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A review on inflammation and angiogenesis as key mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of bovine cystic ovarian disease. Theriogenology 2022; 186:70-85. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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2
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Makowczenko KG, Jastrzebski JP, Paukszto L, Dobrzyn K, Kiezun M, Smolinska N, Kaminski T. Chemerin Impact on Alternative mRNA Transcription in the Porcine Luteal Cells. Cells 2022; 11:715. [PMID: 35203364 PMCID: PMC8870241 DOI: 10.3390/cells11040715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemerin participates in the regulation of processes related to physiological and disorder mechanisms in mammals, including metabolism, obesity, inflammation, and reproduction. In this study, we have investigated chemerin influence on alternative mRNA transcription within the porcine luteal cell transcriptome, such as differential expression of long non-coding RNAs (DELs) and their interactions with differentially expressed genes (DEGs), differences in alternative splicing of transcripts (DASs), and allele-specific expression (ASEs) related to the single nucleotide variants (SNVs) frequency. Luteal cells were collected from gilts during the mid-luteal phase of the oestrous cycle. After in vitro culture of cells un-/treated with chemerin, the total RNA was isolated and sequenced using the high-throughput method. The in silico analyses revealed 24 DELs cis interacting with 6 DEGs and trans-correlated with 300 DEGs, 137 DASs events, and 18 ASEs. The results enabled us to analyse metabolic and signalling pathways in detail, providing new insights into the effects of chemerin on the corpus luteum functions related to inflammatory response, leukocyte infiltration, the occurrence of luteotropic and luteolytic signals (leading to apoptosis and/or necroptosis). Validation of the results using qPCR confirmed the predicted expression changes. Chemerin at physiological concentrations significantly modifies the transcription processes in the porcine luteal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karol G. Makowczenko
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 1A, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (K.G.M.); (M.K.); (N.S.)
| | - Jan P. Jastrzebski
- Department of Plant Physiology, Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 1A, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland;
| | - Lukasz Paukszto
- Department of Botany and Nature Protection, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Plac Lodzki 1, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland;
| | - Kamil Dobrzyn
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 5, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland;
| | - Marta Kiezun
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 1A, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (K.G.M.); (M.K.); (N.S.)
| | - Nina Smolinska
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 1A, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (K.G.M.); (M.K.); (N.S.)
| | - Tadeusz Kaminski
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 1A, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (K.G.M.); (M.K.); (N.S.)
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3
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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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4
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Contribution of the VEGF system to the follicular persistence associated with bovine cystic ovaries. Theriogenology 2019; 138:52-65. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Revised: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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Ontology groups representing angiogenesis and blood vessels development are highly up-regulated during porcine oviductal epithelial cells long-term real-time proliferation – a primary cell culture approach. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.2478/acb-2018-0029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
The morphological and biochemical modification of oviductal epithelial cells (OECs) belongs to the group of compound processes responsible for proper oocyte transport and successful fertilization. The cellular interactions between cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) and oviductal epithelial cells (OECs) are crucial for this unique mechanism. In the present study we have analyzed angiogenesis and blood vessel development processes at transcript levels. By employing microarrays, four ontological groups associated with these mechanisms have been described. Differentially expressed genes belonging to the “angiogenesis”, “blood circulation”, “blood vessel development” and “blood vessel morphogenesis” GO BP terms were investigated as a potential markers for the creation of new blood vessels in cells under in vitro primary culture conditions.
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Zamora‐Gutiérrez D, Guzmán A, Hernández‐Coronado CG, Castillo‐Juárez H, Fierro F, Gutiérrez CG, Bojalil R, Rosales‐Torres AM. Co‐ordinated expression of the VEGF system components in granulosa cells to develop a proangiogenic autocrine milieu during ovarian follicle development. Mol Reprod Dev 2018; 86:156-165. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 11/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Diana Zamora‐Gutiérrez
- Doctorado en Ciencias Biológicas y de la SaludUniversidad Autónoma Metropolitana XochimilcoCiudad de México México
| | - Adrian Guzmán
- Departamento Producción Agrícola y AnimalUniversidad Autónoma Metropolitana‐XochimilcoCiudad de México México
| | - Cyndi G. Hernández‐Coronado
- Departamento Producción Agrícola y AnimalUniversidad Autónoma Metropolitana‐XochimilcoCiudad de México México
| | - Héctor Castillo‐Juárez
- Departamento Producción Agrícola y AnimalUniversidad Autónoma Metropolitana‐XochimilcoCiudad de México México
| | - Francisco Fierro
- Departamento de BiotecnologíaUniversidad Autónoma Metropolitana‐IztapalapaCiudad de México México
| | - Carlos G. Gutiérrez
