1
|
Zeng GG, Tang SS, Jiang WL, Yu J, Nie GY, Tang CK. Apelin-13: A Protective Role in Vascular Diseases. Curr Probl Cardiol 2024; 49:102088. [PMID: 37716542 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpcardiol.2023.102088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023]
Abstract
Vascular disease is a common problem with high mortality all over the world. Apelin-13, a key subtype of apelin, takes part in many physiological and pathological responses via regulating many target genes and target molecules or participating in many signaling pathways. More and more studies have demonstrated that apelin-13 is implicated in the onset and progression of vascular disease in recent years. It has been shown that apelin-13 could ameliorate vascular disease by inhibiting inflammation, restraining apoptosis, suppressing oxidative stress, and facilitating autophagy. In this article, we sum up the progress of apelin-13 in the occurrence and development of vascular disease and offer some insightful views about the treatment and prevention strategies of vascular disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guang-Gui Zeng
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Arteriosclerotic Disease, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China; 2020 Grade Excellent Doctor Class of Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China; The Seventh Affiliated Hospital University of South China/ Hunan Veterans Administration Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, Hunan, China; Departments of Clinical Medicine, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Shang-Shu Tang
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Arteriosclerotic Disease, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China; 2020 Grade Excellent Doctor Class of Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China; The Seventh Affiliated Hospital University of South China/ Hunan Veterans Administration Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, Hunan, China; Departments of Clinical Medicine, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Wan-Li Jiang
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Arteriosclerotic Disease, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China; 2020 Grade Excellent Doctor Class of Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China; The Seventh Affiliated Hospital University of South China/ Hunan Veterans Administration Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, Hunan, China; Departments of Clinical Medicine, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiang Yu
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Arteriosclerotic Disease, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China; 2020 Grade Excellent Doctor Class of Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China; The Seventh Affiliated Hospital University of South China/ Hunan Veterans Administration Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, Hunan, China; Departments of Clinical Medicine, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Gui-Ying Nie
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Arteriosclerotic Disease, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China; 2020 Grade Excellent Doctor Class of Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China; The Seventh Affiliated Hospital University of South China/ Hunan Veterans Administration Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, Hunan, China; Departments of Clinical Medicine, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao-Ke Tang
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Arteriosclerotic Disease, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China; 2020 Grade Excellent Doctor Class of Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China; The Seventh Affiliated Hospital University of South China/ Hunan Veterans Administration Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, Hunan, China; Departments of Clinical Medicine, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Murali S, Aradhyam GK. Structure-function relationship and physiological role of apelin and its G protein coupled receptor. Biophys Rev 2023; 15:127-143. [PMID: 36919024 PMCID: PMC9995629 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-023-01044-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Apelin receptor (APJR) is a class A peptide (apelin) binding G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that plays a significant role in regulating blood pressure, cardiac output, and maintenance of fluid homeostasis. It is activated by a wide range of endogenous peptide isoforms of apelin and elabela. The apelin peptide isoforms contain distinct structural features that aid in ligand recognition and activation of the receptor. Site-directed mutagenesis and structure-based studies have revealed the involvement of extracellular and transmembrane regions of the receptor in binding to the peptide isoforms. The structural features of APJR activation of the receptor as well as mediating G-protein and β-arrestin-mediated signaling are delineated by multiple mutagenesis studies. There is increasing evidence that the structural requirements of APJR to activate G-proteins and β-arrestins are different, leading to biased signaling. APJR also responds to mechanical stimuli in a ligand-independent manner. A multitude of studies has focused on developing both peptide and non-peptide agonists and antagonists specific to APJR. Apelin/elabela-activated APJR orchestrates major signaling pathways such as extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERKs), protein kinase B (PKB/Akt), and p70S. This review focuses on the structural and functional characteristics of apelin, elabela, APJR, and their interactions involved in the binding and activation of the downstream signaling cascade. We also focus on the diverse signaling profile of APJR and its ligands and their involvement in various physiological systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Subhashree Murali
- Department of Biotechnology, Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
| | - Gopala Krishna Aradhyam
- Department of Biotechnology, Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
The Protective Role of Apelin in the Early Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314680. [PMID: 36499009 PMCID: PMC9740800 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314680] [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: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the most common and serious microvascular complications of diabetes. Although current treatments can control the progression of DR to a certain extent, there is no effective treatment for early DR. Apart from vascular endothelial growth factor, it has been noted that the apelin/APJ system contributes to the pathogenesis of DR. We used a high-fat diet/streptozotocin-induced type 2 diabetic mouse model. The mice were divided into a lentivirus control group (LV-EGFP), an apelin-overexpression group (LV-Apelin+), and an apelin-knockdown group (LV-Apelin-), all of which were administrated intravitreal injections. LV-Apelin+ ameliorated the loss of pericytes in DR mice, whereas LV-Apelin- aggravated the loss of pericytes. Similarly, LV-Apelin+ reduced the leakage of retinal vessels, whereas LV-Apelin- exacerbated it. The genes and signaling pathway related to cell adhesion molecules were downregulated, whereas the cell-cell tight junctions and anti-apoptotic genes were upregulated in response to apelin overexpression. However, the alterations of these same genes and signaling pathways were reversed in the case of apelin knockdown. Additionally, LV-Apelin+ increased ZO-1 and occludin levels, whereas LV-Apelin- decreased them. Our results suggest that apelin can reduce vascular leakage by protecting pericytes, which offers a promising new direction for the early treatment of DR.
Collapse
|
4
|
Azad AK, Campbell KR, Zhabyeyev P, Oudit GY, Moore RB, Murray AG. Loss of apelin blocks the emergence of sprouting angiogenesis in experimental tumors. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22560. [PMID: 36165236 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202200616rr] [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: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Angiogenesis inhibitor drugs targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling to the endothelial cell (EC) are used to treat various cancer types. However, primary or secondary resistance to therapy is common. Clinical and pre-clinical studies suggest that alternative pro-angiogenic factors are upregulated after VEGF pathway inhibition. Therefore, identification of alternative pro-angiogenic pathway(s) is critical for the development of more effective anti-angiogenic therapy. Here we study the role of apelin as a pro-angiogenic G-protein-coupled receptor ligand in tumor growth and angiogenesis. We found that loss of apelin in mice delayed the primary tumor growth of Lewis lung carcinoma 1 and B16F10 melanoma when combined with the VEGF receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor, sunitinib. Targeting apelin in combination with sunitinib markedly reduced the tumor vessel density, and decreased microvessel remodeling. Apelin loss reduced angiogenic sprouting and tip cell marker gene expression in comparison to the sunitinib-alone-treated mice. Single-cell RNA sequencing of tumor EC demonstrated that the loss of apelin prevented EC tip cell differentiation. Thus, apelin is a potent pro-angiogenic cue that supports initiation of tumor neovascularization. Together, our data suggest that targeting apelin may be useful as adjuvant therapy in combination with VEGF signaling inhibition to inhibit the growth of advanced tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abul K Azad
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Kieran R Campbell
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Molecular Genetics and Statistical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Pavel Zhabyeyev
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Gavin Y Oudit
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ronald B Moore
- Department of Oncology and Department of Surgery, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Allan G Murray
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
The Provenance, Providence, and Position of Endothelial Cells in Injured Spinal Cord Vascular Pathology. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2022; 43:1519-1535. [PMID: 35945301 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-022-01266-9] [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: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Endothelial cells (ECs) and pericytes are present in all blood vessels. Their position confers an important role in controlling oxygen and nutrient transportation to the different organs. ECs can adopt different morphologies based on their need and functions. Both ECs and pericytes express different surface markers that help in their identification, but heterogeneity and overlapping between markers among different cells pose a challenge for their precise identification. Spatiotemporal association of ECs and pericytes have great importance in sprout formation and vessel stabilization. Any traumatic injury in CNS may lead to vascular damage along with neuronal damage. Hence, ECs-pericyte interaction by physical contact and paracrine molecules is crucial in recovering the epicenter region by promoting angiogenesis. ECs can transform into other types of cells through endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndMT), promoting wound healing in the epicenter region. Various signaling pathways mediate the interaction of ECs with pericytes that have an extensive role in angiogenesis. In this review, we discussed ECs and pericytes surface markers, the spatiotemporal association and interaction of ECs-pericytes, and signaling associated with the pathology of traumatic SCI. Linking the brain or spinal cord-specific pathologies and human vascular pathology will pave the way toward identifying new therapeutic targets and developing innovative preventive strategies. Endothelial-pericyte interaction strategic for formation of functional neo-vessels that are crucial for neurological recovery.
