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Iliev A, Gaydarski L, Kotov G, Landzhov B, Kirkov V, Stanchev S. The vascular footprint in cardiac homeostasis and hypertensive heart disease-A link between apelin receptor, vascular endothelial growth factor, and neuronal nitric oxide synthase. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2024. [PMID: 38618880 DOI: 10.1002/ar.25453] [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: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Recent studies have suggested a connection between disturbances of the apelin system and various cardiac pathologies, including hypertension, heart failure, and atherosclerosis. Vascular endothelial growth factor is crucial for cardiac homeostasis as a critical molecule in cardiac angiogenesis. Neuronal nitric oxide synthase is an essential enzyme producing nitric oxide, a key regulator of vascular tone. The present study aims to shed light upon the complex interactions between these three vital signaling molecules and examine their changes with the progression of hypertensive heart disease. We used two groups of spontaneously hypertensive rats and age-matched Wistar rats as controls. The expression of the apelin receptor, vascular endothelial growth factor, and neuronal nitric oxide synthase were assessed immunohistochemically. We used capillary density and cross-sectional area of the cardiomyocytes as quantitative parameters of cardiac hypertrophy. Immunoreactivity of the molecules was more potent in both ventricles of spontaneously hypertensive rats compared with age-matched controls. However, capillary density was lower in both ventricles of the two age groups of spontaneously hypertensive rats compared with controls, and the difference was statistically significant. In addition, the cross-sectional area of the cardiomyocytes was higher in both ventricles of the two age groups of spontaneously hypertensive rats compared with controls, and the difference was statistically significant. Our study suggests a potential link between the apelin receptor, vascular endothelial growth factor, and neuronal nitric oxide synthase in cardiac homeostasis and the hypertensive myocardium. Nevertheless, further research is required to better comprehend these interactions and their potential therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandar Iliev
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Lyubomir Gaydarski
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Georgi Kotov
- Clinic of Rheumatology, University Hospital "St. Ivan Rilski", Department of Rheumatology, Medical University of Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Boycho Landzhov
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Vidin Kirkov
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Faculty of Public Health "Prof. Dr. Tzekomir Vodenicharov", Medical University of Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Stancho Stanchev
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
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Barsha G, Walton SL, Kwok E, Mirabito Colafella KM, Pinar AA, Hilliard Krause LM, Gaspari TA, Widdop RE, Samuel CS, Denton KM. Relaxin Attenuates Organ Fibrosis via an Angiotensin Type 2 Receptor Mechanism in Aged Hypertensive Female Rats. KIDNEY360 2021; 2:1781-1792. [PMID: 35373008 PMCID: PMC8785838 DOI: 10.34067/kid.0002722021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Background The antifibrotic effects of recombinant human relaxin (RLX) in the kidney are dependent on an interaction between its cognate receptor (RXFP1) and the angiotensin type 2 receptor (AT2R) in male models of disease. Whether RLX has therapeutic effects, which are also mediated via AT2R, in hypertensive adult and aged/reproductively senescent females is unknown. Thus, we determined whether treatment with RLX provides cardiorenal protection via an AT2R-dependent mechanism in adult and aged female stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRSPs). Methods In 6-month-old (6MO) and 15-month-old ([15MO]; reproductively senescent) female SHRSP, systolic BP (SBP), GFR, and proteinuria were measured before and after 4 weeks of treatment with vehicle (Veh), RLX (0.5 mg/kg per day s.c.), or RLX+PD123319 (AT2R antagonist; 3 mg/kg per day s.c.). Aortic endothelium-dependent relaxation and fibrosis of the kidney, heart, and aorta were assessed. Results In 6MO SHRSP, RLX significantly enhanced GFR by approximately 25% (P=0.001) and reduced cardiac fibrosis (P=0.01) as compared with vehicle-treated counterparts. These effects were abolished or blunted by PD123319 coadministration. In 15MO females, RLX reduced interstitial renal (P=0.02) and aortic (P=0.003) fibrosis and lowered SBP (13±3 mm Hg; P=0.04) relative to controls. These effects were also blocked by PD123319 cotreatment (all P=0.05 versus RLX treatment alone). RLX also markedly improved vascular function by approximately 40% (P<0.001) in 15MO SHRSP, but this was not modulated by PD123319 cotreatment. Conclusions The antifibrotic and organ-protective effects of RLX, when administered to a severe model of hypertension, conferred cardiorenal protection in adult and reproductively senescent female rats to a great extent via an AT2R-mediated mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giannie Barsha