- Departamento de Reproducción, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y ZootecniaUniversidad Nacional Autónoma de MéxicoCiudad de México México
| | - Rafael Bojalil
- Departamento de InmunologíaInstituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio ChávezCiudad de México México
- Departamento de Atención a la SaludUniversidad Autónoma Metropolitana XochimilcoCiudad de México México
| | - Ana Ma. Rosales‐Torres
- Departamento Producción Agrícola y AnimalUniversidad Autónoma Metropolitana‐XochimilcoCiudad de México México
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Szymanska M, Blitek A. Prostacyclin synthesis and prostacyclin receptor expression in the porcine corpus luteum: evidence for a luteotropic role in vitro†. Biol Reprod 2018; 100:162-174. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Szymanska
- Department of Hormonal Action Mechanisms, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Blitek
- Department of Hormonal Action Mechanisms, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
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8
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An SM, Kim SS, Kim J, Park MN, Lee JE, Cho SK, Lee KS, An BS. Expression of reproductive hormone receptors and contraction‑associated genes in porcine uterus during the estrous cycle. Mol Med Rep 2017; 15:4176-4184. [PMID: 28487952 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.6518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2016] [Accepted: 03/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Contraction of uterus tissue frequently occurs throughout the estrous cycle and is regulated by several endogenous factors, including estradiol, progesterone, luteinizing hormone, follicle‑stimulating hormone, oxytocin (OXT) and contraction‑associated proteins (CAPs). Contraction activity of uterus tissue according to the estrous cycle is important, due to the fact that it is directly associated with balanced implantation and stable pregnancy. However, few studies have examined the mechanism of uterus contraction activity in a porcine model. In the current study, porcine uterus tissue was separated into the follicular and luteal phases by histological analysis. To investigate regulation of contraction‑associated factors according to the estrous cycle, mRNA and protein expression levels of reproductive hormonal receptors, including estrogen receptors, progesterone receptor and luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor in addition to CAPs including OXT, OXT receptor (OXTR), hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase 15‑(NAD) and gap junction α‑1 protein, were examined in the porcine uterus according to the follicular and luteal phases. For the results, hormonal receptors and CAPs were dynamically regulated depending on the estrous cycle. In conclusion, genes associated with uterine contraction and its regulatory hormonal receptors in the porcine uterus were differently regulated in the follicular and luteal phases, suggesting that these genes are critically involved in the remodeling and contraction of uterine tissue and may be required to modulate the physiological status of the uterus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung-Min An
- Department of Biomaterials Science, College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Pusan National University, Miryang, Gyeongsangnam‑do 50463, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun Suk Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Biomedical Research Institute, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Pusan, Gyeongsangnam‑do 49241, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun Kim
- Department of Biomaterials Science, College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Pusan National University, Miryang, Gyeongsangnam‑do 50463, Republic of Korea
| | - Mee-Na Park
- University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Gyeonggi‑do 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Eon Lee
- Department of Biomaterials Science, College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Pusan National University, Miryang, Gyeongsangnam‑do 50463, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Keun Cho
- Department of Animal Science, College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Pusan National University, Miryang, Gyeongsangnam‑do 50463, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyu-Sup Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Biomedical Research Institute, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Pusan, Gyeongsangnam‑do 49241, Republic of Korea
| | - Beum-Soo An
- Department of Biomaterials Science, College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Pusan National University, Miryang, Gyeongsangnam‑do 50463, Republic of Korea
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López Albors O, Olsson F, Llinares A, Gutiérrez H, Latorre R, Candanosa E, Guillén-Martínez A, Izquierdo-Rico M. Expression of the vascular endothelial growth factor system (VEGF) in the porcine oviduct during the estrous cycle. Theriogenology 2017; 93:46-54. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.01.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2016] [Revised: 01/15/2017] [Accepted: 01/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Yun J, Björkman S, Pöytäkangas M, Peltoniemi O. The effects of ovarian biopsy and blood sampling methods on salivary cortisol and behaviour in sows. Res Vet Sci 2017; 114:80-85. [PMID: 28324812 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2017.