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Liang Z, He Y, Hu X. Cardio-Oncology: Mechanisms, Drug Combinations, and Reverse Cardio-Oncology. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810617. [PMID: 36142538 PMCID: PMC9501315 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy have brought hope to cancer patients. With the prolongation of survival of cancer patients and increased clinical experience, cancer-therapy-induced cardiovascular toxicity has attracted attention. The adverse effects of cancer therapy that can lead to life-threatening or induce long-term morbidity require rational approaches to prevention and treatment, which requires deeper understanding of the molecular biology underpinning the disease. In addition to the drugs used widely for cardio-protection, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulations are also efficacious and can be expected to achieve “personalized treatment” from multiple perspectives. Moreover, the increased prevalence of cancer in patients with cardiovascular disease has spurred the development of “reverse cardio-oncology”, which underscores the urgency of collaboration between cardiologists and oncologists. This review summarizes the mechanisms by which cancer therapy induces cardiovascular toxicity, the combination of antineoplastic and cardioprotective drugs, and recent advances in reverse cardio-oncology.
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DiNicolantonio JJ, McCarty M, OKeefe J. Association of moderately elevated trimethylamine N-oxide with cardiovascular risk: is TMAO serving as a marker for hepatic insulin resistance. Open Heart 2019; 6:e000890. [PMID: 30997120 PMCID: PMC6443140 DOI: 10.1136/openhrt-2018-000890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - James OKeefe
- University of Missouri-Kansas City, Saint Lukes Mid America Heart Institute, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
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Cascella R, Strafella C, Ragazzo M, Manzo L, Costanza G, Bowes J, Hüffmeier U, Potenza S, Sangiuolo F, Reis A, Barton A, Novelli G, Orlandi A, Giardina E. KIF3A and IL-4 are disease-specific biomarkers for psoriatic arthritis susceptibility. Oncotarget 2017; 8:95401-95411. [PMID: 29221136 PMCID: PMC5707030 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.20727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2017] [Accepted: 08/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
To date, the genes associated with Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) are principally involved in inflammation, immune response and epidermal differentiation, without any information about the relationship between disease and bone metabolism genes. Our work was focused on 5q31 locus, which contains several genetic variants significantly associated with PsA. The study involved 1526 subjects (500 PsA, 426 PsV, 600 controls). The region was evaluated by selecting and genotyping the SNPs of interest by Real Time PCR and direct sequencing. The results were subjected to biostatistic and bioinformatic analysis. The case-control study highlighted a significant association between KIF3A/IL-4 and PsA, but not with PsV (Psoriasis Vulgaris) patients. In addition, the haplotype analysis revealed two haplotypes significantly associated with PsA susceptibility. The Linkage Disequilibrium (LD) study showed the presence of a specific block in high LD within 132,692,628-132,737,638 bp of 5q31, giving additional evidence of specific association of the 5q31 region in PsA patients. Moreover, KIF3A expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry assays which showed a marked and significant difference of KIF3A expression between pathological and normal tissues. Our analysis described KIF3A and IL-4 as novel susceptibility genes for PsA, suggesting a clear implication of bone metabolism genes in the disease etiopathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Cascella
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory UILDM, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy.,Department of Chemical Pharmaceutical and Biomolecular Technologies, Catholic University "Our Lady of Good Counsel" Laprakë, Rruga Dritan Hoxha, Tirana, Albania
| | - Claudia Strafella
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, "Tor Vergata" University, Rome, Italy.,Emotest Laboratory, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Michele Ragazzo
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory UILDM, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy.,Department of Medical Science, Catholic University "Our Lady of Good Counsel" Laprakë, Rruga Dritan Hoxha, Tirana, Albania
| | - Laura Manzo
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, "Tor Vergata" University, Rome, Italy.,Emotest Laboratory, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Gaetana Costanza
- Anatomic Pathology, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - John Bowes
- Arthritis Research UK Centre for Genetics and Genomics, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Ulrike Hüffmeier
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Saverio Potenza
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, "Tor Vergata" University, Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Sangiuolo
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, "Tor Vergata" University, Rome, Italy
| | - André Reis
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Anne Barton
- Arthritis Research UK Centre for Genetics and Genomics, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,NIHR Manchester Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Unit, Central Manchester Foundation Trust and University of Manchester, Manchester Academy of Health Sciences, Manchester, UK
| | - Giuseppe Novelli
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, "Tor Vergata" University, Rome, Italy
| | - Augusto Orlandi
- Anatomic Pathology, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy, Tor Vergata University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Emiliano Giardina
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory UILDM, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy.,Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, "Tor Vergata" University, Rome, Italy
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4
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Mohammadi H, Djalali M, Daneshpazhooh M, Honarvar NM, Chams-Davatchi C, Sepandar F, Fakhri Z, Yaghubi E, Zarei M, Javanbakht MH. Effects of L-carnitine supplementation on biomarkers of oxidative stress, antioxidant capacity and lipid profile, in patients with pemphigus vulgaris: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Eur J Clin Nutr 2017; 72:ejcn2017131. [PMID: 28832573 DOI: 10.1038/ejcn.2017.131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2016] [Revised: 07/02/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES Pemphigus vulgaris (PV), as an autoimmune disease including mucosa and the skin, is associated with several complications and comorbidities. The present study planned to determine the effect of L-carnitine (LC) supplementation on biomarkers of oxidative stress (OS), antioxidant capacity and lipid profile in PV patients.Subjects/MethodsFifty two control and patients with PV, participated in the current randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. The patients were allocated randomly to receive 2 g per day LC tartrate subdivided into two equal doses of 1 g before breakfast and dinner (n=26) or placebo (n=26) for 8 weeks. Anthropometric, lipid profile and OS values were determined at baseline and end of intervention period. RESULTS LC intake significantly reduced serum levels of triglycerides, total-, LDL- cholesterol and oxidative stress index (OSI; P<0.05). In addition, supplementation with LC resulted to a meaningful increase in levels of total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (P=0.05) and serum carnitine (P<0.001). LC intake revealed non-significant change in serum total oxidant capacity (P=0.15) and HDL- cholesterol (P=0.06) in comparison to the placebo. CONCLUSIONS LC consumption may have favorable results on TAC, OSI and lipid profiles in patients with PV. The results were in line with the idea that LC supplementation can be associated with positive effects on metabolic status and OS of patients with PV.European Journal of Clinical Nutrition advance online publication, 23 August 2017; doi:10.1038/ejcn.2017.131.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Mohammadi
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Djalali
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Daneshpazhooh
- Autoimmune Bullous Diseases Research Center, Department of Dermatology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - N M Honarvar
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - C Chams-Davatchi
- Autoimmune Bullous Diseases Research Center, Department of Dermatology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - F Sepandar
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Z Fakhri
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - E Yaghubi
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Zarei
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - M H Javanbakht
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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5
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Ferlosio A, Orlandi A. The use of electron microscopy for the diagnosis of malignant pleural mesothelioma. J Thorac Dis 2016; 8:E1487-E1489. [PMID: 28066639 PMCID: PMC5179440 DOI: 10.21037/jtd.2016.11.58] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2016] [Accepted: 10/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Amedeo Ferlosio
- Anatomic Pathology, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Augusto Orlandi
- Anatomic Pathology, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Anatomic Pathology, Policlinic of Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
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6