- Cardiovascular Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,Department of Physiology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sarah L. Walton
- Cardiovascular Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,Department of Physiology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Edmund Kwok
- Cardiovascular Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,Department of Physiology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Katrina M. Mirabito Colafella
- Cardiovascular Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,Department of Physiology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anita A. Pinar
- Cardiovascular Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lucinda M. Hilliard Krause
- Cardiovascular Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,Department of Physiology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tracey A. Gaspari
- Cardiovascular Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Robert E. Widdop
- Cardiovascular Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Chrishan S. Samuel
- Cardiovascular Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kate M. Denton
- Cardiovascular Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,Department of Physiology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Wang Y, Wang M, Samuel CS, Widdop RE. Preclinical rodent models of cardiac fibrosis. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 179:882-899. [PMID: 33973236 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis (scarring), characterised by an increased deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, is a hallmark of most types of cardiovascular disease and plays an essential role in heart failure progression. Inhibition of cardiac fibrosis could improve outcomes in patients with cardiovascular diseases and particularly heart failure. However, pharmacological treatment of the ECM build-up is still lacking. In this context, preclinical models of heart disease are important tools for understanding the complex pathogenesis involved in the development of cardiac fibrosis which in turn could identify new therapeutic targets and the facilitation of antifibrotic drug discovery. Many preclinical models have been used to study cardiac fibrosis and each model provides mechanistic insights into the many factors that contribute to cardiac fibrosis. This review discusses the most frequently used rodent models of cardiac fibrosis and also provides context for the use of particular models of heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Miao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Chrishan S Samuel
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Robert E Widdop
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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Saheera S, Krishnamurthy P. Cardiovascular Changes Associated with Hypertensive Heart Disease and Aging. Cell Transplant 2020; 29:963689720920830. [PMID: 32393064 PMCID: PMC7586256 DOI: 10.1177/0963689720920830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide and account for more than 17.9 million deaths (World Health Organization report). Hypertension and aging are two major risk factors for the development of cardiac structural and functional abnormalities. Hypertension, or elevated blood pressure, if left untreated can result in myocardial hypertrophy leading to heart failure (HF). Left ventricular hypertrophy consequent to pressure overload is recognized as the most important predictor of congestive HF and sudden death. The pathological changes occurring during hypertensive heart disease are very complex and involve many cellular and molecular alterations. In contrast, the cardiac changes that occur with aging are a slow but life-long process and involve all of the structural components in the heart and vasculature. However, these structural changes in the cardiovascular system lead to alterations in overall cardiac physiology and function. The pace at which these pathophysiological changes occur varies between individuals owing to many genetic and environmental risk factors. This review highlights the molecular mechanisms of cardiac structural and functional alterations associated with hypertension and aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherin Saheera
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, USA
| | - Prasanna Krishnamurthy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine and School of Engineering, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, USA
