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de Paula VF, Tardelli LP, Amaral SL. Dexamethasone-Induced Arterial Stiffening Is Attenuated by Training due to a Better Balance Between Aortic Collagen and Elastin Levels. Cardiovasc Drugs Ther 2024; 38:693-703. [PMID: 36795192 DOI: 10.1007/s10557-023-07438-z] [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] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Although the cardioprotective benefits of exercise training are well known, the effects of training on dexamethasone (DEX)-induced arterial stiffness are still unclear. This study was aimed at investigating the mechanisms induced by training to prevent DEX-induced arterial stiffness. METHODS Wistar rats were allocated into 4 groups and submitted to combined training (aerobic and resistance exercises, on alternate days, 60% of maximal capacity, for 74 d) or were kept sedentary: sedentary control rats (SC), DEX-treated sedentary rats (DS), combined training control (CT), and DEX-treated trained rats (DT). During the last 14 d, rats were treated with DEX (50 μg/kg per body weight, per day, s.c.) or saline. RESULTS DEX increased PWV (+44% vs +5% m/s, for DS vs SC, p<0.001) and increased aortic COL 3 protein level (+75%) in DS. In addition, PWV was correlated with COL3 levels (r=0.682, p<0.0001). Aortic elastin and COL1 protein levels remained unchanged. On the other hand, the trained and treated groups showed lower PWV values (-27% m/s, p<0.001) vs DS and lower values of aortic and femoral COL3 compared with DS. CONCLUSION As DEX is widely used in several situations, the clinical relevance of this study is that the maintenance of good physical capacity throughout life can be crucial to alleviate some of its side effects, such as arterial stiffness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinicius F de Paula
- Joint Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, PIPGCF UFSCar/UNESP, Rodovia Washington Luiz, km 235, São Carlos, SP, 13565-905, Brazil
- Department of Physical Education, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Sciences, Av. Eng. Luiz Edmundo Carrijo Coube, 14-01, Bauru, SP, 17033-360, Brazil
| | - Lidieli P Tardelli
- Department of Physical Education, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Sciences, Av. Eng. Luiz Edmundo Carrijo Coube, 14-01, Bauru, SP, 17033-360, Brazil
| | - Sandra L Amaral
- Joint Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, PIPGCF UFSCar/UNESP, Rodovia Washington Luiz, km 235, São Carlos, SP, 13565-905, Brazil.
- Department of Physical Education, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Sciences, Av. Eng. Luiz Edmundo Carrijo Coube, 14-01, Bauru, SP, 17033-360, Brazil.
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Lu Y, Xie XN, Xin QQ, Yuan R, Miao Y, Cong WH, Chen KJ. Advance on Chinese Medicine for Hypertensive Renal Damage: Focus on the Complex Molecular Mechanisms. Chin J Integr Med 2024:10.1007/s11655-024-3662-3. [PMID: 38958884 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-024-3662-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Hypertensive renal damage (HRD) is a major cause of end-stage renal disease. Among the causes of end-stage renal disease, HRD accounts for nearly 34% of the total number of cases. Antihypertensive treatment is primarily drug-based, but therapeutic efficacy is less effective and can have serious side effects. Chinese medicine (CM) has significant advantages in the treatment of HRD. CM is rich in various active ingredients and has the property of targeting multiple targets and channels. Therefore, the regulatory network of CM on disease is complex. A large number of CM have been employed to treat HRD, either as single applications or as part of compound formulations. The key possible mechanisms of CM for HRD include regulation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, antioxidation, anti-inflammation, rescue of endothelial function, regulation of vasoactive substance secretion and obesity-related factors, etc. This review summarized and discussed the recent advance in the basic research mechanisms of CM interventions for HRD and pointed out the challenges and future prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Lu
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Diseases, Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100091, China
| | - Xue-Na Xie
- School of Pharmacy, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macau, 999078, China
| | - Qi-Qi Xin
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Diseases, Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100091, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Beijing, 100091, China
| | - Rong Yuan
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Diseases, Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100091, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Beijing, 100091, China
| | - Yu Miao
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Diseases, Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100091, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Beijing, 100091, China
| | - Wei-Hong Cong
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Diseases, Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100091, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Beijing, 100091, China.
