Changzheng Hospital Affiliated to the Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Futang Yang
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Changzheng Hospital Affiliated to the Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sili Zou
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Changzheng Hospital Affiliated to the Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lefeng Qu
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Changzheng Hospital Affiliated to the Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
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Karvelas G, Roumpi A, Komporozos C, Syrigos K. Everolimus as cancer therapy: Cardiotoxic or an unexpected antiatherogenic agent? A narrative review. Hellenic J Cardiol 2018; 59:196-200. [PMID: 29410175 DOI: 10.1016/j.hjc.2018.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2017] [Revised: 01/23/2018] [Accepted: 01/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Everolimus (EVE) is now approved by many agencies for the treatment of variable neoplasms. The risk for adverse events with this agent is not adequately defined. The purpose of this review is to summarize the EVE-induced cardiotoxic effect as an antineoplastic factor on patients who received the specific drug and to evaluate any possible antiatherogenic effects due to systemic use of the drug. Articles were searched on PubMed until August 2017. Articles included an expanded-access clinical trial, as well as phase 2 or 3 clinical trials (most of them were randomized). Three experimental studies that provided evidence for the possible antiatherogenic action of EVE were also included. In addition, only studies that evaluated the systemic use of the drug were included. To be eligible for inclusion, trials should have evaluated patients with malignancy, treated by EVE, or assessed the antiatherogenic effect of the systemic use of EVE through clinical or experimental studies. Only articles written in English language were included. No direct cardiotoxic adverse effects (arrhythmia, acute coronary event, heart failure, and echocardiography pathologic findings) were reported. Patients appeared to have a risk of developing adverse events that could be associated with the risk factors of cardiovascular disease. In all clinical studies, patients suffered hyperglycemia, and in most of them, hyperlipidemia was observed. Fewer studies have reported the incidence of hypertension. Finally, there is evidence claiming that EVE has an antiatherogenic action. Three experimental studies have shown that the systemic use of EVE in mice or rabbits with atherosclerotic lesions led to the reduction in atheromatous plaque growth. However, we could not find any clinical study that showed similar results in patients with cancer. To sum up, the only reported cardiac adverse event of EVE treatment in patients with cancer is indirect. They are associated with the risk factors of cardiovascular disease (hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension), which are mainly mild and easily manageable. Further research and data that support the antiatherogenic action of EVE are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Karvelas
- Oncology Unit of the 3(rd) Internal Medicine Clinic, Sotiria General Hospital, Athens Medical School, Greece
| | - Aikaterini Roumpi
- Oncology Unit of the 3(rd) Internal Medicine Clinic, Sotiria General Hospital, Athens Medical School, Greece.
| | | | - Konstantinos Syrigos
- Oncology Unit of the 3(rd) Internal Medicine Clinic, Sotiria General Hospital, Athens Medical School, Greece
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Zheng H, Fu Y, Huang Y, Zheng X, Yu W, Wang W. mTOR signaling promotes foam cell formation and inhibits foam cell egress through suppressing the SIRT1 signaling pathway. Mol Med Rep 2017; 16:3315-3323. [PMID: 28765952 PMCID: PMC5548025 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.7032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 07/07/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis (AS) is a chronic immuno‑inflammatory disease accompanied by dyslipidemia. The authors previously demonstrated that sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) may prevent atherogenesis through influencing the liver X receptor/C‑C chemokine receptor type 7/nuclear factor‑κB (LXR‑CCR7/NF‑κB) signaling pathway. Previous studies have suggested a role for mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. The present study investigated the potential association between mTOR signaling and SIRT1‑LXR‑CCR7/NF‑κB signaling (SIRT1 signaling) in AS pathogenesis. To induce foam cell formation, U937 cells were differentiated into macrophages by exposure to phorbol 12‑myristate 13‑acetate (PMA) for 24 h, followed by treatment with palmitate and oxidized low density lipoprotein for a further 24 h. Oil red O staining revealed a large accumulation of lipid droplets present in foam cells. Western blot analysis demonstrated increased protein levels of phosphorylated (p)‑mTOR and its downstream factor p‑ribosomal protein S6 kinase (p70S6K). Reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analyses additionally revealed decreased expression of SIRT1, LXRα and CCR7 and increased expression of NF‑κB and its downstream factor tumor necrosis factor‑α (TNF‑α) in an atherogenetic condition induced by lysophosphatidic acid (LPA). In addition, abundant lipid droplets accumulated in U937‑LPA‑treated foam cells. Rapamycin, an mTOR inhibitor, suppressed the expression and activity of mTOR and p70S6K, however enhanced expression of SIRT1, LXRα, and CCR7. Conversely, rapamycin deceased TNF‑α and NF‑κB activity, the latter of which was further confirmed by immunofluorescence analysis demonstrating increased levels of NF‑κB present in the cytoplasm compared with the nucleus. The findings of the present study suggest that mTOR signaling promotes foam cell formation and inhibits foam cell egress via suppression of SIRT1 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haixiang Zheng
