1
|
Williams H, Simmonds S, Bond A, Somos A, Li Z, Forbes T, Bianco R, Dugdale C, Brown Z, Rice H, Herman A, Johnson J, George S. CCN4 (WISP-1) reduces apoptosis and atherosclerotic plaque burden in an ApoE mouse model. Atherosclerosis 2024; 397:118570. [PMID: 39276419 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2024.118570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS CCN4/WISP-1 regulates various cell behaviours that contribute to atherosclerosis progression, including cell adhesion, migration, proliferation and survival. We therefore hypothesised that CCN4 regulates the development and progression of atherosclerotic plaques. METHODS We used a high fat fed ApoE-/- mouse model to study atherosclerotic plaque progression in the brachiocephalic artery and aortic root. In protocol 1, male ApoE-/- mice with established plaques were given a CCN4 helper-dependent adenovirus to see the effect of treatment with CCN4, while in protocol 2 male CCN4-/-ApoE-/- were compared to CCN4+/+ApoE-/- mice to assess the effect of CCN4 deletion on plaque progression. RESULTS CCN4 overexpression resulted in reduced occlusion of the brachiocephalic artery with less apoptosis, fewer macrophages, and attenuated lipid core size. The amount of plaque found on the aortic root was also reduced. CCN4 deficiency resulted in increased apoptosis and occlusion of the brachiocephalic artery as well as increased plaque in the aortic root. Additionally, in vitro cells from CCN4-/-ApoE-/- mice had higher apoptotic levels. CCN4 deficiency did not significantly affect blood cholesterol levels or circulating myeloid cell populations. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that in an atherosclerosis model the most important action of CCN4 is the effect on cell apoptosis. CCN4 provides pro-survival signals and leads to reduced cell death, lower macrophage number, smaller lipid core size and reduced atherosclerotic plaque burden. As such, the pro-survival effect of CCN4 is worthy of further investigation, in a bid to find a therapeutic for atherosclerosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Helen Williams
- Bristol Heart Institute, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, UK.
| | | | - Andrew Bond
- Bristol Heart Institute, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, UK
| | - Alexandros Somos
- Bristol Heart Institute, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, UK
| | - Ze Li
- Bristol Heart Institute, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, UK
| | - Tessa Forbes
- Bristol Heart Institute, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, UK
| | - Rosaria Bianco
- Bristol Heart Institute, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, UK
| | - Celyn Dugdale
- Flow Cytometry Facility, School of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, UK
| | - Zoe Brown
- Flow Cytometry Facility, School of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, UK
| | - Helen Rice
- Flow Cytometry Facility, School of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, UK
| | - Andrew Herman
- Flow Cytometry Facility, School of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, UK
| | - Jason Johnson
- Bristol Heart Institute, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, UK
| | - Sarah George
- Bristol Heart Institute, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, UK
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Li Z, Williams H, Jackson ML, Johnson JL, George SJ. WISP-1 Regulates Cardiac Fibrosis by Promoting Cardiac Fibroblasts' Activation and Collagen Processing. Cells 2024; 13:989. [PMID: 38891121 PMCID: PMC11172092 DOI: 10.3390/cells13110989] [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: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Hypertension induces cardiac fibrotic remodelling characterised by the phenotypic switching of cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) and collagen deposition. We tested the hypothesis that Wnt1-inducible signalling pathway protein-1 (WISP-1) promotes CFs' phenotypic switch, type I collagen synthesis, and in vivo fibrotic remodelling. The treatment of human CFs (HCFs, n = 16) with WISP-1 (500 ng/mL) induced a phenotypic switch (α-smooth muscle actin-positive) and type I procollagen cleavage to an intermediate form of collagen (pC-collagen) in conditioned media after 24h, facilitating collagen maturation. WISP-1-induced collagen processing was mediated by Akt phosphorylation via integrin β1, and disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 2 (ADAMTS-2). WISP-1 wild-type (WISP-1+/+) mice and WISP-1 knockout (WISP-1-/-) mice (n = 5-7) were subcutaneously infused with angiotensin II (AngII, 1000 ng/kg/min) for 28 days. Immunohistochemistry revealed the deletion of WISP-1 attenuated type I collagen deposition in the coronary artery perivascular area compared to WISP-1+/+ mice after a 28-day AngII infusion, and therefore, the deletion of WISP-1 attenuated AngII-induced cardiac fibrosis in vivo. Collectively, our findings demonstrated WISP-1 is a critical mediator in cardiac fibrotic remodelling, by promoting CFs' activation via the integrin β1-Akt signalling pathway, and induced collagen processing and maturation via ADAMTS-2. Thereby, the modulation of WISP-1 levels could provide potential therapeutic targets in clinical treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ze Li
- Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Research Floor Level 7, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol BS2 8HW, UK; (Z.L.); (H.W.); (M.L.J.); (J.L.J.)