Collapse
|
6
|
Chen J, Li Z, Zhao Q, Chen L. Roles of apelin/APJ system in cancer: Biomarker, predictor, and emerging therapeutic target. J Cell Physiol 2022; 237:3734-3751. [DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Chen
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, Hengyang Medical School, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology University of South China Hengyang Hunan China
| | - Zhiyue Li
- Health Management Center, The Third Xiangya Hospital Central South University Changsha Hunan Province China
| | - Qun Zhao
- Department of Orthopedics Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University Changsha Hunan China
| | - Linxi Chen
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, Hengyang Medical School, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology University of South China Hengyang Hunan China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Yang Y, Chen M, Qiu Y, Li X, Huang Y, Zhang W. The Apelin/APLNR system modulates tumor immune response by reshaping the tumor microenvironment. Gene X 2022; 834:146564. [PMID: 35598689 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2022.146564] [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: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Apelin is an endogenous ligand of the Apelin receptor (APLNR), a seven-transmembrane G protein-coupled receptor, which is widely distributed in human tissue. The Apelin/APLNR system is involved in regulating several physiological and pathological processes. The Apelin expression is increased in a variety of cancer and the Apelin/APLNR system could regulate the development of tumors through mediating autophagy, apoptosis, pyroptosis, and other biological processes to regulate tumor cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. The Apelin/APLNR system also participates in immune response and immune regulation through PI3K-Akt, ERK-MAPK, and other signal pathways. The latest research points out that there is a negative regulatory relationship between APLNR and immune checkpoint PD-L1. In this review, we outline the significance of the Apelin/APLNR signaling pathway in tumorigenesis and its immune regulation. These endeavors provide new insights into the translational application of Apelin/APLNR in cancer and may contribute to the promotion of more effective treatments for cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuqin Yang
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province 410013, PR China
| | - Meilin Chen
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province 410013, PR China
| | - Yanbing Qiu
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province 410013, PR China
| | - Xiaoxu Li
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province 410013, PR China
| | - Yumei Huang
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province 410013, PR China
| | - Wenling Zhang
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province 410013, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Luo J, Zhao Q, Li Z, Chen L. Multiple roles of apelin/APJ system in eye diseases. Peptides 2022; 152:170767. [PMID: 35181348 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2022.170767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Apelin is an endogenous ligand of G protein-coupled receptor (APJ), and they compose apelin/APJ system. Apelin/APJ system is widely distributed in tissues and plays pleiotropic roles. Attractively, more emphasis has recently been placed on the effects of apelin/APJ system in eye diseases, such as retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), diabetic retinopathy (DR) and diabetic macular edema (DME). In this review, we elaborated the roles of apelin/APJ system in the pathophysiological processes of eye. Concretely, apelin/APJ system induces retinal gliosis and angiogenesis. Hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) are involved in apelin/APJ system-triggered ROP progress. Apelin/APJ system mediates DR-induced retinopathy. Apelin/APJ system maintains retinal functions and health by protecting Müller cells from apoptosis. Apelin/APJ system suppresses the NMDA-induced retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss to protect optic nerve damage. Overall, apelin/APJ system is a potential therapeutic target for eye disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingshun Luo
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of tumor microenvironment responsive drug research, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China
| | - Qun Zhao
- Health Management Center, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhiyue Li
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Linxi Chen
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of tumor microenvironment responsive drug research, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Yasir M, Senthilkumar GP, Jayashree K, Ramesh Babu K, Vadivelan M, Palanivel C. Association of serum omentin-1, apelin and chemerin concentrations with the presence and severity of diabetic retinopathy in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. Arch Physiol Biochem 2022; 128:313-320. [PMID: 31686535 DOI: 10.1080/13813455.2019.1680698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Omentin-1 is a novel adipokine with anti-inflammatory functions. Apelin is associated with hyperinsulinemia and pathological angiogenesis. Chemerin has both pro- and anti-inflammatory actions and implicated in insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. The aim of this study was to assess serum omentin-1, apelin and chemerin concentrations and to investigate their association with the presence and severity of DR in T2DM patients. Serum omentin-1, apelin and chemerin were measured in 112 patients with DR and 56 patients without DR. Bivariate analysis showed omentin-1 correlated negatively with hsCRP and TyG index; while apelin correlated positively with chemerin. Linear regression data showed that apelin and chemerin were independent predictors of DR severity. ROC curve revealed that omentin-1 was the best discriminant for DR while apelin was the best discriminant for vision threatening retinopathy. Serum omentin-1 concentration correlates negatively, while serum apelin and chemerin concentrations correlate positively with DR presence and severity in T2DM patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Md Yasir
- Department of Biochemistry, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education & Research (JIPMER), Puducherry, India
- Department of Biochemistry, North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health & Medical Sciences (NEIGRIHMS), Shillong, India
| | | | - Kuppuswami Jayashree
- Department of Biochemistry, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education & Research (JIPMER), Puducherry, India
| | - K Ramesh Babu
- Department of Ophthalmology, JIPMER, Puducherry, India
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Wu H, Xia C, Li R, Tao C, Tang Q, Hu W. Correlation Between Apelin and Collateral Circulation in Patients with Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion and Moyamoya Disease. Int J Gen Med 2022; 15:699-709. [PMID: 35082519 PMCID: PMC8784270 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s341015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives Moyamoya disease (MMD) is a unique cerebrovascular occlusive disease with abnormal vascular hyperplasia, which causes cerebrovascular accidents like intracranial arteriosclerosis. This study aimed to explore whether plasma apelin levels are related to good collateral circulation in ischemic diseases, which may be higher in patients with MMD than middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion or healthy controls, and may have a connection with the MMD grades. Methods We recruited 68 MMD patients and 25 MCA occlusion patients diagnosed by angiography, including 29 patients without cerebrovascular problems as controls. We examined the plasma apelin, serum nitric oxide (NO), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels of all subjects by ELISA kit. We compared the relationship between apelin, NO, and VEGF in the blood of three groups, to explore the relationship. We also investigated whether the plasma apelin-13, apelin-17, and apelin-36 levels correlate with the MMD classification. Results Univariate analyses indicated that the MMD group had the higher plasma apelin-13, apelin-17, apelin-36, and serum NO levels than the MCA occlusion and healthy control groups. Binary logistic regression analyses further showed that the apelin-13 level was substantially higher in MMD patients than in MCA occlusion patients. Patients with MMD were significantly younger than patients with MCA occlusion by their mean ages. Linear regression analyses were performed to compare apelin levels between different grades of the patients with MMD. Apelin-13, apelin-17, and apelin-36 levels increased with the gradual increase of compensation grades level independent of NO and VEGF. Apelin-13 and apelin-36 showed a positive effect on the compensation scores in MMD. Conclusion Our study demonstrated that apelin-13 was significantly increased in patients with MMD than patients with MCA occlusion independent of NO and VEGF. Moreover, plasma apelin-13, apelin-17, and apelin-36 levels increase with the grades of MMD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanlin Wu