| | - Ke-Ji Chen
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Diseases, Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100091, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Beijing, 100091, China
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Duchatsch F, Miotto DS, Tardelli LP, Dionísio TJ, Campos DS, Santos CF, Okoshi K, Amaral SL. Blockade of Inflammatory Markers Attenuates Cardiac Remodeling and Fibrosis in Rats with Supravalvular Aortic Stenosis. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3219. [PMID: 38137440 PMCID: PMC10740498 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11123219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Since cardiac inflammation has been considered an important mechanism involved in heart failure, an anti-inflammatory treatment could control cardiac inflammation and mitigate the worsening of cardiac remodeling. This study evaluated the effects of dexamethasone (DEX) and ramipril treatment on inflammation and cardiac fibrosis in an experimental model of heart failure induced by supravalvular aortic stenosis. Wistar rats (21d) were submitted to an aortic stenosis (AS) protocol. After 21 weeks, an echocardiogram and a maximal exercise test were performed, and after 24 weeks, rats were treated with DEX, ramipril or saline for 14d. The left ventricle (LV) was removed for histological and inflammatory marker analyses. The AS group showed exercise intolerance (-32% vs. Sham), higher relative wall thickness (+63%), collagen deposition and capillary rarefaction, followed by cardiac disfunction. Both treatments were effective in reducing cardiac inflammation, but only DEX attenuated the increased relative wall thickness (-17%) and only ramipril reduced LV fibrosis. In conclusion, both DEX and ramipril decreased cardiac inflammatory markers, which probably contributed to the reduced cardiac fibrosis and relative wall thickness; however, treated AS rats did not show any improvement in cardiac function. Despite the complex pharmacological treatment of heart failure, treatment with an anti-inflammatory could delay the patient's poor prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francine Duchatsch
- Joint Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, PIPGCF UFSCar/UNESP, Rodovia Washington Luiz, km 235 Monjolinho, 676, São Carlos 13565-905, SP, Brazil; (F.D.); (D.S.M.); (L.P.T.)
| | - Danyelle S. Miotto
- Joint Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, PIPGCF UFSCar/UNESP, Rodovia Washington Luiz, km 235 Monjolinho, 676, São Carlos 13565-905, SP, Brazil; (F.D.); (D.S.M.); (L.P.T.)
| | - Lidieli P. Tardelli
- Joint Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, PIPGCF UFSCar/UNESP, Rodovia Washington Luiz, km 235 Monjolinho, 676, São Carlos 13565-905, SP, Brazil; (F.D.); (D.S.M.); (L.P.T.)
| | - Thiago J. Dionísio
- Department of Biological Sciences, Bauru School of Dentistry, USP—University of São Paulo, Alameda Octávio Pinheiro Brisolla, 9–75, Bauru 17012-901, SP, Brazil; (T.J.D.); (C.F.S.)
| | - Dijon S. Campos
- Department of Internal Medicine, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Av. Prof. Mário Rubens Guimarães Montenegro, s/n, Botucatu 18618-687, SP, Brazil; (D.S.C.); (K.O.)
| | - Carlos F. Santos
- Department of Biological Sciences, Bauru School of Dentistry, USP—University of São Paulo, Alameda Octávio Pinheiro Brisolla, 9–75, Bauru 17012-901, SP, Brazil; (T.J.D.); (C.F.S.)
| | - Katashi Okoshi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Av. Prof. Mário Rubens Guimarães Montenegro, s/n, Botucatu 18618-687, SP, Brazil; (D.S.C.); (K.O.)
| | - Sandra L. Amaral
- Joint Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, PIPGCF UFSCar/UNESP, Rodovia Washington Luiz, km 235 Monjolinho, 676, São Carlos 13565-905, SP, Brazil; (F.D.); (D.S.M.); (L.P.T.)