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China
| | - Yucai Fu
- Laboratory of Cell Senescence, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China
| | - Yusheng Huang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China
| | - Xinde Zheng
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China
| | - Wei Yu
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China
- Correspondence to: Wei Wang, Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, 69 Dongxia North Road, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, P.R. China, E-mail:
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Zhang M, Zhu H, Ding Y, Liu Z, Cai Z, Zou MH. AMP-activated protein kinase α1 promotes atherogenesis by increasing monocyte-to-macrophage differentiation. J Biol Chem 2017; 292:7888-7903. [PMID: 28330873 PMCID: PMC5427268 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m117.779447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Revised: 03/20/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Monocyte-to-macrophage differentiation, which can be initiated by physiological or atherogenic factors, is a pivotal process in atherogenesis, a disorder in which monocytes adhere to endothelial cells and subsequently migrate into the subendothelial spaces, where they differentiate into macrophages and macrophage-derived foam cells and cause atherosclerotic lesions. However, the monocyte-differentiation signaling pathways that are activated by atherogenic factors are poorly defined. Here we report that the AMP-activated protein kinase α1 (AMPKα1) in monocytes promotes atherosclerosis by increasing monocyte differentiation and survival. Exposure of monocytes to oxidized low-density lipoprotein, 7-ketocholesterol, phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate, or macrophage colony-stimulated factor (M-CSF) significantly activated AMPK and promoted monocyte-to-macrophage differentiation. M-CSF-activated AMPK is via M-CSF receptor-dependent reactive oxygen species production. Consistently, genetic deletion of AMPKα1 or pharmacological inhibition of AMPK blunted monocyte-to-macrophage differentiation and promoted monocyte/macrophage apoptosis. Compared with apolipoprotein E knock-out (ApoE-/-) mice, which show impaired clearing of plasma lipoproteins and spontaneously develop atherosclerosis, ApoE-/-/AMPKα1-/- mice showed reduced sizes of atherosclerotic lesions and lesser numbers of macrophages in the lesions. Furthermore, aortic lesions were decreased in ApoE-/- mice transplanted with ApoE-/-/AMPKα1-/- bone marrow and in myeloid-specific AMPKα1-deficient ApoE-/- mice. Finally, rapamycin treatment, which abolished delayed monocyte differentiation in ApoE-/-/AMPKα1-/- mice, lost its atherosclerosis-lowering effects in these mice. Mechanistically, we found that AMPKα1 regulates FoxO3-dependent expression of both LC3 and ULK1, which are two important autophagy-related markers. Rapamycin treatment increased FoxO3 activity as well as LC3 and ULK1 expressions in macrophages from AMPKα1-/- mice. Our results reveal that AMPKα1 deficiency impairs autophagy-mediated monocyte differentiation and decreases monocyte/macrophage survival, which attenuates atherosclerosis in ApoE-/- mice in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao Zhang
- From the Section of Molecular Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104 and
| | - Huaiping Zhu
- the Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia 30302-5035
| | - Ye Ding
- the Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia 30302-5035
| | - Zhaoyu Liu
- the Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia 30302-5035
| | - Zhejun Cai
- the Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia 30302-5035
| | - Ming-Hui Zou
- the Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia 30302-5035
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Abstract