- Stroke Center & Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Chengyu Xia
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People’s Republic of China
| | - Rui Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chunrong Tao
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qiqiang Tang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei Hu
- Stroke Center & Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China
- Correspondence: Wei Hu; Qiqiang Tang Email ;
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Chapman FA, Nyimanu D, Maguire JJ, Davenport AP, Newby DE, Dhaun N. The therapeutic potential of apelin in kidney disease. Nat Rev Nephrol 2021; 17:840-853. [PMID: 34389827 PMCID: PMC8361827 DOI: 10.1038/s41581-021-00461-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a leading cause of global morbidity and mortality and is independently associated with cardiovascular disease. The mainstay of treatment for CKD is blockade of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), which reduces blood pressure and proteinuria and slows kidney function decline. Despite this treatment, many patients progress to kidney failure, which requires dialysis or kidney transplantation, and/or die as a result of cardiovascular disease. The apelin system is an endogenous physiological regulator that is emerging as a potential therapeutic target for many diseases. This system comprises the apelin receptor and its two families of endogenous ligands, apelin and elabela/toddler. Preclinical and clinical studies show that apelin receptor ligands are endothelium-dependent vasodilators and potent inotropes, and the apelin system has a reciprocal relationship with the RAAS. In preclinical studies, apelin regulates glomerular haemodynamics and acts on the tubule to promote aquaresis. In addition, apelin is protective in several kidney injury models. Although the apelin system has not yet been studied in patients with CKD, the available data suggest that apelin is a promising potential therapeutic target for kidney disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fiona A Chapman
- BHF/University Centre for Cardiovascular Science, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
- Department of Renal Medicine, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Duuamene Nyimanu
- Division of Experimental Medicine and Immunotherapeutics, Addenbrooke's Centre for Clinical Investigation, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Janet J Maguire
- Division of Experimental Medicine and Immunotherapeutics, Addenbrooke's Centre for Clinical Investigation, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Anthony P Davenport
- Division of Experimental Medicine and Immunotherapeutics, Addenbrooke's Centre for Clinical Investigation, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - David E Newby
- BHF/University Centre for Cardiovascular Science, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Neeraj Dhaun
- BHF/University Centre for Cardiovascular Science, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK.
- Department of Renal Medicine, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
APLN/APLNR Signaling Controls Key Pathological Parameters of Glioblastoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13153899. [PMID: 34359800 PMCID: PMC8345670 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13153899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The neurovascular peptide Apelin and its receptor APLNR are upregulated during glioblastoma pathology. Here we summarize their role in the brain tumor microenvironment composed of neurons, astrocytes, and the vascular and immune systems. Targeting APLN/APLNR signaling promises to unfold multimodal actions in future GBM therapy, acting as an anti-angiogenic and an anti-invasive treatment, and offering the possibility to reduce neurological symptoms and increase overall survival simultaneously. Abstract Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and aggressive primary brain tumor in adults. GBM-expansion depends on a dense vascular network and, coherently, GBMs are highly angiogenic. However, new intratumoral blood vessels are often aberrant with consequences for blood-flow and vascular barrier function. Hence, the delivery of chemotherapeutics into GBM can be compromised. Furthermore, leaky vessels support edema-formation, which can result in severe neurological deficits. The secreted signaling peptide Apelin (APLN) plays an important role in the formation of GBM blood vessels. Both APLN and the Apelin receptor (APLNR) are upregulated in GBM cells and control tumor cell invasiveness. Here we summarize the current evidence on the role of APLN/APLNR signaling during brain tumor pathology. We show that targeting APLN/APLNR can induce anti-angiogenic effects in GBM and simultaneously blunt GBM cell infiltration. In addition, we discuss how manipulation of APLN/APLNR signaling in GBM leads to the normalization of tumor vessels and thereby supports chemotherapy, reduces edema, and improves anti-tumorigenic immune reactions. Hence, therapeutic targeting of APLN/APLNR signaling offers an interesting option to address different pathological hallmarks of GBM.
Collapse
|
13
|
Interaction between the apelinergic system and ACE2 in the cardiovascular system: therapeutic implications. Clin Sci (Lond) 2021; 134:2319-2336. [PMID: 32901821 DOI: 10.1042/cs20200479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The apelinergic system is widely expressed and acts through autocrine and paracrine signaling to exert protective effects, including vasodilatory, metabolic, and inotropic effects on the cardiovascular (CV) system. The apelin pathway's dominant physiological role has delineated therapeutic implications for coronary artery disease, heart failure (HF), aortic aneurysm, pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), and transplant vasculopathy. Apelin peptides interact with the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) by promoting angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) transcription leading to increased ACE2 protein and activity while also antagonizing the effects of angiotensin II (Ang II). Apelin modulation of the RAS by increasing ACE2 action is limited due to its rapid degradation by proteases, including ACE2, neprilysin (NEP), and kallikrein. Apelin peptides are hence tightly regulated in a negative feedback manner by ACE2. Plasma apelin levels are suppressed in pathological conditions, but its diagnostic and prognostic utility requires further clinical exploration. Enhancing the beneficial actions of apelin peptides and ACE2 axes while complementing existing pharmacological blockade of detrimental pathways is an exciting pathway for developing new therapies. In this review, we highlight the interaction between the apelin and ACE2 systems, discuss their pathophysiological roles and potential for treating a wide array of CV diseases (CVDs).
Collapse
|
14
|
Feng J, Chen L, Jiang Y, Tao Y. The Role of Apelin/APJ in a Mouse Model of Oxygen-induced Retinopathy. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 61:47. [PMID: 32729912 PMCID: PMC7425705 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.8.47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The aim of this study was to investigate apelin and its potential neovascularization role in retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) along with the inhibitory effects of its antagonist. Methods We used an oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) mouse model to explore the progress of ROP. Apelin and angiotensin receptor-like 1 APJ expressions were examined in the retina using immunohistochemistry, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and Western blot analysis. Additionally, the retina was examined by whole-mount staining to evaluate the retinal vessel area, vessel density, capillary width, and the number and length of tip cells. The expression of the phosphorylated mTOR (p-mTOR), p-PI3K/Akt, and p-Erk signaling pathway was also evaluated using Western blot analysis. Results Apelin promoted the development of superficial and deep retinal blood vessels, especially for tip cells during the physical development of retinal vessels. Additionally, apelin stimulated the density of the peripheral retinal zone vessels in OIR mice. The apelin and APJ expression levels significantly increased for the OIR model during their hypoxic phase. Next, we found that apelin mRNA levels in the OIR mice peaked at six hours after return to ambient conditions at P12, whereas the APJ mRNA levels peaked later at P17. Furthermore, the expression of p-mTOR, p-Akt, and p-Erk were all up-regulated in OIR mice whereas F13A suppressed them instead. Conclusions Our results suggest that apelin/APJ signaling pathway is a key factor for hypoxia-induced pathologic angiogenesis, which is a very promising new target for the treatment of ROP.