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Wierich MC, Schipke J, Brandenberger C, Abdellatif M, Eisenberg T, Madeo F, Sedej S, Mühlfeld C. Cardioprotection by spermidine does not depend on structural characteristics of the myocardial microcirculation in aged mice. Exp Gerontol 2019; 119:82-88. [PMID: 30703435 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2019.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Revised: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Ageing is associated with cardiovascular disease and reduced cardiac function. This cardiac functional decline is accompanied by cardiac remodeling and alterations in cardiomyocyte composition. Recently, it was shown that the natural polyamine spermidine preserves cardiac function and cardiomyocyte composition in old mice. As cardiac function critically relies on blood supply, we tested whether spermidine has also beneficial effects on ageing-associated changes of the myocardial microcirculation. METHODS Using transmission electron microscopy, the left ventricular capillaries of young (4-months old) and aged (24-months old) C57BL/6J male mice were investigated by stereology. Aged mice were subdivided into an untreated group and a group that was fed spermidine late in life for 6 months. Specifically, total volume, surface area and length of capillaries as well as endothelial thickness were estimated. Additionally, the total length of precapillary arterioles was assessed. The protein level of VEGF-A was measured using Western blot. RESULTS Ageing was associated with whole heart and left ventricular hypertrophy. All total capillary-related values (including volume, surface area and length) were significantly higher in 24-month-old mice compared with 4-month-old mice. Moreover, VEGF-A expression was significantly enhanced in aged mice. The mean thickness of the endothelium was not different, but the mean area of myocardium supplied by capillaries was smaller in old mice. Spermidine treatment had no significant effect on the ageing-associated structural changes or VEGF-A expression. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, in the left ventricles of aged mice the growth of capillaries and arterioles supplying cardiomyocytes were in proportion to whole organ hypertrophy. Spermidine had no effect on quantitative characteristics of capillaries or arterioles, suggesting that the beneficial effects of spermidine on the ageing heart do not depend on the quantitative structural characteristics of the microcirculation which does not exclude potential functional differences between the groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Christin Wierich
- Institute of Functional and Applied Anatomy, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Julia Schipke
- Institute of Functional and Applied Anatomy, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany; Cluster of Excellence REBIRTH (From Regenerative Biology to Reconstructive Therapy), Hannover, Germany; Biomedical Research in Endstage and Obstructive Lung Disease Hannover (BREATH), Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Hannover, Germany
| | - Christina Brandenberger
- Institute of Functional and Applied Anatomy, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany; Cluster of Excellence REBIRTH (From Regenerative Biology to Reconstructive Therapy), Hannover, Germany; Biomedical Research in Endstage and Obstructive Lung Disease Hannover (BREATH), Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Tobias Eisenberg
- Institute of Molecular Biosciences, NAWI Graz, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Frank Madeo
- Institute of Molecular Biosciences, NAWI Graz, University of Graz, Graz, Austria; BioTechMed, Graz, Austria
| | - Simon Sedej
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria; BioTechMed, Graz, Austria
| | - Christian Mühlfeld
- Institute of Functional and Applied Anatomy, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany; Cluster of Excellence REBIRTH (From Regenerative Biology to Reconstructive Therapy), Hannover, Germany; Biomedical Research in Endstage and Obstructive Lung Disease Hannover (BREATH), Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Hannover, Germany.
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Wang Y, Zhang J, Xiao X, Liu H, Wang F, Li S, Wen Y, Wei Y, Su J, Zhang Y, Zhang Y. The identification of age-associated cancer markers by an integrative analysis of dynamic DNA methylation changes. Sci Rep 2016; 6:22722. [PMID: 26949191 PMCID: PMC4779991 DOI: 10.1038/srep22722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2015] [Accepted: 02/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
As one of the most widely studied epigenetic modifications, DNA methylation has an important influence on human traits and cancers. Dynamic variations in DNA methylation have been reported in malignant neoplasm and aging; however, the mechanisms remain poorly understood. By constructing an age-associated and cancer-related weighted network (ACWN) based on the correlation of the methylation level and the protein-protein interaction, we found that DNA methylation changes associated with age were closely related to the occurrence of cancer. Additional analysis of 102 module genes mined from the ACWN revealed discrimination based on two main patterns. One pattern involved methylation levels that increased with aging and were higher in cancer patients compared with normal controls (HH pattern). The other pattern involved methylation levels that decreased with aging and were lower in cancer compared with normal (LL pattern). Upon incorporation with gene expression levels, 25 genes were filtered based on negative regulation by DNA methylation. These genes were regarded as potential cancer risk markers that were influenced by age in the process of carcinogenesis. Our results will facilitate further studies regarding the impact of the epigenetic effects of aging on diseases and will aid in the development of tailored cancer preventive strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihan Wang