Autophagy is a reparative, life-sustaining process by which cytoplasmic components are sequestered in double-membrane vesicles and degraded on fusion with lysosomal compartments. Growing evidence reveals that basal autophagy is an essential in vivo process mediating proper vascular function. Moreover, autophagy is stimulated by many stress-related stimuli in the arterial wall to protect endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells against cell death and the initiation of vascular disease, in particular atherosclerosis. Basal autophagy is atheroprotective during early atherosclerosis but becomes dysfunctional in advanced atherosclerotic plaques. Little is known about autophagy in other vascular disorders, such as aneurysm formation, arterial aging, vascular stiffness, and chronic venous disease, even though autophagy is often impaired. This finding highlights the need for pharmacological interventions with compounds that stimulate the prosurvival effects of autophagy in the vasculature. A large number of animal studies and clinical trials have indicated that oral or stent-based delivery of the autophagy inducer rapamycin or derivatives thereof, collectively known as rapalogs, effectively inhibit the basic mechanisms that control growth and destabilization of atherosclerotic plaques. Other autophagy-inducing drugs, such as spermidine or add-on therapy with widely used antiatherogenic compounds, including statins and metformin, are potentially useful to prevent vascular disease with minimal adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guido R.Y. De Meyer
- From the Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Mandy O.J. Grootaert
- From the Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Cédéric F. Michiels
- From the Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Ammar Kurdi
- From the Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Dorien M. Schrijvers
- From the Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Wim Martinet
- From the Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
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7
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Martinet W, De Loof H, De Meyer GRY. mTOR inhibition: a promising strategy for stabilization of atherosclerotic plaques. Atherosclerosis 2014; 233:601-607. [PMID: 24534455 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2014.01.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2013] [Revised: 01/10/2014] [Accepted: 01/19/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Statins are currently able to stabilize atherosclerotic plaques by lowering plasma cholesterol and pleiotropic effects, but a residual risk for atherosclerotic disease remains. Therefore, effective prevention of atherosclerosis and treatment of its complications is still a major clinical challenge. A large body of evidence indicates that mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors such as rapamycin or everolimus have pleiotropic anti-atherosclerotic effects so that these drugs can be used as add-on therapy to prevent or delay the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Moreover, bioresorbable scaffolds eluting everolimus trigger a healing process in the vessel wall, both in pigs and humans, that results in late lumen enlargement and plaque regression. At present, this phenomenon of atheroregression is poorly understood. However, given that mTOR inhibitors suppress cell proliferation and trigger autophagy, a cellular survival pathway and a process linked to cholesterol efflux, we hypothesize that these compounds can inhibit (or reverse) the basic mechanisms that control plaque growth and destabilization. Unfortunately, adverse effects associated with mTOR inhibitors such as dyslipidemia and hyperglycemia have recently been identified. Dyslipidemia is manageable via statin treatment, while the anti-diabetic drug metformin would prevent hyperglycemia. Because metformin has beneficial macrovascular effects, this drug in combination with an mTOR inhibitor might have significant promise to treat patients with unstable plaques. Moreover, both statins and metformin are known to inhibit mTOR via AMPK activation so that they would fully exploit the beneficial effects of mTOR inhibition in atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wim Martinet
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610 Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Hans De Loof
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Guido R Y De Meyer
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610 Antwerp, Belgium
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Villalvilla A, Gómez R, Largo R, Herrero-Beaumont G. Lipid transport and metabolism in healthy and osteoarthritic cartilage. Int J Mol Sci 2013; 14:20793-808. [PMID: 24135873 PMCID: PMC3821643 DOI: 10.3390/ijms141020793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2013] [Revised: 10/08/2013] [Accepted: 10/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cartilage is an avascular tissue and cartilage metabolism depends on molecule diffusion from synovial fluid and subchondral bone. Thus, nutrient availability is limited by matrix permeability according to the size and charge of the molecules. Matrix composition limits the access of molecules to chondrocytes, determining cell metabolism and cartilage maintenance. Lipids are important nutrients in chondrocyte metabolism and are available for these cells through de novo synthesis but also through diffusion from surrounding tissues. Cartilage status and osteoarthritis development depend on lipid availability. This paper reviews lipid transport and metabolism in cartilage. We also analyze signalling pathways directly mediated by lipids and those that involve mTOR pathways, both in normal and osteoarthritic cartilage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Villalvilla
- Osteoarticular Pathology Laboratory, IIS Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Madrid 28040, Spain; E-Mails: (R.L.); (G.H.-B.)
