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Jiao T, Wang Y, Lin X, Song W, Wang L, Rahman TMS, Xu L, Nie L, Zhang Q, Li J. Axitinib targets cardiac fibrosis in pressure overload-induced heart failure through VEGFA-KDR pathway. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1256156. [PMID: 38020087 PMCID: PMC10667428 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1256156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background There are no specific clinical medications that target cardiac fibrosis in heart failure (HF). Recent studies have shown that tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) may benefit fibrosis in various organs. However, there is limited research on their application in cardiac fibrosis. Axitinib, an FDA-approved tyrosine kinase inhibitor, was used to evaluate its effects on cardiac fibrosis and function in pressure overload-induced heart failure. Methods To build a pharmacological network, the pharmacological targets of axitinib were first retrieved from databases and coupled with key heart failure gene molecules for analysis and prediction. To validate the results outlined above, 8-week-old male C57BL/6 J mice were orally administrated of axitinib (30 mg/kg) daily for 8 weeks after Transverse Aortic Constriction (TAC) surgery. Mouse cardiomyocytes and cardiac fibroblasts were used as cell lines to test the function and mechanism of axitinib. Results We found that the pharmacological targets of axitinib could form a pharmacological network with key genes involved in heart failure. The VEGFA-KDR pathway was found to be closely related to the differential gene expression of human heart-derived primary cardiomyocyte cell lines treated with axitinib, based on analysis of the publicly available dataset. The outcomes of animal experiments demonstrated that axitinib therapy greatly reduced cardiac fibrosis and improved TAC-induced cardiac dysfunction. Further research has shown that the expression of transforming growth factor-β(TGF-β) and other fibrosis genes was significantly reduced in vivo and in vitro. Conclusion Our study provides evidence for the repurposing of axitinib to combat cardiac fibrosis, and offers new insights into the treatment of patients with HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiantian Jiao
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanqi Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xueqi Lin
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Song
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of General Practice, Jinyang Community Health Service Center in Pudong District, Shanghai, China
| | - Liang Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Tapu Md Sakibur Rahman
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Linghao Xu
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lindong Nie
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiming Li
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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2
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Wu W, Xia X, Tang L, Luo J, Xiong S, Ma G, Lei H. Phosphoinositide 3-kinase as a therapeutic target in angiogenic disease. Exp Eye Res 2023; 236:109646. [PMID: 37716399 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023]
Abstract
Phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI3Ks) generate lipids that control multitudinous intracellular cell signaling events which participate in cell survival and proliferation. In addition, PI3K signaling also contributes to metabolism, immunity, angiogenesis and cardiovascular homeostasis, and many diseases. The diverse actions of PI3K stem from the existence of their various isoforms and a variety of protein effectors. Hence, PI3K isoform-specific inhibitors have already achieved a wonderful effect on treating cancer. Herein, we summarize the molecular mechanism of PI3K inhibitors in preventing the permeability of vessels and neovascularization. Additionally, we briefly illustrate how PI3K signaling modulates blood vessel growth and discuss the different roles that PI3K isoforms play in angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenyi Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Changsha, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
| | - Xiaobo Xia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Changsha, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Luosheng Tang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jing Luo
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Siqi Xiong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Changsha, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Gaoen Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, 571199, China.
| | - Hetian Lei
- Shenzhen Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen Eye Institute, Shenzhen, China.