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2016] [Revised: 02/08/2017] [Accepted: 03/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In reproductive physiology research, experimental animals are often subjected to stressful procedures, including blood sampling and biopsy. In this present study, presence of pain or distress induced by four different procedures was examined using a measurement of salivary cortisol levels and activity observations in sows. The treatments were: 1) PAL: The ovary was palpated through the rectum without snaring, 2) TUB: transvaginal ultrasound-guided biopsy of the ovary was conducted without snaring, 3) SNA: a soft rope snare was placed around the maxilla, 4) CAT: A soft rope snare was placed around the maxilla, and an intravenous catheter was inserted through the ear vein of the sows. Activities, social cohesion and other pain-related behaviour, and salivary cortisol concentrations were recorded. Salivary cortisol concentrations in CAT sows increased in response to the procedure (P<0.05), whereas the other treatments did not trigger a significant response. The CAT sows had higher cortisol concentrations than the other groups for 10min after initiation of the procedures (P<0.01), and they maintained higher cortisol levels than the PAL and TUB groups 15min post-treatment (P<0.05). Furthermore, the CAT sows showed the highest frequency of head shaking (P<0.001) and trembling behaviour (P<0.05) during the 1h post-treatment. Summarizing, the catheterization procedure might induce a short-term pain or stress response during and after the procedure in terms of pain-related behaviour and salivary cortisol status. We suggest that TUB might not cause appreciable pain or distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinhyeon Yun
- Research Centre for Animal Welfare, Department of Production Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 57, 00014 Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Stefan Björkman
- Production Animal Hospital, Department of Production Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Paroninkuja 20, 04920 Saarentaus, Finland
| | - Merja Pöytäkangas
- Research Centre for Animal Welfare, Department of Production Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 57, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Olli Peltoniemi
- Production Animal Hospital, Department of Production Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Paroninkuja 20, 04920 Saarentaus, Finland
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11
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Björkman S, Yun J, Niku M, Oliviero C, Soede NM, Peltoniemi OAT. Serial transvaginal ultrasound-guided biopsy of the porcine corpus luteum in vivo. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 29:931-939. [DOI: 10.1071/rd15435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2015] [Accepted: 01/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The aims of the present study was to develop and describe a transvaginal ultrasound-guided biopsy method for luteal tissue in the porcine and to evaluate the effects of the method on the reproductive tract, ovarian status and pregnancy status. Biopsies were performed in four multiparous sows on Days 9 and 15 of three consecutive oestrous cycles; the size and histological composition of the samples obtained were evaluated and the reproductive tract of the sows was monitored. Furthermore, biopsies were performed in 26 multiparous sows on Days 10 and 13 after insemination, and the pregnancy rate, gestation length and subsequent litter size were evaluated. RNA was extracted from the samples obtained and the quality and quantity were determined. Altogether, 76 biopsies were performed and 38 samples were obtained. Compared with sows from which no samples were obtained (n = 6), sows from which one or more samples were obtained (n = 24) were older (parity 5.0 ± 2.8 vs 2.2 ± 0.4, mean ± s.d.), heavier (290 ± 26 vs 244 ± 27 kg) and had higher back fat (11.4 ± 2.7 vs 6.4 ± 2.5 mm; P < 0.05 for all). No effect of the biopsies (P > 0.05) was observed on the cyclicity and reproductive organs of the sows, or on corpus luteum diameter on Day 13 (8.9 ± 1.0 vs 9.2 ± 1.1 mm), pregnancy rate (95% vs 96%), gestation length (115 ± 1 vs 115 ± 1 days) and subsequent litter size (12.7 ± 2.5 vs 13.3 ± 2.8) between sows from which samples were obtained and those from which no samples were obtained. The samples obtained had a diameter of 1 mm and contained heterogeneous tissue with various cell types. The RNA quantity was 520 ± 160 µg per sample and the RNA integrity number was 8.5 ± 1.0. In conclusion, an ultrasound-guided biopsy method for ovarian tissue, which can be used for gene expression studies, was established in the porcine. No effect on corpus luteum function was found.
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12
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Woad KJ, Robinson RS. Luteal angiogenesis and its control. Theriogenology 2016; 86:221-8. [PMID: 27177965 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.04.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2015] [Revised: 02/11/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels from preexisting ones, is critical to luteal structure and function. In addition, it is a complex and tightly regulated process. Not only does rapid and extensive angiogenesis occur to provide the corpus luteum with an unusually high blood flow and support its high metabolic rate, but in the absence of pregnancy, the luteal vasculature must rapidly regress to enable the next cycle of ovarian activity. This review describes a number of key endogenous stimulatory and inhibitory factors, which act in a delicate balance to regulate luteal angiogenesis and ultimately luteal function. In vitro luteal angiogenesis cultures have demonstrated critical roles for fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) in endothelial cell proliferation and sprouting, although other factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) and platelet-derived growth factor were important modulators in the control of luteal angiogenesis. Post-transcriptional regulation by small non-coding microRNAs is also likely to play a central role in the regulation of luteal angiogenesis. Appropriate luteal angiogenesis requires the coordinated activity of numerous factors expressed by several cell types at different times, and this review will also describe the role of perivascular pericytes and the importance of vascular maturation and stability. It is hoped that a better understanding of the critical processes underlying the transition from follicle to corpus luteum and subsequent luteal development will benefit the management of luteal function in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn J Woad
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, Sutton Bonington Campus, University of Nottingham, Leicestershire, UK.