Collapse
|
15
|
Vural E, Hazar L, Karakukçu C, Arslan ME, Sirem MR, Sirakaya E, Ozsaygılı C, Çiçek A. Apelin-13: A Promising Biomarker for Age-Related Macular Degeneration? Ophthalmologica 2020; 244:102-109. [PMID: 33197910 DOI: 10.1159/000513050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the value of serum apelin-13 levels in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). METHODS Patients with dry-type AMD, patients with treatment-naïve neovascular-type AMD, and healthy controls were included in this study. Diagnoses were confirmed on detailed fundus examination, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA). Central foveal thickness and subfoveal choroidal thickness were evaluated. Both serum apelin-13 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels were measured by a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) principle. RESULTS A total of 84 subjects, i.e., 24 in the dry-type AMD group (group 1), 27 in the neovascular-type AMD group (group 2), and 33 in the control group (group 3) were included in the study. Mean best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 76 ± 4.5, 48.4 ± 16.3, and 83.4 ± 3.09 ETDRS letters in group 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The level of serum VEGF was 44.11 ± 26.14, 56.53 ± 53.77, and 61.47 ± 41.62 pg/mL in groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively (p = 0.553, p = 0.286, and p = 0.896, respectively). The level of serum apelin-13 was 586.47 ± 167.56, 622.18 ± 324.52, and 379.31 ± 171.96 pg/mL in groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively (p = 0.847, p = 0.04, and p ≤ 0.001, respectively). There was a negative correlation between the level of serum apelin and visual acuity (VA) and choroidal thickness. CONCLUSION Serum apelin-13 levels were higher in both dry-type and neovascular-type AMD patients than in controls. Further studies demonstrating the relationship of the level of serum apelin-13 and AMD are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Esra Vural
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kayseri City Hospital, Kayseri, Turkey,
| | - Leyla Hazar
- Clinic of Ophthalmology, Kızıltepe State Hospital, Mardin, Turkey
| | - Cigdem Karakukçu
- Department of Biochemistry, Kayseri City Hospital, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - M Erkam Arslan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kayseri City Hospital, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - M Raşit Sirem
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kayseri City Hospital, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Ender Sirakaya
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kayseri City Hospital, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Cemal Ozsaygılı
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kayseri City Hospital, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Ayşe Çiçek
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kayseri City Hospital, Kayseri, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Houshiheisan promotes angiogenesis via HIF-1α/VEGF and SDF-1/CXCR4 pathways: in vivo and in vitro. Biosci Rep 2020; 39:220749. [PMID: 31652450 PMCID: PMC6822506 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20191006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Revised: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Houshiheisan (HSHS), a classic prescription in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has remarkable efficacy in the treatment of ischemic stroke. Objective: To investigate the pro-angiogenic effect and molecular mechanism of HSHS for stroke recovery. Methods and results: The rat permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (pMCAO) model was constructed by suture method, HSHS (5.25 or 10.5 g/kg) and Ginaton (28 mg/kg) treatment was intragastrically administrated at 6 h after modeling which remained for 7 consecutive days. Pathological evaluation conducted by Hematoxylin–Eosin (HE) staining and the results showed that HSHS alleviated blood vessel edema, reduced the damage to blood vessels and neurons in the ischemic areas. Immunostaining, quantitative real-time fluorescence PCR results showed that HSHS up-regulated pro-angiogenic factors including platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (cluster of differentiation 31 (CD31)), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR2), angiopoietin-1 (Ang-1), while down-regulated angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2), stromal cell derived factor-1 (SDF-1), and cxc chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) expression in infarct rat cortex, and similar results were obtained in subsequent Western blot experiment. Furthermore, CCK8 assay and transwell migration assay were performed to assess cell proliferation, migration, and tube formation. The medicated serum (MS) of HSHS appeared to have beneficial effects for immortalized human umbilical vein cells (Im-HUVECs) on proliferation and migration after persistence hypoxia. Western blot analysis revealed that the expression of hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), VEGFA, Ang-1, Ang-2, and CXCR4 were significantly up-regulated while Ang-2 was down-regulated by HSHS MS treatment compared with vehicle group in vitro. Conclusion: The present study suggests a novel application of HSHS as an effective angiogenic formula for stroke recovery.
Collapse
|
17
|
Masoumi J, Jafarzadeh A, Khorramdelazad H, Abbasloui M, Abdolalizadeh J, Jamali N. Role of Apelin/APJ axis in cancer development and progression. Adv Med Sci 2020; 65:202-213. [PMID: 32087570 DOI: 10.1016/j.advms.2020.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Revised: 05/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Apelin is an endogenous peptide, which is expressed in a vast board of organs such as the brain, placenta, heart, lungs, kidneys, pancreas, testis, prostate and adipose tissues. The apelin receptor, called angiotensin-like-receptor 1 (APJ), is also expressed in the brain, spleen, placenta, heart, liver, intestine, prostate, thymus, testis, ovary, lungs, kidneys, stomach, and adipose tissue. The apelin/APJ axis is involved in a number of physiological and pathological processes. The apelin expression is increased in various kinds of cancer and the apelin/APJ axis plays a key role in the development of tumors through enhancing angiogenesis, metastasis, cell proliferation and also through the development of cancer stem cells and drug resistance. The apelin also stops the apoptosis of cancer cells. The apelin/APJ axis was considered in this review as an attractive therapeutic target for cancer treatment.
Collapse
|
18
|
Aouiss A, Anka Idrissi D, Kabine M, Zaid Y. Update of inflammatory proliferative retinopathy: Ischemia, hypoxia and angiogenesis. Curr Res Transl Med 2019; 67:62-71. [PMID: 30685380 DOI: 10.1016/j.retram.2019.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Revised: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) and retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) present two examples of proliferative retinopathy, characterized by the same stages of progression; ischemia of the retinal vessels, leads to hypoxia and to correct the problem there is the setting up of uncontrolled angiogenesis, which subsequently causes blindness or even detachment of the retina. The difference is the following; that DR initiated by the metabolic complications that are due to hyperglycemia, and ROP is induced by overexposure of the neonatal retina to oxygen. In this review, we will demonstrate the physiopathological mechanism of the two forms of proliferative retinopathy DR and ROP, in particular the role of the CD40/CD40L axis and IL-1 on vascular complications and onset of inflammation of the retina, the implications of their effects on the onset of pathogenic angiogenesis, thus understanding the link between platelets and retinal ischemia. In addition, what are the therapeutic targets that could slow its progression?
