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Larionov A, Hammer CM, Fiedler K, Filgueira L. Dynamics of Endothelial Cell Diversity and Plasticity in Health and Disease. Cells 2024; 13:1276. [PMID: 39120307 PMCID: PMC11312403 DOI: 10.3390/cells13151276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Endothelial cells (ECs) are vital structural units of the cardiovascular system possessing two principal distinctive properties: heterogeneity and plasticity. Endothelial heterogeneity is defined by differences in tissue-specific endothelial phenotypes and their high predisposition to modification along the length of the vascular bed. This aspect of heterogeneity is closely associated with plasticity, the ability of ECs to adapt to environmental cues through the mobilization of genetic, molecular, and structural alterations. The specific endothelial cytoarchitectonics facilitate a quick structural cell reorganization and, furthermore, easy adaptation to the extrinsic and intrinsic environmental stimuli, known as the epigenetic landscape. ECs, as universally distributed and ubiquitous cells of the human body, play a role that extends far beyond their structural function in the cardiovascular system. They play a crucial role in terms of barrier function, cell-to-cell communication, and a myriad of physiological and pathologic processes. These include development, ontogenesis, disease initiation, and progression, as well as growth, regeneration, and repair. Despite substantial progress in the understanding of endothelial cell biology, the role of ECs in healthy conditions and pathologies remains a fascinating area of exploration. This review aims to summarize knowledge and concepts in endothelial biology. It focuses on the development and functional characteristics of endothelial cells in health and pathological conditions, with a particular emphasis on endothelial phenotypic and functional heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexey Larionov
- Faculty of Science and Medicine, Anatomy, University of Fribourg, Route Albert-Gockel 1, CH-1700 Fribourg, Switzerland; (C.M.H.); (L.F.)
| | - Christian Manfred Hammer
- Faculty of Science and Medicine, Anatomy, University of Fribourg, Route Albert-Gockel 1, CH-1700 Fribourg, Switzerland; (C.M.H.); (L.F.)
| | - Klaus Fiedler
- Independent Researcher, CH-1700 Fribourg, Switzerland;
| | - Luis Filgueira
- Faculty of Science and Medicine, Anatomy, University of Fribourg, Route Albert-Gockel 1, CH-1700 Fribourg, Switzerland; (C.M.H.); (L.F.)
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Monnens L. Weibel-Palade bodies: function and role in thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura and in diarrhea phase of STEC-hemolytic uremic syndrome. Pediatr Nephrol 2024:10.1007/s00467-024-06440-3. [PMID: 38967838 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-024-06440-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial cells are equipped with numerous specialized granules called Weibel-Palade bodies (WPBs). They contain a cocktail of proteins that can be rapidly secreted (3-5 min) into the vascular lumen after an appropriate stimulus such as thrombin. These proteins are ready without synthesis. Von Willebrand factor (VWF) and P-selectin are the main constituents of WPBs. Upon stimulation, release of ultralarge VWF multimers occurs and assembles into VWF strings on the apical side of endothelium. The VWF A1 domain becomes exposed in a shear-dependent manner recruiting and activating platelets. VWF is able to recruit leukocytes via direct leukocyte binding or via the activated platelets promoting NETosis. Ultralarge VWF strings are ultimately cleaved into smaller pieces by the protease ADAMTS-13 preventing excessive platelet adhesion. Under carefully performed flowing conditions and adequate dose of Shiga toxins, the toxin induces the release of ultralarge VWF multimers from cultured endothelial cells. This basic information allows insight into the pathogenesis of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) and of STEC-HUS in the diarrhea phase. In TTP, ADAMTS-13 activity is deficient and systemic aggregation of platelets will occur after a second trigger. In STEC-HUS, stimulated release of WPB components in the diarrhea phase of the disease can be presumed to be the first hit in the damage of Gb3 positive endothelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leo Monnens
- Department of Physiology, Radboud University Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
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Reichard A, Wanner N, Farha S, Asosingh K. Hematopoietic stem cells and extramedullary hematopoiesis in the lungs. Cytometry A 2023; 103:967-977. [PMID: 37807901 PMCID: PMC10841540 DOI: 10.1002/cyto.a.24804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Hematopoietic stem cells are key players in hematopoiesis as the body maintains a physiologic steady state, and the signaling pathways and control mechanisms of these dynamic cells are implicated in processes from inflammation to cancer. Although the bone marrow is commonly regarded as the site of hematopoiesis and hematopoietic stem cell residence, these cells also circulate in the blood and reside in extramedullary tissues, including the lungs. Flow cytometry is an invaluable tool in evaluating hematopoietic stem cells, revealing their phenotypes and relative abundances in both healthy and diseased states. This review outlines current protocols and cell markers used in flow cytometric analysis of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell populations. Specific niches within the bone marrow are discussed, as are metabolic processes that contribute to stem cell self-renewal and differentiation, as well as the role of hematopoietic stem cells outside of the bone marrow at physiologic steady state. Finally, pulmonary extramedullary hematopoiesis and its associated disease states are outlined. Hematopoiesis in the lungs is a new and emerging concept, and discovering ways in which the study of lung-resident hematopoietic stem cells can be translated from murine models to patients will impact clinical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Reichard
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, The Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Nicholas Wanner
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, The Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Samar Farha
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, The Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Respiratory Institute, The Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Kewal Asosingh