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Jingyu Zhang
- Department of Gerontology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Xingjun Xiao
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 246 Xuefu Road, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Hongbo Liu
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Fang Wang
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Song Li
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Yanhua Wen
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Yanjun Wei
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Jianzhong Su
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Yunming Zhang
- Department of Gerontology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
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Staiculescu MC, Foote C, Meininger GA, Martinez-Lemus LA. The role of reactive oxygen species in microvascular remodeling. Int J Mol Sci 2014; 15:23792-835. [PMID: 25535075 PMCID: PMC4284792 DOI: 10.3390/ijms151223792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2014] [Revised: 12/05/2014] [Accepted: 12/10/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The microcirculation is a portion of the vascular circulatory system that consists of resistance arteries, arterioles, capillaries and venules. It is the place where gases and nutrients are exchanged between blood and tissues. In addition the microcirculation is the major contributor to blood flow resistance and consequently to regulation of blood pressure. Therefore, structural remodeling of this section of the vascular tree has profound implications on cardiovascular pathophysiology. This review is focused on the role that reactive oxygen species (ROS) play on changing the structural characteristics of vessels within the microcirculation. Particular attention is given to the resistance arteries and the functional pathways that are affected by ROS in these vessels and subsequently induce vascular remodeling. The primary sources of ROS in the microcirculation are identified and the effects of ROS on other microcirculatory remodeling phenomena such as rarefaction and collateralization are briefly reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marius C Staiculescu
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, and Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA.
| | - Christopher Foote
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, and Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA.
| | - Gerald A Meininger
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, and Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA.
| | - Luis A Martinez-Lemus
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, and Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA.
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Rizk SM, El-Maraghy SA, Nassar NN. A novel role for SIRT-1 in L-arginine protection against STZ induced myocardial fibrosis in rats. PLoS One 2014; 9:e114560. [PMID: 25501750 PMCID: PMC4264750 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0114560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2014] [Accepted: 11/11/2014] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND L-arginine (L-ARG) effectively protects against diabetic impediments. In addition, silent information regulator (SIRT-1) activators are emerging as a new clinical concept in treating diabetic complications. Accordingly, this study aimed at delineating a role for SIRT-1 in mediating L-ARG protection against streptozotocin (STZ) induced myocardial fibrosis. METHODS Male Wistar rats were allocated into five groups; (i) normal control rats received 0.1 M sodium citrate buffer (pH 4.5); (ii) STZ at the dose of 60 mg/kg dissolved in 0.1 M sodium citrate buffer (pH 4.5); (iii) STZ + sirtinol (Stnl; specific inhibitor of SIRT-1; 2 mg/Kg, i.p.); (iv) STZ + L-ARG given in drinking water (2.25%) or (v) STZ + L-ARG + Stnl. RESULTS L-ARG increased myocardial SIRT-1 expression as well as its protein content. The former finding was paralleled by L-ARG induced reduction in myocardial fibrotic area compared to STZ animals evidenced histopathologically. The reduction in the fibrotic area was accompanied by a decline in fibrotic markers as evident by a decrease in expression of collagen-1 along with reductions in myocardial TGF-β, fibronectin, CTGF and BNP expression together with a decrease in TGF-β and hydroxyproline contents. Moreover, L-ARG increased MMP-2 expression in addition to its protein content while decreasing expression of PAI-1. Finally, L-ARG protected against myocardial cellular death by reduction in NFκ-B mRNA as well as TNF-α level in association with decline in Casp-3 and FAS expressions andCasp-3protein content in addition to reduction of FAS positive cells. However, co-administration of L-ARG and Stnl diminished the protective effect of L-ARG against STZ induced myocardial fibrosis. CONCLUSION Collectively, these findings associate a role for SIRT-1 in L-ARG defense against diabetic cardiac fibrosis via equilibrating the balance between profibrotic and antifibrotic mediators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherine M. Rizk