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Aouiss
- Laboratory of Health and Environment, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences Ain Chock, University of Hassan II, Casablanca, Morocco.
| | - D Anka Idrissi
- Laboratory of Health and Environment, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences Ain Chock, University of Hassan II, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - M Kabine
- Laboratory of Health and Environment, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences Ain Chock, University of Hassan II, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Y Zaid
- Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Montreal Heart Institute, Montreal, H1T1C8, Quebec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Cheng J, Luo X, Huang Z, Chen L. Apelin/APJ system: A potential therapeutic target for endothelial dysfunction‐related diseases. J Cell Physiol 2018; 234:12149-12160. [DOI: 10.1002/jcp.27942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jun Cheng
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drugs Study, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China Hengyang China
| | - Xuling Luo
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drugs Study, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China Hengyang China
| | - Zhen Huang
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drugs Study, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China Hengyang China
- Department of Pharmacy The First Affiliated Hospital, University of South China Hengyang China
| | - Linxi Chen
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drugs Study, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China Hengyang China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Zhang Y, Wang Y, Lou Y, Luo M, Lu Y, Li Z, Wang Y, Miao L. Elabela, a newly discovered APJ ligand: Similarities and differences with Apelin. Peptides 2018; 109:23-32. [PMID: 30267732 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2018.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Revised: 08/24/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The Apelin/APJ system is involved in a wide range of biological functions. For a long time, Apelin was thought to be the only ligand for APJ. Recently, a new peptide that acts via APJ and has similar functions, called Elabela, was identified. Elabela has beneficial effects on body fluid homeostasis, cardiovascular health, and renal insufficiency, as well as potential benefits for metabolism and diabetes. In this review, the properties and biological functions of this new peptide are discussed in comparison with those of Apelin. Important areas for future study are also discussed, with the consideration that research on Apelin could guide future research on Elabela.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yixian Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China; Pediatric Research Institute, Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville, Louisville, 40202, USA
| | - Yonggang Wang
- Cardiovascular Center, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Yan Lou
- Department of Nephrology, Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Manyu Luo
- Department of Nephrology, Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Yue Lu
- Department of Nephrology, Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Zhuo Li
- Department of Nephrology, Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Yangwei Wang
- Department of Nephrology, Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China.
| | - Lining Miao
- Department of Nephrology, Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Apostolidis SA, Stifano G, Tabib T, Rice LM, Morse CM, Kahaleh B, Lafyatis R. Single Cell RNA Sequencing Identifies HSPG2 and APLNR as Markers of Endothelial Cell Injury in Systemic Sclerosis Skin. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2191. [PMID: 30327649 PMCID: PMC6174292 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: The mechanisms that lead to endothelial cell (EC) injury and propagate the vasculopathy in Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) are not well understood. Using single cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), our goal was to identify EC markers and signature pathways associated with vascular injury in SSc skin. Methods: We implemented single cell sorting and subsequent RNA sequencing of cells isolated from SSc and healthy control skin. We used t-distributed stochastic neighbor embedding (t-SNE) to identify the various cell types. We performed pathway analysis using Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA). Finally, we independently verified distinct markers using immunohistochemistry on skin biopsies and qPCR in primary ECs from SSc and healthy skin. Results: By combining the t-SNE analysis with the expression of known EC markers, we positively identified ECs among the sorted cells. Subsequently, we examined the differential expression profile between the ECs from healthy and SSc skin. Using GSEA and IPA analysis, we demonstrated that the SSc endothelial cell expression profile is enriched in processes associated with extracellular matrix generation, negative regulation of angiogenesis and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Two of the top differentially expressed genes, HSPG2 and APLNR, were independently verified using immunohistochemistry staining and real-time qPCR analysis. Conclusion: ScRNA-seq, differential gene expression and pathway analysis revealed that ECs from SSc patients show a discrete pattern of gene expression associated with vascular injury and activation, extracellular matrix generation and negative regulation of angiogenesis. HSPG2 and APLNR were identified as two of the top markers of EC injury in SSc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sokratis A Apostolidis
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | | | - Tracy Tabib
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Lisa M Rice
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Christina M Morse
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Bashar Kahaleh
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, United States
| | - Robert Lafyatis
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Huang Z, He L, Chen Z, Chen L. Targeting drugs to APJ receptor: From signaling to pathophysiological effects. J Cell Physiol 2018; 234:61-74. [DOI: 10.1002/jcp.27047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Huang
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drugs Study, University of South China Hengyang China
- Department of Pharmacy The First Affiliated Hospital, University Of South China Hengyang China
| | - Lu He
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drugs Study, University of South China Hengyang China
| | - Zhe Chen
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drugs Study, University of South China Hengyang China
| | - Linxi Chen
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drugs Study, University of South China Hengyang China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Wysocka MB, Pietraszek-Gremplewicz K, Nowak D. The Role of Apelin in Cardiovascular Diseases, Obesity and Cancer. Front Physiol 2018; 9:557. [PMID: 29875677 PMCID: PMC5974534 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.00557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 152] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2018] [Accepted: 04/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Apelin is an endogenous peptide identified as a ligand of the G protein-coupled receptor APJ. Apelin belongs to the family of adipokines, which are bioactive mediators released by adipose tissue. Extensive tissue distribution of apelin and its receptor suggests, that it could be involved in many physiological processes including regulation of blood pressure, body fluid homeostasis, endocrine stress response, cardiac contractility, angiogenesis, and energy metabolism. Additionally, this peptide participates in pathological processes, such as heart failure, obesity, diabetes, and cancer. In this article, we review current knowledge about the role of apelin in organ and tissue pathologies. We also summarize the mechanisms by which apelin and its receptor mediate the regulation of physiological and pathological processes. Moreover, we put forward an indication of apelin as a biomarker predicting cardiac diseases and various types of cancer. A better understanding of the function of apelin and its receptor in pathologies might lead to the development of new medical compounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marta B Wysocka
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland
| | | | - Dorota Nowak
- Department of Cell Pathology, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Morita A, Sawada S, Mori A, Arima S, Sakamoto K, Nagamitsu T, Nakahara T. Establishment of an abnormal vascular patterning model in the mouse retina. J Pharmacol Sci 2018; 136:177-188. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jphs.2018.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2017] [Revised: 10/21/2017] [Accepted: 10/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
|
25
|
Alipour FG, Ashoori MR, Pilehvar-Soltanahmadi Y, Zarghami N. An overview on biological functions and emerging therapeutic roles of apelin in diabetes mellitus. Diabetes Metab Syndr 2017; 11 Suppl 2:S919-S923. [PMID: 28712823 DOI: 10.1016/j.dsx.2017.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2017] [Accepted: 07/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a common type of diabetes and considered as multifactorial disease. Apelin is an adipokine which secreted from white adipose tissue and involved in various functions such as insulin sensitivity and food intake. Many studies showed that apelin has a crucial role in diabetes and its concentration will change in relation with insulin resistance. In this review, we will discuss the roles of apelin in energy metabolism and pathogenesis of diabetes and explain why apelin can be a good candidate adipokine to promoting insulin sensitivity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Farzaneh Ghafarian Alipour
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Nutrition Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohamad Reza Ashoori
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Nosratollah Zarghami
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Nutrition Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Ishimaru Y, Shibagaki F, Yamamuro A, Yoshioka Y, Maeda S. An apelin receptor antagonist prevents pathological retinal angiogenesis with ischemic retinopathy in mice. Sci Rep 2017; 7:15062. [PMID: 29118394 PMCID: PMC5678128 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-15602-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pathological retinal angiogenesis is caused by the progression of ischemic retinal diseases and can result in retinal detachment and irreversible blindness. This neovascularization is initiated from the retinal veins and their associated capillaries and involves the overgrowth of vascular endothelial cells. Since expression of the apelin receptor (APJ) is restricted to the veins and proliferative endothelial cells during physiological retinal angiogenesis, in the present study, we investigated the effect of APJ inhibition on pathological retinal angiogenesis in a mouse model of oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR). In vitro experiments revealed that ML221, an APJ antagonist, suppressed cultured-endothelial cell proliferation in a dose-dependent manner. Intraperitoneal administration of ML221 inhibited pathological angiogenesis but enhanced the recovery of normal vessels into the ischemic regions in the retina of the OIR model mice. ML221 did not affect the expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptor (VEGFR2) in the retina. APJ was highly expressed in the endothelial cells within abnormal vessels but was only detected in small amounts in morphologically normal vessels. These results suggest that APJ inhibitors selectively prevent pathological retinal angiogenesis and that the drugs targeting APJ may be new a candidate for treating ischemic retinopathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Ishimaru
- Department of Pharmacotherapeutics, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Setsunan University, 45-1 Nagaotoge-cho, Hirakata, Osaka, 573-0101, Japan.
