1
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Martinez GJ, Appleton M, Kipp ZA, Loria AS, Min B, Hinds TD. Glucocorticoids, their uses, sexual dimorphisms, and diseases: new concepts, mechanisms, and discoveries. Physiol Rev 2024; 104:473-532. [PMID: 37732829 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00021.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The normal stress response in humans is governed by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis through heightened mechanisms during stress, raising blood levels of the glucocorticoid hormone cortisol. Glucocorticoids are quintessential compounds that balance the proper functioning of numerous systems in the mammalian body. They are also generated synthetically and are the preeminent therapy for inflammatory diseases. They act by binding to the nuclear receptor transcription factor glucocorticoid receptor (GR), which has two main isoforms (GRα and GRβ). Our classical understanding of glucocorticoid signaling is from the GRα isoform, which binds the hormone, whereas GRβ has no known ligands. With glucocorticoids being involved in many physiological and cellular processes, even small disruptions in their release via the HPA axis, or changes in GR isoform expression, can have dire ramifications on health. Long-term chronic glucocorticoid therapy can lead to a glucocorticoid-resistant state, and we deliberate how this impacts disease treatment. Chronic glucocorticoid treatment can lead to noticeable side effects such as weight gain, adiposity, diabetes, and others that we discuss in detail. There are sexually dimorphic responses to glucocorticoids, and women tend to have a more hyperresponsive HPA axis than men. This review summarizes our understanding of glucocorticoids and critically analyzes the GR isoforms and their beneficial and deleterious mechanisms and the sexual differences that cause a dichotomy in responses. We also discuss the future of glucocorticoid therapy and propose a new concept of dual GR isoform agonist and postulate why activating both isoforms may prevent glucocorticoid resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genesee J Martinez
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, United States
| | - Malik Appleton
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, United States
| | - Zachary A Kipp
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, United States
| | - Analia S Loria
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, United States
- Barnstable Brown Diabetes Center, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, United States
| | - Booki Min
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States
| | - Terry D Hinds
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, United States
- Barnstable Brown Diabetes Center, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, United States
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States
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2
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Abstract
Endothelial cells are important constituents of blood vessels and play a critical role in vascular homeostasis. They do not only control the exchanges between the blood and the surrounding tissues, but are also essential in regulating blood flow, modulating immune-cell trafficking and controlling vascular growth and repair. Endothelial dysfunction leads to cardiovascular diseases and is characterized by deficiency in secretion of vasodilator molecules, elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS), expression of adhesion molecules and excretion of proinflammatory cytokines. The sex hormones, estrogens, androgens and progestogens, regulate endothelial functions. Because cardiovascular disease risk increases after menopause, it is believed that female hormones, estrogens and progestogens promote endothelial cell health and function whereas androgens, the male hormones, might be detrimental. However, as illustrated in the present review, the picture might not be that simple. In addition, sex influences endothelial cell physiology independently of sex hormones but at genetic level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerome Robert
- University Hospital of Zurich, Institute of Clinical Chemistry, Wagistrasse 14, 8952, Schlieren, Switzerland.
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3
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Piťha J, Vaněčková I, Zicha J. Hypertension after the Menopause: What Can We Learn from Experimental Studies? Physiol Res 2023; 72:S91-S112. [PMID: 37565415 PMCID: PMC10660576 DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.935151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypertension is the most prevalent cardiovascular disease of the adult population and is closely associated with serious cardiovascular events. The burden of hypertension with respect to vascular and other organ damage is greater in women. These sex differences are not fully understood. The unique feature in women is their transition to menopause accompanied by profound hormonal changes that affect the vasculature that are also associated with changes of blood pressure. Results from studies of hormone replacement therapy and its effects on the cardiovascular system are controversial, and the timing of treatment after menopause seems to be important. Therefore, revealing potential sex- and sex hormone-dependent pathophysiological mechanisms of hypertension in experimental studies could provide valuable information for better treatment of hypertension and vascular impairment, especially in postmenopausal women. The experimental rat models subjected to ovariectomy mimicking menopause could be useful tools for studying the mechanisms of blood pressure regulation after menopause and during subsequent therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Piťha
- Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Prague, Czech Republic.