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, The Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Flow Cytometry Shared Laboratory Resource, Lerner Research Institute, The Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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Helin TA, Raatikainen P, Lehto M, Haukka J, Lassila R. Associations of anaemia with bleeding and thrombotic complications in patients with atrial fibrillation treated with warfarin: a registry-based nested case-control study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e071342. [PMID: 37918932 PMCID: PMC10626859 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-071342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We studied association of laboratory testing beyond the international normalised ratio (INR) with bleeding and stroke/transient ischaemic attack (TIA) outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation treated with warfarin. DESIGN This was a retrospective nested case-control study from the Finnish Warfarin in Atrial Fibrillation (FinWAF) registry (n=54 568), reporting the management and outcome in warfarin-anticoagulated patients. Associations of blood count test frequency and results were assessed together with risk of bleeding or stroke/TIA during 5-year follow-up. SETTING National FinWAF registry, with data from all six hospital districts. Follow-up period for complications was 1 January 2007-31 December 2011. PARTICIPANTS A total of 54 568 warfarin-anticoagulated patients. RESULTS The number of patients with bleeding was 4681 (9%) and stroke/TIA episodes, 4692 (9%). In patients with bleeds, lower haemoglobin (within 3 months) preceded the event compared with the controls (median 126 vs 135 g/L; IQR 111-141 g/L vs 123-147 g/L, p<0.001), while patients with stroke/TIA had only modestly lower INR (median 2.2 vs 2.3; 1.8-2.6 vs 2.1-2.7, p<0.001). When the last measured haemoglobin was below the reference value (130 g/L for men, 120 g/L for women), the OR for a bleeding complication was 2.9 and stroke/TIA, 1.5. If the haemoglobin level was below 100 g/L, the complication risk increased further by 10-fold. If haemoglobin values were repeatedly (more than five times) low during the preceding 3 months, future OR was for bleeds 2.3 and for stroke/TIA 2.4. CONCLUSIONS The deeper the anaemia, the higher the risk of bleeding and stroke/TIA. However, INR remained mainly at its target and only occasionally deviated, failing to detect the complication risk. Repeated low haemoglobin results, compatible with persistent anaemia, refer to suboptimal management and increased the complication risk in anticoagulated patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuukka Antero Helin
- Clinical Chemistry, HUS Diagnostic Centre, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Pekka Raatikainen
- Cardiology, Heart and Lung Center, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mika Lehto
- Cardiology, Heart and Lung Center, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
- Internal Medicine, Jorvi Hospital, Espoo, Finland
| | - Jari Haukka
- Department of Public Health, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Riitta Lassila
- Coagulation Disorders Unit and Clinical Chemistry, HUS Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
- Program in Systems Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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Alavi P, Yousef Abdualla R, Brown D, Mojiri A, Nagendran J, Lewis J, Bourque SL, Jahroudi N. Aging Is Associated With Organ-Specific Alterations in the Level and Expression Pattern of von Willebrand Factor. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2023; 43:2183-2196. [PMID: 37732483 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.123.319255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND VWF (von Willebrand factor) is an endothelial-specific procoagulant protein with a major role in thrombosis. Aging is associated with increased circulating levels of VWF, which presents a risk factor for thrombus formation. METHODS Circulating plasma, cellular protein, and mRNA levels of VWF were determined and compared in young and aged mice. Major organs were subjected to immunofluorescence analyses to determine the vascular pattern of VWF expression and the presence of platelet aggregates. An in vitro model of aging, using extended culture time of endothelial cells, was used to explore the mechanism of age-associated increased VWF levels. RESULTS Increased circulating plasma levels of VWF with elevated levels of larger multimers, indicative of VWF functional activity, were observed in aged mice. VWF mRNA and cellular protein levels were significantly increased in the brains, lungs, and livers but not in the kidneys and hearts of aged mice. Higher proportion of small vessels in brains, lungs, and livers of aged mice exhibited VWF expression compared with young, and this was concomitant with increased platelet aggregate formation. Prolonged culture of endothelial cells resulted in increased cell senescence that correlated with increased VWF expression; VWF expression was specifically detected in senescent cultured endothelial cells and abolished in response to p53 knockdown. A significantly higher proportion of VWF expressing endothelial cells in vivo exhibited senescence markers SA-β-Gal (senescence-associated β-galactosidase) and p53 in aged mouse brains compared with that of the young. CONCLUSIONS Aging elicits a heterogenic response in endothelial cells with regard to VWF expression, leading to organ-specific increase in VWF levels and alterations in vascular tree pattern of expression. This is concomitant with increased platelet aggregate formation. The age-associated increase in VWF expression may be modulated through the process of cell senescence, and p53 transcription factor contributes to its regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parnian Alavi
- Departments of Medicine (P.A., R.Y.A., A.M., N.J.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Radya Yousef Abdualla
- Departments of Medicine (P.A., R.Y.A., A.M., N.J.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Douglas Brown
- Oncology (D.B., J.L.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Anahita Mojiri
- Departments of Medicine (P.A., R.Y.A., A.M., N.J.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
- Now with Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Houston Methodist Research Institute, TX (A.M.)
| | | | - John Lewis
- Oncology (D.B., J.L.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Stephane L Bourque
- Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine (S.L.B.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Nadia Jahroudi
- Departments of Medicine (P.A., R.Y.A., A.M., N.J.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
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Adetunji JA, Fasae KD, Awe AI, Paimo OK, Adegoke AM, Akintunde JK, Sekhoacha MP. The protective roles of citrus flavonoids, naringenin, and naringin on endothelial cell dysfunction in diseases. Heliyon 2023; 9:e17166. [PMID: 37484296 PMCID: PMC10361329 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e17166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The endothelial cells (ECs) make up the inner lining of blood vessels, acting as a barrier separating the blood and the tissues in several organs. ECs maintain endothelium integrity by controlling the constriction and relaxation of the vasculature, blood fluidity, adhesion, and migration. These actions of ECs are efficiently coordinated via an intricate signaling network connecting receptors, and a wide range of cellular macromolecules. ECs are naturally quiescent i.e.; they are not stimulated and do not proliferate. Upon infection or disease, ECs become activated, and this alteration is pivotal in the pathogenesis of a spectrum of human neurological, cardiovascular, diabetic, cancerous, and viral diseases. Considering the central position that ECs play in disease pathogenesis, therapeutic options have been targeted at improving ECs integrity, assembly, functioning, and health. The dietary intake of flavonoids present in citrus fruits has been associated with a reduced risk of endothelium dysfunction. Naringenin (NGN) and Naringin (NAR), major flavonoids in grapefruit, tomatoes, and oranges possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant properties, and cell survival potentials, which improve the health of the vascular endothelium. In this review, we provide a comprehensive summary and present the advances in understanding of the mechanisms through which NGN and NAR modulate the biomarkers of vascular dysfunction and protect the endothelium against unresolved inflammation, oxidative stress, atherosclerosis, and angiogenesis. We also provide perspectives and suggest further studies that will help assess the efficacy of citrus flavonoids in the therapeutics of human vascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joy A. Adetunji