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3
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Gao X, Ren C, Li L, Zhao H, Liu K, Zhuang M, Lv X, Zhi X, Jiang H, Chen Q, Zhao X, Li Y. Pharmacological action of Hedysarum polysaccharides: a review. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1119224. [PMID: 37701035 PMCID: PMC10494935 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1119224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Hedysarum, a traditional Chinese herbal medicine and food with a long history of clinical application, is used to improve health conditions and treat various diseases. Hedysarum polysaccharides (HPS), flavonoids, saponins, and alkaloids, are the primary components of Hedysarum. HPS is the most important natural active ingredient of Hedysarum, which has many pharmacological effects. Currently, HPS exhibits significant promise in drug development for various ailments such as tumors, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, Alzheimer's disease, and fibrosis. This review paper discusses the extraction, separation, and content determination techniques of HPS, along with the investigation of its chemical constituents. More importantly, we reviewed the anti-inflammatory pharmacological effects of HPS, such as inhibition of inflammatory factors and NF-κB signaling pathway; antitumor activity through apoptosis induction in tumor cells and blocking tumor cell proliferation and metastasis; antioxidant effects; regulation of various cytokines and immune cells; regulation of blood sugar levels, such as in type I and type II diabetes and in diabetic complications; improvement in symptoms of Alzheimer disease; anti-aging and anti-fibrosis properties; and improvement in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury. This review paper establishes the theoretical foundation for future studies on the structure, mechanism, and clinical use of HPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Gao
- School of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
- Gansu Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for the Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases, Lanzhou, China
- Key Clinical Specialty of the National Health Commission of the People’s Republic of China, Key Specialized Cardiovascular Laboratory National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
- Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Chunzhen Ren
- School of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
- Gansu Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for the Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases, Lanzhou, China
- Key Clinical Specialty of the National Health Commission of the People’s Republic of China, Key Specialized Cardiovascular Laboratory National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Linyu Li
- Gansu Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for the Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases, Lanzhou, China
- Key Clinical Specialty of the National Health Commission of the People’s Republic of China, Key Specialized Cardiovascular Laboratory National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
- First School of Clinical Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Huilin Zhao
- School of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
- Gansu Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for the Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases, Lanzhou, China
- Key Clinical Specialty of the National Health Commission of the People’s Republic of China, Key Specialized Cardiovascular Laboratory National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Kai Liu
- School of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
- Gansu Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for the Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases, Lanzhou, China
- Key Clinical Specialty of the National Health Commission of the People’s Republic of China, Key Specialized Cardiovascular Laboratory National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Mengjie Zhuang
- Xinjiang Medical University School of Basic Medicine, Urumqi, China
| | - Xinfang Lv
- School of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
- Gansu Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for the Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases, Lanzhou, China
- Key Clinical Specialty of the National Health Commission of the People’s Republic of China, Key Specialized Cardiovascular Laboratory National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
- Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiaodong Zhi
- School of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
- Gansu Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for the Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases, Lanzhou, China
- Key Clinical Specialty of the National Health Commission of the People’s Republic of China, Key Specialized Cardiovascular Laboratory National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
- Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Hugang Jiang
- School of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
- Gansu Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for the Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases, Lanzhou, China
- Key Clinical Specialty of the National Health Commission of the People’s Republic of China, Key Specialized Cardiovascular Laboratory National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Qilin Chen
- School of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
- Gansu Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for the Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases, Lanzhou, China
- Key Clinical Specialty of the National Health Commission of the People’s Republic of China, Key Specialized Cardiovascular Laboratory National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xinke Zhao
- School of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
- Gansu Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for the Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases, Lanzhou, China
- Key Clinical Specialty of the National Health Commission of the People’s Republic of China, Key Specialized Cardiovascular Laboratory National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
- Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yingdong Li
- School of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
- Gansu Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for the Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases, Lanzhou, China
- Key Clinical Specialty of the National Health Commission of the People’s Republic of China, Key Specialized Cardiovascular Laboratory National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
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Wang QW, Xu JY, Li HX, Su YD, Song JW, Song ZP, Song SS, Dong B, Wang SX, Li B. A simple and accurate method to quantify real-time contraction of vascular smooth muscle cell in vitro. Vascul Pharmacol 2023; 149:107146. [PMID: 36724828 DOI: 10.1016/j.vph.2023.107146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) constitute the medial layer of the blood vessel wall. Their contractile state regulates blood flow in physiological and pathological conditions. Current methods for assessing the contractility of VSMCs are not amenable to the high-throughput screening of pharmaceutical compounds. This study aimed to develop a method to address this shortcoming in the field. Real-time contraction was visualized in living VSMCs using the exogenous expression of green fluorescent protein (GFP). Image-Pro Plus software (IPPS) was used to measure various morphological cell indices. In phenylephrine-treated VSMCs, GFP fluorescence imaging was more accurate than brightfield imaging or phalloidin staining in representing VSMC morphology, as measured using IPPS. Among the multiple indices of VSMC shape, area and mean-diameter were more sensitive than length in reflecting the morphological changes in VSMC. We developed a new index, compound length, by combining the mean-diameter and length to differentiate contracted and uncontracted VSMCs. Based on the compound length, we further generated a contraction index to define a single-VSMC contractile status as single-VSMC contraction-index (SVCI). Finally, compound length and SVCI were validated to effectively assess cell contraction in VSMCs challenged with U46619 and KCl. In conclusion, GFP-based indices of compound length and SVCI can accurately quantify the real-time contraction of VSMCs. In future, the new method will be applied to high-throughput drug screening or basic cardiovascular research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian-Wen Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jia-Yao Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Hui-Xin Li
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yu-Dong Su
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jia-Wen Song
- The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zhi-Peng Song
- The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Sha-Sha Song
- Rehabilitation Center, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Bo Dong
- Department of Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Shuang-Xi Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China; Department of Cardiology, Jinan Central Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China.