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4
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Dearing C, Handa RJ, Myers B. Sex differences in autonomic responses to stress: implications for cardiometabolic physiology. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2022; 323:E281-E289. [PMID: 35793480 PMCID: PMC9448273 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00058.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Chronic stress is a significant risk factor for negative health outcomes. Furthermore, imbalance of autonomic nervous system control leads to dysregulation of physiological responses to stress and contributes to the pathogenesis of cardiometabolic and psychiatric disorders. However, research on autonomic stress responses has historically focused on males, despite evidence that females are disproportionality affected by stress-related disorders. Accordingly, this mini-review focuses on the influence of biological sex on autonomic responses to stress in humans and rodent models. The reviewed literature points to sex differences in the consequences of chronic stress, including cardiovascular and metabolic disease. We also explore basic rodent studies of sex-specific autonomic responses to stress with a focus on sex hormones and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis regulation of cardiovascular and metabolic physiology. Ultimately, emerging evidence of sex differences in autonomic-endocrine integration highlights the importance of sex-specific studies to understand and treat cardiometabolic dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carley Dearing
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado
| | - Robert J Handa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado
| | - Brent Myers
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado
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5
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Barekat M, Shahrbaf MA, Rahi K, Vosough M. Hypertension in COVID-19, A Risk Factor for Infection or A Late Consequence? CELL JOURNAL 2022; 24:424-426. [PMID: 36043411 PMCID: PMC9428472 DOI: 10.22074/cellj.2022.8487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
There are a lot of data about the correlation of SARS-CoV-2 infection and hypertension (HTN), but most of them are in the increased risk of morbidity and mortality in patients with HTN. SARS-CoV-2 can interfere with host cells through the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) via the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. RAS activation is associated with pro-inflammatory effects through the ACE/Ang II/ Angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) pathway or anti-inflammatory effects through ACE2/Ang1-7/Mas axis. In the current paper, we discuss the pathophysiology of newly diagnosed HTN and its effect on morbidity in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Barekat
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR,
Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Amin Shahrbaf
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR,
Tehran, Iran,Research and Development Department, Royan Stem Cell Technology Co, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kosar Rahi
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR,
Tehran, Iran
| | - Massoud Vosough
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR,
Tehran, Iran,Experimental Cancer Medicine, Institution for Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden,P.O.Box: 16635-148Department of Regenerative MedicineCell Science Research CenterRoyan Institute for
Stem Cell Biology and TechnologyACECRTehranIran
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6
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Abdellatif AB, Fernandes-Rosa FL, Boulkroun S, Zennaro MC. Vascular and hormonal interactions in the adrenal gland. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:995228. [PMID: 36506065 PMCID: PMC9731668 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.995228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary aldosteronism is the most common form of secondary arterial hypertension, due to excessive aldosterone production from the adrenal gland. Although somatic mutations have been identified in aldosterone producing adenoma, the exact mechanisms leading to increased cell proliferation and nodule formation remain to be established. One hypothesis is that changes in vascular supply to the adrenal cortex, due to phenomena of atherosclerosis or high blood pressure, may influence the morphology of the adrenal cortex, resulting in a compensatory growth and nodule formation in response to local hypoxia. In this review, we will summarize our knowledge on the mechanisms regulating adrenal cortex development and function, describe adrenal vascularization in normal and pathological conditions and address the mechanisms allowing the cross-talk between the hormonal and vascular components to allow the extreme tissue plasticity of the adrenal cortex in response to endogenous and exogenous stimuli. We will then address recent evidence suggesting a role for alterations in the vascular compartment that could eventually be involved in nodule formation and the development of primary aldosteronism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sheerazed Boulkroun