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Noha N. Nassar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
- * E-mail:
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Effect of farnesyltransferase inhibition on cardiac remodeling in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Int J Cardiol 2013; 168:3340-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2013.04.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2012] [Revised: 02/15/2013] [Accepted: 04/06/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Zambrano S, Blanca AJ, Ruiz-Armenta MV, Miguel-Carrasco JL, Arévalo M, Vázquez MJ, Mate A, Vázquez CM. L-Carnitine protects against arterial hypertension-related cardiac fibrosis through modulation of PPAR-γ expression. Biochem Pharmacol 2013; 85:937-44. [PMID: 23295156 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2012.12.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2012] [Revised: 12/26/2012] [Accepted: 12/27/2012] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis is a pathogenic factor in a variety of cardiovascular diseases and is characterized by an abnormal accumulation of extracellular matrix protein that leads to cardiac dysfunction. l-Carnitine (LC) plays an essential role in the β-oxidation of long-chain fatty acids in lipid metabolism. We have previously demonstrated the beneficial effects of LC in hypertensive rats. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of LC on arterial hypertension-associated cardiac fibrosis and to explore the mechanisms of LC action. To this end, four groups of rats were used: Wistar (control), rats treated with 400mg/kg/day of LC, rats treated with 25mg/kg/day of l-NAME (to induce hypertension), and rats treated with LC+l-NAME simultaneously. We found an elevation in the myocardial expression of profibrotic factors (TGF-β1 and CTGF), types I and III of collagen, and NADPH oxidase subunits (NOX2 and NOX4), in hypertensive rats when compared with normotensive ones. In addition, an increase in myocardial fibrosis was also found in the l-NAME group. These results were accompanied by a down-regulation of PPAR-γ in the heart of hypertensive animals. When hypertensive rats were treated with LC, all these alterations were reversed. Moreover, a significant negative correlation was observed between myocardial interstitial fibrosis and mRNA expression of PPAR-γ. In conclusion, the reduction of cardiac fibrosis and the down-regulation of NOX2, NOX4, TGF-β1 and CTGF induced by LC might be, at least in part, mediated by an upregulation of PPAR-γ, which leads to a reduction on hypertension-related cardiac fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Zambrano
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Sevilla, c/Profesor García González 2, 41012 Sevilla, Spain
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Yono M, Yoshida M, Yamamoto Y, Imanishi A, Fukagawa A, Latifpour J, Eto M. Molecular mechanisms regulating urogenital expression of nitric oxide synthase in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Life Sci 2009; 85:334-8. [PMID: 19576905 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2009.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2009] [Revised: 06/18/2009] [Accepted: 06/24/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Although doxazosin, but not nifedipine, can partially prevent a decrease in urogenital expression of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs), the mechanisms involved in the regulated expression of NOS are not known. Therefore, we identified differential gene expression profiles in SHRs to elucidate the molecular mechanisms regulating urogenital expression of NOS. MAIN METHODS SHRs and normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats received doxazosin (30 mg/kg/day) or nifedipine (30 mg/kg/day) orally for 4 weeks. Microarray expression data of key transcripts were verified by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis. KEY FINDINGS RT-PCR data, in accord with the microarray analysis, indicated that untreated SHRs had lower mRNA expression levels of cAMP responsive element binding protein 1 (Creb1) in the pelvic ganglion and vascular endothelial growth factor A (Vegfa) and kinase insert domain protein receptor (Kdr) in the penis, and higher mRNA expression levels of brain derived neurotrophic factor and neurotrophin 3 (Ntf3) in the bladder and Ntf3, Rho-kinases (Rock1 and Rock2) and caveolin 1 (Cav1) in the penis than untreated WKY rats. In SHRs, doxazosin and nifedipine caused a significant decrease in penile expression of Rock1 and Rock2, whereas the differential alterations in urogenital expression of Creb1, Vegfa, Kdr and Cav1 were attenuated by treatment with doxazosin, but not nifedipine. SIGNIFICANCE Our data suggest that differential alterations in the expression of several genes related to pathways that mediate NOS expression in the urogenital tissues of SHRs, which can be attenuated by doxazosin treatment, may play an important role in regulating urogenital expression of NOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makoto Yono