| | - Fumiya Shibagaki
- Department of Pharmacotherapeutics, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Setsunan University, 45-1 Nagaotoge-cho, Hirakata, Osaka, 573-0101, Japan
| | - Akiko Yamamuro
- Department of Pharmacotherapeutics, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Setsunan University, 45-1 Nagaotoge-cho, Hirakata, Osaka, 573-0101, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Yoshioka
- Department of Pharmacotherapeutics, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Setsunan University, 45-1 Nagaotoge-cho, Hirakata, Osaka, 573-0101, Japan
| | - Sadaaki Maeda
- Department of Pharmacotherapeutics, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Setsunan University, 45-1 Nagaotoge-cho, Hirakata, Osaka, 573-0101, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Li Y, Bai YJ, Jiang YR. Apelin induces the proliferation, migration and expression of cytoskeleton and tight junction proteins in human RPE cells via PI-3K/Akt and MAPK/Erk signaling pathways. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CLINICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL PATHOLOGY 2017; 10:10711-10729. [PMID: 31966415 PMCID: PMC6965848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2016] [Accepted: 11/30/2016] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy is major cause of vision loss during working age. Breakdown of blood-retinal barrier is an early event in pathogenesis of DR. RPE is the major part of outer BRB. Apelin, an endogenous ligand of APJ, mediates angiogenesis. Our previous study showed that apelin induced proliferation, migration, and collagen I mRNA expression in human RPE cells via PI-3K/Akt and MAPK/Erk signaling pathways. Now we investigate the connection between apelin and RPE in vascular permeability of diabetic retinopathy and its working mechanism. Our study showed that apelin promotes the proliferation, migration and expression of cytoskeleton and tight junction proteins in human RPE cells using MTS and transwell chamber assay. Apelin also activated the expression of PI-3K/Akt and MAPK/Erk signaling pathways proteins, such as PLCγ1, p38, Akt and Erk phosphorylation in RPE cells using laser scanning confocal detection, PCR and western blot. Pretreatment with the inhibitor of apelin receptor APJ, F13A, abolished the apelin-induced activations of the proliferation, migration and expression of cytoskeleton, tight junction and PI-3K/Akt and MAPK/Erk signaling pathways proteins in human RPE cells. It suggested that apelin as a promoter in retinal vascular permeability during early stage of DR, provides further evidence for neurovascular crosstalk in pathogenesis of DR, which may offer a new target in early prevention and treatment of DR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Peking University People's Hospital; Key Laboratory of Vision Loss and Restoration, Ministry of Education; Beijing Key Laboratory for The Diagnosis and Treatment of Retinal and Choroid Diseases Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Jing Bai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Peking University People's Hospital; Key Laboratory of Vision Loss and Restoration, Ministry of Education; Beijing Key Laboratory for The Diagnosis and Treatment of Retinal and Choroid Diseases Beijing, China
| | - Yan-Rong Jiang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Peking University People's Hospital; Key Laboratory of Vision Loss and Restoration, Ministry of Education; Beijing Key Laboratory for The Diagnosis and Treatment of Retinal and Choroid Diseases Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Apelin/APJ system: A novel promising therapy target for pathological angiogenesis. Clin Chim Acta 2016; 466:78-84. [PMID: 28025030 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2016.12.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2016] [Revised: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 12/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Apelin is the endogenous ligand of the G protein-coupled receptor APJ. Both Apelin and APJ receptor are widely distributed in various tissues such as heart, brain, limbs, retina and liver. Recent research indicates that the Apelin/APJ system plays an important role in pathological angiogenesis which is a progress of new blood branches developing from preexisting vessels via sprouting. In this paper, we review the important role of the Apelin/APJ system in pathological angiogenesis. The Apelin/APJ system promotes angiogenesis in myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, critical limb ischemia, tumor, retinal angiogenesis diseases, cirrhosis, obesity, diabetes and other related diseases. Furthermore, we illustrate the detailed mechanism of pathological angiogenesis induced by the Apelin/APJ system. In conclusion, the Apelin/APJ system would be a promising therapeutic target for angiogenesis-related diseases.
Collapse
|
29
|
Palm MM, Dallinga MG, van Dijk E, Klaassen I, Schlingemann RO, Merks RMH. Computational Screening of Tip and Stalk Cell Behavior Proposes a Role for Apelin Signaling in Sprout Progression. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0159478. [PMID: 27828952 PMCID: PMC5102492 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0159478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2016] [Accepted: 05/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis involves the formation of new blood vessels by sprouting or splitting of existing blood vessels. During sprouting, a highly motile type of endothelial cell, called the tip cell, migrates from the blood vessels followed by stalk cells, an endothelial cell type that forms the body of the sprout. To get more insight into how tip cells contribute to angiogenesis, we extended an existing computational model of vascular network formation based on the cellular Potts model with tip and stalk differentiation, without making a priori assumptions about the differences between tip cells and stalk cells. To predict potential differences, we looked for parameter values that make tip cells (a) move to the sprout tip, and (b) change the morphology of the angiogenic networks. The screening predicted that if tip cells respond less effectively to an endothelial chemoattractant than stalk cells, they move to the tips of the sprouts, which impacts the morphology of the networks. A comparison of this model prediction with genes expressed differentially in tip and stalk cells revealed that the endothelial chemoattractant Apelin and its receptor APJ may match the model prediction. To test the model prediction we inhibited Apelin signaling in our model and in an in vitro model of angiogenic sprouting, and found that in both cases inhibition of Apelin or of its receptor APJ reduces sprouting. Based on the prediction of the computational model, we propose that the differential expression of Apelin and APJ yields a "self-generated" gradient mechanisms that accelerates the extension of the sprout.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margriet M. Palm
- Life Sciences Group, Centrum Wiskunde & Informatica, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Erik van Dijk
- Life Sciences Group, Centrum Wiskunde & Informatica, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ingeborg Klaassen
- Ocular Angiogenesis Group, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Roeland M. H. Merks
- Life Sciences Group, Centrum Wiskunde & Informatica, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Mathematical Institute, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Hu H, He L, Li L, Chen L. Apelin/APJ system as a therapeutic target in diabetes and its complications. Mol Genet Metab 2016; 119:20-7. [PMID: 27650065 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2016.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2016] [Revised: 07/26/2016] [Accepted: 07/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The G-protein-coupled receptor APJ and its endogenous ligand apelin are widely expressed in many peripheral tissues and central nervous system, including adipose tissue, skeletal muscles and hypothalamus. Apelin/APJ system, involved in numerous physiological functions like angiogenesis, fluid homeostasis and energy metabolism regulation, is notably implicated in the development of different pathologies such as diabetes and its complications. Increasing evidence suggests that apelin regulates insulin sensitivity, stimulates glucose utilization and enhances brown adipogenesis in different tissues associated with diabetes. Moreover, apelin is also involved in the regulation of diabetic complications via binding to APJ receptor. Apelin improves diabetes-induced kidney hypertrophia, normalizes obesity-associated cardiac hypertrophy and negatively promotes retinal angiogenesis in diabetic retinopathy. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview about the role of apelin/APJ system in different tissues related with diabetes. Furthermore, we describe the pathogenesis of diabetic complications associated with apelin/APJ system. Finally, agonists and antagonists targeted to APJ receptor are described in the literature. Thus, we highlight apelin/APJ system as a novel therapeutic target for pharmacological intervention in treating diabetes and its complications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haoliang Hu
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China
| | - Lu He
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China; Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China
| | - Lanfang Li
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China.