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +34-915-504-800; Fax: +34-915-442-636
| | - Rodolfo Gómez
- Musculoskeletal Research Group, Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK; E-Mail:
| | - Raquel Largo
- Osteoarticular Pathology Laboratory, IIS Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Madrid 28040, Spain; E-Mails: (R.L.); (G.H.-B.)
| | - Gabriel Herrero-Beaumont
- Osteoarticular Pathology Laboratory, IIS Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Madrid 28040, Spain; E-Mails: (R.L.); (G.H.-B.)
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Wang X, Li L, Li M, Dang X, Wan L, Wang N, Bi X, Gu C, Qiu S, Niu X, Zhu X, Wang L. Knockdown of mTOR by lentivirus‑mediated RNA interference suppresses atherosclerosis and stabilizes plaques via a decrease of macrophages by autophagy in apolipoprotein E‑deficient mice. Int J Mol Med 2013; 32:1215-21. [PMID: 24043133 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2013.1494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2013] [Accepted: 09/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerotic plaque destabilization and rupture leads to acute coronary syndromes which cause serious damage to human health worldwide. However, there is currently a lack of efficient therapeutic methods. Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) has been suggested to be involved in the development of atherosclerotic plaques and serves as a therapeutic target. The present study was performed to determine whether RNA interference (RNAi) of mTOR in vivo by LV‑mediated small hairpin RNA (shRNA) was capable of inhibiting the progression of atherosclerotic plaques. LV‑mediated shRNA against mTOR (LV‑shmTOR) was designed and obtained. Male apolipoprotein E‑deficient mice were fed a high‑fat diet and a constrictive collar was placed around the right carotid arteries of these mice to induce plaque formation. Eight weeks after surgery, mice were randomly divided into the mTOR RNA interference (LV‑shmTOR) group, receiving treatment with LV‑mTOR‑shRNA; the LV‑shCON group, receiving treatment with LV‑non‑specific‑shRNA; and the control group, receiving treatment with phosphate‑buffered saline. Following transfection, the mice were sacrificed to evaluate the effects of mTOR expression silencing on atherosclerosis. Transfection of LV‑mTOR‑shRNA markedly inhibited the mRNA and protein expression levels. Knockdown of mTOR ameliorated dysregulated blood lipid metabolism and stabilized aortic atherosclerotic plaques by decreasing the plaque area and increasing the fibrous cap and cap‑to‑core ratio. Furthermore, macrophages were decreased by silencing mTOR in atherosclerotic plaques. In addition, western blot analysis revealed that the knockdown of mTOR increased autophagy‑related protein 13 (Atg13) dephosphorylation and light chain 3‑I/light chain 3‑II (LC3‑I/LC3‑II) ratios, both of which were associated with a high activity of autophagy, suggesting an increase of autophagy in atherosclerotic plaques. Moreover, genes including matrix metalloproteinase 2, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 and tissue factor, which promote plaque instability, were downregulated by silencing mTOR. These results demonstrate that LV‑mediated mTOR silencing by RNAi treatment induces macrophage autophagy and is a potential strategy for the treatment of atherosclerotic plaques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaochuang Wang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Medical College, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710004, P.R. China
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McKenna GJ, Trotter JF, Klintmalm E, Ruiz R, Onaca N, Testa G, Saracino G, Levy MF, Goldstein RM, Klintmalm GB. Sirolimus and cardiovascular disease risk in liver transplantation. Transplantation 2013; 95:215-21. [PMID: 23232369 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0b013e318279090c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Two adverse effects of sirolimus are hypertriglyceridemia and hypercholesterolemia. These elevated levels often lead clinicians to discontinue the sirolimus from concerns of an increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk; however, evidence suggests that sirolimus might be cardioprotective. There are no published reports of sirolimus CVD in liver transplantation. METHODS We reviewed all 1812 liver recipients who underwent transplantation from 1998 to 2010, identifying a cohort using sirolimus as part of the initial immunosuppression (SRL Cohort) and a control group of the remaining patients from this period where SRL was never given (Non-SRL Control). A prospectively maintained database identified all episodes of myocardial infarction (MI), congestive heart failure (CHF), abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), and cerebrovascular accident and tracked triglyceride, high-density and low-density lipoproteins, and total cholesterol levels. A Framingham Risk Model calculated the predicted 10-year risk of CVD for both groups. RESULTS The SRL Cohort (n=406) is older, more predominantly male, with more pretransplantation hypertension and diabetes and posttransplantation hypertension compared to Non-SRL Controls (n=1005). The SRL Cohort has significantly higher triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein, and cholesterol levels at 6 months and 1 year. There is no difference in MI incidence in the SRL Cohort (1.0% vs. 1.2%) and no difference in AAA, cerebrovascular accident, and CHF. The Framingham Risk Model predicts that the SRL Cohort should have almost double the 10-year risk of CVD compared to the Non-SRL Control (11% vs. 6%). CONCLUSIONS Sirolimus causes hypertriglyceridemia and hypercholesterolemia, but it does not increase the incidence of MI or other CVDs. Considering the SRL Cohort has more cardiac risk factors and nearly double 10-year predicted CVD risk, the fact that the CVD incidence is similar suggests that sirolimus is in fact cardioprotective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greg J McKenna
- Department of Surgery, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75246, USA.
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Martinet W, De Meyer I, Verheye S, Schrijvers DM, Timmermans JP, De Meyer GRY. Drug-induced macrophage autophagy in atherosclerosis: for better or worse? Basic Res Cardiol 2012; 108:321. [PMID: 23233268 DOI: 10.1007/s00395-012-0321-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2012] [Revised: 12/04/2012] [Accepted: 12/04/2012] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Autophagy is a reparative, life-sustaining process by which cytoplasmic components are sequestered in double membrane vesicles and degraded upon fusion with lysosomal compartments. Mice with a macrophage-specific deletion of the essential autophagy gene Atg5 develop plaques with increased apoptosis and oxidative stress as well as enhanced plaque necrosis. This finding indicates that basal autophagy in macrophages is anti-apoptotic and present in atherosclerotic plaques to protect macrophages against various atherogenic stressors. However, autophagy is impaired in advanced stages of atherosclerosis and its deficiency promotes atherosclerosis in part through activation of the inflammasome. Because basal autophagy can be intensified selectively in macrophages by specific drugs such as mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors or Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) ligands, these drugs were recently tested as potential plaque stabilizing compounds. Stent-based delivery of the mTOR inhibitor everolimus promotes a stable plaque phenotype, whereas local administration of the TLR7 ligand imiquimod stimulates inflammation and plaque progression. Therefore, more drugs capable of inducing autophagy should be tested in plaque macrophages to evaluate the feasibility of this approach. Given that drug-induced macrophage autophagy is associated with pro-inflammatory responses due to cytokine release, induction of postautophagic necrosis or activation of phagocytes after clearance of the autophagic corpse, cotreatment with anti-inflammatory compounds may be required. Overall, this review highlights the pros and cons of macrophage autophagy as a drug target for plaque stabilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wim Martinet
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610 Antwerp, Belgium.
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12
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Effect of everolimus on pre-existing atherosclerosis in LDL-receptor deficient mice. Atherosclerosis 2012; 222:337-43. [DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2012.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2011] [Revised: 02/27/2012] [Accepted: 03/02/2012] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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13
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Martinet W, Verheye S, De Meyer I, Timmermans JP, Schrijvers DM, Van Brussel I, Bult H, De Meyer GR. Everolimus Triggers Cytokine Release by Macrophages. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2012; 32:1228-35. [DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.112.245381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Objective—
Stent-based delivery of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor everolimus is a promising strategy for the treatment of coronary artery disease. We studied potential adverse effects associated with mTOR inhibition.