- Nutritional and Industrial Biochemistry Unit, Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Kehinde D. Fasae
- Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, USA
| | - Ayobami I. Awe
- Department of Biology, The Catholic University of America, Washington DC, USA
| | - Oluwatomiwa K. Paimo
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Biosciences, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria
| | - Ayodeji M. Adegoke
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Free State, P.O. Box 339, Bloemfontein 9300, South Africa
- Cancer Research and Molecular Biology Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, 200005, Nigeria
| | - Jacob K. Akintunde
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Biosciences, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria
| | - Mamello P. Sekhoacha
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Free State, P.O. Box 339, Bloemfontein 9300, South Africa
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Mitrofanova LB, Makarov IA, Gorshkov AN, Runov AL, Vonsky MS, Pisareva MM, Komissarov AB, Makarova TA, Li Q, Karonova TL, Konradi AO, Shlaykhto EV. Comparative Study of the Myocardium of Patients from Four COVID-19 Waves. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13091645. [PMID: 37175037 PMCID: PMC10178873 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13091645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few studies have compared COVID-19 patients from different waves. This study aims to conduct a clinical and morphological analysis of patients who died from COVID-19 during four waves. METHODS The study involved 276 patients who died from COVID-19 during four waves, including 77 patients in the first wave, 119 patients in the second wave, and 78 patients in the third wave. We performed a histological examination of myocardium samples from autopsies and additionally analyzed the samples by PCR. We conducted immunohistochemistry of the myocardium for 21 samples using antibodies against CD3, CD45, CD8, CD68, CD34, Ang1, VWF, VEGF, HLA-DR, MHC1, C1q, enteroviral VP1, and SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. We also did immunofluorescent staining of three myocardial specimens using VP1/SARS-CoV-2 antibody cocktails. Further, we ran RT-ddPCR analysis for 14 RNA samples extracted from paraffin-embedded myocardium. Electron microscopic studies of the myocardium were also performed for two samples from the fourth wave. RESULTS Among the 276 cases, active myocarditis was diagnosed in 5% (15/276). Of these cases, 86% of samples expressed VP1, and individual cells contained SARS-CoV-2 spike protein in 22%. Immunofluorescence confirmed the co-localization of VP1 and SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins. ddPCR did not confidently detect SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the myocardium in any myocarditis cases. However, the myocardium sample from wave IV detected a sub-threshold signal of SARS-CoV-2 by qPCR, but myocarditis in this patient was not confirmed. Electron microscopy showed several single particles similar to SARS-CoV-2 virions on the surface of the endothelium of myocardial vessels. A comparison of the cardiovascular complication incidence between three waves revealed that the incidence of hemorrhage (48 vs. 24 vs. 17%), myocardial necrosis (18 vs. 11 vs. 4%), blood clots in the intramural arteries (12 vs. 7 vs. 0%), and myocarditis (19 vs. 1 vs. 6%) decreased over time, and CD8-T-killers appeared. Immunohistochemistry confirmed the presence of endotheliitis in all 21 studied cases. CONCLUSIONS This study compared myocardial damage in patients who died during three COVID-19 waves and showed a decrease in the incidence of endotheliitis complications (thrombosis, hemorrhage, necrosis) and myocarditis over time. However, the connection between myocarditis and SARS-CoV-2 infection remains unproven.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Andrey Nikolaevich Gorshkov
- Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg 197341, Russia
- Smorodintsev Research Institute of Influenza, St. Petersburg 197376, Russia
| | - Andrey Leonidovich Runov
- Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg 197341, Russia
- D.I. Mendeleyev Institute for Metrology, St. Petersburg 190005, Russia
| | - Maxim Sergeevich Vonsky
- Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg 197341, Russia
- D.I. Mendeleyev Institute for Metrology, St. Petersburg 190005, Russia
| | | | | | | | - Qingli Li
- East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
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Gelon L, Fromont L, Lefrançais E. Occurrence and role of lung megakaryocytes in infection and inflammation. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1029223. [PMID: 36524131 PMCID: PMC9745136 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1029223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Megakaryocytes (MKs) are large cells giving rise to platelets. It is well established that in adults, MKs develop from hematopoietic stem cells and reside in the bone marrow. MKs are also rare but normal constituents of the venous blood returning to the lungs, and MKs are found in the lung vasculature (MKcirc), suggesting that these cells are migrants from the bone marrow and get trapped in lung capillaries where the final steps of platelet production can occur. An unprecedented increase in the number of lung and circulating MKs was described in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients, suggesting that lung thrombopoiesis may be increased during lung infection and/or thromboinflammation. In addition to the population of platelet-producing intravascular MKs in the lung, a population of lung-resident megakaryocytes (MKL) has been identified and presents a specific immune signature compared to its bone marrow counterparts. Recent single-cell analysis and intravital imaging have helped us gain a better understanding of these populations in mouse and human. This review aims at summarizing the recent data on increased occurrence of lung MKs and discusses their origin, specificities, and potential role in homeostasis and inflammatory and infectious lung diseases. Here, we address remaining questions, controversies, and methodologic challenges for further studies of both MKcirc and MKL.