| | - Robert S Robinson
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, Sutton Bonington Campus, University of Nottingham, Leicestershire, UK
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13
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The corpora lutea proangiogenic state of VEGF system components is turned to antiangiogenic at the later phase of the oestrous cycle in cows. Animal 2015; 9:301-7. [DOI: 10.1017/s1751731114002274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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14
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Małysz-Cymborska I, Andronowska A. Expression of the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor system in porcine oviducts after induction of ovulation and superovulation. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2014; 49:86-95. [PMID: 25124278 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2014.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2014] [Revised: 06/16/2014] [Accepted: 06/17/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
This study was performed to determine the influence of insemination as well as treatment with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) on expression of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) system in porcine oviducts. In the first experiment, 10 gilts were assigned to 2 groups: cyclic (treated with phosphate-buffered saline; n = 5) and inseminated (n = 5). In experiment II, 15 gilts were assigned to 3 groups: inseminated (control; n = 5), induced ovulation and inseminated (750 IU eCG, 500 IU hCG; n = 5), and superovulated and inseminated (1500 IU eCG, 1000 IU hCG; n = 5). Oviducts (isthmus and ampulla) were collected 3 days after phosphate-buffered saline treatment (experiment I) or insemination. Blood samples were collected during slaughter for E2 (estradiol) and P4 (progesterone) analysis. Levels of messenger RNA (mRNA) of the VEGF system were analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction and protein by Western blot and E2 and P4 using radioimmunoassays. Insemination by itself decreased VEGF120 mRNA expression and VEGF-A protein level in the oviductal isthmus (P < 0.05) but did not alter VEGF164 mRNA. Expression of Flt-1 (c-fms-like tyrosine kinase VEGFR-1) mRNA increased in the isthmus of inseminated relative to cyclic gilts (P < 0.05), whereas KDR (fetal liver kinase-1 VEGFR-2) mRNA levels decreased in both the oviductal isthmus (P < 0.05) and ampulla (P < 0.001). Superovulation decreased VEGF120 and VEGF164 mRNA expression in the isthmus compared with the inseminated group (P < 0.05), and lowered protein levels of VEGF-A in the isthmus of both stimulated groups (P < 0.001). Expression of Flt-1 mRNA was affected by hCG and eCG treatment in both gonadotropin-stimulated groups in the isthmus as well as in the ampulla (P < 0.001) and protein levels in the ampulla of superovulated gilts (P < 0.05). Protein levels of KDR were reduced in the oviductal ampulla of gilts in both the induced ovulation and superovulated groups (P < 0.05). The concentrations of both E2 and P4 increased significantly in superovulated group of gilts (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05 for E2 and P4, respectively). Our study showed that insemination alone as well as ovarian stimulation affected the mRNA and protein profiles of the VEGF system in the porcine oviduct. Disrupted VEGF system expression may be crucial to many events occurring during the periovulatory period and consequently could lead to deprivation of VEGF-dependent factors that are necessary for proper fertilization, gamete transport, and embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Małysz-Cymborska
- Department of Hormonal Action Mechanisms, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences, 10-748 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - A Andronowska
- Department of Hormonal Action Mechanisms, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences, 10-748 Olsztyn, Poland.
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Macchiarelli G, Palmerini MG, Nottola SA, Cecconi S, Tanemura K, Sato E. Restoration of corpus luteum angiogenesis in immature hypothyroid rdw rats after thyroxine treatment: morphologic and molecular evidence. Theriogenology 2012; 79:116-26. [PMID: 23122683 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2012.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2012] [Revised: 09/16/2012] [Accepted: 09/17/2012] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Thyroxine (T4) plus gonadotropins might stimulate ovarian follicular angiogenesis in immature infertile hypothyroid rdw rats by upregulating mRNA expression of major angiogenic factors. Development of growing corpus luteum (CL) is strongly related to angiogenesis and to morphofunctional development of microcirculation. Our aim was to investigate if T4 is involved in CL angiogenesis and in the activation of capillary cells and angiogenic factors after ovulation in a spontaneous model of hypothyroidism, the rdw rat. Rdw rats were treated with T4 plus gonadotropins (equine chorionic gonadotropin plus human chorionic gonadotropin; eCG+hCG) or gonadotropins alone in order to evaluate the effects of T4 on early luteal angiogenesis, on microvascular cells and on expression of major growth factors which are involved in the regulation of angiogenesis. Wistar-Imamichi rats treated with gonadotropins were used as controls. The ovaries were collected 4 days after hCG administration and analyzed using morphologic and molecular approaches. Thyroxine plus gonadotropins stimulated the growth of CLs and follicles as in controls, differently from rdw rats treated only with gonadotropins, in which CLs were not found and only small follicles, often atretic, could be recognized. In T4 plus gonadotropin-treated rdw rats CLs showed increased microvasculature, numerous activated capillaries characterized by sprouting and other angiogenic figures, and associated pericytes. Quantitative analysis revealed that the number of pericytes in T4 plus gonadotropin-treated rdw rats was comparable with that found in control rats and was significantly higher than that found in gonadotropin-treated rdw rats. The mRNA expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor was significantly higher in control rats and in T4 plus gonadotropin-treated rdw rats than in gonadotropin-treated rdw rats. mRNA expression of tumor necrosis factor α, transforming growth factor β, and epidermal growth factor did not show significant changes. Our data originally demonstrated that T4 promoted the growth of an active microcirculation in developing CLs of gonadotropin-primed hypothyroid rdw rats, mainly by inducing sprouting angiogenesis, pericyte recruitment, and upregulation of mRNA expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor. In conclusion, we suggest that T4 plays a key role in restoring luteal angiogenesis in ovaries of immature hypothyroid rdw rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guido Macchiarelli
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy.
