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Yang Y, Xu Y, Qian S, Tang T, Wang K, Feng J, Ding R, Yao J, Huang J, Wang J. Systematic investigation of the multi-scale mechanisms of herbal medicine on treating ventricular remodeling: Theoretical and experimental studies. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 112:154706. [PMID: 36796187 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To explore the underlying molecule mechanism of herbal medicine in preventing ventricular remodeling (VR), we take a herbal formula that is clinically effective for preventing VR as an example, which composed of Pachyma hoelen Rumph, Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz., Cassia Twig and Licorice. Due to multi-components and multi-targets in herbal medicine, it is extremely difficult to systematically explain its mechanisms of action. METHODS An innovative systematic investigation framework which combines with pharmacokinetic screening, target fishing, network pharmacology, DeepDDI algorithm, computational chemistry, molecular thermodynamics, in vivo and in vitro experiments was performed for deciphering the underlying molecular mechanisms of herbal medicine for treating VR. RESULTS ADME screening and SysDT algorithm determined 75 potentially active compounds and 109 corresponding targets. Then, systematic analysis of networks reveals the crucial active ingredients and key targets in herbal medicine. Additionally, transcriptomic analysis identifies 33 key regulators during VR progression. Moreover, PPI network and biological function enrichment present four crucial signaling pathways, i.e. NF-κB and TNF, PI3K-AKT and C-type lectin receptor signaling pathways involved in VR. Besides, both molecular experiments at animal and cell levels reveal the beneficial effect of herbal medicine on preventing VR. Finally, MD simulations and binding free energy validate the reliability of drug-target interactions. CONCLUSION Our novelty is to build a systematic strategy which combines various theoretical methods combined with experimental approaches. This strategy provides a deep understanding for the study of molecular mechanisms of herbal medicine on treating diseases from systematic level, and offers a new idea for modern medicine to explore drug interventions for complex diseases as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinfeng Yang
- School of Medical Informatics Engineering, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230012, China
| | - Yuan Xu
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230012, China
| | - Shanna Qian
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230012, China
| | - Tongjuan Tang
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230012, China
| | - Kangyong Wang
- School of Medical Informatics Engineering, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230012, China
| | - Jie Feng
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230012, China
| | - Ran Ding
- School of Medical Informatics Engineering, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230012, China
| | - Juan Yao
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230012, China
| | - Jinling Huang
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230012, China.
| | - Jinghui Wang
- School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui 230012, China.
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Fu L, Adu-Amankwaah J, Sang L, Tang Z, Gong Z, Zhang X, Li T, Sun H. Gender differences in GRK2 in cardiovascular diseases and its interactions with estrogen. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2023; 324:C505-C516. [PMID: 36622065 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00407.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptor kinase 2 (GRK2) is a multifunctional protein involved in regulating G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) and non-GPCR signaling in the body. In the cardiovascular system, increased expression of GRK2 has been implicated in the occurrence and development of several cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Recent studies have found gender differences in GRK2 in the cardiovascular system under physiological and pathological conditions, where GRK2's expression and activity are increased in males than in females. The incidence of CVDs in premenopausal women is lower than in men of the same age, which is related to estrogen levels. Given the shared location of GRK2 and estrogen receptors, estrogen may interact with GRK2 by modulating vital molecules such as calmodulin (CaM), caveolin, RhoA, nitrate oxide (NO), and mouse double minute 2 homolog (Mdm2), via signaling pathways mediated by estrogen's genomic (ERα and ERβ), and non-genomic (GPER) receptors, conferring cardiovascular protection in females. Highlighting the gender differences in GRK2 and understanding its interaction with estrogen in the cardiovascular system is pertinent in treating gender-related CVDs. As a result, this article explores the gender differences of GRK2 in the cardiovascular system and its relationship with estrogen during disease conditions. Estrogen's protective and therapeutic effects and its mechanism on GRK2-related cardiovascular diseases have also been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Fu
- Department of Physiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Joseph Adu-Amankwaah
- Department of Physiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Lili Sang
- Department of Physiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China.,National Demonstration Center for Experimental Basic Medical Science Education, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Ziqing Tang
- Department of Physiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Zheng Gong
- Department of Physiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China.,School of Public Affairs & Governance, Silliman University, Dumaguete, Philippines
| | - Xiaoyan Zhang
- Department of Physiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Li
- Department of Physiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Sun
- Department of Physiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, People's Republic of China
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Hajializadeh Z, Khaksari M, Dabiri S, Darvishzadeh Mahani F, Raji-Amirhasani A, Bejeshk MA. Protective effects of calorie restriction and 17-β estradiol on cardiac hypertrophy in ovariectomized obese rats. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0282089. [PMID: 37098007 PMCID: PMC10128952 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0282089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity and menopause lead to cardiovascular diseases. Calorie restriction (CR) can modulate estrogen deficiency and obesity-related cardiovascular diseases. The protective effects of CR and estradiol on cardiac hypertrophy in ovariectomized obese rats were explored in this study. The adult female Wistar rats were divided into sham and ovariectomized (OVX) groups that received a high-fat diet (60% HFD) or standard diet (SD) or 30% CR for 16 weeks, and then, 1mg/kg E2 (17-β estradiol) was injected intraperitoneally every 4 days for four weeks in OVX-rats. Hemodynamic parameters were evaluated before and after each diet. Heart tissues were collected for biochemical, histological, and molecular analysis. HFD consumption led to weight gain in sham and OVX rats. In contrast, CR and E2 led to body weight loss in these animals. Also, heart weight (HW), heart weight/body weight (HW/BW) ratio, and left ventricular weight (LVW) were enhanced in OVX rats that received SD and HFD. E2 reduced these indexes in both diet conditions but reduction effects of CR were seen only in HFD groups. HFD and SD feeding increased hemodynamic parameters, ANP (atrial natriuretic peptide) mRNA expression, and TGF-β1(transforming growth factor-beta 1) protein level in the OVX animals, while CR and E2 reduced these factors. Cardiomyocyte diameter and hydroxyproline content were increased in the OVX-HFD groups. Nevertheless, CR and E2 decreased these indicators. The results showed that CR and E2 treatment reduced obesity-induced-cardiac hypertrophy in ovariectomized groups (20% and 24% respectively). CR appears to have almost as reducing effects as estrogen therapy on cardiac hypertrophy. The findings suggest that CR can be considered a therapeutic candidate for postmenopausal cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Hajializadeh