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Hough C, Notley C, Mo A, Videl B, Lillicrap D. Heterogeneity and reciprocity of FVIII and VWF expression, and the response to shear stress in cultured human endothelial cells. J Thromb Haemost 2022; 20:2507-2518. [PMID: 35950488 PMCID: PMC9850489 DOI: 10.1111/jth.15841] [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: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Substantial phenotypic heterogeneity exists in endothelial cells and while much of this heterogeneity results from local microenvironments, epigenetic modifications also contribute. METHODS Cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells, human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells, human hepatic sinusoidal endothelial cells, human lymphatic endothelial cells (hLECs), and two different isolations of endothelial colony forming cells (ECFCs) were assessed for levels of factor VIII (FVIII) and von Willebrand factor (VWF) RNA and protein. The intracellular location and co-localization of both proteins was evaluated with immunofluorescence microscopy and stimulated release toof FVIII and VWF from Weibel-Palade bodies (WPBs) was evaluated. Changes in expression of FVIII and VWF RNA after hLECs and ECFCs were exposed to 2 or 15 dynes/cm2 of laminar shear stress were also assessed. RESULTS We observed considerable heterogeneity in FVIII and VWF expression among the endothelial cells. With the exception of hLECs, FVIII RNA and protein were barely detectable in any of the endothelial cells and a reciprocal relationship between levels of FVIII and VWF appears to exist. When FVIII and VWF are co-expressed, they do not consistently co-localize in the cytoplasm. However, in hLECs where significantly higher levels of FVIII are expressed, FVIII and VWF co-localize in WPBs and are released together when stimulated. Expression of both FVIII and VWF is markedly reduced when hLECs are exposed to higher or lower levels of laminar shear stress, while in ECFCs there is a minimal response for both proteins. CONCLUSIONS Variable levels of FVIII and VWF RNA and protein exist in a subset of cultured human endothelial cells. Higher levels of FVIII present in hLECs co-localize with VWF and are released together when exposed to a secretagogue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Hough
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Richardson Laboratory, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Colleen Notley
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Richardson Laboratory, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Aomei Mo
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Richardson Laboratory, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Barbara Videl
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Richardson Laboratory, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - David Lillicrap
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Richardson Laboratory, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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Manz XD, Bogaard HJ, Aman J. Regulation of VWF (Von Willebrand Factor) in Inflammatory Thrombosis. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2022; 42:1307-1320. [PMID: 36172866 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.122.318179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Increasing evidence indicates that inflammation promotes thrombosis via a VWF (von Willebrand factor)-mediated mechanism. VWF plays an essential role in maintaining the balance between blood coagulation and bleeding, and inflammation can lead to aberrant regulation. VWF is regulated on a transcriptional and (post-)translational level, and its secretion into the circulation captures platelets upon endothelial activation. The significant progress that has been made in understanding transcriptional and translational regulation of VWF is described in this review. First, we describe how VWF is regulated at the transcriptional and post-translational level with a specific focus on the influence of inflammatory and immune responses. Next, we describe how changes in regulation are linked with various cardiovascular diseases. Recent insights from clinical diseases provide evidence for direct molecular links between inflammation and thrombosis, including atherosclerosis, chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension, and COVID-19. Finally, we will briefly describe clinical implications for antithrombotic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue D Manz
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences (ACS), the Netherlands
| | - Harm Jan Bogaard
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences (ACS), the Netherlands
| | - Jurjan Aman
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences (ACS), the Netherlands
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11
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Tao Q, Lu Y, Qi Y, Yu D, Gu J, Zhu Y, Shi C, Liang X. Hypoxia promotes the expression of Von Willebrand factor in breast cancer cells by up-regulating the transcription factor YY1 and down-regulating the hsa-miR-424. Eur J Pharmacol 2022; 934:175308. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.175308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Xu X, Feng Y, Jia Y, Zhang X, Li L, Bai X, Jiao L. Prognostic value of von Willebrand factor and ADAMTS13 in patients with COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Thromb Res 2022; 218:83-98. [PMID: 36027630 PMCID: PMC9385270 DOI: 10.1016/j.thromres.2022.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Endotheliopathy and coagulopathy appear to be the main causes for critical illness and death in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The adhesive ligand von Willebrand factor (VWF) has been involved in immunothrombosis responding to endothelial injury. Here, we reviewed the current literature and performed meta-analyses on the relationship between both VWF and its cleaving protease ADAMTS13 (a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin type 1 motif, member 13) with the prognosis of COVID-19. Methods We searched MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and EMBASE databases from inception to 4 March 2022 for studies analyzing the relationship between VWF-related variables and composite clinical outcomes of patients with COVID-19. The VWF-related variables analyzed included VWF antigen (VWF:Ag), VWF ristocetin cofactor (VWF:Rco), ADAMTS13 activity (ADAMTS13:Ac), the ratio of VWF:Ag to ADAMTS13:Ac, and coagulation factor VIII (FVIII). The unfavorable outcomes were defined as mortality, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and severe disease course. We used random or fixed effects models to create summary estimates of risk. Risk of bias was assessed based on the principle of the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Results A total of 3764 patients from 40 studies were included. The estimated pooled means indicated increased plasma levels of VWF:Ag, VWF:Rco, and VWF:Ag/ADAMTS13:Ac ratio, and decreased plasma levels of ADAMTS13:Ac in COVID-19 patients with unfavorable outcomes when compared to those with favorable outcomes (composite outcomes or subgroup analyses of non-survivor versus survivor, ICU versus non-ICU, and severe versus non-severe). In addition, FVIII were higher in COVID-19 patients with unfavorable outcomes. Subgroup analyses indicated that FVIII was higher in patients admitting to ICU, while there was no significant difference between non-survivors and survivors. Conclusions The imbalance of the VWF-ADAMTS13 axis (massive quantitative and qualitative increases of VWF with relative deficiency of ADAMTS13) is associated with poor prognosis of patients with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, 45 Changchun Street, Beijing, China; China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), 45 Changchun Street, Beijing, China.
| | - Yao Feng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, 45 Changchun Street, Beijing, China; China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), 45 Changchun Street, Beijing, China
| | - Yitong Jia
- Department of Anesthesiology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, 45 Changchun Street, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, 45 Changchun Street, Beijing, China; China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), 45 Changchun Street, Beijing, China
| | - Long Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, 45 Changchun Street, Beijing, China; China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), 45 Changchun Street, Beijing, China
| | - Xuesong Bai
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, 45 Changchun Street, Beijing, China; China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), 45 Changchun Street, Beijing, China
| | - Liqun Jiao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, 45 Changchun Street, Beijing, China; China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), 45 Changchun Street, Beijing, China; Department of Interventional Neuroradiology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, 45 Changchun Street, Beijing, China..