- Department of Urology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Kumamoto 860-8556, Japan
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Gramley F, Lorenzen J, Jedamzik B, Gatter K, Koellensperger E, Munzel T, Pezzella F. Atrial fibrillation is associated with cardiac hypoxia. Cardiovasc Pathol 2009; 19:102-11. [PMID: 19211267 DOI: 10.1016/j.carpath.2008.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2008] [Revised: 11/02/2008] [Accepted: 11/18/2008] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common human arrhythmia, is responsible for substantial morbidity and mortality and may be promoted by selective atrial ischemia and atrial fibrosis. Consequently, we investigated markers for hypoxia and angiogenesis in AF. METHODS Right atrial appendages (n=158) were grouped according to heart rhythm [sinus rhythm (SR) or AF]. The degree of fibrosis and microvessel density of all patients were determined morphometrically using Sirius-Red- and CD34/CD105-stained sections, respectively. Next, sections (n=77) underwent immunostaining to detect hypoxia- and angiogenesis-related proteins [hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)1 alpha, HIF2 alpha, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), VEGF receptor 2 (KDR), phosphorylated KDR (pKDR), carboanhydrase IX, platelet-derived growth factor] and the apoptosis-related B-cell lymphoma 2 protein. RESULTS Fibrosis progressed significantly from 14.7+/-0.8% (SR) to 22.3+/-1.4% (AF). While the positive cytoplasmic staining of HIF1 alpha, HIF2 alpha, VEGF, KDR, and pKDR rose significantly from SR to AF, their nuclear fractions fell (only pKDR significantly). The median CD34/CD105-positive microvessel size increased significantly from SR to AF. CONCLUSIONS AF is closely associated with an atrial up-regulation of hypoxic and angiogenic markers. Whether this is cause, effect, or co-phenomenon of fibrosis remains to be investigated. It is conceivable that fibrosis might lead to an increased O(2) diffusion distance and thus induce ischemic signaling, which, in turn, leads to angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Gramley
- Department of Cardiology and Vascular Medicine, Mainz University, Mainz, Germany.
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Arias HR, Richards VE, Ng D, Ghafoori ME, Le V, Mousa SA. Role of non-neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in angiogenesis. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2009; 41:1441-51. [PMID: 19401144 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2009.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2008] [Accepted: 01/17/2009] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Angiogenesis is a critical physiological process for cell survival and development. Endothelial cells, necessary for the course of angiogenesis, express several non-neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (AChRs). The most important functional non-neuronal AChRs are homomeric alpha7 AChRs and several heteromeric AChRs formed by a combination of alpha3, alpha5, beta2, and beta4 subunits, including alpha3beta4-containing AChRs. In endothelial cells, alpha7 AChR stimulation indirectly triggers the activation of the integrin alphavbeta3 receptor and an intracellular MAP kinase (ERK) pathway that mediates angiogenesis. Non-selective cholinergic agonists such as nicotine have been shown to induce angiogenesis, enhancing tumor progression. Moreover, alpha7 AChR selective antagonists such as alpha-bungarotoxin and methyllycaconitine as well as the non-specific antagonist mecamylamine have been shown to inhibit endothelial cell proliferation and ultimately blood vessel formation. Exploitation of such pharmacologic properties can lead to the discovery of new specific cholinergic antagonists as anti-cancer therapies. Conversely, the pro-angiogenic effect elicited by specific agonists can be used to treat diseases that respond to revascularization such as diabetic ischemia and atherosclerosis, as well as to accelerate wound healing. In this mini-review we discuss the pharmacological evidence supporting the importance of non-neuronal AChRs in angiogenesis. We also explore potential intracellular mechanisms by which alpha7 AChR activation mediates this vital cellular process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo R Arias
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Midwestern University, 19555 N. 59th Avenue, Glendale, AZ 85308-3550, USA.