- Physiology Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Khaksari
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Institute of Basic and Clinical Physiology Sciences, Kerman University of Medical Sciences Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - Shahriar Dabiri
- Pathology and Stem Cell Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Darvishzadeh Mahani
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Institute of Basic and Clinical Physiology Sciences, Kerman University of Medical Sciences Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - Alireza Raji-Amirhasani
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Institute of Basic and Clinical Physiology Sciences, Kerman University of Medical Sciences Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Abbas Bejeshk
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Afzalipour Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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Li B, Zhang L, Xie Y, Lei L, Qu W, Sui L. Evaluation of pharmacokinetics and safety of a long-term estradiol-releasing stent in rat uterine. Regen Ther 2022; 21:494-501. [PMID: 36313395 PMCID: PMC9596602 DOI: 10.1016/j.reth.2022.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Intrauterine adhesion (IUA), often leading to gynecological complications including amenorrhea, abdominal pain and infertility, is frequently induced by injuries to the endometrium. Hence it would be of great benefit to take efforts to prevent adhesion after intrauterine operations. Orally administration of 17β-estradiol (E2) is commonly used to promote endometrium regeneration, but is limited by low concentrations at the injured sites. We aim at preparing an E2-releasing uterine stent, which could improve the efficiency of E2 therapy and be utilized for IUA prevention. Methods We designed a silicone rubber stent, which could be implanted in the uterine cavity and continuously release E2 in long term. Stents were placed in rodent uterine, and removed at different time points. Remaining E2 in stent was measured by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and organ E2 concentrations were detected by enzyme-linked immuno sorbent assay (ELISA). Endometrium morphology was examined by histological staining of paraffin sections. Results Our stent showed a controlled release of E2 in rodent uterine for over 60 days, and significantly increased E2 concentration in serum and in situ uterine. After the stent was removed from uterine, E2 rapidly reverted to a normal level. Also, the stent did not induce pathological changes in endometrium. Conclusions The uterine stent provided abundant local E2 in uterine cavity with satisfactory safety. The silicone rubber based E2-releasing uterine stent could be further advanced by adjusting its shape and E2 load for its clinical application, and might promisingly help lowering the incidence of IUA. The silicone rubber uterine stent continuously released E2 in long term. The E2-releasing uterine stent revealed more efficient E2 delivery capacity than orally administrated E2. The E2-releasing uterine stent is safe for endometrium and remote organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boning Li
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China,Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Center of Diagnosis and Treatment for Cervical Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Yu Xie
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Lei Lei
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Wenjie Qu
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Long Sui
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China,Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Center of Diagnosis and Treatment for Cervical Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China,Corresponding author. Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China.
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Bamboo Shoot and Artemisia capillaris Extract Mixture Ameliorates Dextran Sodium Sulfate-Induced Colitis. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2022; 44:5086-5103. [PMID: 36286060 PMCID: PMC9600592 DOI: 10.3390/cimb44100345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal tract and is characterized by recurrent chronic inflammation and mucosal damage of the gastrointestinal tract. Recent studies have demonstrated that bamboo shoot (BS) and Artemisia capillaris (AC) extracts enhance anti-inflammatory effects in various disease models. However, it is uncertain whether there is a synergistic protective effect of BS and AC in dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis. In the current study, we tested the combined effects of BS and AC extracts (BA) on colitis using in vivo and in vitro models. Compared with control mice, oral administration of DSS exacerbated colon length and increased the disease activity index (DAI) and histological damage. In DSS-induced colitis, treatment with BA significantly alleviated DSS-induced symptoms such as colon shortening, DAI, histological damage, and colonic pro-inflammatory marker expression compared to single extracts (BS or AC) treatment. Furthermore, we found BA treatment attenuated the ROS generation, F-actin formation, and RhoA activity compared with the single extract (BS or AC) treatment in DSS-treated cell lines. Collectively, these findings suggest that BA treatment has a positive synergistic protective effect on colonic inflammation compared with single extracts, it may be a highly effective complementary natural extract mixture for the prevention or treatment of IBD.
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Signaling pathways and targeted therapy for myocardial infarction. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:78. [PMID: 35273164 PMCID: PMC8913803 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-00925-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 213] [Impact Index Per Article: 106.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the treatment of myocardial infarction (MI) has improved considerably, it is still a worldwide disease with high morbidity and high mortality. Whilst there is still a long way to go for discovering ideal treatments, therapeutic strategies committed to cardioprotection and cardiac repair following cardiac ischemia are emerging. Evidence of pathological characteristics in MI illustrates cell signaling pathways that participate in the survival, proliferation, apoptosis, autophagy of cardiomyocytes, endothelial cells, fibroblasts, monocytes, and stem cells. These signaling pathways include the key players in inflammation response, e.g., NLRP3/caspase-1 and TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB; the crucial mediators in oxidative stress and apoptosis, for instance, Notch, Hippo/YAP, RhoA/ROCK, Nrf2/HO-1, and Sonic hedgehog; the controller of myocardial fibrosis such as TGF-β/SMADs and Wnt/β-catenin; and the main regulator of angiogenesis, PI3K/Akt, MAPK, JAK/STAT, Sonic hedgehog, etc. Since signaling pathways play an important role in administering the process of MI, aiming at targeting these aberrant signaling pathways and improving the pathological manifestations in MI is indispensable and promising. Hence, drug therapy, gene therapy, protein therapy, cell therapy, and exosome therapy have been emerging and are known as novel therapies. In this review, we summarize the therapeutic strategies for MI by regulating these associated pathways, which contribute to inhibiting cardiomyocytes death, attenuating inflammation, enhancing angiogenesis, etc. so as to repair and re-functionalize damaged hearts.