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13
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Hanson PJ, Liu-Fei F, Ng C, Minato TA, Lai C, Hossain AR, Chan R, Grewal B, Singhera G, Rai H, Hirota J, Anderson DR, Radio SJ, McManus BM. Characterization of COVID-19-associated cardiac injury: evidence for a multifactorial disease in an autopsy cohort. J Transl Med 2022; 102:814-825. [PMID: 35437316 PMCID: PMC9015288 DOI: 10.1038/s41374-022-00783-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
As the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic evolves, much evidence implicates the heart as a critical target of injury in patients. The mechanism(s) of cardiac involvement has not been fully elucidated, although evidence of direct virus-mediated injury, thromboembolism with ischemic complications, and cytokine storm has been reported. We examined suggested mechanisms of COVID-19-associated heart failure in 21 COVID-19-positive decedents, obtained through standard autopsy procedure, compared to clinically matched controls and patients with various etiologies of viral myocarditis. We developed a custom tissue microarray using regions of pathological interest and interrogated tissues via immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 was detected in 16/21 patients, in cardiomyocytes, the endothelium, interstitial spaces, and percolating adipocytes within the myocardium. Virus detection typically corresponded with troponin depletion and increased cleaved caspase-3. Indirect mechanisms of injury-venous and arterial thromboses with associated vasculitis including a mixed inflammatory infiltrate-were also observed. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) were present in the myocardium of all COVID-19 patients, regardless of injury degree. Borderline myocarditis (inflammation without associated myocyte injury) was observed in 19/21 patients, characterized by a predominantly mononuclear inflammatory infiltrate. Edema, inflammation of percolating adipocytes, lymphocytic aggregates, and large septal masses of inflammatory cells and platelets were observed as defining features, and myofibrillar damage was evident in all patients. Collectively, COVID-19-associated cardiac injury was multifactorial, with elevated levels of NETs and von Willebrand factor as defining features of direct and indirect viral injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul J. Hanson
- UBC Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, Vancouver, BC, Canada,UBC Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Coco Ng
- UBC Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Chi Lai
- UBC Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Vancouver, BC, Canada,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Providence Health Care – St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Rebecca Chan
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Providence Health Care – St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Bobby Grewal
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Providence Health Care – St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Gurpreet Singhera
- UBC Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Harpreet Rai
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Jeremy Hirota
- Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, N2L 3G1, Waterloo, ON, Canada,Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research, McMaster University, L8S 4K1, Hamilton, ON, Canada,McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, L8S 4K1, Hamilton, ON, Canada,Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health – Division of Respirology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, L8N 4A6, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Daniel R. Anderson
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Stanley J. Radio
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Bruce M. McManus
- UBC Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, Vancouver, BC, Canada,UBC Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Vancouver, BC, Canada,PROOF Centre of Excellence, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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14
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Chen P, Liu Y, Lin X, Yu B, Chen B, Lin F. The Underlying Molecular Basis and Mechanisms of Venous Thrombosis in Patients with Osteomyelitis: A Data-Driven Analysis. Genet Res (Camb) 2022; 2022:5672384. [PMID: 35711689 PMCID: PMC9192329 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5672384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Osteomyelitis (OM) is one of the most risky and challenging diseases. Emerging evidence indicates OM is a risk factor for increasing incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) development. However, the mechanisms have not been intensively investigated. Methods The OM-related dataset GSE30119 and VTE-related datasets GSE19151 and GSE48000 were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and analyzed to identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) (OMGs1 and VTEGs1, respectively). Functional enrichment analyses of Gene Ontology (GO) terms were performed. VTEGs2 and OMGs2 sharing the common GO biological process (GO-BP) ontology between OMGs1 and VTEGs1 were detected. The TRRUST database was used to identify the upstream transcription factors (TFs) that regulate VTEGs2 and OMGs2. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network between VTEGs2 and OMGs2 was constructed using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING) database and then visualized in Cytoscape. Topological properties of the PPI network were calculated by NetworkAnalyzer. The Molecular Complex Detection (MCODE) plugin was utilized to perform module analysis and choose the hub modules of the PPI network. Results A total of 587 OMGs1 and 382 VTEGs1 were identified from the related dataset, respectively. GO-BP terms of OMGs1 and shared DGEs1 were mainly enriched in the neutrophil-related immune response process, and the shared GO-BP terms of OMGs1 and VTEGs1 seemed to be focused on cell activation, immune, defense, and inflammatory response to stress or biotic stimulus. 230 VTEGs2, 333 OMGs2, and 13 shared DEGs2 were detected. 3 TF-target gene pairs (SP1-LSP1, SPI1-FCGR1A, and STAT1-FCGR1A) were identified. The PPI network contained 1611 interactions among 467 nodes. The top 10 hub proteins were TP53, IL4, MPO, ELANE, FOS, CD86, HP, SOCS3, ICAM1, and SNRPG. Several core nodes (such as MPO, ELANE, and CAMP) were essential components of the neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) network. Conclusion This is the first data-mining study to explore shared signatures between OM and VTE by the integrated bioinformatic approach, which can help uncover potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets of OM-related VTE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peisheng Chen
- Department of Orthopaedics, Fuzhou Second Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Fuzhou 350007, China
- Department of Orthopaedics, Fuzhou Second Hospital, The Third Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350007, China
- Fujian Provincial Clinical Medical Research Center for First Aid and Rehabilitation in Orthopaedic Trauma, Fuzhou Trauma Medical Center, Fuzhou 350007, China
| | - Yinhuan Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Fuzhou Second Hospital, Fuzhou 350007, China
| | - Xiaofeng Lin
- Department of Endocrinology, Fuzhou Second Hospital, Fuzhou 350007, China
| | - Bin Yu
- Division of Orthopaedics & Traumatology, Department of Orthopaedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Bin Chen
- Department of Orthopaedics, Fuzhou Second Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Fuzhou 350007, China
- Department of Orthopaedics, Fuzhou Second Hospital, The Third Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350007, China
- Fujian Provincial Clinical Medical Research Center for First Aid and Rehabilitation in Orthopaedic Trauma, Fuzhou Trauma Medical Center, Fuzhou 350007, China
| | - Fengfei Lin
- Department of Orthopaedics, Fuzhou Second Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Fuzhou 350007, China
- Department of Orthopaedics, Fuzhou Second Hospital, The Third Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350007, China
- Fujian Provincial Clinical Medical Research Center for First Aid and Rehabilitation in Orthopaedic Trauma, Fuzhou Trauma Medical Center, Fuzhou 350007, China