- Department of Physical Education, School of Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Av. Eng. Luiz Edmundo Carrijo Coube, 14-01—Vargem Limpa, Bauru 17033-360, SP, Brazil
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Miotto DS, Duchatsch F, Dionizio A, Buzalaf MAR, Amaral SL. Physical Training vs. Perindopril Treatment on Arterial Stiffening of Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats: A Proteomic Analysis and Possible Mechanisms. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11051381. [PMID: 37239052 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11051381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Arterial stiffness is an important predictor of cardiovascular events. Perindopril and physical exercise are important in controlling hypertension and arterial stiffness, but the mechanisms are unclear. (2) Methods: Thirty-two spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) were evaluated for eight weeks: SHRC (sedentary); SHRP (sedentary treated with perindopril-3 mg/kg) and SHRT (trained). Pulse wave velocity (PWV) analysis was performed, and the aorta was collected for proteomic analysis. (3) Results: Both treatments determined a similar reduction in PWV (-33% for SHRP and -23% for SHRT) vs. SHRC, as well as in BP. Among the altered proteins, the proteomic analysis identified an upregulation of the EH domain-containing 2 (EHD2) protein in the SHRP group, required for nitric oxide-dependent vessel relaxation. The SHRT group showed downregulation of collagen-1 (COL1). Accordingly, SHRP showed an increase (+69%) in the e-NOS protein level and SHRT showed a lower COL1 protein level (-46%) compared with SHRC. (4) Conclusions: Both perindopril and aerobic training reduced arterial stiffness in SHR; however, the results suggest that the mechanisms can be distinct. While treatment with perindopril increased EHD2, a protein involved in vessel relaxation, aerobic training decreased COL1 protein level, an important protein of the extracellular matrix (ECM) that normally enhances vessel rigidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danyelle Siqueira Miotto
- Joint Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences (PIPGCF), Federal University of Sao Carlos and São Paulo State University, UFSCar/UNESP, São Carlos 14801-903, Brazil
| | - Francine Duchatsch
- Joint Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences (PIPGCF), Federal University of Sao Carlos and São Paulo State University, UFSCar/UNESP, São Carlos 14801-903, Brazil
| | - Aline Dionizio
- Department of Biological Sciences, Bauru School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo-USP, Bauru 17012-901, Brazil
| | | | - Sandra Lia Amaral
- Joint Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences (PIPGCF), Federal University of Sao Carlos and São Paulo State University, UFSCar/UNESP, São Carlos 14801-903, Brazil
- Department of Physical Education, School of Sciences, São Paulo State University-UNESP, Bauru 17033-360, Brazil
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Wu M, Zhang S, Zhang W, Zhou Y, Guo Z, Fang Y, Yang Y, Shen Z, Lian D, Shen A, Peng J. Qingda granule ameliorates vascular remodeling and phenotypic transformation of adventitial fibroblasts via suppressing the TGF-β1/Smad2/3 pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 313:116535. [PMID: 37100260 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Qingda granule (QDG) exhibits significant therapeutic effects on high blood pressure, vascular dysfunction, and elevated proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells by inhibiting multiple pathways. However, the effects and underlying mechanisms of QDG treatment on hypertensive vascular remodeling are unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY The aim of this study was to determine the role of QDG treatment in hypertensive vascular remodeling in vivo and in vitro. MATERIALS AND METHODS An ACQUITY UPLC I-Class system coupled with a Xevo XS quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometer was used to characterize the chemical components of QDG. Twenty-five spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) were randomly divided into five groups, including SHR (equal volume of double distilled water, ddH2O), SHR + QDG-L (0.45 g/kg/day), SHR + QDG-M (0.9 g/kg/day), SHR + QDG-H (1.8 g/kg/day), and SHR + Valsartan (7.2 mg/kg/day) groups. QDG, Valsartan, and ddH2O were administered intragastrically once a day for 10 weeks. For the control group, ddH2O was intragastrically administered to five Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY group). Vascular function, pathological changes, and collagen deposition in the abdominal aorta were evaluated using animal ultrasound, hematoxylin and eosin and Masson staining, and immunohistochemistry. Isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ) was performed to identify differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in the abdominal aorta, and Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were performed. Cell Counting Kit-8 assays, phalloidin staining, transwell assays, and western-blotting were performed to explore the underlying mechanisms in primary isolated adventitial fibroblasts (AFs) stimulated with transforming growth factor-β 1 (TGF-β1) with or without QDG treatment. RESULTS