- Université Paris Cité, PARCC, INSERM, Paris, France
- *Correspondence: Maria-Christina Zennaro, ; Sheerazed Boulkroun,
| | - Maria-Christina Zennaro
- Université Paris Cité, PARCC, INSERM, Paris, France
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Service de Génétique, Paris, France
- *Correspondence: Maria-Christina Zennaro, ; Sheerazed Boulkroun,
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7
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van der Heijden CDCC, Bode M, Riksen NP, Wenzel UO. The role of the mineralocorticoid receptor in immune cells in in cardiovascular disease. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 179:3135-3151. [PMID: 34935128 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic low-grade inflammation and immune cell activation are important mechanisms in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Therefore, targeted immunosuppression is a promising novel therapy to lower cardiovascular risk. In this review, we identify the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) on immune cells as a potential target to modulate inflammation. The MR is present in almost all cells of the cardiovascular system, including immune cells. Activation of the MR in innate and adaptive immune cells induces inflammation which can contribute to CVD, by inducing endothelial dysfunction and hypertension. Moreover, it accelerates atherosclerotic plaque formation and destabilization and impairs tissue regeneration after ischemic events. Identifying the molecular targets for these non-renal actions of the MR provide promising novel cardiovascular drug targets for mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs), which are currently mainly applied in hypertension and heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marlies Bode
- III. Department of Medicine, University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Niels P Riksen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Radboud Institute of Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, GA, The Netherlands
| | - Ulrich O Wenzel
- III. Department of Medicine, University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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8
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Sahinoz M, Elijovich F, Ertuglu LA, Ishimwe J, Pitzer A, Saleem M, Mwesigwa N, Kleyman TR, Laffer CL, Kirabo A. Salt Sensitivity of Blood Pressure in Blacks and Women: A Role of Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, and Epithelial Na + Channel. Antioxid Redox Signal 2021; 35:1477-1493. [PMID: 34569287 PMCID: PMC8713266 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2021.0212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Significance: Salt sensitivity of blood pressure (SSBP) is an independent risk factor for mortality and morbidity due to cardiovascular disease, and disproportionately affects blacks and women. Several mechanisms have been proposed, including exaggerated activation of sodium transporters in the kidney leading to salt retention and water. Recent Advances: Recent studies have found that in addition to the renal epithelium, myeloid immune cells can sense sodium via the epithelial Na+ channel (ENaC), which leads to activation of the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase enzyme complex, increased fatty acid oxidation, and production of isolevuglandins (IsoLGs). IsoLGs are immunogenic and contribute to salt-induced hypertension. In addition, aldosterone-mediated activation of ENaC has been attributed to the increased SSBP in women. The goal of this review is to highlight mechanisms contributing to SSBP in blacks and women, including, but not limited to increased activation of ENaC, fatty acid oxidation, and inflammation. Critical Issues: A critical barrier to progress in management of SSBP is that its diagnosis is not feasible in the clinic and is limited to expensive and laborious research protocols, which makes it difficult to investigate. Yet without understanding the underlying mechanisms, this important risk factor remains without treatment. Future Directions: Further studies are needed to understand the mechanisms that contribute to differential blood pressure responses to dietary salt and find feasible diagnostic tools. This is extremely important and may go a long way in mitigating the racial and sex disparities in cardiovascular outcomes. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 35, 1477-1493.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melis Sahinoz
- Division of Nephrology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Fernando Elijovich
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Lale A Ertuglu
- Division of Nephrology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Jeanne Ishimwe
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Ashley Pitzer
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Mohammad Saleem
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Naome Mwesigwa
- Department of Medicine and Dentistry, Kampala International University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Thomas R Kleyman