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15
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Ng CJ, Liu A, Venkataraman S, Ashworth KJ, Baker CD, O'Rourke R, Vibhakar R, Jones KL, Di Paola J. Single-cell transcriptional analysis of human endothelial colony-forming cells from patients with low VWF levels. Blood 2022; 139:2240-2251. [PMID: 35143643 PMCID: PMC8990376 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2021010683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
von Willebrand factor (VWF) plays a key role in normal hemostasis, and deficiencies of VWF lead to clinically significant bleeding. We sought to identify novel modifiers of VWF levels in endothelial colony-forming cells (ECFCs) using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq). ECFCs were isolated from patients with low VWF levels (plasma VWF antigen levels between 30 and 50 IU/dL) and from healthy controls. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells were used as an additional control cell line. Cells were characterized for their Weibel Palade body (WPB) content and VWF release. scRNA-seq of all cell lines was performed to evaluate for gene expression heterogeneity and for candidate modifiers of VWF regulation. Candidate modifiers identified by scRNA-seq were further characterized with small-interfering RNA (siRNA) experiments to evaluate for effects on VWF. We observed that ECFCs derived from patients with low VWF demonstrated alterations in baseline WPB metrics and exhibit impaired VWF release. scRNA-seq analyses of these endothelial cells revealed overall decreased VWF transcription, mosaicism of VWF expression, and genes that are differentially expressed in low VWF ECFCs and control endothelial cells (control ECs). An siRNA screen of potential VWF modifiers provided further evidence of regulatory candidates, and 1 such candidate, FLI1, alters the transcriptional activity of VWF. In conclusion, ECFCs from individuals with low VWF demonstrate alterations in their baseline VWF packaging and release compared with control ECs. scRNA-seq revealed alterations in VWF transcription, and siRNA screening identified multiple candidate regulators of VWF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Ng
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado and Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO
- University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Alice Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado and Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO
- University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Sujatha Venkataraman
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado and Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO
- University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Katrina J Ashworth
- Division of Hematology Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO; and
| | - Christopher D Baker
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado and Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO
- University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Rebecca O'Rourke
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado and Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO
- University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Rajeev Vibhakar
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado and Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO
- University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Kenneth L Jones
- Department of Cell Biology and
- Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK
| | - Jorge Di Paola
- Division of Hematology Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO; and
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16
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Ren B, Ramchandran R, Yang X. Editorial: Molecular Mechanisms and Signaling in Endothelial Cell Biology and Vascular Heterogeneity. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:821100. [PMID: 34977049 PMCID: PMC8718799 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.821100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Bin Ren
- Department of Surgery, O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, and Comprehensive Cardiovascular Center, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
- *Correspondence: Bin Ren,
| | - Ramani Ramchandran
- Department of Pediatrics and Children’s Research Institute, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Xiaofeng Yang
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Centers for Cardiovascular Research and Metabolic Disease Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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17
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Biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction and outcomes in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Microvasc Res 2021; 138:104224. [PMID: 34273359 PMCID: PMC8279939 DOI: 10.1016/j.mvr.2021.104224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several studies have reported that the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can directly infect endothelial cells, and endothelial dysfunction is often found in severe cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). To better understand the prognostic values of endothelial dysfunction in COVID-19-associated coagulopathy, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess biomarkers of endothelial cells in patients with COVID-19. METHODS A literature search was conducted on online databases for observational studies evaluating biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction and composite poor outcomes in COVID-19 patients. RESULTS A total of 1187 patients from 17 studies were included in this analysis. The estimated pooled means for von Willebrand Factor (VWF) antigen levels in COVID-19 patients was higher compared to healthy control (306.42 [95% confidence interval (CI) 291.37-321.48], p < 0.001; I2:86%), with the highest VWF antigen levels was found in deceased COVID-19 patients (448.57 [95% CI 407.20-489.93], p < 0.001; I2:0%). Meta-analysis showed that higher plasma levels of VWF antigen, tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 antigen (PAI-1) antigen, and soluble thrombomodulin (sTM) were associated with composite poor outcome in COVID-19 patients ([standardized mean difference (SMD) 0.74 [0.33-1.16], p < 0.001; I2:80.4%], [SMD 0.55 [0.19-0.92], p = 0.003; I2:6.4%], [SMD 0.33 [0.04-0.62], p = 0.025; I2:7.9%], and [SMD 0.55 [0.10-0.99], p = 0.015; I2:23.6%], respectively). CONCLUSION The estimated pooled means show increased levels of VWF antigen in COVID-19 patients. Several biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction, including VFW antigen, t-PA, PAI-1, and sTM, are significantly associated with increased composite poor outcomes in patients with COVID-19. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42021228821.
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18
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Alavi P, Rathod AM, Jahroudi N. Age-Associated Increase in Thrombogenicity and Its Correlation with von Willebrand Factor. J Clin Med 2021; 10:4190. [PMID: 34575297 PMCID: PMC8472522 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10184190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Endothelial cells that cover the lumen of all blood vessels have the inherent capacity to express both pro and anticoagulant molecules. However, under normal physiological condition, they generally function to maintain a non-thrombogenic surface for unobstructed blood flow. In response to injury, certain stimuli, or as a result of dysfunction, endothelial cells release a highly adhesive procoagulant protein, von Willebrand factor (VWF), which plays a central role in formation of platelet aggregates and thrombus generation. Since VWF expression is highly restricted to endothelial cells, regulation of its levels is among the most important functions of endothelial cells for maintaining hemostasis. However, with aging, there is a significant increase in VWF levels, which is concomitant with a significant rise in thrombotic events. It is not yet clear why and how aging results in increased VWF levels. In this review, we have aimed to discuss the age-related increase in VWF, its potential mechanisms, and associated coagulopathies as probable consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nadia Jahroudi
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2S2, Canada; (P.A.); (A.M.R.)