| | - Helen Williams
- Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Research Floor Level 7, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol BS2 8HW, UK; (Z.L.); (H.W.); (M.L.J.); (J.L.J.)
| | - Molly L. Jackson
- Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Research Floor Level 7, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol BS2 8HW, UK; (Z.L.); (H.W.); (M.L.J.); (J.L.J.)
| | - Jason L. Johnson
- Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Research Floor Level 7, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol BS2 8HW, UK; (Z.L.); (H.W.); (M.L.J.); (J.L.J.)
| | - Sarah J. George
- Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Research Floor Level 7, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol BS2 8HW, UK; (Z.L.); (H.W.); (M.L.J.); (J.L.J.)
- Bristol Heart Institute, University of Bristol, Research Floor Level 7, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Upper Maudlin St, Bristol BS2 8HW, UK
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Duan J, Zhao Q, He Z, Tang S, Duan J, Xing W. Current understanding of macrophages in intracranial aneurysm: relevant etiological manifestations, signaling modulation and therapeutic strategies. Front Immunol 2024; 14:1320098. [PMID: 38259443 PMCID: PMC10800944 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1320098] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Macrophages activation and inflammatory response play crucial roles in intracranial aneurysm (IA) formation and progression. The outcome of ruptured IA is considerably poor, and the mechanisms that trigger IA progression and rupture remain to be clarified, thereby developing effective therapy to prevent subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) become difficult. Recently, climbing evidences have been expanding our understanding of the macrophages relevant IA pathogenesis, such as immune cells population, inflammatory activation, intra-/inter-cellular signaling transductions and drug administration responses. Crosstalk between macrophages disorder, inflammation and cellular signaling transduction aggravates the devastating consequences of IA. Illustrating the pros and cons mechanisms of macrophages in IA progression are expected to achieve more efficient treatment interventions. In this review, we summarized the current advanced knowledge of macrophages activation, infiltration, polarization and inflammatory responses in IA occurrence and development, as well as the most relevant NF-κB, signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) and Toll-Like Receptor 4 (TLR4) regulatory signaling modulation. The understanding of macrophages regulatory mechanisms is important for IA patients' clinical outcomes. Gaining insight into the macrophages regulation potentially contributes to more precise IA interventions and will also greatly facilitate the development of novel medical therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jian Duan
- Department of Cerebrovascular Disease, Suining Central Hospital, Suining, Sichuan, China
| | - Qijie Zhao
- Department of Cerebrovascular Disease, Suining Central Hospital, Suining, Sichuan, China
- Department of Pharmacy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Zeyuan He
- Department of Cerebrovascular Disease, Suining Central Hospital, Suining, Sichuan, China
| | - Shuang Tang
- Department of Cerebrovascular Disease, Suining Central Hospital, Suining, Sichuan, China
| | - Jia Duan
- Department of Cerebrovascular Disease, Suining Central Hospital, Suining, Sichuan, China
| | - Wenli Xing
- Department of Cerebrovascular Disease, Suining Central Hospital, Suining, Sichuan, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Song W, Tu G, Qin L, Wei L, Chen J. Macrophage in Sporadic Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm and Dissection: Potential Therapeutic and Preventing Target. Rev Cardiovasc Med 2023; 24:340. [PMID: 39077089 PMCID: PMC11272886 DOI: 10.31083/j.rcm2412340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection (TAAD) is a life-threatening cardiovascular disorder lacking effective clinical pharmacological therapies. The underlying molecular mechanisms of TAAD still remain elusive with participation of versatile cell types and components including endothelial cells (ECs), smooth muscle cells (SMCs), fibroblasts, immune cells, and the extracellular matrix (ECM). The main pathological features of TAAD include SMC dysfunction, phenotypic switching, and ECM degradation, which is closely associated with inflammation and immune cell infiltration. Among various types of immune cells, macrophages are a distinct participator in the formation and progression of TAAD. In this review, we first highlight the important role of inflammation and immune cell infiltration in TAAD. Furthermore, we discuss the role of macrophages in TAAD from the aspects of macrophage origination, classification, and functions. On the basis of experimental and clinical studies, we summarize key regulators of macrophages in TAAD. Finally, we review how targeting macrophages can reduce TAAD in murine models. A better understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms of TAAD may provide novel insights into preventing and treating the condition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenyu Song