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Abstract
Anti-angiogenic vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF) 165b and pro-angiogenic VEGF 165 are generated from the same transcript, and their relative amounts are dependent on alternative splicing. The role of VEGF 165b has not been investigated in as much detail as VEGF 165, although it appears to be highly expressed in non-angiogenic tissues and, in contrast with VEGF 165, is downregulated in tumors and other pathologies associated with abnormal neovascularization such as diabetic retinopathy or Denys Drash syndrome. VEGF 165b inhibits VEGFR2 signaling by inducing differential phosphorylation, and it can be used to block angiogenesis in in vivo models of tumorigenesis and angiogenesis-related eye disease. Recent reports have identified three serine/arginine-rich proteins, SRSF1, SRSF2 and SRSF6, and studied their role in regulating terminal splice-site selection. Since the balance of VEGF isoforms is lost in cancer and angiogenesis-related conditions, control of VEGF splicing could also be used as a basis for therapy in these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Peiris-Pagès
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
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A nonsense variation p.Arg325X in the vascular endothelial growth factor-A gene may be associated with congenital tricuspid aortic valve stenosis. Cardiol Young 2012; 22:316-22. [PMID: 22067973 DOI: 10.1017/s104795111100151x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In our recent study, we first reported that mutation in vascular endothelial growth factor-A is associated with bicuspid aortic valve stenosis. However, to date no groups have explored the role of vascular endothelial growth factor-A variations in the aetiology of congenital tricuspid aortic valve stenosis. METHODS We sequenced all eight coding exons and exon-intron boundaries of the vascular endothelial growth factor-A gene in deoxyribonucleic acid samples of a cohort of 32 sporadic patients with tricuspid aortic valve stenosis, 300 normal controls, and 103 disease controls - conotruncal defects - in order to identify sequence variants. RESULTS We identified a c.973C > T heterozygous nonsense variation in exon 6 of the vascular endothelial growth factor-A gene in a patient with an isolated tricuspid aortic valve stenosis. The c.973C > T variation, which was absent in all controls, changes a highly conserved arginine at amino acid position 325 to a stop codon (p.Arg325X) and is predicted to produce a truncated protein of 324 amino acid residues. The proband's parents had a normal cardiac phenotype; however, his father was a carrier of the p.Arg325X variation, which indicates that the p.Arg325X variation is inherited and incompletely penetrant. CONCLUSION We report for the first time that the p.Arg325X nonsense variation in the vascular endothelial growth factor-A gene may be associated with congenital tricuspid aortic valve stenosis.
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Trott JF, Schennink A, Petrie WK, Manjarin R, VanKlompenberg MK, Hovey RC. TRIENNIAL LACTATION SYMPOSIUM: Prolactin: The multifaceted potentiator of mammary growth and function1,2. J Anim Sci 2012; 90:1674-86. [DOI: 10.2527/jas.2011-4682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- J. F. Trott
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis 95616
| | - A. Schennink
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis 95616
| | - W. K. Petrie
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis 95616
| | - R. Manjarin
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis 95616
| | | | - R. C. Hovey
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis 95616
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Xu J, Dou T, Liu C, Fu M, Huang Y, Gu S, Zhou Y, Xie Y. The evolution of alternative splicing exons in vascular endothelial growth factor A. Gene 2011; 487:143-50. [PMID: 21782909 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2011.06.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2011] [Revised: 06/12/2011] [Accepted: 06/18/2011] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The C-terminus alternative splicing in VEGFA (vascular endothelial growth factor A) is known for its impact on physiological and pathological angiogenesis. Based on our prediction and RT-PCR verification, we identified anti-angiogenic VEGFA165b isoforms in mouse and rabbit for the first time. We also found that the relative expression level of VEGFA165b isoform had been increasing from rodents to human, and exon8b may have experienced a minor-to-major form exon conversion, possibly correlated with its gain-of-function. It is suggested that introduction of alternative splicing exons (esp. exon6 and exon8b) made important contributions to the transcriptional diversity of VEGFA and played a crucial role in the evolution of its regulatory mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxi Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Institute of Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
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20