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19
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Becker RC, Sexton T, Smyth S. COVID-19 and biomarkers of thrombosis: focus on von Willebrand factor and extracellular vesicles. J Thromb Thrombolysis 2021; 52:1010-1019. [PMID: 34350541 PMCID: PMC8336902 DOI: 10.1007/s11239-021-02544-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, is responsible for a pandemic of unparalleled portion over the past century. While the acute phase of infection causes significant morbidity and mortality, post-acute sequelae that can affect essentially any organ system is rapidly taking on an equally large part of the overall impact on human health, quality of life, attempts to return to normalcy and the global economy. Herein, we summarize the potential role of von Willebrand Factor and extracellular vesicles toward understanding the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, duration of illness, diagnostic approach and management of COVID-19 and its sequelae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard C Becker
- Heart, Lung and Vascular Institute, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 231 Albert Sabin Way, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA.
| | - Travis Sexton
- The Gill Heart and Vascular Institute, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Susan Smyth
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AK, USA
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20
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Fang Z, Wang X, Sun X, Hu W, Miao QR. The Role of Histone Protein Acetylation in Regulating Endothelial Function. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:672447. [PMID: 33996829 PMCID: PMC8113824 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.672447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Endothelial cell (EC), consisting of the innermost cellular layer of all types of vessels, is not only a barrier composer but also performing multiple functions in physiological processes. It actively controls the vascular tone and the extravasation of water, solutes, and macromolecules; modulates circulating immune cells as well as platelet and leukocyte recruitment/adhesion and activation. In addition, EC also tightly keeps coagulation/fibrinolysis balance and plays a major role in angiogenesis. Therefore, endothelial dysfunction contributes to the pathogenesis of many diseases. Growing pieces of evidence suggest that histone protein acetylation, an epigenetic mark, is altered in ECs under different conditions, and the acetylation status change at different lysine sites on histone protein plays a key role in endothelial dysfunction and involved in hyperglycemia, hypertension, inflammatory disease, cancer and so on. In this review, we highlight the importance of histone acetylation in regulating endothelial functions and discuss the roles of histone acetylation across the transcriptional unit of protein-coding genes in ECs under different disease-related pathophysiological processes. Since histone acetylation changes are conserved and reversible, the knowledge of histone acetylation in endothelial function regulation could provide insights to develop epigenetic interventions in preventing or treating endothelial dysfunction-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Fang
- Department of Foundations of Medicine, New York University Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY, United States
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Medical College, Union Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiang Wang
- Department of Foundations of Medicine, New York University Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY, United States
| | - Xiaoran Sun
- Department of Foundations of Medicine, New York University Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY, United States
| | - Wenquan Hu
- Department of Foundations of Medicine, New York University Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY, United States
| | - Qing R. Miao
- Department of Foundations of Medicine, New York University Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY, United States
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21
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Circulating Von Willebrand factor and high molecular weight multimers as markers of endothelial injury predict COVID-19 in-hospital mortality. Angiogenesis 2021; 24:505-517. [PMID: 33449299 PMCID: PMC7809553 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-020-09762-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Background Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory disease associated with endotheliitis and microthrombosis. Objectives To correlate endothelial dysfunction to in-hospital mortality in a bi-centric cohort of COVID-19 adult patients. Methods Consecutive ambulatory and hospitalized patients with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 were enrolled. A panel of endothelial biomarkers and von Willebrand factor (VWF) multimers were measured in each patient ≤ 48 h following admission. Results Study enrolled 208 COVID-19 patients of whom 23 were mild outpatients and 189 patients hospitalized after admission. Most of endothelial biomarkers tested were found increased in the 89 critical patients transferred to intensive care unit. However, only von Willebrand factor antigen (VWF:Ag) scaled according to clinical severity, with levels significantly higher in critical patients (median 507%, IQR 428–596) compared to non-critical patients (288%, 230–350, p < 0.0001) or COVID-19 outpatients (144%, 133–198, p = 0.007). Moreover, VWF high molecular weight multimers (HMWM) were significantly higher in critical patients (median ratio 1.18, IQR 0.86–1.09) compared to non-critical patients (0.96, 1.04–1.39, p < 0.001). Among all endothelial biomarkers measured, ROC curve analysis identified a VWF:Ag cut-off of 423% as the best predictor for in-hospital mortality. The accuracy of VWF:Ag was further confirmed in a Kaplan–Meier estimator analysis and a Cox proportional Hazard model adjusted on age, BMI, C-reactive protein and d-dimer levels. Conclusion VWF:Ag is a relevant predictive factor for in-hospital mortality in COVID-19 patients. More than a biomarker, we hypothesize that VWF, including excess of HMWM forms, drives microthrombosis in COVID-19.
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22
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Rauch A, Labreuche J, Lassalle F, Goutay J, Caplan M, Charbonnier L, Rohn A, Jeanpierre E, Dupont A, Duhamel A, Faure K, Lambert M, Kipnis E, Garrigue D, Lenting PJ, Poissy J, Susen S. Coagulation biomarkers are independent predictors of increased oxygen requirements in COVID-19. J Thromb Haemost 2020; 18:2942-2953. [PMID: 32881304 PMCID: PMC7461161 DOI: 10.1111/jth.15067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypercoagulability seems to contribute to SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia pathogenesis. However, age and metabolic syndrome are potential confounders when assessing the value of coagulation biomarkers' prediction of COVID-19 outcomes. We assessed whether coagulation biomarkers, including factor VIII (FVIII) and von Willebrand factor (VWF) levels, measured at time of admission, were predictive of COVID-19 adverse outcomes irrespective of age and major comorbidities associated with metabolic syndrome. METHODS Blood was sampled at admission in 243 adult COVID-19 patients for analysis of coagulation biomarkers including FVIII and VWF on platelet-poor plasma. The association between baseline C-reactive protein (CRP), activated partial thromboplastin time ratio, prothrombin time ratio, D-dimers, fibrinogen, FVIII, VWF antigen (VWF:Ag), and FVIII/VWF:Ag ratio levels and adverse outcomes (increased oxygen requirements, thrombosis, and death at day 30) was assessed by regression analysis after adjustment on age, sex, body mass index (BMI), diabetes, and hypertension. RESULTS In univariable regression analysis increased CRP (subdistribution hazard ratio [SHR], 1.68; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.26-2.23), increased fibrinogen (SHR, 1.32; 95% CI, 1.04-1.68), and decreased FVIII/VWF:Ag ratio (SHR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.52-0.96) levels at admission were significantly associated with the risk of increased oxygen requirement during follow-up. Leucocytes (SHR, 1.36; 95% CI, 1.04-1.76), platelets (SHR,1.71; 95% CI, 1.11-2.62), D-dimers (SHR, 2.48; 95% CI, 1.66-3.78), and FVIII (SHR, 1.78; 95% CI, 1.17-2.68) were associated with early onset of thrombosis after admission. After adjustment for age, sex, BMI, hypertension, and diabetes, these associations were not modified. CONCLUSION Coagulation biomarkers are early and independent predictors of increased oxygen requirement in COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Rauch