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Tarquini C, Mattera R, Mastrangeli F, Agostinelli S, Ferlosio A, Bei R, Orlandi A, Tarantino U. Comparison of tissue transglutaminase 2 and bone biological markers osteocalcin, osteopontin and sclerostin expression in human osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. Amino Acids 2016; 49:683-693. [PMID: 27357308 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-016-2290-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2016] [Accepted: 06/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Osteoporosis (OP) and osteoarthritis (OA) are the most common joint diseases, with a high incidence in the elderly population. OP is characterized by trabecular bone remodeling and reabsorption, whereas articular cartilage and subchondral bone remodeling are major features of OA. Although classically considered as independent or even conflicting processes, clinical coexistence of OP and OA was recently described. Transglutaminase 2 (TG2) expression is considered a biomarker of OA, but its role in osteoporotic bone remodeling is still uncertain. We investigated TG2 and bone biological markers (Osteocalcin, Osteopontin, and Sclerostin) in osteoporotic and osteoarthritic osteocartilagineous tissue (n = 54) and human chondrocyte cultures in vitro by immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and RT-PCR. Histomorphometric evaluation of bone trabecular remodeling was also performed. In cartilage, TG2 expression was faint in control and OP and significantly less than in OA and OP + OA chondrocytes; the opposite was found for Osteocalcin, whereas Osteopontin and Sclerostin expression was similar. In the subchondral trabecular bone, osteocytes/osteoblasts TG2 expression was slight and similar comparing control, OP, OA, and OP + OA group, whereas Osteocalcin and Osteopontin expression was lower in OP compared to control, OA and OP + OA. Increased TG2 and reduced Osteocalcin expression were maintained in human osteoarthritic chondrocytes in vitro. Histomorphometric analysis confirmed reduced trabecular bone mass in OP and OP + OA compared with OA patients. TG2 represented a suitable biomarker of osteoarthritic chondrocyte activation, whereas osteocalcin and osteopontin characterized osteoporotic osteocyte/osteoblast changes; differences were lost in OP + OA patients, suggesting careful consideration when coexistence of the two diseases occurs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Tarquini
- Anatomic Pathology, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy.,Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosanna Mattera
- General Pathology, Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Mastrangeli
- Anatomic Pathology, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy.,Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Agostinelli
- Anatomic Pathology, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Amedeo Ferlosio
- Anatomic Pathology, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Bei
- General Pathology, Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Augusto Orlandi
- Anatomic Pathology, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy. .,Policlinic of Tor Vergata of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Umberto Tarantino
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy.,Policlinic of Tor Vergata of Rome, Rome, Italy
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7
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Scioli MG, Bielli A, Gentile P, Cervelli V, Orlandi A. Combined treatment with platelet-rich plasma and insulin favours chondrogenic and osteogenic differentiation of human adipose-derived stem cells in three-dimensional collagen scaffolds. J Tissue Eng Regen Med 2016; 11:2398-2410. [PMID: 27074878 DOI: 10.1002/term.2139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2015] [Revised: 11/18/2015] [Accepted: 12/10/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Osteochondral lesions due to injury or other pathology commonly result in the development of osteoarthritis and progressive joint destruction. Bioengineered scaffolds are widely studied for regenerative surgery strategies in osteochondral defect management, also combining the use of stem cells, growth factors and hormones. The utility in tissue engineering of human adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) isolated from adipose tissue has been widely noted. Autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) represents an alternative strategy in regenerative medicine for the local release of endogenous growth factors and hormones. Here we compared the effects of three-dimensional (3D) collagen type I scaffold culture and combined treatment with PRP and human recombinant insulin on the chondro-/osteogenic differentiation of ASCs. Histochemical and biomolecular analyses demonstrated that chondro-/osteogenic differentiation was increased in ASC-populated 3D collagen scaffolds compared with two-dimensional (2D) plastic dish culture. Chondro-/osteogenic differentiation was further enhanced in the presence of combined PRP (5% v/v) and insulin (100 nm) treatment. In addition, chondro-/osteogenic differentiation associated with the contraction of ASC-populated 3D collagen scaffold and increased β1/β3-integrin expression. Inhibition studies demonstrated that PRP/insulin-induced chondro-/osteogenic differentiation is independent of insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signalling; IGF-R1/mTOR inhibition even enhanced ASC chondro-/osteogenic differentiation. Our findings underline that 3D collagen scaffold culture in association with platelet-derived growth factors and insulin favour the chondro-/osteogenic differentiation of ASCs, suggesting new translational applications in regenerative medicine for the management of osteochondral defects. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Giovanna Scioli
- Institute of Anatomical Pathology, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Bielli
- Institute of Anatomical Pathology, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Pietro Gentile
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Valerio Cervelli
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Augusto Orlandi
- Institute of Anatomical Pathology, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
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8
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Paolin A, Trojan D, Leonardi A, Mellone S, Volpe A, Orlandi A, Cogliati E. Cytokine expression and ultrastructural alterations in fresh-frozen, freeze-dried and γ-irradiated human amniotic membranes. Cell Tissue Bank 2016; 17:399-406. [PMID: 27072557 PMCID: PMC5010581 DOI: 10.1007/s10561-016-9553-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2016] [Accepted: 04/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this work was to compare the effects on human amniotic membrane of freeze-drying and γ-irradiation at doses of 10, 20 and 30 kGy, with freezing. For this purpose, nine cytokines (interleukin 10, platelet-derived growth factor-AA, platelet-derived growth factor-BB, basic fibroblast growth factor, epidermal growth factor, transforming growth factor beta 1, and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase-1, -2, and -4) were titrated in 5 different preparations for each of 3 amniotic membranes included in the study. In addition, the extracellular matrix structure of each sample was assessed by transmission electron microscopy. While freeze-drying did not seem to affect the biological structure or cytokine content of the different amniotic membrane samples, γ-irradiation led to a significant decrease in the tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase-4, basic fibroblast growth factor and epidermal growth factor, and induced structural damage to the epithelium, basement membrane and lamina densa. The higher the irradiation dose the more severe the damage to the amniotic membrane structure. In conclusion, the Authors recommend processing amniotic membrane under sterile conditions to guarantee safety at every step rather than final sterilization with γ-irradiation, thereby avoiding alteration to the biological characteristics of the amniotic membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adolfo Paolin
- Treviso Tissue Bank Foundation, Piazzale Ospedale 1, Via Scarpa 9, 31100, Treviso, Italy.
| | - Diletta Trojan
- Treviso Tissue Bank Foundation, Piazzale Ospedale 1, Via Scarpa 9, 31100, Treviso, Italy
| | - Antonio Leonardi
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Biomedical Technologies, Medical School, Federico II University of Naples, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Napoli, Italy
| | - Stefano Mellone
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Biomedical Technologies, Medical School, Federico II University of Naples, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Napoli, Italy
| | - Antonio Volpe
- Anatomic Pathology, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Augusto Orlandi
- Anatomic Pathology, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisa Cogliati
- Treviso Tissue Bank Foundation, Piazzale Ospedale 1, Via Scarpa 9, 31100, Treviso, Italy
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9
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Bielli A, Scioli MG, Mazzaglia D, Doldo E, Orlandi A. Antioxidants and vascular health. Life Sci 2015; 143:209-16. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2015.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2015] [Revised: 11/06/2015] [Accepted: 11/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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10
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Collins HL, Drazul-Schrader D, Sulpizio AC, Koster PD, Williamson Y, Adelman SJ, Owen K, Sanli T, Bellamine A. L-Carnitine intake and high trimethylamine N-oxide plasma levels correlate with low aortic lesions in ApoE(-/-) transgenic mice expressing CETP. Atherosclerosis 2015; 244:29-37. [PMID: 26584136 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2015.10.108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2015] [Revised: 09/16/2015] [Accepted: 10/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Dietary l-carnitine can be metabolized by intestinal microbiota to trimethylamine, which is absorbed by the gut and further oxidized to trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) in the liver. TMAO plasma levels have been associated with atherosclerosis development in ApoE(-/-) mice. To better understand the mechanisms behind this association, we conducted in vitro and in vivo studies looking at the effect of TMAO on different steps of atherosclerotic disease progression. METHODS J774 mouse macrophage cells were used to evaluate the effect of TMAO on foam cell formation. Male ApoE(-/-) mice transfected with human cholesteryl ester transfer protein (hCETP) were fed l-carnitine and/or methimazole, a flavin monooxygenase 3 (FMO3) inhibitor that prevents the formation of TMAO. Following 12 week treatment, l-carnitine and TMAO plasma levels, aortic lesion development, and lipid profiles were determined. RESULTS TMAO at concentrations up to 10-fold the Cmax reported in humans did not affect in vitro foam cell formation. In ApoE(-/-)mice expressing hCETP, high doses of l-carnitine resulted in a significant increase in plasma TMAO levels. Surprisingly, and independently from treatment group, TMAO levels inversely correlated with aortic lesion size in both aortic root and thoracic aorta. High TMAO levels were found to significantly correlate with smaller aortic lesion area. Plasma lipid and lipoprotein levels did not change with treatment nor with TMAO levels, suggesting that the observed effects on lesion area were independent from lipid changes. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that TMAO slows aortic lesion formation in this mouse model and may have a protective effect against atherosclerosis development in humans.