Methods and Results—
Macrophages in culture were either treated with everolimus or starved to inhibit mTOR. Everolimus led to inhibition of protein translation, activation of p38 MAPK, and the release of proinflammatory cytokines (eg, IL-6, TNFα) and chemokines (eg, MCP1, Rantes) before induction of autophagic death. These effects were also observed with rapamycin, but not after starvation. Everolimus-induced cytokine release was similar in macrophages lacking the essential autophagy gene Atg7 but was inhibited when macrophages were cotreated with p38 MAPK inhibitor SB202190 or the glucocorticoid clobetasol. Combined stent-based delivery of clobetasol and everolimus in rabbit plaques downregulated TNFα expression as compared with everolimus-treated plaques but did not affect the ability of everolimus to induce macrophage clearance.
Conclusion—
mTOR inhibition by everolimus triggers cytokine release in macrophages through inhibition of protein translation and p38 activation. These findings provide a rationale for combined local treatment of atherosclerotic plaques with everolimus and an anti-inflammatory agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wim Martinet
- From the Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium (W.M., I.D.M., D.M.S., I.V.B., H.B., G.R.Y.D.M.); Antwerp Cardiovascular Center, ZNA Middelheim, Antwerp, Belgium (S.V.); and the Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium (J.-P.T.)
| | - Stefan Verheye
- From the Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium (W.M., I.D.M., D.M.S., I.V.B., H.B., G.R.Y.D.M.); Antwerp Cardiovascular Center, ZNA Middelheim, Antwerp, Belgium (S.V.); and the Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium (J.-P.T.)
| | - Inge De Meyer
- From the Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium (W.M., I.D.M., D.M.S., I.V.B., H.B., G.R.Y.D.M.); Antwerp Cardiovascular Center, ZNA Middelheim, Antwerp, Belgium (S.V.); and the Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium (J.-P.T.)
| | - Jean-Pierre Timmermans
- From the Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium (W.M., I.D.M., D.M.S., I.V.B., H.B., G.R.Y.D.M.); Antwerp Cardiovascular Center, ZNA Middelheim, Antwerp, Belgium (S.V.); and the Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium (J.-P.T.)
| | - Dorien M. Schrijvers
- From the Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium (W.M., I.D.M., D.M.S., I.V.B., H.B., G.R.Y.D.M.); Antwerp Cardiovascular Center, ZNA Middelheim, Antwerp, Belgium (S.V.); and the Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium (J.-P.T.)
| | - Ilse Van Brussel
- From the Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium (W.M., I.D.M., D.M.S., I.V.B., H.B., G.R.Y.D.M.); Antwerp Cardiovascular Center, ZNA Middelheim, Antwerp, Belgium (S.V.); and the Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium (J.-P.T.)
| | - Hidde Bult
- From the Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium (W.M., I.D.M., D.M.S., I.V.B., H.B., G.R.Y.D.M.); Antwerp Cardiovascular Center, ZNA Middelheim, Antwerp, Belgium (S.V.); and the Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium (J.-P.T.)
| | - Guido R.Y. De Meyer
- From the Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium (W.M., I.D.M., D.M.S., I.V.B., H.B., G.R.Y.D.M.); Antwerp Cardiovascular Center, ZNA Middelheim, Antwerp, Belgium (S.V.); and the Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium (J.-P.T.)