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Cardiology, Jinan Central Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China.
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5
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Alex L, Tuleta I, Hanna A, Frangogiannis NG. Diabetes Induces Cardiac Fibroblast Activation, Promoting a Matrix-Preserving Nonmyofibroblast Phenotype, Without Stimulating Pericyte to Fibroblast Conversion. J Am Heart Assoc 2023; 12:e027463. [PMID: 36892073 PMCID: PMC10111546 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.122.027463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
Background Interstitial and perivascular fibrosis may contribute to diabetes-associated heart failure. Pericytes can convert to fibroblasts under conditions of stress and have been implicated in the pathogenesis of fibrotic diseases. We hypothesized that in diabetic hearts, pericytes may convert to fibroblasts, contributing to fibrosis and to the development of diastolic dysfunction. Methods and Results Using pericyte:fibroblast dual reporter (NG2Dsred [neuron-glial antigen 2 red fluorescent protein variant]; PDGFRαEGFP [platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha enhanced green fluorescent protein]) mice in a type 2 diabetic db/db background, we found that diabetes does not significantly affect pericyte density but reduces the myocardial pericyte:fibroblast ratio. Lineage tracing using the inducible NG2CreER driver, along with reliable labeling of fibroblasts with the PDGFRα reporter system, showed no significant pericyte to fibroblast conversion in lean and db/db hearts. In addition, db/db mouse cardiac fibroblasts did not undergo myofibroblast conversion and had no significant induction of structural collagens but exhibited a matrix-preserving phenotype, associated with increased expression of antiproteases, matricellular genes, matrix cross-linking enzymes, and the fibrogenic transcription factor cMyc. In contrast, db/db mouse cardiac pericytes had increased expression of Timp3, without any changes in expression of other fibrosis-associated genes. The matrix-preserving phenotype of diabetic fibroblasts was associated with induction of genes encoding oxidative (Ptgs2/cycloxygenase-2, and Fmo2) and antioxidant proteins (Hmox1, Sod1). In vitro, high glucose partially recapitulated the in vivo changes in diabetic fibroblasts. Conclusions Diabetic fibrosis is not mediated through pericyte to fibroblast conversion but involves acquisition of a matrix-preserving fibroblast program, which is independent of myofibroblast conversion and is only partially explained by the effects of the hyperglycemic environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Alex
- The Wilf Family Cardiovascular Research Institute Department of Medicine (Cardiology), Albert Einstein College of Medicine Bronx NY
| | - Izabela Tuleta
- The Wilf Family Cardiovascular Research Institute Department of Medicine (Cardiology), Albert Einstein College of Medicine Bronx NY
| | - Anis Hanna
- The Wilf Family Cardiovascular Research Institute Department of Medicine (Cardiology), Albert Einstein College of Medicine Bronx NY
| | - Nikolaos G Frangogiannis
- The Wilf Family Cardiovascular Research Institute Department of Medicine (Cardiology), Albert Einstein College of Medicine Bronx NY