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Propionyl-L-Carnitine Enhances Wound Healing and Counteracts Microvascular Endothelial Cell Dysfunction. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0140697. [PMID: 26473356 PMCID: PMC4608702 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0140697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2015] [Accepted: 09/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Impaired wound healing represents a high cost for health care systems. Endothelial dysfunction characterizes dermal microangiopathy and contributes to delayed wound healing and chronic ulcers. Endothelial dysfunction impairs cutaneous microvascular blood flow by inducing an imbalance between vasorelaxation and vasoconstriction as a consequence of reduced nitric oxide (NO) production and the increase of oxidative stress and inflammation. Propionyl-L-carnitine (PLC) is a natural derivative of carnitine that has been reported to ameliorate post-ischemic blood flow recovery. Methods and Results We investigated the effects of PLC in rat skin flap and cutaneous wound healing. A daily oral PLC treatment improved skin flap viability and associated with reactive oxygen species (ROS) reduction, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and NO up-regulation, accelerated wound healing and increased capillary density, likely favoring dermal angiogenesis by up-regulation for iNOS, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), placental growth factor (PlGF) and reduction of NADPH-oxidase 4 (Nox4) expression. In serum-deprived human dermal microvascular endothelial cell cultures, PLC ameliorated endothelial dysfunction by increasing iNOS, PlGF, VEGF receptors 1 and 2 expression and NO level. In addition, PLC counteracted serum deprivation-induced impairment of mitochondrial β-oxidation, Nox4 and cellular adhesion molecule (CAM) expression, ROS generation and leukocyte adhesion. Moreover, dermal microvascular endothelial cell dysfunction was prevented by Nox4 inhibition. Interestingly, inhibition of β-oxidation counteracted the beneficial effects of PLC on oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction. Conclusion PLC treatment improved rat skin flap viability, accelerated wound healing and dermal angiogenesis. The beneficial effects of PLC likely derived from improvement of mitochondrial β-oxidation and reduction of Nox4-mediated oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction. Antioxidant therapy and pharmacological targeting of endothelial dysfunction may represent a promising tool for the treatment of delayed wound healing or chronic ulcers.
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Molecular Pathways Regulating Macrovascular Pathology and Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells Phenotype in Type 2 Diabetes. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:24353-68. [PMID: 26473856 PMCID: PMC4632754 DOI: 10.3390/ijms161024353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2015] [Revised: 09/21/2015] [Accepted: 10/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a disease reaching a pandemic proportion in developed countries and a major risk factor for almost all cardiovascular diseases and their adverse clinical manifestations. T2DM leads to several macrovascular and microvascular alterations that influence the progression of cardiovascular diseases. Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are fundamental players in macrovascular alterations of T2DM patients. VSMCs display phenotypic and functional alterations that reflect an altered intracellular biomolecular scenario of great vessels of T2DM patients. Hyperglycemia itself and through intraparietal accumulation of advanced glycation-end products (AGEs) activate different pathways, in particular nuclear factor-κB and MAPKs, while insulin and insulin growth-factor receptors (IGFR) are implicated in the activation of Akt and extracellular-signal-regulated kinases (ERK) 1/2. Nuclear factor-κB is also responsible of increased susceptibility of VSMCs to pro-apoptotic stimuli. Down-regulation of insulin growth-factor 1 receptors (IGFR-1R) activity in diabetic vessels also influences negatively miR-133a levels, so increasing apoptotic susceptibility of VSMCs. Alterations of those bimolecular pathways and related genes associate to the prevalence of a synthetic phenotype of VSMCs induces extracellular matrix alterations of great vessels. A better knowledge of those biomolecular pathways and related genes in VSMCs will help to understand the mechanisms leading to macrovascular alterations in T2DM patients and to suggest new targeted therapies.
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13
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Orlandi A. The contribution of resident vascular stem cells to arterial pathology. Int J Stem Cells 2015; 8:9-17. [PMID: 26019750 PMCID: PMC4445704 DOI: 10.15283/ijsc.2015.8.1.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2015] [Accepted: 04/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Intimal accumulation of smooth muscle cells contributes to the development and progression of atherosclerotic lesions and restenosis following endovascular procedures. Arterial smooth muscle cells display heterogeneous phenotypes in both physiological and pathological conditions. In response to injury, dedifferentiated or synthetic smooth muscle cells proliferate and migrate from the tunica media into the intima. As a consequence, smooth muscle cells in vascular lesions show a prevalent dedifferentiated phenotype compared to the contractile appearance of normal media smooth muscle cells. The discovery of abundant stem antigen-expressing cells in vascular lesions also rarely detected in the tunica media of normal adult vessels stimulated a great scientific debate concerning the possibility that proliferating vascular wall-resident stem cells accumulate into the neointima and contribute to the progression of lesions. Although several experimental studies support this hypothesis, others researchers suggest a positive effect of stem cells on plaque stabilization. So, the real contribute of vascular wall-resident stem cells to pathological vascular remodelling needs further investigation. This review will examine the evidence and the contribution of vascular wall-resident stem cells to arterial pathobiology, in order to address future investigations as potential therapeutic target to prevent the progression of vascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Augusto Orlandi
- Anatomic Pathology Institute, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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14
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Vilskersts R, Kuka J, Liepinsh E, Makrecka-Kuka M, Volska K, Makarova E, Sevostjanovs E, Cirule H, Grinberga S, Dambrova M. Methyl-γ-butyrobetaine decreases levels of acylcarnitines and attenuates the development of atherosclerosis. Vascul Pharmacol 2015; 72:101-7. [PMID: 25989106 DOI: 10.1016/j.vph.2015.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2014] [Revised: 03/18/2015] [Accepted: 05/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The elevation of the levels of l-carnitine and its fatty acid esters, acylcarnitines, in tissue or plasma has been linked to the development of atherosclerosis. Recently, a potent inhibitor of l-carnitine biosynthesis and transport, methyl-γ-butyrobetaine (methyl-GBB), was discovered. In this study, we evaluated the effects of γ-butyrobetaine (GBB), l-carnitine and methyl-GBB administration on the progression of atherosclerosis. METHODS Apolipoprotein E knockout (apoE(-/-)) mice were treated with methyl-GBB, l-carnitine or GBB for 4months. Following the treatment, the amount of atherosclerotic lesions, the number of immune cells in atherosclerotic lesions and the plasma lipid profile were analysed. The l-carnitine and acylcarnitine levels were determined in the aortic tissues of CD-1 outbred mice 2weeks after treatment with methyl-GBB at the dose of 10mg/kg. RESULTS Treatment with methyl-GBB decreased the acylcarnitine and l-carnitine levels in the aortic tissues by seventeen- and ten-fold, respectively. Methyl-GBB treatment at a dose of 10mg/kg reduced the size of atherosclerotic plaques by 36%. Neither l-carnitine nor GBB treatment affected the development of atherosclerosis. CONCLUSIONS Methyl-GBB administration significantly attenuated the development of atherosclerosis in apoE(-/-)mice. Our results demonstrate that decreasing the acylcarnitine pools can attenuate the development of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reinis Vilskersts
- Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Aizkraukles Str. 21, Riga LV-1006, Latvia; Rigas Stradins University, Dzirciema Str. 16, Riga LV-1007, Latvia.