Twelve compounds were identified from the total ion chromatogram fingerprint of QDG. In the SHR group, QDG treatment significantly attenuated the increased pulse wave velocity, aortic wall thickening, and abdominal aorta pathological changes and decreased Collagen I, Collagen III, and Fibronectin expression. The iTRAQ analysis identified 306 DEPs between SHR and WKY and 147 DEPs between QDG and SHR. GO and KEGG pathway analyses of the DEPs identified multiple pathways and functional processes involving vascular remodeling, including the TGF-β receptor signaling pathway. QDG treatment significantly attenuated the increased cell migration, actin cytoskeleton remodeling, and Collagen I, Collagen III, and Fibronectin expression in AFs stimulated with TGF-β1. QDG treatment significantly decreased TGF-β1 protein expression in abdominal aortic tissues in the SHR group and p-Smad2 and p-Smad3 protein expression in TGF-β1-stimulated AFs. CONCLUSIONS QDG treatment attenuated hypertension-induced vascular remodeling of the abdominal aorta and phenotypic transformation of adventitial fibroblasts, at least partly by suppressing TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meizhu Wu
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Siyu Zhang
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Wenqiang Zhang
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Yuting Zhou
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Zhi Guo
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Yi Fang
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Yanyan Yang
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Innovation and Transformation Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Zhiqing Shen
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Dawei Lian
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Aling Shen
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Innovation and Transformation Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Jun Peng
- Clinical Research Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital & Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Integrative Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Major Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
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Li C, Meng X, Wang L, Dai X. Mechanism of action of non-coding RNAs and traditional Chinese medicine in myocardial fibrosis: Focus on the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1092148. [PMID: 36843918 PMCID: PMC9947662 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1092148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis is a serious public health problem worldwide that is closely linked to progression of many cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and adversely affects both the disease process and clinical prognosis. Numerous studies have shown that the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway plays a key role in the progression of cardiac fibrosis. Therefore, targeted inhibition of the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway may be a therapeutic measure for cardiac fibrosis. Currently, as the investigation on non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) move forward, a variety of ncRNAs targeting TGF-β and its downstream Smad proteins have attracted high attention. Besides, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been widely used in treating the cardiac fibrosis. As more and more molecular mechanisms of natural products, herbal formulas, and proprietary Chinese medicines are revealed, TCM has been proven to act on cardiac fibrosis by modulating multiple targets and signaling pathways, especially the TGF-β/Smad. Therefore, this work summarizes the roles of TGF-β/Smad classical and non-classical signaling pathways in the cardiac fibrosis, and discusses the recent research advances in ncRNAs targeting the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway and TCM against cardiac fibrosis. It is hoped, in this way, to give new insights into the prevention and treatment of cardiac fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunjun Li
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Xiangxiang Meng
- College of Marxism, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Lina Wang
- First College of Clinical Medical, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Xia Dai
- College of Health, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China,*Correspondence: Xia Dai,
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Chen XY, Yang LP, Zheng YL, Li YX, Zhong DL, Jin RJ, Li J. Electroacupuncture Attenuated Phenotype Transformation of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells via PI3K/Akt and MAPK Signaling Pathways in Spontaneous Hypertensive Rats. Chin J Integr Med 2022; 28:357-365. [PMID: 34839455 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-021-2883-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether the antihypertensive mechanism of electroacupuncture (EA) is associated with attenuating phenotype transformation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) via phosphoinositide3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways. METHODS Eight Wistar-ktoyo (WKY) rats were set as normal blood pressure group (normal group). A total of 