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Hermida N, López B, González A, Dotor J, Lasarte JJ, Sarobe P, Borrás-Cuesta F, Díez J. A synthetic peptide from transforming growth factor-beta1 type III receptor prevents myocardial fibrosis in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Cardiovasc Res 2008; 81:601-9. [PMID: 19019833 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvn315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM We investigated whether P144, a synthetic peptide from transforming growth factor-beta(1) (TGF-beta(1)) type III receptor betaglycan, exhibits cardiac antifibrotic properties. METHODS AND RESULTS The study was carried out in one group of 10-week-old normotensive Wistar-Kyoto rats treated with vehicle (V-WKY), one group of 10-week-old spontaneously hypertensive rats treated with vehicle (V-SHR), and one group of 10-week-old SHR treated with P144 (P144-SHR) for 12 weeks. Two more groups of 10-week-old untreated WKY and SHR were used to assess baseline values of the parameters tested. In addition, the effects of P144 on rat cardiac fibroblasts stimulated with TGF-beta(1) were also studied. Compared with V-WKY, V-SHR exhibited significant increases in the myocardial expression of phosphorylated Smad2, 38 and 42 kDa connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) isoforms, procollagen alpha1 (I) mRNA, and collagen type I protein, as well as in the expression of lysyl oxidase (LOX) mRNA and protein, collagen cross-linking and deposition. P144 administration was associated with significant reduction in all these parameters in P144-SHR. TGF-beta(1)-stimulated fibroblasts exhibited significant increases in phosphorylated Smad2, 38 and 42 kDa CTGF proteins, and procollagen alpha(1) (I) mRNA compared with control fibroblasts. No significant differences were found in these parameters between fibroblasts incubated with TGF-beta(1) and P144 and control fibroblasts. CONCLUSION These results show that P144 inhibits TGF-beta(1)-dependent signalling pathway and collagen type I synthesis in cardiac fibroblasts. These effects may be involved in the ability of this peptide to prevent myocardial fibrosis in SHR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nerea Hermida
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, Centre for Applied Medical Research, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
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Chen LL, Yin H, Huang J. Inhibition of TGF-β1 signaling by eNOS gene transfer improves ventricular remodeling after myocardial infarction through angiogenesis and reduction of apoptosis. Cardiovasc Pathol 2007; 16:221-30. [PMID: 17637430 DOI: 10.1016/j.carpath.2007.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2006] [Revised: 01/25/2007] [Accepted: 02/22/2007] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Endothelial nitric oxide synthase and nitric oxide have been implicated in protection against myocardial ischemia injury. However, the angiogenic effect of endothelial nitric oxide synthase on infarcted myocardium and the role of tumor growth factor beta1 signaling in cardiac remodeling mediated by endothelial nitric oxide synthase/nitric oxide have not yet been elucidated. METHODS Human endothelial nitric oxide synthase gene in an adenovirus vector was delivered locally into rat heart 4 days prior to the induction of myocardial infarction by left anterior descending coronary artery ligation. Cardiomyocyte apoptosis was detected by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling, and neovascularization was identified immunohistochemically. RESULTS Endothelial nitric oxide synthase gene transfer significantly reduced infarct size and improved cardiac contractility and left ventricular diastolic function at 24 h after myocardial infarction. In addition, endothelial nitric oxide synthase significantly reduced myocardial-infarction-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis. Activation of tumor growth factor beta1 and Smad-2 after myocardial infarction was also dramatically reduced by endothelial nitric oxide synthase. Moreover, the deterioration of both systolic and diastolic functions, in conjunction with thin left ventricular remodeling at 7 days after myocardial infarction, was prevented by endothelial nitric oxide synthase. Capillary density, as identified by alpha-smooth muscle actin immunostaining, was significantly increased in the infarcted myocardium after endothelial nitric oxide synthase transfer compared with myocardial infarction control. All cardioprotective effects of endothelial nitric oxide synthase were blocked by N(omega)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester administration, indicating a nitric-oxide-mediated event. CONCLUSION These results demonstrate that the endothelial nitric oxide synthase/nitric oxide system provides cardiac protection after myocardial infarction injury through inhibition of cardiac apoptosis, stimulation of neovascularization, and suppression of tumor growth factor beta1/Smad-2 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei-Lei Chen