| | - Janis Kuka
- Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Aizkraukles Str. 21, Riga LV-1006, Latvia
| | - Edgars Liepinsh
- Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Aizkraukles Str. 21, Riga LV-1006, Latvia
| | - Marina Makrecka-Kuka
- Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Aizkraukles Str. 21, Riga LV-1006, Latvia; Rigas Stradins University, Dzirciema Str. 16, Riga LV-1007, Latvia
| | - Kristine Volska
- Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Aizkraukles Str. 21, Riga LV-1006, Latvia
| | - Elina Makarova
- Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Aizkraukles Str. 21, Riga LV-1006, Latvia
| | - Eduards Sevostjanovs
- Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Aizkraukles Str. 21, Riga LV-1006, Latvia
| | - Helena Cirule
- Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Aizkraukles Str. 21, Riga LV-1006, Latvia
| | - Solveiga Grinberga
- Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Aizkraukles Str. 21, Riga LV-1006, Latvia
| | - Maija Dambrova
- Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Aizkraukles Str. 21, Riga LV-1006, Latvia; Rigas Stradins University, Dzirciema Str. 16, Riga LV-1007, Latvia
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15
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Johri AM, Heyland DK, Hétu MF, Crawford B, Spence JD. Carnitine therapy for the treatment of metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease: evidence and controversies. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis 2014; 24:808-814. [PMID: 24837277 DOI: 10.1016/j.numecd.2014.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2013] [Revised: 03/19/2014] [Accepted: 03/25/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
As the incidence of metabolic syndrome increases, there is also a growing interest in finding safe and inexpensive treatments to help lower associated risk factors. L-carntine, a natural dietary supplement with the potential to ameliorate atherosclerosis, has been the subject of recent investigation and controversy. A majority of studies have shown benefit of L-C supplementation in the metabolic syndrome or cardiovascular risk factors. However, recent work has suggested that dietary L-C may accelerate atherosclerosis via gut microbiota metabolites, complicating the role of L-C supplementation in health.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Johri
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Imaging Network at Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.
| | - D K Heyland
- Department of Medicine, Division of Community Health and Epidemiology, and Clinical Evaluation Research Unit at Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - M-F Hétu
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Imaging Network at Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - B Crawford
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Imaging Network at Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - J D Spence
- Robarts Research Institute and University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
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16
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McCarty MF. L-carnitine consumption, its metabolism by intestinal microbiota, and cardiovascular health. Mayo Clin Proc 2013; 88:786-9. [PMID: 23910406 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2013.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2013] [Accepted: 06/07/2013] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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17
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Mingorance C, Rodriguez-Rodriguez R, Justo ML, Herrera MD, de Sotomayor MA. Pharmacological effects and clinical applications of propionyl-L-carnitine. Nutr Rev 2011; 69:279-90. [PMID: 21521230 DOI: 10.1111/j.1753-4887.2011.00387.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Propionyl-L-carnitine (PLC) is a naturally occurring derivative of carnitine that plays an important role in the metabolism of both carbohydrates and lipids, leading to an increase of ATP generation. PLC, however, is not only a metabolic drug; it is also a potent antiradical agent and thus may protect tissues from oxidative damage. PLC has been demonstrated to exert a protective effect in different models of both cardiac and endothelial dysfunction, to prevent the progression of atherosclerosis, and, more recently, to improve some of the cardiometabolic alterations that frequently accompany insulin resistance. As a result, most of the clinical trials conducted in humans highlight PLC as a potential treatment option in cardiovascular diseases such as peripheral arterial disease, chronic heart failure, or stable angina, especially when type 2 diabetes mellitus or hyperglycemia (i.e., patients on hemodialysis) are also present. The aim of this review is to summarize the pharmacological effects and possible therapeutic applications of PLC, including the most recent findings to date.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Mingorance
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
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18
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L-carnitine and taurine synergistically inhibit the proliferation and osteoblastic differentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2010; 31:289-96. [PMID: 20154715 DOI: 10.1038/aps.2009.206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To investigate the synergistic action of L-carnitine (LC) and taurine (TAU) on the proliferation and osteoblastic differentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). METHODS DNA and protein synthesis of VSMCs were assessed using scintillation counting. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and calcium content were determined to investigate the effects of LC and TAU on the osteoblastic differentiation and mineralization of VSMCs. TAU uptake by VSMCs was assayed. RNA interference was used to down-regulate the expression of the TAU transporter (TAUT) in rat VSMCs. RESULTS LC and TAU synergistically inhibited the proliferation and beta-glycerophosphate (beta-GP)-induced osteoblastic differentiation of VSMCs as evidenced by the decreased [(3)H]thymidine incorporation, ALP activity and calcium deposition. Furthermore, LC stimulated the TAU uptake and TAUT expression in VSMCs. Suppression of TAUT with short hairpin RNA (shRNA) abolished the synergistic action of LC and TAU in VSMCs. CONCLUSION The synergistic inhibitory action of LC and TAU on the proliferation and osteoblastic differentiation of VSMCs is attributable to the up-regulation of TAUT expression and TAU uptake by LC.
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19
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Stasi MA, Scioli MG, Arcuri G, Mattera GG, Lombardo K, Marcellini M, Riccioni T, De Falco S, Pisano C, Spagnoli LG, Borsini F, Orlandi A. Propionyl-
l
-Carnitine Improves Postischemic Blood Flow Recovery and Arteriogenetic Revascularization and Reduces Endothelial NADPH-Oxidase 4–Mediated Superoxide Production. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2010; 30:426-35. [DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.109.201533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Objective—
The beneficial effect of the natural compound propionyl-
l
-carnitine (PLC) on intermittent claudication in patients with peripheral arterial disease is attributed to its anaplerotic function in ischemic tissues, but inadequate information is available concerning action on the vasculature.
Methods and Results—
We investigated the effects of PLC in rabbit hind limb collateral vessels after femoral artery excision, mouse dorsal air pouch, chicken chorioallantoic membrane, and vascular cells by angiographic, Doppler flow, and histomorphometrical and biomolecular analyses. PLC injection accelerated hind limb blood flow recovery after 4 days (
P
<0.05) and increased angiographic quadriceps collateral vascularization after 7 days (
P
<0.001) Histomorphometry confirmed the increased vascular area (
P
<0.05), with unchanged intramuscular capillary density. PLC-induced dilatative adaptation, and growth was found associated with increased inducible nitric oxide synthase and reduced arterial vascular endothelial growth factor and intracellular adhesion molecule-1 expression. PLC also increased vascularization in air pouch and chorioallantoic membrane (
P
<0.05), particularly in large vessels. PLC increased endothelial and human umbilical vascular endothelial cell proliferation and rapidly reduced inducible nitric oxide synthase and NADPH-oxidase 4–mediated reactive oxygen species production in human umbilical vascular endothelial cells; NADPH-oxidase 4 also regulated NF-κB–independent intracellular adhesion molecule-1 expression.