32 spontaneous hypertensive rats (SHRs) were randomly divided into 4 groups using random number tables: a model group, an EA group, an EA+PI3K antagonist group (EA+P group), and an EA+p38 MAPK agonist+extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) agonist group (EA+M group) (n=8/group). SHRs in EA group, EA+P group and EA+M group received EA treatment 5 sessions per week for continuous 4 weeks, while rats in the normal and model groups were bundled in same condition. The systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and mean arterial pressure (MAP) of each rat was measured at 0 week and the 4th week. After 4-week intervention, thoracic aorta was collected for hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, immunohistochemistry [the contractile markers α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and calponin and the synthetic marker osteopontin (OPN)] and Western blot [α-SMA, calponin, OPN, PI3K, phosphorylated-Akt (p-Akt), Akt, p-p42/44 ERK, total p42/44 ERK, p-p38 MAPK and total p38 MAPK]. RESULTS EA significantly reduced SBP, DBP and MAP (P<0.01). HE staining showed that the wall thickness of thoracic aorta in EA group was significantly decreased (P<0.01). From results of immunohistochemistry and Western blot, EA increased the expression of α-SMA and calponin, and decreased the expression of OPN (P<0.01). In addition, the expression of PI3K and p-Akt increased (P<0.01), while the expression of p-p42/44 ERK and p-p38 MAPK decreased in EA group (P<0.01). However, these effects were reversed by PI3K antagonist, p38 MAPK agonist and ERK agonist. CONCLUSIONS EA was an effective treatment for BP management. The antihypertensive effect of EA may be related with inhibition of phenotypic transformation of VSMCs, in which the activation of PI3K/Akt and the repression of MAPK pathway were involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Yu Chen
- School of Health Preservation and Rehabilitation, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, China
- Food Science and Nutrition School, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Lu-Ping Yang
- School of Health Preservation and Rehabilitation, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, China
| | - Ya-Ling Zheng
- Department of Rehabilitation, the Second People's Hospital of Chengdu, Chengdu, 610072, China
| | - Yu-Xi Li
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, China
| | - Dong-Ling Zhong
- School of Health Preservation and Rehabilitation, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, China
| | - Rong-Jiang Jin
- School of Health Preservation and Rehabilitation, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, China
| | - Juan Li
- School of Health Preservation and Rehabilitation, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, China.
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Long L, Zhang X, Wen Y, Li J, Wei L, Cheng Y, Liu H, Chu J, Fang Y, Xie Q, Shen A, Peng J. Qingda Granule Attenuates Angiotensin II-Induced Renal Apoptosis and Activation of the p53 Pathway. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:770863. [PMID: 35222007 PMCID: PMC8867011 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.770863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Qingda granules (QDG) exhibit antihypertension and multiple-target-organ protection. However, the therapeutic potential of QDG on hypertensive renal injury remains unknown. Therefore, the main objective of the current study is to explore the effects and underlying mechanisms of QDG treatment on renal injury in angiotensin (Ang) II-infused mice. Methods and results: Mice were infused with Ang II (500 ng/kg/min) or saline for 4 weeks with subcutaneously implanted osmotic pumps. After infusion, mice in the Ang II + QDG group were intragastrically administrated with QDG daily (1.145 g/kg/day), whereas the control group and Ang II group were intragastrically administrated with the same amount of double-distilled water. Blood pressure of the mice monitored using the CODA™ noninvasive blood pressure system revealed that QDG treatment significantly attenuated elevated blood pressure. Moreover, hematoxylin-eosin staining indicated that QDG treatment ameliorated Ang II-induced renal morphological changes, including glomerular sclerosis and atrophy, epithelial cell atrophy, and tubular dilatation. RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) identified 662 differentially expressed transcripts (DETs) in renal tissues of Ang II-infused mice, which were reversed after QDG treatment. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis based on DETs in both comparisons of Ang II vs. Control and Ang II + QDG vs. Ang II identified multiple enriched pathways, including apoptosis and p53 pathways. Consistently, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) staining and Annexin V staining revealed that QDG treatment significantly attenuated Ang II-induced cell apoptosis in renal tissues and cultured renal tubular epithelial cell lines (NRK-52E). Furthermore, western blot analysis indicated that Ang II infusion significantly upregulated the protein expression of p53, BCL2-associated X (BAX), cle-caspase-9, and cle-caspase-3, while downregulating the protein expression of BCL-2 in renal tissues, which were attenuated after QDG treatment. Conclusion: Collectively, QDG treatment significantly attenuated hypertensive renal injury, partially by attenuating renal apoptosis and suppressing p53 pathways, which might be the underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linzi Long