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Chruściel M, Zięcik AJ, Andronowska A. Expression of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-A) and its receptors in the umbilical cord in the course of pregnancy in the pig. Reprod Domest Anim 2010; 46:434-43. [PMID: 20825582 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2010.01686.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The umbilical cord (UC) and the placenta are important organs through which respiratory gases, nutrients, wastes and biologically active substances are exchanged between the maternal and the foetal system. A rapid placental vascularization observed in the second half of pig pregnancy is positively correlated with the mRNA expression of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Based on these findings, we hypothesized that VEGF may have a stimulatory effect in the dynamically growing UC. To further understand the role of the VEGF-VEGFR system during UC development, mRNA and protein expression as well as the cellular localization of VEGF-A, VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2 in UC were examined on days 40, 60, 75 and 90 of pregnancy and after physiological delivery in the pig (day 114 of pregnancy). Real Time RT-PCR analysis showed an increase in the mRNA levels of VEGF120 and VEGF164 from day 90 of pregnancy. VEGFR-1 mRNA expression was significantly increased on day 75 of pregnancy. No significant changes in VEGFR-2 mRNA expression were detected. In turn, western blot analysis revealed an increase in VEGF-A protein expression on day 40, compared to the later days of pregnancy. A rapid increase in the VEGFR-1 protein level was noted on day 75 and 90 of gestation. No significant changes in VEGFR-2 protein expression were detected on any of the analysed days of pregnancy. Immunohistochemical staining enabled detection of VEGF-VEGFR system, in endothelial and tunica media cells of the umbilical vessels and in allantoic duct and amniotic epithelium on all analysed days of pregnancy. Positive reactions for VEGF-A and VEGFR-1, but not VEGFR-2, were also observed in myofibroblasts. In conclusion, this data shows that members of the VEGF-VEGFR system are temporally and spatially well localized for playing key roles during umbilical cord formation and its intensive growth observed after day 75 of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Chruściel
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
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De Spiegelaere W, Cornillie P, Erkens T, Van Loo D, Casteleyn C, Van Poucke M, Burvenich C, Van Hoorebeke L, Van Ginneken C, Peelman L, Van den Broeck W. Expression and localization of angiogenic growth factors in developing porcine mesonephric glomeruli. J Histochem Cytochem 2010; 58:1045-56. [PMID: 20713984 DOI: 10.1369/jhc.2010.956557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The development and growth of renal glomeruli is regulated by specific angiogenic growth factors, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and the angiopoietins (ANGPT1 and ANGPT2). The expression of these factors has already been studied during metanephric glomerulogenesis, but it remains to be elucidated during the development of the embryonic mesonephros, which can function as an interesting model for glomerular development and senescence. In this study, the presence of the angiogenic growth factors was studied in developing porcine mesonephroi, using IHC and real-time RT-qPCR on laser capture microdissected glomeruli. In addition, mesonephric glomerular growth was measured by using stereological methods. ANGPT2 remained upregulated during maturation of glomeruli, which may be explained by the continuous growth of the glomeruli, as observed by stereological examination. The mRNA for VEGFA was expressed in early developing and in maturing glomeruli. The VEGF receptor VEGFR1 was stably expressed during the whole lifespan of mesonephric glomeruli, whereas VEGFR2 mRNA was only upregulated in early glomerulogenesis, suggesting that VEGFR2 is important for the vascular growth but that VEGFR1 is important for the maintenance of endothelial fenestrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ward De Spiegelaere
- Department of Morphology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
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Characterization of neural stem/progenitor cells expressing VEGF and its receptors in the subventricular zone of newborn piglet brain. Neurochem Res 2010; 35:1455-70. [PMID: 20552272 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-010-0207-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/26/2010] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Neural stem/progenitor cell (NSP) biology and neurogenesis in adult central nervous system (CNS) are important both towards potential future therapeutic applications for CNS repair, and for the fundamental function of the CNS. In the present study, we report the characterization of NSP population from subventricular zone (SVZ) of neonatal piglet brain using in vivo and in vitro systems. We show that the nestin and vimentin-positive neural progenitor cells are present in the SVZ of the lateral ventricles of neonatal piglet brain. In vitro, piglet NSPs proliferated as neurospheres, expressed the typical protein of neural progenitors, nestin and a range of well-established neurodevelopmental markers. Upon dissociation and subculture, piglet NSPs differentiated into neurons and glial cells. Clonal analysis demonstrates that piglet NSPs are multipotent and retain the capacity to generate both glia and neurons. These cells expressed VEGF, VEGFR1, VEGFR2 and Neuropilin-1 and -2 mRNAs. Real time PCR revealed that SVZ NSPs from newborn piglet expressed total VEGF and all VEGF splice variants. These findings show that piglet NSPs may be helpful to more effectively design growth factor based strategies to enhance endogenous precursor cells for cell transplantation studies potentially leading to the application of this strategy in the nervous system disease and injury.