Conclusion—
Our results provided strong evidence that PLC improves postischemic flow recovery and revascularization and reduces endothelial NADPH-oxidase–related superoxide production. We recommend that PLC should be included among therapeutic interventions that target endothelial function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Antonietta Stasi
- From General Pharmacology and Oncology Department (M.A.S., G.G.M., K.L., M.M., T.R., C.P., F.B.) Sigma-Tau, Pomezia, Rome, Italy; Anatomic Pathology (M.G.S., L.G.S., A.O.), Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy; Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences (G.A.), Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy; Institute of Genetics and Biophysics (S.D.F.), CNR, Napoli, Italy
| | - Maria Giovanna Scioli
- From General Pharmacology and Oncology Department (M.A.S., G.G.M., K.L., M.M., T.R., C.P., F.B.) Sigma-Tau, Pomezia, Rome, Italy; Anatomic Pathology (M.G.S., L.G.S., A.O.), Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy; Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences (G.A.), Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy; Institute of Genetics and Biophysics (S.D.F.), CNR, Napoli, Italy
| | - Gaetano Arcuri
- From General Pharmacology and Oncology Department (M.A.S., G.G.M., K.L., M.M., T.R., C.P., F.B.) Sigma-Tau, Pomezia, Rome, Italy; Anatomic Pathology (M.G.S., L.G.S., A.O.), Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy; Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences (G.A.), Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy; Institute of Genetics and Biophysics (S.D.F.), CNR, Napoli, Italy
| | - Giovan Giuseppe Mattera
- From General Pharmacology and Oncology Department (M.A.S., G.G.M., K.L., M.M., T.R., C.P., F.B.) Sigma-Tau, Pomezia, Rome, Italy; Anatomic Pathology (M.G.S., L.G.S., A.O.), Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy; Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences (G.A.), Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy; Institute of Genetics and Biophysics (S.D.F.), CNR, Napoli, Italy
| | - Katia Lombardo
- From General Pharmacology and Oncology Department (M.A.S., G.G.M., K.L., M.M., T.R., C.P., F.B.) Sigma-Tau, Pomezia, Rome, Italy; Anatomic Pathology (M.G.S., L.G.S., A.O.), Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy; Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences (G.A.), Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy; Institute of Genetics and Biophysics (S.D.F.), CNR, Napoli, Italy
| | - Marcella Marcellini
- From General Pharmacology and Oncology Department (M.A.S., G.G.M., K.L., M.M., T.R., C.P., F.B.) Sigma-Tau, Pomezia, Rome, Italy; Anatomic Pathology (M.G.S., L.G.S., A.O.), Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy; Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences (G.A.), Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy; Institute of Genetics and Biophysics (S.D.F.), CNR, Napoli, Italy
| | - Teresa Riccioni
- From General Pharmacology and Oncology Department (M.A.S., G.G.M., K.L., M.M., T.R., C.P., F.B.) Sigma-Tau, Pomezia, Rome, Italy; Anatomic Pathology (M.G.S., L.G.S., A.O.), Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy; Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences (G.A.), Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy; Institute of Genetics and Biophysics (S.D.F.), CNR, Napoli, Italy
| | - Sandro De Falco
- From General Pharmacology and Oncology Department (M.A.S., G.G.M., K.L., M.M., T.R., C.P., F.B.) Sigma-Tau, Pomezia, Rome, Italy; Anatomic Pathology (M.G.S., L.G.S., A.O.), Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy; Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences (G.A.), Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy; Institute of Genetics and Biophysics (S.D.F.), CNR, Napoli, Italy
| | - Claudio Pisano
- From General Pharmacology and Oncology Department (M.A.S., G.G.M., K.L., M.M., T.R., C.P., F.B.) Sigma-Tau, Pomezia, Rome, Italy; Anatomic Pathology (M.G.S., L.G.S., A.O.), Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy; Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences (G.A.), Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy; Institute of Genetics and Biophysics (S.D.F.), CNR, Napoli, Italy
| | - Luigi Giusto Spagnoli
- From General Pharmacology and Oncology Department (M.A.S., G.G.M., K.L., M.M., T.R., C.P., F.B.) Sigma-Tau, Pomezia, Rome, Italy; Anatomic Pathology (M.G.S., L.G.S., A.O.), Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy; Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences (G.A.), Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy; Institute of Genetics and Biophysics (S.D.F.), CNR, Napoli, Italy
| | - Franco Borsini
- From General Pharmacology and Oncology Department (M.A.S., G.G.M., K.L., M.M., T.R., C.P., F.B.) Sigma-Tau, Pomezia, Rome, Italy; Anatomic Pathology (M.G.S., L.G.S., A.O.), Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy; Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences (G.A.), Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy; Institute of Genetics and Biophysics (S.D.F.), CNR, Napoli, Italy
| | - Augusto Orlandi
- From General Pharmacology and Oncology Department (M.A.S., G.G.M., K.L., M.M., T.R., C.P., F.B.) Sigma-Tau, Pomezia, Rome, Italy; Anatomic Pathology (M.G.S., L.G.S., A.O.), Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy; Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences (G.A.), Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy; Institute of Genetics and Biophysics (S.D.F.), CNR, Napoli, Italy
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20
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Pescosolido N, Imperatrice B, Karavitis P. The aging eye and the role of L-carnitine and its derivatives. Drugs R D 2009; 9 Suppl 1:3-14. [PMID: 19105587 DOI: 10.2165/0126839-200809001-00002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The majority of ocular pathologies originate from a functional deterioration of intraocular tissues. This age-related deterioration often occurs as a result of changes within the eye. There is growing interest in the role of natural or synthetic compounds, such as carnitine, for blocking, or slowing, the progress of this deterioration. L-carnitine and its derivatives are involved in numerous physiological reactions, including sugar aerobic metabolism, oxidative phosphorylation, fatty acid oxidation and osmosis. While carnitine levels in human ocular tissue are unknown, animal studies indicate that carnitine is differentially distributed within the eye with the highest concentrations reported in the iris, ciliary body and the choroid-retina. In patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), acetyl-L-carnitine improved four parameters of visual function, including visual field mean defect, visual acuity, foveal sensitivity and ocular fundus alterations. L-carnitine has also demonstrated antioxidant properties in animal models of oxidative damage. This article reviews the potential use of L-carnitine and its derivatives in age-related ocular pathologies, such as AMD, cataract, glaucoma and dry eye syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Pescosolido
- Ophthalmic Neuroscience Program, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Rome, Sapienza, Rome, Italy
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21
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Orlandi A, Francesconi A, Ferlosio A, Di Lascio A, Marcellini M, Pisano C, Spagnoli LG. Propionyl-L-Carnitine Prevents Age-Related Myocardial Remodeling in the Rabbit. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2007; 50:168-75. [PMID: 17703133 DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0b013e31805d8ee9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Age-related cardiac remodeling is characterized by changes in myocardial structure, which include fibrosis (ie, increased collagen concentration). The pathogenetic mechanisms of age-related cardiac changes and possible pharmacologic interventions are still a matter of investigation. A morphometric analysis of collagen accumulation was performed in Sirius Red-stained left ventricular sections of 3-month-old and 5-6-year-old animals after a 9-month period of propionyl-L-carnitine treatment (PLC; 120 mg Kg(-1) day(-1) per os); aged rabbits showed decreased interstitial collagen accumulation and no changes in cellularity and apoptotic rate compared to controls. Age-related expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1)-positive microvessels was also reduced in PLC-treated rabbits. In vitro, the 16-hour, 10-microM PLC treatment reduced collagen type 1 and VCAM-1 transcripts, which were investigated by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, more markedly in cardiac fibroblasts from aged donors. In the latter, the anti-VCAM-1 antibody treatment was found to be associated with a reduction in collagen type I transcripts. Our results demonstrated that long-term PLC treatment partially prevents age-related interstitial remodeling and suggests that a more complex interstitial cell-to-cell signaling regulates senescent myocardium properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Augusto Orlandi
- Department of Biopathology and Image Diagnostics, Anatomic Pathology Institute, Tor Vergata University, Italy.