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Central Nervous System Pericytes Contribute to Health and Disease. Cells 2022; 11:cells11101707. [PMID: 35626743 PMCID: PMC9139243 DOI: 10.3390/cells11101707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Successful neuroprotection is only possible with contemporary microvascular protection. The prevention of disease-induced vascular modifications that accelerate brain damage remains largely elusive. An improved understanding of pericyte (PC) signalling could provide important insight into the function of the neurovascular unit (NVU), and into the injury-provoked responses that modify cell–cell interactions and crosstalk. Due to sharing the same basement membrane with endothelial cells, PCs have a crucial role in the control of endothelial, astrocyte, and oligodendrocyte precursor functions and hence blood–brain barrier stability. Both cerebrovascular and neurodegenerative diseases impair oxygen delivery and functionally impair the NVU. In this review, the role of PCs in central nervous system health and disease is discussed, considering their origin, multipotency, functions and also dysfunction, focusing on new possible avenues to modulate neuroprotection. Dysfunctional PC signalling could also be considered as a potential biomarker of NVU pathology, allowing us to individualize therapeutic interventions, monitor responses, or predict outcomes.
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Asani B, Siedlecki J, Wertheimer C, Liegl R, Wolf A, Ohlmann A, Priglinger S, Priglinger C. Anti-angiogenic properties of rapamycin on human retinal pericytes in an in vitro model of neovascular AMD via inhibition of the mTOR pathway. BMC Ophthalmol 2022; 22:138. [PMID: 35337287 PMCID: PMC8957126 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-022-02334-w] [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: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Choroidal neovascularizations (CNV) are partially stabilized through a coverage of pericytes leading to a partial anti-VEGF resistence. Drugs licensed for neovascular AMD (nAMD) do not take this mechanical and growth factor-driven CNV stability into account. The purpose of this work was to see if inhibiting the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) may successfully block angiogenic cellular pathways in primary human retinal pericytes in an in vitro model of nAMD. METHODS The mTOR inhibitor rapamycin was used to treat human retinal pericytes (HRP) at doses ranging from 0.005 to 15 g/ml. A modified metabolism-based XTT-Assay was used to assess toxicity and anti-proliferative effects. A scratch wound experiment showed the effects on migration. On Cultrex basement membrane gels, the influence of rapamycin on the development of endothelial cell capillary-like structures by human umbilical vein vascular endothelial cells (HUVEC) in the absence and presence of pericytes was investigated. RESULTS Rapamycin showed no signs of toxicity within its range of solubility. The drug showed dose dependent anti-proliferative activity and inhibited migration into the scratch wound. Endothelial cell tube formation in a HUVEC monoculture was effectively inhibited at 45%. A co-culture of HUVEC with pericytes on Cultrex induced endothelial tube stabilization but was disrupted by the addition of rapamycin leading to degradation of 94% of the tubes. CONCLUSIONS Rapamycin allows for an efficient modulation of aspects of angiogenesis in pericytes via mTOR-modulation in vitro. Further studies are needed to elucidate whether rapamycin may have an impact on CNV in nAMD in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Asani
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Mathildenstrasse 8, 80336, Munich, Germany.