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Al-Qabandi W, Owayed AF, Dhaunsi GS. Cellular oxidative stress and peroxisomal enzyme activities in pediatric liver transplant patients. Med Princ Pract 2012; 21:264-70. [PMID: 22134066 DOI: 10.1159/000334491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2011] [Accepted: 10/06/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In this study, we examined the activities of key peroxisomal enzymes in peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) of pediatric liver transplant patients. SUBJECTS AND METHODS Venous blood was drawn from 14 patients aged 5-16 years on FK-506 treatment and 18 healthy subjects for isolation of lymphocytes. β-Oxidation of very long chain fatty acids (VLCFAs) and activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), NADPH oxidase (NOX), catalase and peroxisomal enzyme acyl CoA oxidase (ACO) were measured in cellular homogenates. Levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured as an index of lipid peroxidation. Protein content and mRNA levels of catalase, peroxisomal membrane protein-70 (PMP-70) and ACO were measured using Western blotting and PCR techniques. RESULTS PBLs isolated from liver transplant patients showed significantly (p < 0.01) increased levels (226.9 ± 24.5 μmol/mg protein) of MDA as compared to the levels in controls (162.8 ± 19.6 μmol/mg protein), whereas enzyme activities of SOD and NOX remained unaltered in patients' cells. Enzyme activities of catalase and GPx were markedly (p < 0.01) decreased in cells isolated from liver transplant patients. ACO activity and β-oxidation of VLCFAs in PBLs from liver transplant patients were however found to be significantly increased by 38 and 52% respectively when compared with controls. Gene expression of PMP-70 and ACO was also significantly increased (p < 0.01) in PBLs of patients. CONCLUSION Our results clearly showed that peroxisomal metabolic activities are markedly altered in lymphocytes of liver transplant patients and might contribute to the development of cellular oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wafa'a Al-Qabandi
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Jabriya, Kuwait
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15
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Ma L, Zhong J, Zhao Z, Luo Z, Ma S, Sun J, He H, Zhu T, Liu D, Zhu Z, Tepel M. Activation of TRPV1 reduces vascular lipid accumulation and attenuates atherosclerosis. Cardiovasc Res 2011; 92:504-13. [PMID: 21908651 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvr245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Activation of transient receptor potential vanilloid type-1 (TRPV1) channels may affect lipid storage and the cellular inflammatory response. Now, we tested the hypothesis that activation of TRPV1 channels attenuates atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E knockout mice (ApoE(-/-)) but not ApoE(-/-)TRPV1(-/-) double knockout mice on a high-fat diet. METHODS AND RESULTS Both TRPV1 mRNA and protein expression were identified in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) and in aorta from C57BL/6J mice using RT-PCR, immunoblotting, and immunohistochemistry. In vitro, activation of TRPV1 by the specific agonists capsaicin and resiniferatoxin dose-dependently increased cytosolic calcium and significantly reduced the accumulation of lipids in VSMC from C57BL/6J mice but not from TRPV1(-/-) mice. TRPV1 activation increased ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) expression and reduced low-density lipoprotein-related protein 1 (LRP1) expression in VSMC by calcium-dependent and calcineurin- and protein kinase A-dependent mechanisms. These results showed increased cellular cholesterol efflux and reduced cholesterol uptake. In vivo, long-term activation of TRPV1 by capsaicin for 24 weeks increased ABCA1 and reduced LRP1 expression in aorta from ApoE(-/-) mice on a high-fat diet. Long-term activation of TRPV1 significantly reduced lipid storage and atherosclerotic lesions in the aortic sinus and in the thoracoabdominal aorta from ApoE(-/-) mice but not from ApoE(-/-)TRPV1(-/-) mice on a high-fat diet. These findings indicated that TRPV1 activation ameliorates high-fat diet-induced atherosclerosis. CONCLUSION Activation of TRPV1 may be a novel therapeutic tool to attenuate atherosclerosis caused by a high-fat diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liqun Ma
- Department of Hypertension and Endocrinology, Center for Hypertension and Metabolic Diseases, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing Institute of Hypertension, Chongqing 400042, People' s Republic of China
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16
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Jia L, Hui RT. Everolimus, a promising medical therapy for coronary heart disease? Med Hypotheses 2009; 73:153-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2009.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2009] [Revised: 02/26/2009] [Accepted: 03/05/2009] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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17