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7
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Merve AO, Sobiecka P, Remeškevičius V, Taylor L, Saskoy L, Lawton S, Jones BP, Elwakeel A, Mackenzie FE, Polycarpou E, Bennett J, Rooney B. Metabolites of Cannabis Induce Cardiac Toxicity and Morphological Alterations in Cardiac Myocytes. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031401. [PMID: 35163321 PMCID: PMC8835806 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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: 01/01/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabis is one of the most commonly used recreational drugs worldwide. Rrecent epidemiology studies have linked increased cardiac complications to cannabis use. However, this literature is predominantly based on case incidents and post-mortem investigations. This study elucidates the molecular mechanism of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and its primary metabolites 11-Hydroxy-Δ9-THC (THC-OH) and 11-nor-9-carboxy-Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC-COOH). Treatment of cardiac myocytes with THC-OH and THC-COOH increased cell migration and proliferation (p < 0.05), with no effect on cell adhesion, with higher doses (250–100 ng/mL) resulting in increased cell death and significant deterioration in cellular architecture. Conversely, no changes in cell morphology or viability were observed in response to THC. Expression of key ECM proteins α-SMA and collagen were up-regulated in response to THC-OH and THC-COOH treatments with concomitant modulation of PI3K and MAPK signalling. Investigations in the planarian animal model Polycelis nigra demonstrated that treatments with cannabinoid metabolites resulted in increased protein deposition at transection sites while higher doses resulted in significant lethality and decline in regeneration. These results highlight that the key metabolites of cannabis elicit toxic effects independent of the parent and psychoactive compound, with implications for cardiotoxicity relating to hypertrophy and fibrogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayse Orme Merve
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames, London KT1 2EE, UK; (A.O.M.); (P.S.); (V.R.); (L.T.); (L.S.); (S.L.); (B.P.J.); (F.E.M.); (E.P.)
| | - Pola Sobiecka
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames, London KT1 2EE, UK; (A.O.M.); (P.S.); (V.R.); (L.T.); (L.S.); (S.L.); (B.P.J.); (F.E.M.); (E.P.)
| | - Vytautas Remeškevičius
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames, London KT1 2EE, UK; (A.O.M.); (P.S.); (V.R.); (L.T.); (L.S.); (S.L.); (B.P.J.); (F.E.M.); (E.P.)
| | - Luke Taylor
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames, London KT1 2EE, UK; (A.O.M.); (P.S.); (V.R.); (L.T.); (L.S.); (S.L.); (B.P.J.); (F.E.M.); (E.P.)
| | - Lili Saskoy
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames, London KT1 2EE, UK; (A.O.M.); (P.S.); (V.R.); (L.T.); (L.S.); (S.L.); (B.P.J.); (F.E.M.); (E.P.)
| | - Scott Lawton
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames, London KT1 2EE, UK; (A.O.M.); (P.S.); (V.R.); (L.T.); (L.S.); (S.L.); (B.P.J.); (F.E.M.); (E.P.)
| | - Ben P. Jones
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames, London KT1 2EE, UK; (A.O.M.); (P.S.); (V.R.); (L.T.); (L.S.); (S.L.); (B.P.J.); (F.E.M.); (E.P.)
| | - Ahmed Elwakeel
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Life Sciences (CSELS), Coventry University, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Alison Gingell Building, Whitefriars Street, Coventry CV1 2DS, UK; (A.E.); (J.B.)
| | - Francesca E. Mackenzie
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames, London KT1 2EE, UK; (A.O.M.); (P.S.); (V.R.); (L.T.); (L.S.); (S.L.); (B.P.J.); (F.E.M.); (E.P.)
| | - Elena Polycarpou
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames, London KT1 2EE, UK; (A.O.M.); (P.S.); (V.R.); (L.T.); (L.S.); (S.L.); (B.P.J.); (F.E.M.); (E.P.)
| | - Jason Bennett
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Life Sciences (CSELS), Coventry University, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Alison Gingell Building, Whitefriars Street, Coventry CV1 2DS, UK; (A.E.); (J.B.)
| | - Brian Rooney
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames, London KT1 2EE, UK; (A.O.M.); (P.S.); (V.R.); (L.T.); (L.S.); (S.L.); (B.P.J.); (F.E.M.); (E.P.)
- Correspondence:
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Aimo A, Panichella G, Barison A, Maffei S, Cameli M, Coiro S, D'Ascenzi F, Di Mario C, Liga R, Marcucci R, Morrone D, Olivotto I, Tritto I, Emdin M. Sex-related differences in ventricular remodeling after myocardial infarction. Int J Cardiol 2021; 339:62-69. [PMID: 34314766 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2021.07.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The epidemiology, clinical features and outcome of myocardial infarction (MI) display significant differences between men and women. Prominent sex differences have also been suggested in left ventricular (LV) remodeling after MI. Ventricular remodeling refers to a deterioration of LV geometry and function often leading to heart failure (HF) development and an increased risk of adverse cardiovascular events. Women have a lower propensity to the acquisition of a spherical geometry and LV dysfunction. These differences can be attributed at least partially to a lower frequency of transmural infarction and smaller areas of microvascular obstruction in women, as well as to a less prominent activation of neuroendocrine systems and apoptotic, inflammatory and profibrotic pathways in women. Estrogens might play a role in this difference, which could partially persist even after the menopause because of a persisting intramyocardial synthesis of estrogens in women. Conversely, androgens may exert a detrimental influence. Future studies should better clarify sex differences in the predictors, clinical correlates, prognostic impact and disease mechanisms of remodeling, as well as the existence of sex-specific therapeutic targets. This research effort should hopefully allow to optimize the treatment of MI during the acute and post-acute phase, possibly through different therapeutic strategies in men and women, with the goal of reducing the risk of HF development and improving patient outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Aimo
- Istituto di Scienze della Vita, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy; Fondazione Toscana Gabriele Monasterio, Pisa, Italy.