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Cell Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Cheryl L Laffer
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Annet Kirabo
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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9
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Mineralocorticoid receptor actions in cardiovascular development and disease. Essays Biochem 2021; 65:901-911. [PMID: 34414409 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20210006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Mineralocorticoid receptors (MRs) are transcriptional regulators that mediate the diverse physiological and pathophysiological actions of corticosteroid hormones across many tissues. In the kidney aldosterone control of sodium/water resorption via DNA-binding actions of the MR is established. MRs also regulate tissues not involved in electrolyte homeostasis such as the heart, adipose tissue, brain, and inflammatory cells where the MRs can respond to both aldosterone and cortisol. The pathology of inappropriate MR activation in non-epithelial tissues are well-described, and steroidal antagonists of the MR have been clinically beneficial in the management of heart failure and blood pressure for decades. However, the role of cortisol-dependent MR activation in the physiological setting is less well defined. Like other steroid hormone receptors, the MR also regulates non-DNA-binding pathways including MAPK pathways and G protein coupled receptors to provide diversity to MR signaling. Whether nonDNA binding pathways are more relevant for MR activation in non-epithelial, versus epithelial, tissues remain unclear. This review will focus on molecular regulation of ligand-dependent MR activation and the physiology and pathophysiology of MR actions in the heart with a focus on the cardiomyocyte and provide a discussion of relevant genomic and non-genomic MR pathways and potential new transcriptional partners for the MR and their relevance for health and disease. Understanding MR actions in the heart will provide new insights into cell-selective mechanisms that underpin the therapeutic benefits of MRAs, and are a critical step towards developing next-generation tissue selective MR modulators with improved safety profiles.
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10
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Elijovich F, Kleyman TR, Laffer CL, Kirabo A. Immune Mechanisms of Dietary Salt-Induced Hypertension and Kidney Disease: Harry Goldblatt Award for Early Career Investigators 2020. Hypertension 2021; 78:252-260. [PMID: 34232678 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.121.16495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Salt sensitivity of blood pressure is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular mortality not only in hypertensive but also in normotensive adults. The diagnosis of salt sensitivity of blood pressure is not feasible in the clinic due to lack of a simple diagnostic test, making it difficult to investigate therapeutic strategies. Most research efforts to understand the mechanisms of salt sensitivity of blood pressure have focused on renal regulation of sodium. However, salt retention or plasma volume expansion is not different between salt-sensitive and salt-resistant individuals. In addition, over 70% of extracellular fluid is interstitial and, therefore, not directly controlled by renal salt and water excretion. We discuss in this review how the seminal work by Harry Goldblatt paved the way for our attempts at understanding the mechanisms that underlie immune activation by salt in hypertension. We describe our findings that sodium, entering antigen-presenting cells via an epithelial sodium channel, triggers a PKC (protein kinase C)- and SGK1 (serum/glucocorticoid kinase 1)-stimulated activation of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase, which, in turn, enhances lipid oxidation with generation of highly reactive isolevuglandins. Isolevuglandins adduct to proteins, with the potential to generate degraded peptide neoantigens. Activated antigen-presenting cells increase production of the TH17 polarizing cytokines, IL (interleukin)-6, IL-1β, and IL-23, which leads to differentiation and proliferation of IL-17A producing T cells. Our laboratory and others have shown that this cytokine contributes to hypertension. We also discuss where this sodium activation of antigen-presenting cells may occur in vivo and describe the multiple experiments, with pharmacological antagonists and knockout mice that we used to unravel this sequence of events in rodents. Finally, we describe experiments in mononuclear cells obtained from normotensive or hypertensive volunteers, which confirm that analogous processes of salt-induced immunity take place in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Elijovich
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN (F.E., C.L.L., A.K.)
| | - Thomas R Kleyman
- Departments of Medicine, Cell Biology, Pharmacology, and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, PA (T.R.K.)
| | - Cheryl L Laffer
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN (F.E., C.L.L., A.K.)
| | - Annet Kirabo
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN (F.E., C.L.L., A.K.)