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiuli Zhang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China
| | - Ying Wen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jiapeng Li
- Department of Physical Education, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Lihui Wei
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China
| | - Ying Cheng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China
| | - Huixin Liu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jianfeng Chu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yi Fang
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China
| | - Qiurong Xie
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China
| | - Aling Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jun Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fuzhou, China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fuzhou, China.,Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fuzhou, China
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9
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Chen X, Long L, Cheng Y, Chu J, Shen Z, Liu L, Li J, Xie Q, Liu H, Wu M, Chen Y, Peng J, Shen A. Qingda granule attenuates cardiac fibrosis via suppression of the TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signaling pathway in vitro and in vivo. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 137:111318. [PMID: 33556875 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis plays an important role in hypertension-related contractile dysfunction and heart failure. Qingda granule (QDG), derived from the Qingxuan Jiangya decoction, has been used clinically for more than 60 years to treat hypertension. However, the effect of QDG on hypertensive cardiac fibrosis remains largely unknown. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of QDG on cardiac fibrosis and explore the underlying mechanism in vivo and in vitro. For in vivo experiments, 30 male spontaneously hypertensive rats were randomly divided into groups that received no QDG or one of three doses (0.45, 0.9 or 1.8 g/kg/day). Positive-control animals received valsartan (VAL, 7.2 mg/kg/day). Treatments were administered by gavage for 10 weeks. All three doses of QDG and VAL led to significantly lower blood pressure than in SHR animals. Besides, all three doses of QDG and VAL attenuated pathological changes in SHR animals. However, only intermediate, high concentrations of QDG and VAL led to significantly lower left ventricle ejection fraction and left ventricle fractional shortening than in SHR animals. Therefore, the minimum and effective QDG dose (intermediate concentration of QDG) was selected for subsequent animal experiments in this study. Our results showed that intermediate concentration of QDG also significantly mitigated the increases in levels of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), collagen III, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and in the ratio of phospho-Smad2/3 to total Smad2/3 protein in cardiac tissue, based on immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and Masson staining. For in vitro experiments, primary cardiac fibroblasts were stimulated with 100 nM angiotensin II in the presence or absence of QDG. And we tested different concentrations of QDG (3.125, 6.25, 12.5, 25, 50 μg/mL) in the cell viability experiment. Our results showed that 3.125, 6.25 and 12.5 μg/mL of QDG treatment for 24 h didn't affect the cell viability of cardiac fibroblasts. Consistently, QDG at 6.25 or 12.5 μg/mL significantly reduced cell viability and down-regulated α-SMA in primary cardiac fibroblasts were stimulated with 100 nM angiotensin II. Therefore, QDG at 12.5 μg/mL was chosen for the following cell experiment. Our results showed that QDG at 12.5 μg/mL alleviated the increase of PCNA, collagen Ⅲ, TGF-β1 expression, and the ratio of phospho-Smad2/3 to total Smad2/3 protein. Our studies in vitro and in vivo suggest that QDG reduces blood pressure and cardiac fibrosis as well as protecting cardiac function, and that it exerts these effects in part by suppressing TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoping Chen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Linzi Long
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Department of Geriatrics, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100091, China
| | - Ying Cheng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Jianfeng Chu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Zhiqing Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Liya Liu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Jiapeng Li
- Department of Physical Education, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Qiurong Xie
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Huixin Liu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Meizhu Wu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China
| | - Youqin Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Jun Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Aling Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