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22
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Orlandi A, Francesconi A, Marcellini M, Di Lascio A, Spagnoli LG. Propionyl-L-carnitine Reduces Proliferation and Potentiates Bax-related Apoptosis of Aortic Intimal Smooth Muscle Cells by Modulating Nuclear Factor-κB Activity. J Biol Chem 2007; 282:4932-4942. [PMID: 17178728 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m606148200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Propionyl-l-carnitine (PLC) has been introduced among the therapeutic approaches of peripheral arterial disease, and more recently, an increase of intimal cell apoptosis has been demonstrated to contribute to its effectiveness in rabbit carotid postinjury myointimal hyperplasia prevention. How PLC mediates these effects on vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) remains poorly understood. We investigated the role of NF-kappaB in PLC-induced arterial remodeling. In vivo, daily PLC treatment 15 days after injury resulted in a reduction of relative rat aortic intimal volume, an increase of apoptosis, Bax up-regulation without changing the Bcl-2 level, and a reduction of NF-kappaB, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, monocyte chemotactic protein-1, and survivin in myointimal thickening compared with controls. In the presence of 10% serum, a reduced G(1) --> S phase progression preceded PLC-induced intimal cell apoptosis; in 0.1% serum cultures, in a dose-dependent manner, PLC rapidly induced intimal cell apoptosis and reduced p65, p50, IAP-1, and IAP-2 expression. Inhibiting NF-kappaB activation through SN50 increased apoptotic rate and Bax expression in intimal but not in medial SMCs, and successive PLC treatment failed to induce a further increase in apoptotic rate. Bax antisense oligodeoxynucleotide reduced PLC-induced intimal cell apoptosis and cytochrome c release. The PLC-induced attenuation of NF-kappaB activity in intimal cells was also due to the increase of IkappaB-alpha bioavailability, as the result of a parallel induction of IkappaB-alpha synthesis and reduction of phosphorylation and degradation. Collectively, these findings document that NF-kappaB activity inhibition contributes to PLC-induced proliferative arrest and Bax-related apoptosis of intimal SMCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Augusto Orlandi
- Institute of Anatomic Pathology, Tor Vergata University, Rome 00133, Italy and.
| | - Arianna Francesconi
- Institute of Anatomic Pathology, Tor Vergata University, Rome 00133, Italy and
| | | | - Antonio Di Lascio
- Institute of Anatomic Pathology, Tor Vergata University, Rome 00133, Italy and
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23
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Orlandi A, Bochaton-Piallat ML, Gabbiani G, Spagnoli LG. Aging, smooth muscle cells and vascular pathobiology: Implications for atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis 2006; 188:221-30. [PMID: 16487530 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2006.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2005] [Revised: 01/10/2006] [Accepted: 01/18/2006] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Epidemiological and autopsy studies suggest a close link between aging and the clinical manifestation of atherosclerosis. Several experiments show increased arterial susceptibility to atherogenetic stimuli in aged subjects. All together, these findings support the concept that aging represents an independent atherogenetic risk factor, intimately associated to other parietal, microenvironmental and systemic noxae. Smooth muscle cells (SMCs) represent the major arterial cell population. As aging occurs, SMCs progressively migrate from the tunica media and accumulate into the tunica intima. Myointimal thickening may represent the site where low-grade atherogenic stimuli cause early development and more severe lesion progression. Intimal SMC accumulation is characterized from a switch, from a differentiated to a synthetic phenotype, with reduced myocytic cytoskeletal markers and the expression of new proteins. Aging also associates to changes of SMC proliferative and apoptotic behavior and response to growth factors, such as transforming growth factor-beta1. The alteration of SMC properties represents a crucial event in the pathobiology of arterial wall, since it contributes to the vascular remodeling and decline of function with aging and favors the progression of atherosclerosis. Increased knowledge of biomolecular mechanisms regulating these events helps to develop new strategies aimed at contrasting the adverse effect of vascular aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Augusto Orlandi
- Anatomic Pathology Institute, Department of Biopathology, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Via Montpellier 1, Rome, Italy.
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24
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Signorelli SS, Fatuzzo P, Rapisarda F, Neri S, Ferrante M, Oliveri Conti G, Fallico R, Di Pino L, Pennisi G, Celotta G, Anzaldi M. Propionyl- L-Carnitine Therapy: Effects on Endothelin-1 and Homocysteine Levels in Patients with Peripheral Arterial Disease and End-Stage Renal Disease. Kidney Blood Press Res 2006; 29:100-7. [PMID: 16809937 DOI: 10.1159/000094363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2006] [Accepted: 05/18/2006] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Recent data have addressed the issue of higher levels of homocysteine (Hcy) and endothelin-1 (ET-1) in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) that may be considered an independent predictor for cardiovascular disease. The prevalence of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in patients with ESRD has been reported to be relevant, highlighting its clinical importance. We aimed to explore the therapeutic role of propionyl-L-carnitine (PLC) in hemodialysis patients with PAD by measuring ankle/brachial index (ABI), ET-1 and Hcy. DESIGN Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. METHODS Sixty-four patients on hemodialysis with chronic renal insufficiency and PAD were assigned to receive either intravenous PLC (600 mg) or placebo 3 times weekly for 12 months. The ABI and plasma levels of ET-1 and Hcy were measured at baseline, 6 and 12 months. RESULTS In the PLC-treated group, progressive increases in ABI were observed, while in the placebo group the reverse trend was seen. Highly significant and progressive reductions in plasma levels of ET-1 and Hcy, compared to baseline, were also seen in the PLC-treated group. CONCLUSIONS Hemodynamic flow, endothelial profile and Hcy levels were ameliorated by the administration of PLC in hemodialysis patients with ESRD and PAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Santo Signorelli
- Medical Angiology Section, Department of Internal Medicine and Systemic Pathology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
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25
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Silvestro A, Schiano V, Bucur R, Brevetti G, Scopacasa F, Chiariello M. Effect of propionylcarnitine on changes in endothelial function and plasma levels of adhesion molecules induced by acute exercise in patients with intermittent claudication. Angiology 2006; 57:145-54. [PMID: 16518521 DOI: 10.1177/000331970605700203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In patients with intermittent claudication, treadmill exercise may cause acute deterioration of endothelial function and increase in plasma concentrations of adhesion molecules. The authors evaluated the efficacy of intravenously administered propionylcarnitine (PLC)in preventing these phenomena. Thirty-six claudicants with postexercise decrease in brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD)were randomized to either placebo or PLC (600 mg as a single bolus followed by 1 mg/kg/min for 60 minutes).In the 18 patients randomized to placebo, FMD markedly decreased with exercise before (from 6.8 +/-0.4% to 4.0 +/-0.4%; p < 0.001) and after treatment (from 6.5 +/-0.4% to 4.4 +/-0.5%; p < 0.001). By contrast, in the PLC group, FMD significantly decreased with exercise before treatment (from 8.0 +/-0.7% to 4.4 +/-0.4%; p < 0.001), but not after active drug administration (from 7.1 +/-0.7% to 6.0 +/-0.6%; p = 0.067). The difference between treatments was not significant (p = 0.099; ANOVA). However, in the PLC group, the authors found that the greater the exercise-induced deterioration in endothelial function before treatment, the greater the capacity of PLC to prevent a postexercise decrease in FMD (r = -0.50, p = 0.034). Accordingly, they analyzed data in the 19 patients with a baseline exercise-induced decrease in FMD >or=45% (ie, the median FMD reduction in the entire group of 36 patients), and found that the exercise-induced FMD decrease was less after PLC than after placebo (p = 0.046, ANOVA). In the same subgroup, the exercise-induced increase in plasma concentrations of soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1) was significantly higher before than after treatment in patients randomized to PLC (23.4 +/-5% vs 15.3 +/-7%, p = 0.007). In conclusion, in patients with intermittent claudication suffering from a greater endothelial derangement after treadmill, PLC administration provided a protective effect against deterioration of FMD and increase of sVCAM-1 induced by exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Silvestro
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Naples Federico II,' Naples, Italy.