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Qiu Y, Hoareau-Aveilla C, Oltean S, Harper SJ, Bates DO. The anti-angiogenic isoforms of VEGF in health and disease. Biochem Soc Trans 2009; 37:1207-13. [PMID: 19909248 PMCID: PMC2882696 DOI: 10.1042/bst0371207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Anti-angiogenic VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) isoforms, generated from differential splicing of exon 8, are widely expressed in normal human tissues but down-regulated in cancers and other pathologies associated with abnormal angiogenesis (cancer, diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusion, the Denys-Drash syndrome and pre-eclampsia). Administration of recombinant VEGF(165)b inhibits ocular angiogenesis in mouse models of retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration, and colorectal carcinoma and metastatic melanoma. Splicing factors and their regulatory molecules alter splice site selection, such that cells can switch from the anti-angiogenic VEGF(xxx)b isoforms to the pro-angiogenic VEGF(xxx) isoforms, including SRp55 (serine/arginine protein 55), ASF/SF2 (alternative splicing factor/splicing factor 2) and SRPK (serine arginine domain protein kinase), and inhibitors of these molecules can inhibit angiogenesis in the eye, and splice site selection in cancer cells, opening up the possibility of using splicing factor inhibitors as novel anti-angiogenic therapeutics. Endogenous anti-angiogenic VEGF(xxx)b isoforms are cytoprotective for endothelial, epithelial and neuronal cells in vitro and in vivo, suggesting both an improved safety profile and an explanation for unpredicted anti-VEGF side effects. In summary, C-terminal distal splicing is a key component of VEGF biology, overlooked by the vast majority of publications in the field, and these findings require a radical revision of our understanding of VEGF biology in normal human physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Qiu
- Microvascular Research Laboratories, Bristol Heart Institute, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bristol, Southwell Street, Bristol BS2 8EJ, U.K
| | - Coralie Hoareau-Aveilla
- Microvascular Research Laboratories, Bristol Heart Institute, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bristol, Southwell Street, Bristol BS2 8EJ, U.K
| | - Sebastian Oltean
- Microvascular Research Laboratories, Bristol Heart Institute, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bristol, Southwell Street, Bristol BS2 8EJ, U.K
| | - Steven J. Harper
- Microvascular Research Laboratories, Bristol Heart Institute, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bristol, Southwell Street, Bristol BS2 8EJ, U.K
| | - David O. Bates
- Microvascular Research Laboratories, Bristol Heart Institute, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bristol, Southwell Street, Bristol BS2 8EJ, U.K
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Woolard J, Bevan HS, Harper SJ, Bates DO. Molecular diversity of VEGF-A as a regulator of its biological activity. Microcirculation 2009; 16:572-92. [PMID: 19521900 PMCID: PMC2929464 DOI: 10.1080/10739680902997333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family of proteins regulates blood flow, growth, and function in both normal physiology and disease processes. VEGF-A is alternatively spliced to form multiple isoforms, in two subfamilies, that have specific, novel functions. Alternative splicing of exons 5-7 of the VEGF gene generates forms with differing bioavailability and activities, whereas alternative splice-site selection in exon 8 generates proangiogenic, termed VEGF(xxx), or antiangiogenic proteins, termed VEGF(xxx)b. Despite its name, emerging roles for VEGF isoforms on cell types other than endothelium have now been identified. Although VEGF-A has conventionally been considered to be a family of proangiogenic, propermeability vasodilators, the identification of effects on nonendothelial cells, and the discovery of the antiangiogenic subfamily of splice isoforms, has added further complexity to their regulation of microvascular function. The distally spliced antiangiogenic isoforms are expressed in normal human tissue, but downregulated in angiogenic diseases, such as cancer and proliferative retinopathy, and in developmental pathologies, such as Denys Drash syndrome and preeclampsia. Here, we examine the molecular diversity of VEGF-A as a regulator of its biological activity and compare the role of the pro- and antiangiogenic VEGF-A splice isoforms in both normal and pathophysiological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeanette Woolard
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Bristol Heart Institute, School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
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Kowalczyk AE, Kaczmarek MM, Schams D, Ziecik AJ. Effect of prostaglandin E2and tumor necrosis factor α on the VEGF-Receptor system expression in cultured porcine luteal cells. Mol Reprod Dev 2008; 75:1558-66. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.20897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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26
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Dickens S, Vermeulen P, Hendrickx B, Van den Berge S, Vranckx JJ. Regulable vascular endothelial growth factor165 overexpression by ex vivo expanded keratinocyte cultures promotes matrix formation, angiogenesis, and healing in porcine full-thickness wounds. Tissue Eng Part A 2008; 14:19-27. [PMID: 18333801 DOI: 10.1089/ten.a.2007.0060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The intricate wound repair process involves the interplay of numerous cells and proteins. Using a porcine full-thickness wound (FTW) healing model, we hypothesized that the ex vivo gene transfer of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-transfected basal keratinocyte (KC) cell suspensions may generate cross-talk and induce matrix formation, angiogenesis, and accelerated healing. Moreover, to regulate overexpression of isoform 165 of VEGF and its effect on healing, we introduced a tetracycline (TC)-inducible gene switch in the expression plasmid. Autologous basal KCs were cultivated from the porcine donor and transfected using cationic liposomes. A dose-response curve was established to determine optimal activation of the gene switch by TC. In vivo, FTWs were treated with VEGF-transfected KCs and controls. Wound fluids were collected daily and examined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Biopsies were evaluated using hematoxylin and eosin and immunostaining for fibronectin, CD144, and lectin BS-1. In vitro, highest regulable VEGF165-expression was obtained with 1 microg/mL of TCs. In vivo, after induction of the gene switch by adding 1 microg/mL of TCs to the FTW, we obtained upregulated VEGF165 levels and enhanced fibronectin deposition and found more endothelial cell tubular formations and higher rates of reepithelialization than in controls. This ex vivo gene transfer model may serve as a platform for vascular induction in full-thickness tissue repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stijn Dickens