| | | | - Andrea Barison
- Istituto di Scienze della Vita, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy; Fondazione Toscana Gabriele Monasterio, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Matteo Cameli
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, Section of Cardiology, University of Siena, Italy
| | - Stefano Coiro
- Division of Cardiology, University of Perugia, Italy
| | - Flavio D'Ascenzi
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, Section of Cardiology, University of Siena, Italy
| | - Carlo Di Mario
- Structural Interventional Cardiology, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Riccardo Liga
- Cardio-Thoracic and Vascular Department, University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Rossella Marcucci
- Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Atherothrombotic Center, AOU Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Doralisa Morrone
- Cardio-Thoracic and Vascular Department, University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Iacopo Olivotto
- Cardiomiopathy Unit, AOU Careggi, Florence, Italy. Società Italiana di Cardiologia, Sezione Regionale Tosco-Umbra
| | | | - Michele Emdin
- Istituto di Scienze della Vita, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy; Fondazione Toscana Gabriele Monasterio, Pisa, Italy
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Cocaine Induces Cytoskeletal Changes in Cardiac Myocytes: Implications for Cardiac Morphology. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052263. [PMID: 33668403 PMCID: PMC7956613 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Cocaine is one of the most widely abused illicit drugs worldwide and has long been recognised as an agent of cardiac dysfunction in numerous cases of drug overdose. Cocaine has previously been shown to up-regulate cytoskeletal rearrangements and morphological changes in numerous tissues; however, previous literature observes such changes primarily in clinical case reports and addiction studies. An investigation into the fundamental cytoskeletal parameters of migration, adhesion and proliferation were studied to determine the cytoskeletal and cytotoxic basis of cocaine in cardiac cells. Treatment of cardiac myocytes with cocaine increased cell migration and adhesion (p < 0.05), with no effect on cell proliferation, except with higher doses eliciting (1–10 μg/mL) its diminution and increase in cell death. Cocaine downregulated phosphorylation of cofilin, decreased expression of adhesion modulators (integrin-β3) and increased expression of ezirin within three hours of 1 μg/mL treatments. These functional responses were associated with changes in cellular morphology, including alterations in membrane stability and a stellate-like phenotype with less compaction between cells. Higher dose treatments of cocaine (5–10 μg/mL) were associated with significant cardiomyocyte cell death (p < 0.05) and loss of cellular architecture. These results highlight the importance of cocaine in mediating cardiomyocyte function and cytotoxicity associated with the possible loss of intercellular contacts required to maintain normal cell viability, with implications for cardiotoxicity relating to hypertrophy and fibrogenesis.
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10
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da Silva JS, Montagnoli TL, Rocha BS, Tacco MLCA, Marinho SCP, Zapata-Sudo G. Estrogen Receptors: Therapeutic Perspectives for the Treatment of Cardiac Dysfunction after Myocardial Infarction. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:E525. [PMID: 33430254 PMCID: PMC7825655 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Estrogen receptors (ER) mediate functions beyond their endocrine roles, as modulation of cardiovascular, renal, and immune systems through anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects, preventing necrosis of cardiomyocytes and endothelial cells, and attenuating cardiac hypertrophy. Estradiol (E2) prevents cardiac dysfunction, increases nitric oxide synthesis, and reduces the proliferation of vascular cells, yielding protective effects, regardless of gender. Such actions are mediated by ER (ER-alpha (ERα), ER-beta (ERβ), or G protein-coupled ER (GPER)) through genomic or non-genomic pathways, which regulate cardiovascular function and prevent tissue remodeling. Despite the extensive knowledge on the cardioprotective effects of estrogen, clinical studies conducted on myocardial infarction (MI) and cardiovascular diseases still include favorable and unfavorable profiles. The purpose of this review is to provide up-to-date information regarding molecular, preclinical, and clinical aspects of cardiovascular E2 effects and ER modulation as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of MI-induced cardiac dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaqueline S. da Silva
- Programa de Pesquisa em Desenvolvimento de Fármacos, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (J.S.d.S.); (T.L.M.); (B.S.R.); (M.L.C.A.T.); (S.C.P.M.)
| | - Tadeu L. Montagnoli
- Programa de Pesquisa em Desenvolvimento de Fármacos, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (J.S.d.S.); (T.L.M.); (B.S.R.); (M.L.C.A.T.); (S.C.P.M.)
| | - Bruna S. Rocha
- Programa de Pesquisa em Desenvolvimento de Fármacos, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (J.S.d.S.); (T.L.M.); (B.S.R.); (M.L.C.A.T.); (S.C.P.M.)
| | - Matheus L. C. A. Tacco
- Programa de Pesquisa em Desenvolvimento de Fármacos, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (J.S.d.S.); (T.L.M.); (B.S.R.); (M.L.C.A.T.); (S.C.P.M.)
| | - Sophia C. P. Marinho
- Programa de Pesquisa em Desenvolvimento de Fármacos, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (J.S.d.S.); (T.L.M.); (B.S.R.); (M.L.C.A.T.); (S.C.P.M.)
| | - Gisele Zapata-Sudo
- Programa de Pesquisa em Desenvolvimento de Fármacos, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (J.S.d.S.); (T.L.M.); (B.S.R.); (M.L.C.A.T.); (S.C.P.M.)