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26
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Gómez-Amores L, Mate A, Revilla E, Santa-María C, Vázquez CM. Antioxidant activity of propionyl-L-carnitine in liver and heart of spontaneously hypertensive rats. Life Sci 2005; 78:1945-52. [PMID: 16263137 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2005.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2005] [Accepted: 08/30/2005] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress plays an important role in arterial hypertension and propionyl-L-carnitine (PLC) has been found to protect cells from toxic reactive oxygen species. In this work, we have evaluated the antioxidant capacity of chronic PLC treatment in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) by measuring the activity of antioxidant enzymes and the lipid peroxidation in liver and cardiac tissues. The activity of glutathione peroxidase was decreased in liver and cardiac tissues of SHR when compared with their normotensive controls, Wistar- Kyoto (WKY) rats, this alteration being prevented by PLC treatment. Glutathione reductase activity was increased in hypertensive rats and no effect was observed after the treatment. No significant changes in superoxide dismutase activity were observed among all experimental groups. Liver of hypertensive rats showed higher catalase activity than that of normotensive rats, and PLC enhanced this activity in both rat strains. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, determined as a measure of lipid peroxidation, were increased in SHR compared with WKY rats, and PLC treatment decreased these values not only in hypertensive rats but also in normotensive ones. The content of carnitine in serum, liver and heart was higher in PLC-treated rats, but PLC did not prevent the hypertension development in young SHR. In addition, triglyceride levels, which were lower in SHR than WKY rats, were reduced by chronic PLC treatment in both rat strains. These results demonstrate: i) the hypotriglyceridemic effect of PLC and ii) the antioxidant capacity of PLC in SHR and its beneficial use protecting tissues from hypertension-accompanying oxidative damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucía Gómez-Amores
- Department of Physiology and Zoology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Seville, C/Profesor García González 2, E-41012 Seville, Spain
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27
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Herrera MD, Bueno R, De Sotomayor MA, Pérez-Guerrero C, Vázquez CM, Marhuenda E. Endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation induced by L-carnitine in isolated aorta from normotensive and hypertensive rats. J Pharm Pharmacol 2002; 54:1423-7. [PMID: 12396307 DOI: 10.1211/002235702760345536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this work was to investigate the mechanism of the vasodilatory effect induced by L-carnitine. Relaxation produced by L-carnitine was studied in rat aortic rings with and without functional endothelium, pre-contracted with phenylephrine by adding cumulative doses of L-carnitine (10(-7) to 10(-3) M). The relaxation evoked by L-carnitine reached higher values in aortic rings from spontaneously hypertensive rats than those obtained in arteries from normotensive rats; no relaxation was produced in de-endothelialized arteries. However, in the presence of N(G)-nitro-L-arginine (3 x 10(-5) M, a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor), Ro 68070 (10(-4) M, a thromboxane synthetase inhibitor-thromboxane A2/prostaglandin H2 receptor antagonist) or ICI 192605 (10(-5) M, a thromboxane A2 receptor antagonist) the relaxant response to L-carnitine was significantly inhibited. These results show that L-carnitine induced endothelium-dependent relaxation in the rat aorta and the mechanism of this relaxation appeared to be mostly mediated by endothelial production of nitric oxide but#10; also could involve prevention of the action of cyclooxygenase endothelial products acting on the thromboxane A2/prostaglandin H2 receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Dolores Herrera
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Seville, C/ Profesor García González s/n, 41012-Seville, Spain.
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28
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Orlandi A, Marcellini M, Pesce D, Calvani M, Spagnoli LG. Propionyl-L-carnitine reduces intimal hyperplasia after injury in normocholesterolemic rabbit carotid artery by modulating proliferation and caspase 3-dependent apoptosis of vascular smooth muscle cells. Atherosclerosis 2002; 160:81-9. [PMID: 11755925 DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9150(01)00568-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Previously we documented that propionyl-L-carnitine (PLC) reduces the growth of atherosclerotic lesions in cholesterol-fed aged rabbits in association with a decrease of plaque smooth muscle cell (SMC) proliferation and plasma triglycerides. To clarify whether PLC might influence SMC growth through mechanisms other than triglyceride lowering, we investigated the effect of a daily treatment per os with PLC on carotid intimal hyperplasia after ballooning in normocholesterolemic rabbits. PLC did not induce variations of plasma triglyceride and cholesterol. One week later, the number of proliferating SMCs was reduced in PLC as compared with controls. After 3 weeks, morphometric analysis demonstrated a reduced neointimal relative volume and percentage of stenosis but not vessel area in PLC as compared with controls. This associated with an intimal reduced SMC number and an increased apoptotic rate as detected by nick-end labelling (TUNEL) and ligation-mediated polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Western blotting also demonstrated an increase of caspase-3 cleavage in PLC carotids. Antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic effects of PLC were confirmed in vitro on actively proliferating and serum deprived SMCs, respectively. Molecules with an additional cell-specific, pro-apoptotic action may represent a new therapeutic tool in reducing intimal SMC hyperplasia following angioplasty or stenting procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Augusto Orlandi
- Department of Biopathology and Image Diagnostics, Anatomic Pathology Institute, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
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Sayed-Ahmed MM, Khattab MM, Gad MZ, Mostafa N. L-carnitine prevents the progression of atherosclerotic lesions in hypercholesterolaemic rabbits. Pharmacol Res 2001; 44:235-42. [PMID: 11529691 DOI: 10.1006/phrs.2001.0852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
This study has been initiated to investigate, in hypercholesterolaemic rabbits, whether L-carnitine deficiency could be an additional risk factor in atherosclerosis, and if so, whether L-carnitine supplementation could prevent the progression of atherosclerosis. Hypercholesterolaemia was induced by feeding rabbits 2% cholesterol-enriched diet for 28 days, whereas, carnitine deficiency was induced by daily i.p. administration of 250 mg kg(-1) of D-carnitine for 28 days. Histopathological examination of aorta and coronaries from hypercholesterolaemic rabbits revealed severe atherosclerotic lesions, intimal plaques and foam cell formation. Also, hypercholesterolaemic diet resulted in a significant 53 and 43% decrease in reduced glutathion (GSH) levels and a significant (1.87-fold) and (14.1-fold) increase in malonedialdhyde (MDA) levels in aorta and cardiac tissues, respectively. Daily administration of L-carnitine (250 mg kg(-1)) for 28 days, completely prevented the progression of atherosclerotic lesions induced by hpercholesterolaemia in both aorta and coronaries. Conversely, daily administration of D-carnitine (250 mg kg(-1)) for 28 days increased the progression of atherosclerotic lesions with the appearance of foam cells and apparent intimal plaques which are even larger than that seen in hypercholesterolaemic rabbits. Both L-carnitine and D-carnitine produced similar effects on the lipid profile, GSH and MDA which may point to the conclusion that: (1) L-carnitine prevents the progression of atherosclerotic lesions by another mechanism in addition to its antioxidant and lipid-lowering effects; (2) endogenous carnitine depletion and/or carnitine deficiency should be viewed as an additional risk factor in atherogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M Sayed-Ahmed
- Pharmacology Unit, Cancer Biology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo, Egypt.