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11
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Sabouni R, Archer DF, Jacot T. Drospirenone Effects on the Plasminogen Activator System in Immortalized Human Endometrial Endothelial Cells. Reprod Sci 2021; 28:1974-1980. [PMID: 33559058 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00433-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Drospirenone (DRSP) is a fourth-generation progestin that interacts with the progesterone receptor (PR) and androgen receptor (AR) in addition to uniquely interacting to the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR). The known effects of DRSP via the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) are limited. This study seeks to determine if DRSP alters plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) and tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) in human immortalized endometrial endothelial cells (HEEC) and if such changes in the plasminogen activator system (PAS) are mediated through the MR or AR. The in vitro cell culture experiments utilizing an immortalized human endometrial endothelial cell line evaluated two concentrations of DRSP on PAI-1 and tPA levels in the culture media using specific enzyme-linked immunoassays (ELISA). Experiments adding DRSP with an androgen receptor blocker, flutamide, or a mineralocorticoid receptor agonist, aldosterone, were performed to elucidate which receptor(s) mediated the PAS effects. DRSP 10 μM significantly decreased both HEEC levels of PAI-1 and tPA to 0.75 ± 0.04 and 0.82 ± 0.05 of control, respectively. These direct effects were blunted by flutamide, an AR antagonist. PAI-1 and tPA were not changed by the MR agonist, aldosterone. DRSP significantly decreased both PAI-1 and tPA in the HEECs via the androgen receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem Sabouni
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jones Institute for Reproductive Medicine/Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA.
| | - David F Archer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jones Institute for Reproductive Medicine/Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Terry Jacot
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jones Institute for Reproductive Medicine/Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
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12
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Li M, Schifanella L, Larsen PA. Alu retrotransposons and COVID-19 susceptibility and morbidity. Hum Genomics 2021; 15:2. [PMID: 33390179 PMCID: PMC7779329 DOI: 10.1186/s40246-020-00299-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 has spread rapidly across the world and is negatively impacting the global human population. COVID-19 patients display a wide variety of symptoms and clinical outcomes, including those attributed to genetic ancestry. Alu retrotransposons have played an important role in human evolution, and their variants influence host response to viral infection. Intronic Alus regulate gene expression through several mechanisms, including both genetic and epigenetic pathways. With respect to SARS-CoV-2, an intronic Alu within the ACE gene is hypothesized to be associated with COVID-19 susceptibility and morbidity. Here, we review specific Alu polymorphisms that are of particular interest when considering host response to SARS-CoV-2 infection, especially polymorphic Alu insertions in genes associated with immune response and coagulation/fibrinolysis cascade. We posit that additional research focused on Alu-related pathways could yield novel biomarkers capable of predicting clinical outcomes as well as patient-specific treatment strategies for COVID-19 and related infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manci Li
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, 55108, USA
| | - Luca Schifanella
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Outcomes and Precision Medicine Research, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Peter A Larsen
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, 55108, USA.
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13
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Faulkner JL, Harwood D, Kennard S, Antonova G, Clere N, Belin de Chantemèle EJ. Dietary sodium restriction sex specifically impairs endothelial function via mineralocorticoid receptor-dependent reduction in NO bioavailability in Balb/C mice. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2021; 320:H211-H220. [PMID: 33095056 PMCID: PMC7847080 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00413.