- Instituto de Cardiologia Edson Saad, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
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11
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Li J, Huang B, Dong L, Zhong Y, Huang Z. WJ‑MSCs intervention may relieve intrauterine adhesions in female rats via TGF‑β1‑mediated Rho/ROCK signaling inhibition. Mol Med Rep 2020; 23:8. [PMID: 33179074 PMCID: PMC7673328 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2020.11646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogen is a commonly used hormone in the adjuvant treatment of intrauterine adhesion (IUA), which can promote endometrial growth. Stem cell transplantation has also been reported to promote endometrial regeneration in IUA due to its potential differentiative capacity. Human Wharton's jelly mesenchymal stem cells (WJ-MSCs) are isolated from the umbilical cord, possess strong self-renewal and proliferative abilities, and are hypo-immunogenic and non-tumorigenic. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects and underlying mechanism of WJ-MSCs transplantation with estrogen treatment, separately or as a combined therapy, on IUA. The IUA model was established using the ethanol damage method. A total of 50 Sprague-Dawley female rats were randomly divided into the control, IUA model, WJ-MSCs treatment, estrogen treatment and WJ-MSCs+ estrogen treatment groups (n=10/group). WJ-MSCs were injected three times at 5-day intervals. IUA rats in the estrogen group received 0.2 mg/kg estrogen through intragastric administration, once every 2 days for 8 weeks. Morphological changes were evaluated by hematoxylin-eosin staining. Immunohistochemical evaluations of pan-keratin, vimentin, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, RhoA, RhoB, RhoC, Rho-associated coiled-coil-containing protein kinase (ROCK)I, and ROCKII expression were performed in uterine tissue. After treatment, the uterine specimens were observed to have increased uterine thickness and gland numbers in all treatment groups compared with the IUA group; however, the degree of restoration in the independent WJ-MSCs and estrogen treatment groups was better than in the combined treatment group. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated that pan-keratin expression was increased, and RhoA, ROCKI and TGF-β1 expression was significantly inhibited in the WJ-MSCs and WJ-MSCs + estrogen treatment groups compared with the IUA group; however, the expression levels of these proteins were similar among all treatment groups. No change in vimentin expression was detected in any treatment group. The expression levels of RhoB, RhoC and ROCKII were clearly not affected by WJ-MSCs intervention alone. In conclusion, transplantation of WJ-MSCs may repair endometrial damage in IUA rats via TGF-β1-mediated inhibition of RhoA/ROCKI signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Bo Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Lan Dong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Yajuan Zhong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Zhixin Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
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12
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Shi J, Xiao P, Liu X, Chen Y, Xu Y, Fan J, Yin Y. Notch3 Modulates Cardiac Fibroblast Proliferation, Apoptosis, and Fibroblast to Myofibroblast Transition via Negative Regulation of the RhoA/ROCK/Hif1α Axis. Front Physiol 2020; 11:669. [PMID: 32695015 PMCID: PMC7339920 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis is a common pathological process in multiple cardiovascular diseases, including myocardial infarction (MI). Abnormal cardiac fibroblast (CF) activity is a key event in cardiac fibrosis. Although the Notch signaling pathway has been reported to play a vital role in protection from cardiac fibrosis, the exact mechanisms underlying cardiac fibrosis and protection from it have not yet been elucidated. Similarly, Hif1α and the RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway have been shown to participate in cardiac fibrosis. The RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway has been reported to be an upstream pathway of Hif1α in several pathophysiological processes. In the present study, we aimed to determine the effects of notch3 on CF activity and its relationship with the RhoA/ROCK/Hif1α signaling pathway. Using in vitro experiments, we demonstrated that notch3 inhibited CF proliferation and fibroblast to myofibroblast transition (FMT) and promoted CF apoptosis. A knockdown of notch3 using siRNAs had the exact opposite effect. Next, we found that notch3 regulated CF activity by negative regulation of the RhoA/ROCK/Hif1α signaling pathway. Extending CF-based studies to an in vivo rat MI model, we showed that overexpression of notch3 by the Ad-N3ICD injection attenuated the increase of RhoA, ROCK1, ROCK2, and Hif1α levels following MI and further prevented MI-induced cardiac fibrosis. On the basis of these results, we conclude that notch3 is involved in the regulation of several aspects of CF activity, including proliferation, FMT, and apoptosis, by inhibiting the RhoA/ROCK/Hif1α signaling pathway. These findings are significant to further our understanding of the pathogenesis of cardiac fibrosis and to ultimately identify new therapeutic targets for cardiac fibrosis, potentially based on the RhoA/ROCK/Hif1α signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianli Shi
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Peilin Xiao
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoli Liu
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yunlin Chen
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yanping Xu
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jinqi Fan
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Department of Biomedical Engineering and Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Yuehui Yin
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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13
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Dworatzek E, Mahmoodzadeh S, Schriever C, Kusumoto K, Kramer L, Santos G, Fliegner D, Leung YK, Ho SM, Zimmermann WH, Lutz S, Regitz-Zagrosek V. Sex-specific regulation of collagen I and III expression by 17β-Estradiol in cardiac fibroblasts: role of estrogen receptors. Cardiovasc Res 2020; 115:315-327. [PMID: 30016401 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvy185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims Sex differences in cardiac fibrosis point to the regulatory role of 17β-Estradiol (E2) in cardiac fibroblasts (CF). We, therefore, asked whether male and female CF in rodent and human models are differentially susceptible to E2, and whether this is related to sex-specific activation of estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and beta (ERβ). Methods and results In female rat CF (rCF), 24 h E2-treatment (10-8 M) led to a significant down-regulation of collagen I and III expression, whereas both collagens were up-regulated in male rCF. E2-induced sex-specific collagen regulation was also detected in human CF, indicating that this regulation is conserved across species. Using specific ERα- and ERβ-agonists (10-7 M) for 24 h, we identified ERα as repressive and ERβ as inducing factor in female and male rCF, respectively. In addition, E2-induced ERα phosphorylation at Ser118 only in female rCF, whereas Ser105 phosphorylation of ERβ was exclusively found in male rCF. Further, in female rCF we found both ER bound to the collagen I and III promoters using chromatin immunoprecipitation assays. In contrast, in male rCF only ERβ bound to both promoters. In engineered connective tissues (ECT) from rCF, collagen I and III mRNA were down-regulated in female ECT and up-regulated in male ECT by E2. This was accompanied by an impaired condensation of female ECT, whereas male ECT showed an increased condensation and stiffness upon E2-treatment, analysed by rheological measurements. Finally, we confirmed the E2-effect on both collagens in an in vivo mouse model with ovariectomy for E2 depletion, E2 substitution, and pressure overload by transverse aortic constriction. Conclusion The mechanism underlying the sex-specific regulation of collagen I and III in the heart appears to involve E2-mediated differential ERα and ERβ signaling in CFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke Dworatzek