| | - Linxi Chen
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Comparative systems pharmacology of HIF stabilization in the prevention of retinopathy of prematurity. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2016; 113:E2516-25. [PMID: 27091985 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1523005113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) causes 100,000 new cases of childhood blindness each year. ROP is initiated by oxygen supplementation necessary to prevent neonatal death. We used organ systems pharmacology to define the transcriptomes of mice that were cured of oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR, ROP model) by hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) stabilization via HIF prolyl hydroxylase inhibition using the isoquinolone Roxadustat or the 2-oxoglutarate analog dimethyloxalylglycine (DMOG). Although both molecules conferred a protective phenotype, gene expression analysis by RNA sequencing found that Roxadustat can prevent OIR by two pathways: direct retinal HIF stabilization and induction of aerobic glycolysis or indirect hepatic HIF-1 stabilization and increased serum angiokines. As predicted by pathway analysis, Roxadustat rescued the hepatic HIF-1 knockout mouse from retinal oxygen toxicity, whereas DMOG could not. The simplicity of systemic treatment that targets both the liver and the eye provides a rationale for protecting the severely premature infant from oxygen toxicity.
Collapse
|
32
|
Novakova V, Sandhu GS, Dragomir-Daescu D, Klabusay M. Apelinergic system in endothelial cells and its role in angiogenesis in myocardial ischemia. Vascul Pharmacol 2016; 76:1-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vph.2015.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2015] [Revised: 08/01/2015] [Accepted: 08/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
|
33
|
Zhang J, Liu Q, Fang Z, Hu X, Huang F, Tang L, Zhou S. Hypoxia induces the proliferation of endothelial progenitor cells via upregulation of Apelin/APLNR/MAPK signaling. Mol Med Rep 2015; 13:1801-6. [PMID: 26676468 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2015.4691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2014] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) can form new vessels through differentiation into endothelial cells (ECs), thus being important in the prevention of hypoxia/ischemia. Apelin can activate different signaling pathways through its receptor, APLNR, which regulate diverse biological functions, including cardiovascular function. However, the molecular mechanism by which Apelin mediates hypoxia-induced EPCs proliferation remain to be fully elucidated. The present study aimed to determine the role of Apelin/APLNR signaling in hypoxia-induced proliferation of EPCs. MTT assay was used to determine cell proliferation. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting analysis were conducted to examine mRNA and protein expression. It was revealed that hypoxia promoted the proliferation of the EPCs. Further investigation demonstrated that hypoxia promoted the expression levels of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α, Apelin and APLNR in the EPCs. In addition, upregulation of Apelin or APLNR promoted the hypoxia-induced proliferation of the EPCs, while knockdown of Apelin or APLNR by small interfering RNA suppressed the hypoxia-induced proliferation of the EPCs, suggesting that the Apelin/APLNR axis is involved in hypoxia-induced proliferation of EPCs. Furthermore, pretreatment of the EPCs with SB-239063 or PD98059, two inhibitors of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), eliminated the Apelin upregulation-induced EPC proliferation, suggesting that MAPK signaling is a downstream effecter of Apelin/APLNR in EPCs. Therefore, the findings of the present study indicated that the production of HIF-1α, induced by hypoxia, activated the Apelin/APLNR and the downstream MAPK signaling pathways, leading to upregulated proliferation of the EPCs. These findings suggested that Apelin/APLNR signaling may be used as a potential therapeutic target for hypoxic/ischemic injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingchang Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530000, P.R. China
| | - Qiming Liu
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410000, P.R. China
| | - Zhenfei Fang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410000, P.R. China
| | - Xinqun Hu
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410000, P.R. China
| | - Feng Huang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530000, P.R. China
| | - Liang Tang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410000, P.R. China
| | - Shenghua Zhou
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410000, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Chen D, Lee J, Gu X, Wei L, Yu SP. Intranasal Delivery of Apelin-13 Is Neuroprotective and Promotes Angiogenesis After Ischemic Stroke in Mice. ASN Neuro 2015; 7:7/5/1759091415605114. [PMID: 26391329 PMCID: PMC4580122 DOI: 10.1177/1759091415605114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Apelin is a peptide originally isolated from bovine stomach tissue extracts and identified as an endogenous ligand of the APJ receptor; recent work showed that apelin ameliorates the ischemic injury in the heart and the brain. Being an analogue to the angiotensin II receptor, the apelin/APJ signaling may mediate angiogenesis process. We explored the noninvasive intranasal brain delivery method and investigated therapeutic effects of apelin-13 in a focal ischemic stroke model of mice. Intranasal administration of apelin-13 (4 mg/kg) was given 30 min after the onset of stroke and repeated once daily. Three days after stroke, mice received apelin-13 had significantly reduced infarct volume and less neuronal death in the penumbra. Western blot analyses showed upregulated levels of apelin, apelin receptor APLNR, and Bcl-2 and decreased caspase-3 activation in the apelin-13-treated brain. The proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-1β, and chemokine monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 mRNA increased in the ischemic brain, which were significantly attenuated by apelin-13. Apelin-13 remarkably reduced microglia recruitment and activation in the penumbra according to morphological features of Iba-1-positive cells 3 days after ischemia. Apelin-13 significantly increased the expression of angiogenic factor vascular endothelial growth factor and matrix metalloproteinase-9 14 days after stroke. Angiogenesis illustrated by collagen IV + /5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridin + colabeled cells was significantly increased by the apelin-13 treatment 21 days after stroke. Finally, apelin-13 promoted the local cerebral blood flow restoration and long-term functional recovery. This study demonstrates a noninvasive intranasal delivery of apelin-13 after stroke, suggesting that the reduced inflammatory activities, decreased cell death, and increased angiogenesis contribute to the therapeutic benefits of apelin-13.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dongdong Chen
- Deptartment of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta Veterans Affair Medical Center, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - Jinhwan Lee
- Deptartment of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta Veterans Affair Medical Center, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - Xiaohuan Gu
- Deptartment of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta Veterans Affair Medical Center, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - Ling Wei
- Deptartment of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta Veterans Affair Medical Center, Decatur, GA, USA Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Shan Ping Yu