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10
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Dong Z, Dai H, Feng Z, Liu W, Gao Y, Liu F, Zhang Z, Zhang N, Dong X, Zhao Q, Zhou X, Du J, Liu B. Mechanism of herbal medicine on hypertensive nephropathy (Review). Mol Med Rep 2021; 23:234. [PMID: 33537809 PMCID: PMC7893801 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2021.11873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypertensive nephropathy is the most common complication of hypertension, and is one of the main causes of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in numerous countries. The basic pathological feature of hypertensive nephropathy is arteriolosclerosis followed by renal parenchymal damage. The etiology of this disease is complex, and its pathogenesis is mainly associated with renal hemodynamic changes and vascular remodeling. Despite the increased knowledge on the pathogenesis of hypertensive nephropathy, the current clinical treatment methods are still not effective in preventing the development of the disease to ESRD. Herbal medicine, which is used to relieve symptoms, can improve hypertensive nephropathy through multiple targets. Since there are few clinical studies on the treatment of hypertensive nephropathy with herbal medicine, this article aims to review the progress on the basic research on the treatment of hypertensive nephropathy with herbal medicine, including regulation of the renin angiotensin system, inhibition of sympathetic excitation, antioxidant stress and anti-inflammatory protection of endothelial cells, and improvement of obesity-associated factors. Herbal medicine with different components plays a synergistic and multi-target role in the treatment of hypertensive nephropathy. The description of the mechanism of herbal medicine in the treatment of hypertensive nephropathy will contribute towards the progress of modern medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaocheng Dong
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, P.R. China
| | - Haoran Dai
- Shunyi Branch, Beijing Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Beijing 101300, P.R. China
| | - Zhandong Feng
- Beijing Chinese Medicine Hospital Pinggu Hospital, Beijing 101200, P.R. China
| | - Wenbin Liu
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, P.R. China
| | - Yu Gao
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, P.R. China
| | - Fei Liu
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, P.R. China
| | - Zihan Zhang
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, P.R. China
| | - Na Zhang
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, P.R. China
| | - Xuan Dong
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, P.R. China
| | - Qihan Zhao
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoshan Zhou
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, P.R. China
| | - Jieli Du
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, P.R. China
| | - Baoli Liu
- Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, P.R. China
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11
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Zhang W, Wang Q, Xing X, Yang L, Xu M, Cao C, Wang R, Li W, Niu X, Gao D. The antagonistic effects and mechanisms of microRNA-26a action in hypertensive vascular remodelling. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 178:1037-1054. [PMID: 33305374 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Hypertensive vascular remodelling is responsible for end-organ damage and is the result of increased extracellular matrix accumulation and excessive vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation. MicroRNA-26a (miR-26a), a non-coding small RNA, is involved in several cardiovascular diseases. We aimed to validate the effect and mechanisms of miR-26a in hypertensive vascular remodelling. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Male spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) were injected intravenously with recombinant adeno-associated virus-miR-26a. Samples of thoracic aorta were examined histologically with H&E staining. In vitro, angiotensin II (AngII)-induced VSMCs cultured from thoracic aortae of female Sprague-Dawley rats, were transfected with miR-26a mimic or inhibitor. Western blots, qRT-PCR and immunohistological methods were used, along with chromatin-immunoprecipitation and luciferase reporter assays. Specific siRNAs were used to silence Smad production in VSMCs KEY RESULTS: Levels of miR-26a were lower in the thoracic aorta and plasma of SHRs than in WKY rats. Overexpression of miR-26a inhibited extracellular matrix deposition by targeting connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and decreased VSMC proliferation by regulating the enhancer of zeste homologue 2 (EZH2)/p21 pathway both in vitro and in vivo. AngII-mediated Smad3 activation suppressed miR-26a expression, which in turn promoted Smad3 activation via targeted regulation of Smad4, leading to further down-regulation of miR-26a. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Our data show that AngII stimulated a Smads/miR-26a positive feedback loop, which further reduced expression of miR-26a, leading to collagen production and VSMC proliferation and consequently vascular remodelling. MiR-26a has an antagonistic effect on hypertensive vascular remodelling and can be a strategy for treating hypertensive vascular remodelling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenqian Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P.R. China