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Gender in Medicine, Center for Cardiovascular Research, Berlin, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Shokoufeh Mahmoodzadeh
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Max-Delbrueck-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany
| | - Cindy Schriever
- Max-Delbrueck-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany
| | - Kana Kusumoto
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Gender in Medicine, Center for Cardiovascular Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lisa Kramer
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Gender in Medicine, Center for Cardiovascular Research, Berlin, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gabriela Santos
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.,DZHK, partner site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | | | - Yuet-Kin Leung
- Division of Environmental Genetics and Molecular Toxicology, Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Shuk-Mei Ho
- Division of Environmental Genetics and Molecular Toxicology, Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Wolfram-Hubertus Zimmermann
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.,DZHK, partner site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Susanne Lutz
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.,DZHK, partner site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Vera Regitz-Zagrosek
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Gender in Medicine, Center for Cardiovascular Research, Berlin, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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14
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Yu B, Sladojevic N, Blair JE, Liao JK. Targeting Rho-associated coiled-coil forming protein kinase (ROCK) in cardiovascular fibrosis and stiffening. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2020; 24:47-62. [PMID: 31906742 PMCID: PMC7662835 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2020.1712593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Pathological cardiac fibrosis, through excessive extracellular matrix protein deposition from fibroblasts and pro-fibrotic immune responses and vascular stiffening is associated with most forms of cardiovascular disease. Pathological cardiac fibrosis and stiffening can lead to heart failure and arrythmias and vascular stiffening may lead to hypertension. ROCK, a serine/threonine kinase downstream of the Rho-family of GTPases, may regulate many pro-fibrotic and pro-stiffening signaling pathways in numerous cell types.Areas covered: This article outlines the molecular mechanisms by which ROCK in fibroblasts, T helper cells, endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells, and macrophages mediate fibrosis and stiffening. We speculate on how ROCK could be targeted to inhibit cardiovascular fibrosis and stiffening.Expert opinion: Critical gaps in knowledge must be addressed if ROCK inhibitors are to be used in the clinic. Numerous studies indicate that each ROCK isoform may play differential roles in regulating fibrosis and may have opposing roles in specific tissues. Future work needs to highlight the isoform- and tissue-specific contributions of ROCK in fibrosis, and how isoform-specific ROCK inhibitors in murine models and in clinical trials affect the pathophysiology of cardiac fibrosis and stiffening. This could progress knowledge regarding new treatments for heart failure, arrythmias and hypertension and the repair processes after myocardial infarction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Yu
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Nikola Sladojevic
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - John E Blair
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - James K Liao
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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15
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Abstract
Rho kinases (ROCKs) are the first discovered RhoA effectors that are now widely known for their effects on actin organization. Recent studies have shown that ROCKs play important roles in cardiac physiology. Abnormal activation of ROCKs participate in multiple cardiovascular pathological processes, including cardiac hypertrophy, apoptosis, fibrosis, systemic hypertension, and pulmonary hypertension. ROCK inhibitors, fasudil and statins, have shown beneficial cardiovascular effects in many animal studies, clinical trials, and applications. Here, we mainly discuss the current understanding of the physiological roles of Rho kinase signaling in the heart, and briefly summarize the roles of ROCKs in cardiac-related vascular dysfunctions. We will also discuss the clinical application of ROCK inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Dai
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Weijia Luo
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jiang Chang
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
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16
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Rangrez AY, Hoppe P, Kuhn C, Zille E, Frank J, Frey N, Frank D. MicroRNA miR-301a is a novel cardiac regulator of Cofilin-2. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0183901. [PMID: 28886070 PMCID: PMC5590826 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0183901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Calsarcin-1 deficient mice develop dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) phenotype in pure C57BL/6 genetic background (Cs1-ko) despite severe contractile dysfunction and robust activation of fetal gene program. Here we performed a microRNA microarray to identify the molecular causes of this cardiac phenotype that revealed the dysregulation of several microRNAs including miR-301a, which was highly downregulated in Cs1-ko mice compared to the wild-type littermates. Cofilin-2 (Cfl2) was identified as one of the potential targets of miR-301a using prediction databases, which we validated by luciferase assay and mutation of predicted binding sites. Furthermore, expression of miR-301a contrastingly regulated Cfl2 expression levels in neonatal rat ventricular cardiomyocytes (NRVCM). Along these lines, Cfl2 was significantly upregulated in Cs1-ko mice, indicating the physiological association between miR-301a and Cfl2 in vivo. Mechanistically, we found that Cfl2 activated serum response factor response element (SRF-RE) driven luciferase activity in neonatal rat cardiomyocytes and in C2C12 cells. Similarly, knockdown of miR301a activated, whereas, its overexpression inhibited the SRF-RE driven luciferase activity, further strengthening physiological interaction between miR-301a and Cfl2. Interestingly, the expression of SRF and its target genes was strikingly increased in Cs1-ko suggesting a possible in vivo correlation between expression levels of Cfl2/miR-301a and SRF activation, which needs to be independently validated. In summary, our data demonstrates that miR-301a regulates Cofilin-2 in vitro in NRVCM, and in vivo in Cs1-ko mice. Our findings provide an additional and important layer of Cfl2 regulation, which we believe has an extended role in cardiac signal transduction and dilated cardiomyopathy presumably due to the reported involvement of Cfl2 in these mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashraf Yusuf Rangrez