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Orlandi A, Marcellini M, Spagnoli LG. Aging influences development and progression of early aortic atherosclerotic lesions in cholesterol-fed rabbits. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2000; 20:1123-36. [PMID: 10764683 DOI: 10.1161/01.atv.20.4.1123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The arterial wall in aged animals shows an increased susceptibility to develop atherosclerotic lesions, although the mechanisms by which aging acts are still unclear. We investigated early aortic lesions in aged rabbits (5 to 6 years old, AH group) and young rabbits (2 months old, YH group) after 2 months of 0.2% cholesterol feeding. Fatty streaks or spots mainly in the proximal segments occupied a relative surface area that was greater in AH than in YH rabbits, although plasma cholesterol and lipoprotein levels did not differ. YH lesions showed an irregular endothelial profile mainly from accumulations of large, rounded, RAM 11-positive macrophagic foam cells. There was a higher percentage of myocytic, CD-5-positive, proliferating, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end-labeling (TUNEL)-positive cells and larger accumulation of glycosaminoglycans in AH fatty streaks than in YH lesions. Ligation-mediated polymerase chain reaction confirmed differences in apoptosis. Early fibromuscular coats and subendothelial plasma-like insudate were also observed in AH lesions. Aged-matched normocholesterolemic rabbits showed a diffuse aortic intimal thickening composed of myocytic cells with a synthetic phenotype and extracellular matrix rich in glycosaminoglycans. In addition, in aged rabbits, we observed a spontaneous increase of monocytes adhering to the endothelial surface and a reduced expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase in areas distant from the branches. These plasma cholesterol-independent spontaneous changes in the aortic wall of aged rabbits seem to act as a multiple atherogenic risk factor. Moreover, age-related differences in the distribution, composition, and proliferative and apoptotic rates represent crucial events during the progression of early fatty streaks to advanced plaques.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Orlandi
- Institute of Anatomic Pathology, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
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31
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Abstract
The presence of ceroid, a complex of protein associated with oxidized lipids, is commonly observed in human atherosclerotic lesions. When the human aortic walls were examined by Perls' staining, it was found that the iron deposits were evident in aortas with atherosclerosis. The extent of iron deposition was associated with the severity of the lesion. Furthermore, the iron deposits appeared to be colocalized with ceroids either extracellularly or intracellularly in foam cell-like macrophages or smooth muscle cells. Electron microscopy and X-ray microanalysis revealed that some of the extracellular iron aggregates were present within the ceroids. Likewise, some of the subcellular iron aggregates were found to be located near the lipid droplets or within the ceroids of foam cells. Collectively, these observations support the theory that the lipid oxidation occurring in lipid-laden cells of aortic lesions is facilitated by iron-overload in these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Y Lee
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
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Rauchová H, Dobesová Z, Drahota Z, Zicha J, Kunes J. The effect of chronic L-carnitine treatment on blood pressure and plasma lipids in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Eur J Pharmacol 1998; 342:235-9. [PMID: 9548391 DOI: 10.1016/s0014-2999(97)01505-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The effect of chronic L-carnitine treatment on blood pressure and plasma lipids was studied in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). L-Carnitine treatment for 6 weeks lowered significantly both the systolic and mean arterial pressure of SHR but its influence on diastolic and pulse pressure was only modest. L-Carnitine did not influence the relative heart and kidney weight of SHR. However, L-carnitine completely abolished the age-dependent rise of plasma total cholesterol, triglycerides and uric acid seen in untreated SHR. On the other hand, L-carnitine treatment had no significant effects on blood pressure, relative organ weight and plasma lipids in normotensive Wistar-Kyoto rats. Our results suggest that L-carnitine might prevent some cardiovascular alterations by its influence on lipid metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Rauchová
- Institute of Physiology, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Videnska, Prague
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33
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Abstract
Carnitine and its derivative propionyl-L-carnitine are endogenous cofactors which enhance carbohydrate metabolism and reduce the intracellular buildup of toxic metabolites in ischemic conditions. The carnitines have been, and are being used in a spectrum of diseases including multiple cardiovascular conditions. These include angina, acute myocardial infarction, postmyocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, peripheral vascular disease, dyslipidemia, and diabetes. Most published data on carnitine, propionyl-L-carnitine, and other carnitine congeners are favorable but the clinical trials have been relatively small. In currently used doses, these substances are virtually devoid of significant side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Arsenian
- Cape Ann Medical Center, Gloucester, MA 01930, USA
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Mauriello A, Sangiorgi G, Orlandi A, Schiaroli S, Perfumo S, Spagnoli LG. Effect of long-term treatment with propionyl-L-carnitine on smooth muscle cell polyploidy in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Hypertension 1996; 28:177-82. [PMID: 8707378 DOI: 10.1161/01.hyp.28.2.177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Experimental studies suggest that DNA content is increased in the smooth muscle cells of the arteries of hypertensive animals. It is unclear whether an increase in DNA content occurring in the smooth muscle cells of hypertensive rats represents a pressure-dependent effect. To evaluate the antihypertensive effect of long-term treatment with propionyl-L-carnitine and the possible morphological changes in thoracic smooth muscle cells correlated with this effect, we studied 4-month-old spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY) randomly divided into five groups. One group of SHR was treated with propionyl-L-carnitine for 12 months; the other four groups of SHR and WKY received no treatment and were controls. We used static and flow cytometry to evaluate the polyploid cell content in thoracic aorta smooth muscle cells. Systolic pressure in untreated SHR progressively increased during the experiment. Treatment did not significantly influence pressure values in SHR. In WKY, blood pressure was significantly lower than that in treated and untreated age-matched SHR (2P < .02). The number of polyploid smooth muscle cells was significantly lower in the propionyl-L-carnitine-treated SHR than in the untreated rats (2P < .04) and similar to values for WKY. The reduction of polyploid cells in treated SHR was paralleled by a significant decrease of the aortic total DNA content, whereas no modifications occurred in smooth muscle cell mass. Long-term treatment with propionyl-L-carnitine may interfere with cellular mechanisms regulating the secondary responses involved in DNA synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Mauriello
- Cattedra di Anatomia Patologica, Universita' di Roma Tor Vergata, Italy
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Spagnoli LG, Mauriello A, Orlandi A, Sangiorgi G, Bonanno E. Age-related changes affecting atherosclerotic risk. Potential for pharmacological intervention. Drugs Aging 1996; 8:275-98. [PMID: 8920175 DOI: 10.2165/00002512-199608040-00004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The incidence of cardiovascular diseases that are related to the atherosclerotic process increases exponentially with age. Organ lesions, the clinical manifestation of atherosclerotic disease, are late events due to complications in the plaque (ulceration, thrombosis, calcification) which are the result of an increased vulnerability to disruption of a previously stable plaque. The higher incidence of age-related clinical events could be explained by a rising sensitivity of plaques to destabilising factors, both parietal and humoral. The increased probability that a plaque in an elderly patient will became vulnerable could be related to those destabilising factors that significantly increase with aging, such as advanced glycation end-products. For these reasons, it seems most important that the analysis of these age-related destabilising factors, rather than those factors that promote the development of early atherosclerotic plaques, should be undertaken. Taking the point of view of a pharmacological intervention, this should eventually lead to a more complete understanding of this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- L G Spagnoli
- Cattedra di Anatomia ed Istologia Patologica, University of Rome :Tor Vergata', Italy
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