- Department of Hematology and Transfusion, Pôle de Biologie Pathologie Génétique, Institut Pasteur de Lille, UMR1011-EGID, Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille, France
| | - Julien Labreuche
- ULR 2694 - METRICS: Évaluation des technologies de santé et des pratiques médicales, Univ. Lille, CHU Lille, Lille, France
| | - Fanny Lassalle
- Department of Hematology and Transfusion, Pôle de Biologie Pathologie Génétique, Institut Pasteur de Lille, UMR1011-EGID, Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille, France
| | - Julien Goutay
- Intensive Care Department, Pôle de Réanimation, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Lille, Lille, France
| | - Morgan Caplan
- Intensive Care Department, Pôle de Réanimation, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Lille, Lille, France
| | - Leslie Charbonnier
- Emergency Department, Pôle de l'Urgence, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Lille, Lille, France
| | - Aurelien Rohn
- Emergency Department, Pôle de l'Urgence, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Lille, Lille, France
| | - Emmanuelle Jeanpierre
- Department of Hematology and Transfusion, Pôle de Biologie Pathologie Génétique, Institut Pasteur de Lille, UMR1011-EGID, Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille, France
| | - Annabelle Dupont
- Department of Hematology and Transfusion, Pôle de Biologie Pathologie Génétique, Institut Pasteur de Lille, UMR1011-EGID, Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille, France
| | - Alain Duhamel
- ULR 2694 - METRICS: Évaluation des technologies de santé et des pratiques médicales, Univ. Lille, CHU Lille, Lille, France
| | - Karine Faure
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institut Pasteur de Lille, UMR1019-CIIL, Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille, France
| | - Marc Lambert
- Department of Internal Medicine, INSERM U 1167, Institut Pasteur, Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille, France
| | - Eric Kipnis
- Surgical Critical Care, Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 - UMR 9017 - CIIL - Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille, France
| | - Delphine Garrigue
- Emergency Department, Pôle de l'Urgence, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Lille, Lille, France
| | - Peter J Lenting
- UMR_1176, Inserm, Université Paris-Saclay, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Julien Poissy
- Pôle de Réanimation, CNRS, UMR 8576 - UGSF - Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionnelle, Univ. Lille, Inserm U1285, CHU Lille, Lille, France
| | - Sophie Susen
- Department of Hematology and Transfusion, Pôle de Biologie Pathologie Génétique, Institut Pasteur de Lille, UMR1011-EGID, Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Lille, France
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Sun Z, Pang S, Cui Y, Yan B. Genetic and Functional Variants Analysis of the GATA6 Gene Promoter in Acute Myocardial Infarction. Front Genet 2019; 10:1100. [PMID: 31781165 PMCID: PMC6851265 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2019.01100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) which is a specific type of coronary artery disease (CAD), is caused by the combination of genetic factors and acquired environment. Although some common genetic variations have been recorded to contribute to the development of CAD and AMI, more genetic factors and potential molecular mechanisms remain largely unknown. The GATA6 gene is expressed in the heart during embryogenesis and is also detected in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), different human primary endothelial cells (ECs), and vascular ECs in mice. To date, no studies have directly linked GATA6 gene with regulation of the CAD. Methods: In this study, we used a case-control study to investigate and analyze the genetic variations and functional variations of the GATA6 gene promoter region in AMI patients and controls. A variety of statistical analysis methods were utilized to analyze the association of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with AMI. Functional analysis of DNA sequence variants (DSVs) was performed using a dual luciferase reporter assay. In vitro, electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) was selected to examine DNA-protein interactions. Results: A total of 705 subjects were enrolled in the study. Ten DSVs were found in AMI patients (n = 352) and controls (n = 353), including seven SNPs. One novel heterozygous DSV, (g.22168409 A > G), and two SNPs, [g.22168362 C > A(rs1416421760) and g.22168521 G > T(rs1445501474)], were reported in three AMI patients, which were not found in controls. The relevant statistical analysis, including allele and genotype frequencies between AMI patients and controls, five genetic models, linkage disequilibrium (LD) and haplotype analysis, and SNP–SNP interactions, suggested no statistical significance (P > 0.05). The transcriptional activity of GATA6 gene promoter was significantly increased by the DSV (g.22168409 A > G) and SNP [g.22168362 C > A(rs1416421760)]. The EMSA revealed that the DSV (g.22168409 A > G) and SNP [g.22168362 C > A(rs1416421760)] evidently influenced the binding of transcription factors. Conclusion: In conclusion, the DSV (g.22168409 A > G) and SNP [g.22168362 C > A(rs1416421760)] may increase GATA6 levels in both HEK-293 and H9c2 cell lines by affecting the binding of transcription factors. Whether the two variants identified in the GATA6 gene promoter can promote the development and progression of human AMI by altering GATA6 levels still requires further studies to verify.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoqing Sun
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Shuchao Pang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardiac Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Yinghua Cui
- Division of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining Medical University, Jining, China.,The Center for Molecular Genetics of Cardiovascular Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Bo Yan
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardiac Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining Medical University, Jining, China.,The Center for Molecular Genetics of Cardiovascular Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining Medical University, Jining, China.,Shandong Provincial Sino-US Cooperation Research Center for Translational Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
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24
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Lefrançais E, Looney MR. Platelet Biogenesis in the Lung Circulation. Physiology (Bethesda) 2019; 34:392-401. [PMID: 31577166 PMCID: PMC6957358 DOI: 10.1152/physiol.00017.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Revised: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Megakaryocytes are normal cellular components of the blood returning to the heart and entering the lungs, and historical data has pointed to a role of the lungs in platelet production. Recent studies using intravital microscopy have demonstrated that platelet release occurs in the lung from bone marrow megakaryocytes that embolize into the lung circulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Lefrançais
- Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale (IPBS), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Mark R Looney
- Departments of Medicine and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA
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