| | - Jakob Siedlecki
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Mathildenstrasse 8, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Raffael Liegl
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Mathildenstrasse 8, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Armin Wolf
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Clinic Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Andreas Ohlmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Mathildenstrasse 8, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Siegfried Priglinger
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Mathildenstrasse 8, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Claudia Priglinger
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Mathildenstrasse 8, 80336, Munich, Germany
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Yuan Y, Geng B, Xu X, Zhao H, Bai J, Dou Z, Jia S, Yu X, Luo W. Dual VEGF/PDGF knockdown suppresses vasculogenic mimicry formation in choroidal melanoma cells via the Wnt5a/β-catenin/AKT signaling pathway. Acta Histochem 2022; 124:151842. [PMID: 34995928 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2021.151842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explore the effects of knocking down both vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and platelet derived growth factor (PDGF) on vasculogenic mimicry (VM) formation in choroidal melanoma (CM) cells. METHODS Cell counting Kit (CCK)-8, monoclonal formation, wound healing, transwell and flow cytometry assays were used to observe the cell effects in CM cell line, ocular choroidal melanoma-1 cells (OCM-1) with respect to proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis. Three-dimensional (3D) cultures were also used to characterize VM tube structural effects in OCM-1 cells and western blotting was used to characterize protein expression changes in VM-related markers. RESULTS Dual VEGF/PDGF knockdown suppressed cell proliferation, migration and invasion, but promoted cell apoptosis. It also reduced VM tube structures in OCM-1 cells. VM associated markers including, VE-cadherin, EphA2 and MT1-MMP were also down-regulated in OCM-1 cells. Similarly, Wnt5a, β-catenin and phosphorylated-AKT levels were also down-regulated. Western blotting and 3D cultures further demonstrated that combined Wnt5a silencing with dual VEGF/PDGF knockdown significantly decreased VE-cadherin and EphA2 levels and reduced VM tube structures in OCM-1 cells. CONCLUSIONS Dual VEGF/PDGF knockdown suppressed cell growth and metastasis in OCM-1 cells, and blocked the Wnt5a/β-catenin/AKT signaling pathway thereby inhibiting VM formation.
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9
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Efthymiou G, Saint A, Ruff M, Rekad Z, Ciais D, Van Obberghen-Schilling E. Shaping Up the Tumor Microenvironment With Cellular Fibronectin. Front Oncol 2020; 10:641. [PMID: 32426283 PMCID: PMC7203475 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.00641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Normal tissue homeostasis and architecture restrain tumor growth. Thus, for a tumor to develop and spread, malignant cells must overcome growth-repressive inputs from surrounding tissue and escape immune surveillance mechanisms that curb cancer progression. This is achieved by promoting the conversion of a physiological microenvironment to a pro-tumoral state and it requires a constant dialog between malignant cells and ostensibly normal cells of adjacent tissue. Pro-tumoral reprogramming of the stroma is accompanied by an upregulation of certain extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins and their cognate receptors. Fibronectin (FN) is one such component of the tumor matrisome. This large multidomain glycoprotein dimer expressed over a wide range of human cancers is assembled by cell-driven forces into a fibrillar array that provides an obligate scaffold for the deposition of other matrix proteins and binding sites for functionalization by soluble factors in the tumor microenvironment. Encoded by a single gene, FN regulates the proliferation, motile behavior and fate of multiple cell types, largely through mechanisms that involve integrin-mediated signaling. These processes are coordinated by distinct isoforms of FN, collectively known as cellular FN (as opposed to circulating plasma FN) that arise through alternative splicing of the FN1 gene. Cellular FN isoforms differ in their solubility, receptor binding ability and spatiotemporal expression, and functions that have yet to be fully defined. FN induction at tumor sites constitutes an important step in the acquisition of biological capabilities required for several cancer hallmarks such as sustaining proliferative signaling, promoting angiogenesis, facilitating invasion and metastasis, modulating growth suppressor activity and regulating anti-tumoral immunity. In this review, we will first provide an overview of ECM reprogramming through tumor-stroma crosstalk, then focus on the role of cellular FN in tumor progression with respect to these hallmarks. Last, we will discuss the impact of dysregulated ECM on clinical efficacy of classical (radio-/chemo-) therapies and emerging treatments that target immune checkpoints and explore how our expanding knowledge of the tumor ECM and the central role of FN can be leveraged for therapeutic benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Angélique Saint
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, INSERM, iBV, Nice, France.,Centre Antoine Lacassagne, Nice, France
| | - Michaël Ruff