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 200032 Shanghai, China
| | - Guowei Tu
- Cardiac Intensive Care Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 200032 Shanghai, China
| | - Lieyang Qin
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 200032 Shanghai, China
| | - Lai Wei
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 200032 Shanghai, China
| | - Jinmiao Chen
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 200032 Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Puertas-Umbert L, Almendra-Pegueros R, Jiménez-Altayó F, Sirvent M, Galán M, Martínez-González J, Rodríguez C. Novel pharmacological approaches in abdominal aortic aneurysm. Clin Sci (Lond) 2023; 137:1167-1194. [PMID: 37559446 PMCID: PMC10415166 DOI: 10.1042/cs20220795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a severe vascular disease and a major public health issue with an unmet medical need for therapy. This disease is featured by a progressive dilation of the abdominal aorta, boosted by atherosclerosis, ageing, and smoking as major risk factors. Aneurysm growth increases the risk of aortic rupture, a life-threatening emergency with high mortality rates. Despite the increasing progress in our knowledge about the etiopathology of AAA, an effective pharmacological treatment against this disorder remains elusive and surgical repair is still the unique available therapeutic approach for high-risk patients. Meanwhile, there is no medical alternative for patients with small aneurysms but close surveillance. Clinical trials assessing the efficacy of antihypertensive agents, statins, doxycycline, or anti-platelet drugs, among others, failed to demonstrate a clear benefit limiting AAA growth, while data from ongoing clinical trials addressing the benefit of metformin on aneurysm progression are eagerly awaited. Recent preclinical studies have postulated new therapeutic targets and pharmacological strategies paving the way for the implementation of future clinical studies exploring these novel therapeutic strategies. This review summarises some of the most relevant clinical and preclinical studies in search of new therapeutic approaches for AAA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lídia Puertas-Umbert
- Institut d’Investigació Biomèdica Sant Pau (IIB SANT PAU), Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Francesc Jiménez-Altayó
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Neuroscience Institute, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marc Sirvent
- CIBER de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Angiología y Cirugía Vascular del Hospital Universitari General de Granollers, Granollers, Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Galán
- Institut d’Investigació Biomèdica Sant Pau (IIB SANT PAU), Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Ciencias Básicas de la Salud, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Spain
| | - José Martínez-González
- Institut d’Investigació Biomèdica Sant Pau (IIB SANT PAU), Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas de Barcelona (IIBB-CSIC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Rodríguez
- Institut d’Investigació Biomèdica Sant Pau (IIB SANT PAU), Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Li Z, Cong X, Kong W. Matricellular proteins: Potential biomarkers and mechanistic factors in aortic aneurysms. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2022; 169:41-56. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2022.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
7
|
Activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in abdominal aortic aneurysm: A potential therapeutic opportunity? Genes Dis 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2022.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
|
8
|
Rodrigues-Díez Raul R, Tejera-Muñoz A, Esteban V, Steffensen Lasse B, Rodrigues-Díez R, Orejudo M, Rayego-Mateos S, Falke Lucas L, Cannata-Ortiz P, Ortiz A, Egido J, Mallat Z, Briones Ana M, Bajo Maria A, Goldschmeding R, Ruiz-Ortega M. CCN2 (Cellular Communication Network Factor 2) Deletion Alters Vascular Integrity and Function Predisposing to Aneurysm Formation. Hypertension 2021; 79:e42-e55. [DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.121.18201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background:
CCN2 (cellular communication network factor 2) is a matricellular protein involved in cell communication and microenvironmental signaling responses. CCN2 is known to be overexpressed in several cardiovascular diseases, but its role is not completely understood.
Methods:
Here, CCN2 involvement in aortic wall homeostasis and response to vascular injury was investigated in inducible
Ccn2
-deficient mice, with induction of vascular damage by infusion of Ang II (angiotensin II; 15 days), which is known to upregulate CCN2 expression in the aorta.