| | - Qiaozhu Wang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P.R. China
| | - Xin Xing
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P.R. China
| | - Lijun Yang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P.R. China
| | - Min Xu
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P.R. China
| | - Chunhui Cao
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P.R. China
| | - Rong Wang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P.R. China
| | - Weicheng Li
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P.R. China
| | - Xiaolin Niu
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P.R. China.,Department of Cardiology, Meishan Branch of the Third Affiliated Hospital, Yanan University School of Medical, Meishan, P.R. China
| | - Dengfeng Gao
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P.R. China
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12
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Cheng Y, Shen A, Wu X, Shen Z, Chen X, Li J, Liu L, Lin X, Wu M, Chen Y, Chu J, Peng J. Qingda granule attenuates angiotensin II-induced cardiac hypertrophy and apoptosis and modulates the PI3K/AKT pathway. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 133:111022. [PMID: 33378940 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.111022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Qingda granule (QDG), simplified from Qingxuan Jiangya Decoction, is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine formula that has been used for decades to treat hypertension. However, the cardioprotective effects of QDG on Ang II-induced hypertension remain unknown. This study aimed to investigate the effects of QDG on hypertension-induced cardiac hypertrophy and apoptosis, as well as explore its underlying mechanisms. Mice were infused with Ang II (500 ng/kg/min) or saline solution as control, then administered oral QDG (1.145 g/kg/day) or saline for two weeks. QDG treatment attenuated the elevation in blood pressure caused by Ang II, as well as the decreased left ventricle ejection fractions and fractional shortening. Moreover, QDG treatment significantly alleviated the Ang II-induced elevation of the ratio of heart weight to tibia length, as well as cardiac injury, hypertrophy, and apoptosis. In cultured H9C2 cells stimulated with Ang II, QDG partially reversed the increase in cell surface area and number of apoptotic cells, up-regulation of hypertrophy markers ANP and BNP, and activation of caspases-9 and -3. QDG also partially reversed Ang II-induced accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), depolarization of the mitochondrial membrane, release of cytochrome C, up-regulation of Bax, and decrease in levels of p-PI3K, p-AKT, and Bcl-2. These results suggest that QDG can significantly attenuate Ang II-induced hypertension, cardiac hypertrophy and apoptosis, and it may exert these effects in part by suppressing ROS production and activating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
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MESH Headings
- Angiotensin II
- Animals
- Apoptosis/drug effects
- Blood Pressure/drug effects
- Cell Line
- Disease Models, Animal
- Drugs, Chinese Herbal/pharmacology
- Gene Expression Regulation
- Gene Regulatory Networks
- Hypertension/chemically induced
- Hypertension/enzymology
- Hypertension/physiopathology
- Hypertension/prevention & control
- Hypertrophy, Left Ventricular/chemically induced
- Hypertrophy, Left Ventricular/enzymology
- Hypertrophy, Left Ventricular/pathology
- Hypertrophy, Left Ventricular/prevention & control
- Male
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Myocytes, Cardiac/drug effects
- Myocytes, Cardiac/enzymology
- Myocytes, Cardiac/pathology
- Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase/metabolism
- Phosphorylation
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-akt/metabolism
- Rats
- Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism
- Signal Transduction
- Mice
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Cheng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Aling Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Xiangyan Wu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Zhiqing Shen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Xiaoping Chen
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Jiapeng Li
- Department of Physical Education, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Liya Liu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Xiaoying Lin
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Meizhu Wu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Chen Keji Academic Thought Inheritance Studio, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Integrative Medicine on Geriatrics, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Youqin Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
| | - Jianfeng Chu
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
| | - Jun Peng
- Academy of Integrative Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350122, China.
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