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, INSERM, iBV, Nice, France
| | - Zeinab Rekad
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, INSERM, iBV, Nice, France
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10
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Nwadozi E, Rudnicki M, Haas TL. Metabolic Coordination of Pericyte Phenotypes: Therapeutic Implications. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:77. [PMID: 32117997 PMCID: PMC7033550 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Pericytes are mural vascular cells found predominantly on the abluminal wall of capillaries, where they contribute to the maintenance of capillary structural integrity and vascular permeability. Generally quiescent cells in the adult, pericyte activation and proliferation occur during both physiological and pathological vascular and tissue remodeling. A considerable body of research indicates that pericytes possess attributes of a multipotent adult stem cell, as they are capable of self-renewal as well as commitment and differentiation into multiple lineages. However, pericytes also display phenotypic heterogeneity and recent studies indicate that lineage potential differs between pericyte subpopulations. While numerous microenvironmental cues and cell signaling pathways are known to regulate pericyte functions, the roles that metabolic pathways play in pericyte quiescence, self-renewal or differentiation have been given limited consideration to date. This review will summarize existing data regarding pericyte metabolism and will discuss the coupling of signal pathways to shifts in metabolic pathway preferences that ultimately regulate pericyte quiescence, self-renewal and trans-differentiation. The association between dysregulated metabolic processes and development of pericyte pathologies will be highlighted. Despite ongoing debate regarding pericyte classification and their functional capacity for trans-differentiation in vivo, pericytes are increasingly exploited as a cell therapy tool to promote tissue healing and regeneration. Ultimately, the efficacy of therapeutic approaches hinges on the capacity to effectively control/optimize the fate of the implanted pericytes. Thus, we will identify knowledge gaps that need to be addressed to more effectively harness the opportunity for therapeutic manipulation of pericytes to control pathological outcomes in tissue remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tara L. Haas
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, Angiogenesis Research Group and Muscle Health Research Centre, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Zyrianova T, Basova LV, Makarenkova H. Isolation of Myoepithelial Cells from Adult Murine Lacrimal and Submandibular Glands. J Vis Exp 2019. [PMID: 31259892 DOI: 10.3791/59602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The lacrimal gland (LG) is an exocrine tubuloacinar gland that secretes an aqueous layer of tear film. The LG epithelial tree is comprised of acinar, ductal epithelial, and myoepithelial cells (MECs). MECs express alpha smooth muscle actin (αSMA) and have a contractile function. They are found in multiple glandular organs and are of ectodermal origin. In addition, the LG contains SMA+ vascular smooth muscle cells of endodermal origin called pericytes: contractile cells that envelop the surface of vascular tubes. A new protocol allows us to isolate both MECs and pericytes from adult murine LGs and submandibular glands (SMGs). The protocol is based on the genetic labeling of MECs and pericytes using the SMACreErt2/+:Rosa26-TdTomatofl/fl mouse strain, followed by preparation of the LG single-cell suspension for fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS). The protocol allows for the separation of these two cell populations of different origins based on the expression of the epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) by MECs, whereas pericytes do not express EpCAM. Isolated cells could be used for cell cultivation or gene expression analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Liana V Basova
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute
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Myofibroblasts in macular fibrosis secondary to neovascular age-related macular degeneration - the potential sources and molecular cues for their recruitment and activation. EBioMedicine 2018; 38:283-291. [PMID: 30473378 PMCID: PMC6306402 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2018.11.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Revised: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in the elderly in developed countries. Neovascular AMD (nAMD) accounts for 90% of AMD-related vision loss. Although intravitreal injection of VEGF inhibitors can improve vision in nAMD, approximately 1/3 of patients do not benefit from the therapy due to macular fibrosis. The molecular mechanism underlying the transition of the neovascular lesion to a fibrovascular phenotype remains unknown. Here we discussed the clinical features and risk factors of macular fibrosis secondary to nAMD. Myofibroblasts are key cells in fibrosis development. However, fibroblasts do not exist in the macula. Potential sources of myofibroblast precursors, the molecular cues in the macular microenvironment that recruit them and the pathways that control their differentiation and activation in macular fibrosis were also discussed. Furthermore, we highlighted the challenges in macular fibrosis research and the urgent need for better animal models for mechanistic and therapeutic studies.
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