Results:
Ang II infusion in CCN2-silenced mice lead to 60% mortality within 10 days due to rapid development and rupture of aortic aneurysms, as evidenced by magnetic resonance imaging, echography, and histological examination.
Ccn2
deletion decreased systolic blood pressure and caused aortic structural and functional changes, including elastin layer disruption, smooth muscle cell alterations, augmented distensibility, and increased metalloproteinase activity, which were aggravated by Ang II administration. Gene ontology analysis of RNA sequencing data identified aldosterone biosynthesis as one of the most enriched terms in CCN2-deficient aortas. Consistently, treatment with the mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist spironolactone before and during Ang II infusion reduced aneurysm formation and mortality, underscoring the importance of the aldosterone pathway in Ang II–induced aorta pathology.
Conclusions:
CCN2 is critically involved in the functional and structural homeostasis of the aorta and in maintenance of its integrity under Ang II–induced stress, at least, in part, by disruption of the aldosterone pathway. Thus, this study opens new avenues to future studies in disorders associated to vascular pathologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R. Rodrigues-Díez Raul
- Molecular and Cellular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D.R., A.T.-M., M.O., S.R.-M., M.R.-O.)
- Red de Investigación Renal, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D.R., M.O., S.R.-M., P.C.-O., A.O., A.B.M., M.R.-O.)
- Department of Pharmacology, UAM, Instituto de Investigación-Hospital Universitario La Paz, IdiPaz, Ciber Cardiovascular, Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D., M.B.A.)
| | - Antonio Tejera-Muñoz
- Molecular and Cellular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D.R., A.T.-M., M.O., S.R.-M., M.R.-O.)
| | - Vanesa Esteban
- Department of Allergy and Immunology, FIIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, UAM, Asma, Reacciones Adversas y Alérgicas Network. Madrid, Spain (V.E.)
| | - B. Steffensen Lasse
- Unit of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense (B.S.L.)
| | | | - Macarena Orejudo
- Molecular and Cellular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D.R., A.T.-M., M.O., S.R.-M., M.R.-O.)
- Red de Investigación Renal, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D.R., M.O., S.R.-M., P.C.-O., A.O., A.B.M., M.R.-O.)
| | - Sandra Rayego-Mateos
- Molecular and Cellular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D.R., A.T.-M., M.O., S.R.-M., M.R.-O.)
- Red de Investigación Renal, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D.R., M.O., S.R.-M., P.C.-O., A.O., A.B.M., M.R.-O.)
| | - L. Falke Lucas
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, the Netherlands (L.F.L.)
| | - Pablo Cannata-Ortiz
- Red de Investigación Renal, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D.R., M.O., S.R.-M., P.C.-O., A.O., A.B.M., M.R.-O.)
- IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma Madrid, Spain (P.C.-O., A.O., J.E., R.G.)
| | - Alberto Ortiz
- Red de Investigación Renal, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D.R., M.O., S.R.-M., P.C.-O., A.O., A.B.M., M.R.-O.)
- IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma Madrid, Spain (P.C.-O., A.O., J.E., R.G.)
| | - Jesus Egido
- IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma Madrid, Spain (P.C.-O., A.O., J.E., R.G.)
- Spanish Biomedical Research Centre in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders (CIBERDEM), Spain (J.E.)
| | - Ziad Mallat
- Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom (Z.M.)
- Institut National de la Sante et de la Recherche Medicale, France, Cambridge, United Kingdom (Z.M.)
| | - M. Briones Ana
- Department of Pharmacology, UAM, Instituto de Investigación-Hospital Universitario La Paz, IdiPaz, Ciber Cardiovascular, Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D., M.B.A.)
| | - Auxiliadora Bajo Maria
- Red de Investigación Renal, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D.R., M.O., S.R.-M., P.C.-O., A.O., A.B.M., M.R.-O.)
- Department of Nephrology, Instituto de Investigación-Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain (A.B.M.)
| | - Roel Goldschmeding
- IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma Madrid, Spain (P.C.-O., A.O., J.E., R.G.)
| | - Marta Ruiz-Ortega
- Molecular and Cellular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D.R., A.T.-M., M.O., S.R.-M., M.R.-O.)
- Red de Investigación Renal, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain (R.R.-D.R., M.O., S.R.-M., P.C.-O., A.O., A.B.M., M.R.-O.)
| |
Collapse
|