- Laboratory of Plastic Surgery and Tissue Engineering Research, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, KU Leuven University Hospital, Katholieke Universiteit, Leuven, Belgium
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Zannoni A, Bernardini C, Rada T, Ribeiro LA, Forni M, Bacci ML. Prostaglandin F2-alpha receptor (FPr) expression on porcine corpus luteum microvascular endothelial cells (pCL-MVECs). Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2007; 5:31. [PMID: 17659079 PMCID: PMC1949401 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-5-31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2007] [Accepted: 07/20/2007] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The corpus luteum (CL) is a transient endocrine gland and prostaglandin F2-alpha is considered to be the principal luteolysin in pigs. In this species, the in vivo administration of prostaglandin F2-alpha induces apoptosis in large vessels as early as 6 hours after administration. The presence of the prostaglandin F2-alpha receptor (FPr) on the microvascular endothelial cells (pCL-MVECs) of the porcine corpus luteum has not yet been defined. The aim of the study was to assess FPr expression in pCL-MVECs in the early and mid-luteal phases (EL-p, ML-p), and during pregnancy (P-p). Moreover, the effectiveness of prostaglandin F2-alpha treatment in inducing pCL-MVEC apoptosis was tested. METHODS Porcine CLs were collected in the EL and ML phases and during P-p. All CLs from each animal were minced together and the homogenates underwent enzymatic digestion. The pCL-MVECs were then positively selected by an immunomagnetic separation protocol using Dynabeads coated with anti-CD31 monoclonal antibody and seeded in flasks in the presence of EGM 2-MV (Microvascular Endothelial Cell Medium-2). After 4 days of culture, the cells underwent additional immunomagnetic selection and were seeded in flasks until the confluent stage.PCR Real time, western blot and immunodetection assays were utilized to assess the presence of FPr on pCL-MVEC primary cultures. Furthermore, the influence of culture time (freshly isolated, cultured overnight and at confluence) and hormonal treatment (P4 and E2) on FPr expression in pCL-MVECs was also investigated. Apoptosis was detected by TUNEL assay of pCL-MVECs exposed to prostaglandin F2-alpha. RESULTS We obtained primary cultures of pCL-MVECs from all animals. FPr mRNA and protein levels showed the highest value (ANOVA) in CL-MVECs derived from the early-luteal phase. Moreover, freshly isolated MVECs showed a higher FPr mRNA value than those cultured overnight and confluent cells (ANOVA). prostaglandin F2-alpha treatment failed to induce an apoptotic response in all the pCL-MVEC cultures. CONCLUSION Our data showing the presence of FPr on MVECs and the inability of prostaglandin F2-alpha to evoke an in vitro apoptotic response suggest that other molecules or mechanisms must be considered in order to explain the in vivo direct pro-apoptotic effect of prostaglandin F2-alpha at the endothelial level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Augusta Zannoni
- Department of Veterinary Morphophysiology and Animal Production, DIMORFIPA, Ozzano Emilia 40064, University of Bologna, Italy
| | - Chiara Bernardini
- Department of Veterinary Morphophysiology and Animal Production, DIMORFIPA, Ozzano Emilia 40064, University of Bologna, Italy
| | - Tommaso Rada
- Department of Polymer Engineering, University of Minho 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Luciana A Ribeiro
- Department of Veterinary Morphophysiology and Animal Production, DIMORFIPA, Ozzano Emilia 40064, University of Bologna, Italy
| | - Monica Forni
- Department of Veterinary Morphophysiology and Animal Production, DIMORFIPA, Ozzano Emilia 40064, University of Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria L Bacci
- Department of Veterinary Morphophysiology and Animal Production, DIMORFIPA, Ozzano Emilia 40064, University of Bologna, Italy
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Gelatinases, endonuclease and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor during development and regression of swine luteal tissue. BMC DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2006; 6:58. [PMID: 17137503 PMCID: PMC1693555 DOI: 10.1186/1471-213x-6-58] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2006] [Accepted: 11/30/2006] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The development and regression of corpus luteum (CL) is characterized by an intense angiogenesis and angioregression accompanied by luteal tissue and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling. Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) is the main regulator of angiogenesis, promoting endothelial cell mitosis and differentiation. After the formation of neovascular tubes, the remodelling of ECM is essential for the correct development of CL, particularly by the action of specific class of proteolytic enzymes known as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). During luteal regression, characterized by an apoptotic process and successively by an intense ECM and luteal degradation, the activation of Ca++/Mg++-dependent endonucleases and MMPs activity are required. The levels of expression and activity of VEGF, MMP-2 and -9, and Ca++/Mg++-dependent endonucleases throughout the oestrous cycle and at pregnancy were analyzed. RESULTS Different patterns of VEGF, MMPs and Ca++/Mg++-dependent endonuclease were observed in swine CL during different luteal phases and at pregnancy. Immediately after ovulation, the highest levels of VEGF mRNA/protein and MMP-9 activity were detected. On days 5-14 after ovulation, VEGF expression and MMP-2 and -9 activities are at basal levels, while Ca++/Mg++-dependent endonuclease levels increased significantly in relation to day 1. Only at luteolysis (day 17), Ca++/Mg++-dependent endonuclease and MMP-2 spontaneous activity increased significantly. At pregnancy, high levels of MMP-9 and VEGF were observed. CONCLUSION Our findings, obtained from a precisely controlled in vivo model of CL development and regression, allow us to determine relationships among VEGF, MMPs and endonucleases during angiogenesis and angioregression. Thus, CL provides a very interesting model for studying factors involved in vascular remodelling.
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