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, PR China
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Fischer C, Schneider M, Carmeliet P. Principles and therapeutic implications of angiogenesis, vasculogenesis and arteriogenesis. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2006:157-212. [PMID: 16999228 DOI: 10.1007/3-540-36028-x_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The vasculature is the first organ to arise during development. Blood vessels run through virtually every organ in the body (except the avascular cornea and the cartilage), assuring metabolic homeostasis by supplying oxygen and nutrients and removing waste products. Not surprisingly therefore, vessels are critical for organ growth in the embryo and for repair of wounded tissue in the adult. Notably, however, an imbalance in angiogenesis (the growth of blood vessels) contributes to the pathogenesis of numerous malignant, inflammatory, ischaemic, infectious and immune disorders. During the last two decades, an explosive interest in angiogenesis research has generated the necessary insights to develop the first clinically approved anti-angiogenic agents for cancer and blindness. This novel treatment is likely to change the face of medicine in the next decade, as over 500 million people worldwide are estimated to benefit from pro- or anti-angiogenesis treatment. In this following chapter, we discuss general key angiogenic mechanisms in health and disease, and highlight recent developments and perspectives of anti-angiogenic therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Fischer
- Centre for Transgene Technology and Gene Therapy, Flanders Interuniversity Institute for Biotechnology, KULeuven, Campus Gasthuisberg, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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Peled N, Shitrit D, Bendayan D, Peled E, Kramer MR. Association of Elevated Levels of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome with Patient Age rather than with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome Severity. Respiration 2006; 74:50-5. [PMID: 16954652 DOI: 10.1159/000095675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2006] [Accepted: 06/01/2006] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although certain studies report high levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), the effect of systemic hypoxia on circulating VEGF remains controversial. OBJECTIVES To study the association of serum VEGF and OSAS in a large group of patients. METHODS One hundred patients with OSAS (mean age 58.1+/-12.4 years, mean body mass index 30.6+/-5.4 kg/m2) were tested for serum VEGF levels, and the findings were correlated with the severity of OSAS, as determined by the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) on the basis of polysomnography and background data. RESULTS The mean AHI was 40.0+/-21.2 (range 10-106). Mean minimal oxygen saturation was 80.6+/-11.7% (range 43-98%) and mean time of oxygen saturation under 90% was 50.0+/-75.0 min (range 0-300 min). The mean VEGF level was 445.2+/-289.8 pg/ml in the study group (vs. 280 pg/ml reported in normal controls). The mean platelet count was 233.8+/-64.4 10(3)/ml and the mean VEGF/platelet ratio was 1.95+/-1.40 pg/10(6). There was no association of VEGF or VEGF/platelets with the severity of OSAS. However, both factors showed a significant correlation with patient age (r=0.224, p=0.01 and r=0.425, p=0.01, respectively). Age was the only parameter to significantly predict VEGF and VEGF/platelets on multivariate analysis (R2=0.713, p=0.001 and R2=0.844, p=0.001, respectively). CONCLUSION The elevation of serum VEGF in OSAS is not associated with the severity of the disease, but it is associated with patient age. VEGF might be involved in the long-term adaptive mechanism in OSAS, and its age-dependent increase might partly explain the reduced mortality in elderly OSAS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nir Peled
- Pulmonary Institute, Rabin Medical Center, Beilinson Campus, Petach Tikva and Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
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