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Rumberger B, Kreutz C, Nickel C, Klein M, Lagoutte S, Teschner S, Timmer J, Gerke P, Walz G, Donauer J. Combination of immunosuppressive drugs leaves specific “fingerprint” on gene expressionin vitro. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2009; 31:283-92. [DOI: 10.1080/08923970802626268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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18
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Tory R, Sachs-Barrable K, Hill JS, Wasan KM. Cyclosporine A and Rapamycin induce in vitro cholesteryl ester transfer protein activity, and suppress lipoprotein lipase activity in human plasma. Int J Pharm 2008; 358:219-23. [PMID: 18448283 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2008.03.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2008] [Revised: 03/08/2008] [Accepted: 03/10/2008] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Cyclosporine A (CsA), Rapamycin (RAPA), Tacrolimus (FK-506) and Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) are immunosuppressants that are widely used in solid organ transplant patients. However, some of these drugs have been reported to cause dyslipidemia in patients. Our aim was to determine the effects of these drugs on in vitro cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP), hepatic lipase (HL) and lipoprotein lipase (LPL) activity within human plasma. METHODS We measured CETP activity in human normolipidemic plasma with and without drug treatment, by measuring the incorporation of labeled cholesteryl ester into lipoproteins. To further confirm the result, we also measured recombinant CETP (rCETP) activity with and without drug treatment. We measured HL and LPL activity in post-heparin normal human plasma in the presence and absence of the drugs by measuring the release of fatty acids from radiolabeled triolein. RESULTS We found an increase in CETP activity in human normolipidemic plasma and rCETP treated with CsA and RAPA. By contrast, CETP activity was not altered significantly in the presence of FK-506 and MMF. LPL activity in post-heparin normal human plasma was suppressed following the co-incubation with CsA, RAPA, FK-506 or MMF whereas HL activity remained unaffected. CONCLUSIONS The increase in CETP activity and suppression in LPL activity following CsA and RAPA treatment observed in the present study may be associated with elevated LDL cholesterol levels and hypertriglyceridemia seen in patients administered these drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Tory
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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19
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Tiwari R, Singh V, Barthwal M. Macrophages: An elusive yet emerging therapeutic target of atherosclerosis. Med Res Rev 2008; 28:483-544. [DOI: 10.1002/med.20118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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20
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Mueller MA, Beutner F, Teupser D, Ceglarek U, Thiery J. Prevention of atherosclerosis by the mTOR inhibitor everolimus in LDLR-/- mice despite severe hypercholesterolemia. Atherosclerosis 2007; 198:39-48. [PMID: 17980369 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2007.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2007] [Revised: 09/12/2007] [Accepted: 09/13/2007] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Everolimus inhibits the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) in proliferating cells. It is widely used in transplant patients and has also been exploited by drug-eluting stents for the treatment of cardiovascular disease. However, there is only limited data on the pathophysiological effects of mTOR-inhibitors on the vascular wall. We aimed to unravel the effects of everolimus on cholesterol-induced atherosclerosis and on circulating cell mediators in LDL-receptor-deficient (LDLR(-/-)) mice. Male hypercholesterolemic LDLR(-/-) mice received either solvent (group A; n=28) or everolimus at 0.05 mg/kg (group B, n=22) and 1.5 mg/kg (group C, n=29) per body weight per day by subcutaneously implanted osmotic minipumps for the study period of 12 weeks. Group B showed 44% reduction of atherosclerotic lesions at the brachiocephalic artery (BCA). In group C atherosclerotic lesions were reduced by 85% in the BCA and by 60% at the aortic root. This was associated with a significantly lower complexity of lesions in both treated groups (p<0.001) and despite a 40% increase of plasma cholesterol. Everolimus caused a significant reduction of circulating cell mediators such as interleukin-1alpha, interleukin-5, GM-CSF and interleukin-12p40. Everolimus increased the plasma levels of KC but had no effect on eighteen other circulating cell mediators studied. Everolimus strongly inhibits atherosclerosis development in LDL-receptor(-/-) mice despite severe hypercholesterolemia. Everolimus application had only small effects on circulating cell mediators. The significant reduction of atherosclerotic lesions was associated with a delayed transition from early macrophages enriched lesions to advanced atherosclerotic plaques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc A Mueller
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, University Hospital Leipzig, Liebigstrasse 27, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
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