- Department of Internal Medicine III (Cardiology, Angiology, Intensive Care), University Medical Center Kiel, Kiel, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Kiel, Germany
| | - Phillip Hoppe
- Department of Internal Medicine III (Cardiology, Angiology, Intensive Care), University Medical Center Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Christian Kuhn
- Department of Internal Medicine III (Cardiology, Angiology, Intensive Care), University Medical Center Kiel, Kiel, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Kiel, Germany
| | - Elisa Zille
- Department of Internal Medicine III (Cardiology, Angiology, Intensive Care), University Medical Center Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Johanne Frank
- Department of Internal Medicine III (Cardiology, Angiology, Intensive Care), University Medical Center Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Norbert Frey
- Department of Internal Medicine III (Cardiology, Angiology, Intensive Care), University Medical Center Kiel, Kiel, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Kiel, Germany
| | - Derk Frank
- Department of Internal Medicine III (Cardiology, Angiology, Intensive Care), University Medical Center Kiel, Kiel, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Kiel, Germany
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17
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Regitz-Zagrosek V, Kararigas G. Mechanistic Pathways of Sex Differences in Cardiovascular Disease. Physiol Rev 2017; 97:1-37. [PMID: 27807199 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00021.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 395] [Impact Index Per Article: 56.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Major differences between men and women exist in epidemiology, manifestation, pathophysiology, treatment, and outcome of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), such as coronary artery disease, pressure overload, hypertension, cardiomyopathy, and heart failure. Corresponding sex differences have been studied in a number of animal models, and mechanistic investigations have been undertaken to analyze the observed sex differences. We summarize the biological mechanisms of sex differences in CVD focusing on three main areas, i.e., genetic mechanisms, epigenetic mechanisms, as well as sex hormones and their receptors. We discuss relevant subtypes of sex hormone receptors, as well as genomic and nongenomic, activational and organizational effects of sex hormones. We describe the interaction of sex hormones with intracellular signaling relevant for cardiovascular cells and the cardiovascular system. Sex, sex hormones, and their receptors may affect a number of cellular processes by their synergistic action on multiple targets. We discuss in detail sex differences in organelle function and in biological processes. We conclude that there is a need for a more detailed understanding of sex differences and their underlying mechanisms, which holds the potential to design new drugs that target sex-specific cardiovascular mechanisms and affect phenotypes. The comparison of both sexes may lead to the identification of protective or maladaptive mechanisms in one sex that could serve as a novel therapeutic target in one sex or in both.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Regitz-Zagrosek
- Institute of Gender in Medicine & Center for Cardiovascular Research, Charite University Hospital, and DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany
| | - Georgios Kararigas
- Institute of Gender in Medicine & Center for Cardiovascular Research, Charite University Hospital, and DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany
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18
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Luo S, Hieu TB, Ma F, Yu Y, Cao Z, Wang M, Wu W, Mao Y, Rose P, Law BYK, Zhu YZ. ZYZ-168 alleviates cardiac fibrosis after myocardial infarction through inhibition of ERK1/2-dependent ROCK1 activation. Sci Rep 2017; 7:43242. [PMID: 28266583 PMCID: PMC5339863 DOI: 10.1038/srep43242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2016] [Accepted: 01/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Selective treatments for myocardial infarction (MI) induced cardiac fibrosis are lacking. In this study, we focus on the therapeutic potential of a synthetic cardio-protective agent named ZYZ-168 towards MI-induced cardiac fibrosis and try to reveal the underlying mechanism. ZYZ-168 was administered to rats with coronary artery ligation over a period of six weeks. Ecocardiography and Masson staining showed that ZYZ-168 substantially improved cardiac function and reduced interstitial fibrosis. The expression of α–smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and Collagen I were reduced as was the activity of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9). These were related with decreased phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and expression of Rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein kinase 1 (ROCK1). In cardiac fibroblasts stimulated with TGF-β1, phenotypic switches of cardiac fibroblasts to myofibroblasts were observed. Inhibition of ERK1/2 phosphorylation or knockdown of ROCK1 expectedly reduced TGF-β1 induced fibrotic responses. ZYZ-168 appeared to inhibit the fibrotic responses in a concentration dependent manner, in part via a decrease in ROCK 1 expression through inhibition of the phosphorylation status of ERK1/2. For inhibition of ERK1/2 phosphorylation with a specific inhibitor reduced the activation of ROCK1. Considering its anti-apoptosis activity in MI, ZYZ-168 may be a potential drug candidate for treatment of MI-induced cardiac fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Luo
- Pharmacy and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, China.,Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tran Ba Hieu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fenfen Ma
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Department of Cardiology, Xin Hua Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhonglian Cao
- Instrumental Analysis Center, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Minjun Wang
- Pharmacy and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, China.,Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weijun Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yicheng Mao
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Peter Rose
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, Leics LE12 5RD, UK
| | - Betty Yuen-Kwan Law
- Pharmacy and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, China
| | - Yi Zhun Zhu
- Pharmacy and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, China.,Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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19