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Recent findings from our group demonstrated that females exhibit higher endothelial mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) expression than males, which predisposes them to aldosterone-mediated endothelial dysfunction in the context of metabolic disorders. However, whether the endothelium of female mice presents a higher propensity to MR-mediated dysfunction than that of males in the absence of comorbidities remains unknown. We therefore sought to investigate whether increasing aldosterone production endogenously with sodium restriction impairs endothelial function in otherwise healthy female mice. We fed male and female Balb/C mice a normal (0.4% NaCl; NSD) or sodium-restricted diet (0.05% NaCl; SRD) for 4 wk. Females exhibited higher baseline endothelial function (relaxation to acetylcholine) and lower vascular contractility (constriction to phenylephrine, serotonin, and KCl). However, SRD impaired endothelial-dependent relaxation and increased vascular contractility in female mice, effectively ablating the baseline sex difference. Female sex also increased baseline adrenal CYP11B2 expression; however, SRD significantly enhanced CYP11B2 expression in male and female mice and ablated the sex difference. Nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibition with Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride eliminated both sex as well as diet-induced differences in endothelial dysfunction. In accordance, females demonstrated higher vascular endothelial NOS expression at baseline, which SRD significantly decreased. In addition, SRD diminished vascular NOX4 expression in female mice only. MR blockade with spironolactone-protected female mice from decreases in endothelial-dependent relaxation but not increases in vascular contractility. Utilizing sodium restriction as a method to increase plasma aldosterone levels in healthy female mice, we demonstrated that female mice are more susceptible to vascular damage via MR activation in the vascular endothelium only.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Female sex confers improved endothelial relaxation and vascular constriction responses in female Balb/C mice compared with males under baseline conditions. Sodium restriction impairs endothelial function, which is nitric oxide dependent, and increases vascular contractility in association with reduced vascular endothelial nitric oxide synthase and NOX4 expression in female mice ablating the baseline sex difference. Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonism ablates sodium restriction-induced endothelial dysfunction, but not increased vascular contractility, in female mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L Faulkner
- Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia
| | - Daisy Harwood
- Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia
| | - Simone Kennard
- Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia
| | - Galina Antonova
- Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia
| | - Nicolas Clere
- Micro and Nanomédecines Translationelles-MINT, UNIV Angers, INSERM U1066, CNRS UMR 6021, Université Bretagne Loire, Angers, France
| | - Eric J Belin de Chantemèle
- Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia
- Department of Cardiology, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia
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14
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Faulkner JL, Lluch E, Kennard S, Antonova G, Jaffe IZ, Belin de Chantemèle EJ. Selective deletion of endothelial mineralocorticoid receptor protects from vascular dysfunction in sodium-restricted female mice. Biol Sex Differ 2020; 11:64. [PMID: 33228767 PMCID: PMC7685592 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-020-00340-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Recent evidence by our laboratory demonstrates that women and female mice endogenously express higher endothelial mineralocorticoid receptor (ECMR) than males. Mounting clinical evidence also indicates that aldosterone production is higher in pathological conditions in females compared to males. However, the role for increased activation of ECMR by aldosterone in the absence of a comorbid condition is yet to be explored. The current study hypothesized that increased ECMR activation induced by elevated aldosterone production predisposes healthy female mice to endothelial dysfunction. Method Vascular reactivity was assessed in aortic rings from wild-type (WT) and ECMR KO (KO) mice fed either a normal salt (NSD, 0.4% NaCl) or sodium-restricted diet (SRD, 0.05% NaCl) for 28 days. Results SRD elevated plasma aldosterone levels as well as adrenal CYP11B2 and angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) expressions in female, but not male, WT mice. In baseline conditions (NSD), endothelial function, assessed by vascular relaxation to acetylcholine, was higher while vascular contractility to phenylephrine, serotonin, and KCl lower in female than male WT mice. SRD impaired endothelial function and increased vascular contractility in female, but not male, WT mice effectively ablating the baseline sex differences. NOS inhibition with LNAME ablated endothelial relaxation to a higher extent in male than female mice on NSD and ablated differences in acetylcholine relaxation responses between NSD- and SRD-fed females, indicating a role for NO in SRD-mediated endothelial function. In association, SRD significantly reduced vascular NOX4 expression in female, but not male, mice. Lastly, selective deletion of ECMR protected female mice from SRD-mediated endothelial dysfunction and increased vascular contractility. Conclusion Collectively, these data indicate that female mice develop aldosterone-induced endothelial dysfunction via endothelial MR-mediated reductions in NO bioavailability. In addition, these data support a role for ECMR to promote vascular contractility in female mice in response to sodium restriction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L Faulkner
- Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, 1460 Laney Walker Blvd, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA.