- Deptartment of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta Veterans Affair Medical Center, Decatur, GA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Zhang J, Liu Q, Hu X, Fang Z, Huang F, Tang L, Zhou S. Apelin/APJ signaling promotes hypoxia-induced proliferation of endothelial progenitor cells via phosphoinositide-3 kinase/Akt signaling. Mol Med Rep 2015; 12:3829-3834. [PMID: 26018184 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2015.3866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2014] [Accepted: 04/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) can adhere to the endothelium at sites of hypoxia/ischemia and participate in the formation of novel vessels through differentiating into endothelial cells (ECs). Apelin is an endogenous ligand for the G protein‑coupled receptor APJ, and apelin/APJ signaling has a role in cardiovascular function. The present study aimed to investigate the role of apelin/APJ signaling in the regulation of EPC proliferation under hypoxia. The results showed that hypoxia was able to induce EPC proliferation, accompanied with an upregulation of hypoxia‑inducible factor (HIF)‑1α as well as apelin/APJ signaling. Further investigation indicated that siRNA‑mediated knockdown of apelin or APJ expression attenuated the hypoxia‑induced proliferation of EPCs, suggesting that apelin/APJ signaling has an important role in hypoxia‑induced EPC proliferation. Moreover, the phosphoinositide‑3 kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling pathway was found to be involved in the apelin/APJ‑mediated EPC proliferation under hypoxia. Based on these findings, the present study suggested that hypoxia‑induced upregulation of HIF‑1α promotes the expression of apelin and APJ, which further activate the downstream PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, a key promoter of EPC proliferation. In conclusion, the present study highlighted the role of apelin/APJ in the regulation of EPC proliferation, and apelin/APJ may therefore serve as a potential target for the prevention of hypoxic ischemic injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingchang Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, P.R. China
| | - Qiming Liu
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, P.R. China
| | - Xinqun Hu
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, P.R. China
| | - Zhenfei Fang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, P.R. China
| | - Feng Huang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P.R. China
| | - Liang Tang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, P.R. China
| | - Shenghua Zhou
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Lilly B. We have contact: endothelial cell-smooth muscle cell interactions. Physiology (Bethesda) 2015; 29:234-41. [PMID: 24985327 DOI: 10.1152/physiol.00047.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Blood vessels are composed of two primary cell types, endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells, each providing a unique contribution to vessel function. Signaling between these two cell types is essential for maintaining tone in mature vessels, and their communication is critical during development, and for repair and remodeling associated with blood vessel growth. This review will highlight the pathways that endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells utilize to communicate during vessel formation and discuss how disruptions in these pathways contribute to disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brenda Lilly
- Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Heart Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Du JH, Li X, Li R, Xu L, Ma RR, Liu SF, Zhang Z, Sun HZ. Elevation of serum apelin-13 associated with proliferative diabetic retinopathy in type 2 diabetic patients. Int J Ophthalmol 2014; 7:968-73. [PMID: 25540748 DOI: 10.3980/j.issn.2222-3959.2014.06.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2013] [Accepted: 06/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To compare apelin-13, a ligand of G-protein-coupled receptor which has been shown to be involved in retinal angiogenesis, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) serum levels in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with or without retinopathy, and to investigate the relationship between the serum concentration of apelin-13 and diabetes retinopathy. METHODS Sixty-nine patients with T2DM were enrolled. Of the 69 patients, 16 had proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR group), 23 had non-PDR (NPDR group) and 30 had no retinopathy (T2DM group). Subjects' information, including demographics, medical history, and use of medications were recorded. Their serum samples were collected for measuring the levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), serum lipid and glycosylated hemoglobin. Apelin-13 and VEGF serum levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Kruskal-Wallis test and one-way ANOVA were used to compare the differences among these groups. Chi-square test was used to assess categorical variables. Correlations between variables were investigated by Spearman rho correlation test and stepwise regression analysis. All statistical analyses were performed through SPSS 17.0 software. RESULTS Sex, age, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, CRP, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) have no significantly difference in the three groups. Serum level of apelin-13 was significantly elevated in PDR group as compared with T2DM group (P=0.041). Differences of VEGF serum concentration in the three groups were statistically significant (P=0.007, P=0.007 and P<0.001, respectively). Spearman rho correlation test showed that serum apelin-13 was positively correlated with BMI, serum triglycerides, VEGF, but not with age, duration of diabetes, blood pressure, CRP, HbA1c and total-cholesterol. Stepwise regression analysis showed that BMI also significantly associated with serum apelin-13 (P=0.002), while VEGF and serum triglycerides were irrelevant. CONCLUSION This study elucidated a positive association of apelin-13 serum level with PDR, but not with VEGF. Apelin-13 may influence the promotion of PDR but unrelated with VEGF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Hui Du
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xi'an Ninth Hospital Affiliated to Medical College of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710054, Shaanxi Province, China ; Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Xia Li
- Outpatient Department, Guangzhou Sanitorium of PLA, Guangzhou 510515, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Rong Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Medical University, West Fenghao Road 48, Xi'an 710077, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Lin Xu
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Ran-Ran Ma
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Song-Fang Liu
- Department of Endocrinology, Xi'an Ninth Hospital Affiliated to Medical College of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710054, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Zhong Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xi'an Ninth Hospital Affiliated to Medical College of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710054, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Hong-Zhi Sun
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Activation of the endothelin system mediates pathological angiogenesis during ischemic retinopathy. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2014; 184:3040-51. [PMID: 25203536 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2014.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2014] [Revised: 07/10/2014] [Accepted: 07/15/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Retinopathy of prematurity adversely affects premature infants because of oxygen-induced damage of the immature retinal vasculature, resulting in pathological neovascularization (NV). Our pilot studies using the mouse model of oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) showed marked increases in angiogenic mediators, including endothelins and endothelin receptor (EDNR) A. We hypothesized that activation of the endothelin system via EDNRA plays a causal role in pathological angiogenesis and up-regulation of angiogenic mediators, including vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) in OIR. Mice were exposed to 75% oxygen from post-natal day P7 to P12, treated with either vehicle or EDNRA antagonist BQ-123 or EDNRB antagonist BQ-788 on P12, and kept at room air from P12 to P17 (ischemic phase). RT-PCR analysis revealed increased levels of EDN2 and EDNRA mRNA, and Western blot analysis revealed increased EDN2 expression during the ischemic phase. EDNRA inhibition significantly increased vessel sprouting, resulting in enhanced physiological angiogenesis and decreased pathological NV, whereas EDNRB inhibition modestly improved vascular repair. OIR triggered significant increases in VEGFA protein and mRNA for delta-like ligand 4, apelin, angiopoietin-2, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1. BQ-123 treatment significantly reduced these alterations. EDN2 expression was localized to retinal glia and pathological NV tufts of the OIR retinas. EDN2 also induced VEGFA protein expression in cultured astrocytes. In conclusion, inhibition of the EDNRA during OIR suppresses pathological NV and promotes physiological angiogenesis.
Collapse
|
39
|
Yu XH, Tang ZB, Liu LJ, Qian H, Tang SL, Zhang DW, Tian GP, Tang CK. Apelin and its receptor APJ in cardiovascular diseases. Clin Chim Acta 2014; 428:1-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2013.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2013] [Revised: 08/31/2013] [Accepted: 09/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
|