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Effects of linagliptin and liraglutide on glucose- and angiotensin II-induced collagen formation and cytoskeleton degradation in cardiac fibroblasts in vitro. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2016; 37:1349-1358. [PMID: 27498780 DOI: 10.1038/aps.2016.72] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2016] [Accepted: 05/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors can not only lower blood glucose levels, but also alleviate cardiac remodeling after myocardial ischemia and hypertension. In the present study, we investigated the effects of a DPP-4 inhibitor (linagliptin) and a GLP-1 activator (liraglutide) on glucose- and angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced collagen formation and cytoskeleton reorganization in cardiac fibroblasts in vitro, and elucidated the related mechanisms. METHODS Cardiac fibroblasts were isolated from the hearts of 6-week-old C57BL/6 mice, and then exposed to different concentrations of glucose or Ang II for 24 h. The expression of fibrotic signals (fibronectin, collagen-1, -3 and -4), as well as ERK1/2 and NF-κB-p65 in the fibroblasts was examined using Western blotting assays. F-actin degradation was detected under inverted laser confocal microscope in fibroblasts stained with Rhodamine phalloidin. RESULTS Glucose (1-40 mmol/L) and Ang II (10-8-10-5 mol/L) dose-dependently increased the expression of fibronectin, collagens, phospho-ERK1/2 and phospho-NF-κB-p65 in cardiac fibroblasts. High concentrations of glucose (≥40 mmol/L) and Ang II (≥10-6 mol/L) caused a significant degradation of F-actin (less assembly F-actin fibers and more disassembly fibers). ERK1/2 inhibitor U0126 (10 μmol/L) and NF-κB inhibitor JSH-23 (10 μmol/L) both markedly suppressed glucose- and angiotensin II-induced fibronectin and collagen expressions in cardiac fibroblasts. Furthermore, pretreatment with liraglutide (10-100 nmol/L) or linagliptin (3 and 30 nmol/L) significantly decreased glucose- and Ang II-induced expression of fibrotic signals, phospho-ERK1/2 and phospho-NF-κB-p65 in cardiac fibroblasts. Moreover, pretreatment with liraglutide (30 nmol/L) or liraglutide (100 nmol/L) markedly inhibited glucose-induced F-actin degradation, however, only liraglutide inhibited Ang II-induced F-actin degradation. CONCLUSION Linagliptin and liraglutide inhibit glucose- and Ang II-induced collagen formation in cardiac fibroblasts via activation of the ERK/NF-κB/pathway. Linagliptin and liraglutide also markedly inhibit glucose-induced F-actin degradation in cardiac fibroblasts, but only liraglutide inhibits Ang II-induced F-actin degradation.
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20
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Wróbel A, Rechberger T. Ovariectomy May Induce Detrusor Overactivity in Rats: The Therapeutic Role of Rho Kinase Inhibition. Urology 2016; 93:225.e1-7. [PMID: 26988893 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2016.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2016] [Revised: 02/18/2016] [Accepted: 03/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To verify the impact of ovariectomy (OVX) on the micturition cycle in conscious rats; to examine the influence of rho kinase (ROCK) inhibition on the bladder detrusor in OVX rats; to assess the effect of the joint administration of the ROCK inhibitor (GSK 269962) and solifenacin succinate (SOL) to these animals. MATERIALS AND METHODS The impact of OVX or a single dose of GSK 269962 and/or SOL on the cystometric parameters was assessed 28 days after the procedure. RESULTS OVX caused an increase in detrusor overactivity index, amplitude, and frequency of nonvoiding contractions, along with a decrease in voided volume, volume threshold, intercontraction interval, bladder compliance, and volume threshold to elicit nonvoiding contractions. GSK 269962 administered in a dose of 10 mg/kg (but not 5 mg/kg) or SOL in a dose of 0.03 mg/kg (but not 0.015 mg/kg) triggered an increase in voided volume, volume threshold, intercontraction interval, bladder compliance, and volume threshold to elicit nonvoiding contractions, along with a decrease in detrusor overactivity index, amplitude, and frequency of nonvoiding contractions. A combined administration of GSK 269962 (5 mg/kg) and SOL (0.15 mg/kg), in doses ineffective in monotherapy, triggered a reversal in the OVX-induced cystometric changes. CONCLUSION It appears that ROCK inhibitors can become an alternative worth considering in overactive bladder syndrome treatment, especially in the light of the findings pointing to the decreased efficiency of antimuscarinic drugs in the overactive bladder syndrome treatment of postmenopausal women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrzej Wróbel
- Second Department of Gynecology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland.
| | - Tomasz Rechberger
- Second Department of Gynecology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
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Muka T, Vargas KG, Jaspers L, Wen KX, Dhana K, Vitezova A, Nano J, Brahimaj A, Colpani V, Bano A, Kraja B, Zaciragic A, Bramer WM, van Dijk GM, Kavousi M, Franco OH. Estrogen receptor β actions in the female cardiovascular system: A systematic review of animal and human studies. Maturitas 2016; 86:28-43. [PMID: 26921926 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2016.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2016] [Accepted: 01/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Five medical databases were searched for studies that assessed the role of ERβ in the female cardiovascular system and the influence of age and menopause on ERβ functioning. Of 9472 references, 88 studies met our inclusion criteria (71 animal model experimental studies, 15 human model experimental studies and 2 population based studies). ERβ signaling was shown to possess vasodilator and antiangiogenic properties by regulating the activity of nitric oxide, altering membrane ionic permeability in vascular smooth muscle cells, inhibiting vascular smooth muscle cell migration and proliferation and by regulating adrenergic control of the arteries. Also, a possible protective effect of ERβ signaling against left ventricular hypertrophy and ischemia/reperfusion injury via genomic and non-genomic pathways was suggested in 27 studies. Moreover, 5 studies reported that the vascular effects of ERβ may be vessel specific and may differ by age and menopause status. ERβ seems to possess multiple functions in the female cardiovascular system. Further studies are needed to evaluate whether isoform-selective ERβ-ligands might contribute to cardiovascular disease prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taulant Muka
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Kris G Vargas
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Loes Jaspers
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ke-xin Wen
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Klodian Dhana
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anna Vitezova
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jana Nano
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Adela Brahimaj
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Veronica Colpani
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Arjola Bano
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bledar Kraja
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine, Tirana, Albania; University Clinic of Gastrohepatology, University Hospital Center Mother Teresa, Tirana, Albania
| | - Asija Zaciragic
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Gaby M van Dijk
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maryam Kavousi
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Oscar H Franco
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Affiliation(s)
- Friedrich C Luft
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité Medical Faculty and the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Lindenbergerweg 80, 13125, Berlin, Germany,
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