| | - Emily Lluch
- Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, 1460 Laney Walker Blvd, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA
| | - Simone Kennard
- Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, 1460 Laney Walker Blvd, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA
| | - Galina Antonova
- Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, 1460 Laney Walker Blvd, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA
| | - Iris Z Jaffe
- Molecular Cardiology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Eric J Belin de Chantemèle
- Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, 1460 Laney Walker Blvd, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA.,Department of Cardiology, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
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15
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Oyagbemi AA, Bolaji-Alabi FB, Ajibade TO, Adejumobi OA, Ajani OS, Jarikre TA, Omobowale TO, Ola-Davies OE, Soetan KO, Aro AO, Emikpe BO, Saba AB, Adedapo AA, Oyeyemi MO, Nkadimeng SM, Kayoka-Kabongo PN, McGaw LJ, Oguntibeju OO, Yakubu MA. Novel antihypertensive action of rutin is mediated via inhibition of angiotensin converting enzyme/mineralocorticoid receptor/angiotensin 2 type 1 receptor (ATR1) signaling pathways in uninephrectomized hypertensive rats. J Food Biochem 2020; 44:e13534. [PMID: 33089540 DOI: 10.1111/jfbc.13534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Hypertension is the most common cardiovascular disease that affects approximately 26% of adult population, worldwide. Rutin is one of the important flavonoids that is consumed in the daily diet, and found in many food items, vegetables, and beverages. Uninephrectomy (UNX) of the left kidney was performed, followed by induction of hypertension. The rats were randomly divided into four groups of 10 rats: group 1-Sham-operated rats; group 2-UNX rats, group 3-UNX-L-NAME (40 mg/kg) plus rutin (100 mg/kg bwt), and groups 4-UNX-L-NAME plus lisinopril (10 mg/kg bwt), orally for 3 weeks. Results revealed significant heightening of arterial pressure and oxidative stress indices, while hypertensive rats treated with rutin had lower expressions of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) and mineralocorticoid receptor in uninephrectomized rats. Together, rutin as a novel antihypertensive flavonoid could provide an unimaginable benefits for the management of hypertension through inhibition of angiotensin converting enzyme and mineralocorticoid receptor. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Hypertension has been reported to be the most common cardiovascular disease, affecting approximately 26% of the adult population worldwide with predicted prevalence to increase by 60% by 2025. Recent advances in phytomedicine have shown flavonoids to be very helpful in the treatment of many diseases. Flavonoids have been used in the treatment and management of cardiovascular diseases, obesity and hypertension. The study revealed that rutin, a known flavonoid inhibited angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), angiotensin 2 type 1 receptor (ATR1), and mineralocorticoid receptor (MCR), comparable to the classic ACE inhibitor, Lisinopril, indicating the novel antihypertensive property of rutin. Therefore, flavonoids such as rutin found in fruits and vegetables could, therefore, serve as an antihypertensive drug regimen. Combining all, functional foods rich in flavonoids could be used as potential therapeutic candidates for managing uninephrectomized hypertensive patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ademola Adetokunbo Oyagbemi
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Foluso Bolawaye Bolaji-Alabi
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Temitayo Olabisi Ajibade
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Olumuyiwa Abiola Adejumobi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Olumide Samuel Ajani
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Theophilus Aghogho Jarikre
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Temidayo Olutayo Omobowale
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Olufunke Eunice Ola-Davies
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Kehinde Olugboyega Soetan
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Abimbola Obemisola Aro
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Benjamin Obukowho Emikpe
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Adebowale Benard Saba
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Adeolu Alex Adedapo
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Gauteng, South Africa
| | | | - Sanah Malomile Nkadimeng
- Phytomedicine Programme, Department of Paraclinical Science, University of Pretoria Faculty of Veterinary Science, Pretoria, South Africa
| | | | - Lyndy Joy McGaw
- Phytomedicine Programme, Department of Paraclinical Science, University of Pretoria Faculty of Veterinary Science, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Oluwafemi Omoniyi Oguntibeju
- Phytomedicine and Phytochemistry Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Momoh Audu Yakubu
- Department of Environmental & Interdisciplinary Sciences, College of Science, Engineering & Technology, Vascular Biology Unit, Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Texas Southern University, Houston, TX, USA
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