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Ampadu F, Awasthi V, Joshi AD. Role of Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Kinase Kinase Kinase 4 Signaling in Liver and Metabolic Diseases. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2024; 390:233-239. [PMID: 38844365 PMCID: PMC11264251 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.124.002065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
MAP4K4 is a serine/threonine protein kinase belonging to the germinal center kinase subgroup of sterile 20 protein family of kinases. MAP4K4 has been involved in regulating multiple biologic processes and a plethora of pathologies, including systemic inflammation, cardiovascular diseases, cancers, and metabolic and hepatic diseases. Recently, multiple reports have indicated the upregulation of MAP4K4 expression and signaling in hyperglycemia and liver diseases. This review provides an overview of our current knowledge of MAP4K4 structure and expression, as well as its regulation and signaling, specifically in metabolic and hepatic diseases. Reviewing these promising studies will enrich our understanding of MAP4K4 signaling pathways and, in the future, will help us design innovative therapeutic interventions against metabolic and liver diseases using MAP4K4 as a target. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Although most studies on the involvement of MAP4K4 in human pathologies are related to cancers, only recently its role in liver and other metabolic diseases is beginning to unravel. This mini review discusses recent advancements in MAP4K4 biology within the context of metabolic dysfunction and comprehensively characterizes MAP4K4 as a clinically relevant therapeutic target against liver and metabolic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Ampadu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Vibhudutta Awasthi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Aditya D Joshi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
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Li S, Xu Z, Wang Y, Chen L, Wang X, Zhou Y, Lei D, Zang G, Wang G. Recent advances of mechanosensitive genes in vascular endothelial cells for the formation and treatment of atherosclerosis. Genes Dis 2024; 11:101046. [PMID: 38292174 PMCID: PMC10825297 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2023.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and its complications are a high-incidence disease worldwide. Numerous studies have shown that blood flow shear has a huge impact on the function of vascular endothelial cells, and it plays an important role in gene regulation of pro-inflammatory, pro-thrombotic, pro-oxidative stress, and cell permeability. Many important endothelial cell mechanosensitive genes have been discovered, including KLK10, CCN gene family, NRP2, YAP, TAZ, HIF-1α, NF-κB, FOS, JUN, TFEB, KLF2/KLF4, NRF2, and ID1. Some of them have been intensively studied, whereas the relevant regulatory mechanism of other genes remains unclear. Focusing on these mechanosensitive genes will provide new strategies for therapeutic intervention in atherosclerotic vascular disease. Thus, this article reviews the mechanosensitive genes affecting vascular endothelial cells, including classical pathways and some newly screened genes, and summarizes the latest research progress on their roles in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis to reveal effective therapeutic targets of drugs and provide new insights for anti-atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuyu Li
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Zichen Xu
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Yi Wang
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Lizhao Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Daping Hospital, Army Medical Center of PLA, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400042, China
| | - Xiangxiu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Yanghao Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Daoxi Lei
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Guangchao Zang
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Guixue Wang
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China
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Rabiet L, Arakelian L, Jeger-Madiot N, García DR, Larghero J, Aider JL. Acoustic levitation as a tool for cell-driven self-organization of human cell spheroids during long-term 3D culture. Biotechnol Bioeng 2024; 121:1422-1434. [PMID: 38225905 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28651] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Acoustic levitation, which allows contactless manipulation of micro-objects with ultrasounds, is a promising technique for spheroids formation and culture. This acoustofluidic technique favors cell-cell interactions, away from the walls of the chip, which leads to the spontaneous self-organization of cells. Using this approach, we generated spheroids of mesenchymal stromal cells, hepatic and endothelial cells, and showed that long-term culture of cells in acoustic levitation is feasible. We also demonstrated that this self-organization and its dynamics depended weakly on the acoustic parameters but were strongly dependent on the levitated cell type. Moreover, spheroid organization was modified by actin cytoskeleton inhibitors or calcium-mediated interaction inhibitors. Our results confirmed that acoustic levitation is a rising technique for fundamental research and biotechnological industrial application in the rapidly growing field of microphysiological systems. It allowed easily obtaining spheroids of specific and predictable shape and size, which could be cultivated over several days, without requiring hydrogels or extracellular matrix.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucile Rabiet
- Laboratoire Physique et mécanique des milieux Hétérogènes (PMMH), CNRS, ESPCI, Paris, France
- Inserm U976, CIC-BT CBT501, AP-HP, Université Paris-Cité, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Paris, France
| | - Lousineh Arakelian
- Inserm U976, CIC-BT CBT501, AP-HP, Université Paris-Cité, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Paris, France
| | - Nathan Jeger-Madiot
- Laboratoire Physique et mécanique des milieux Hétérogènes (PMMH), CNRS, ESPCI, Paris, France
| | - Duván Rojas García
- Laboratoire Physique et mécanique des milieux Hétérogènes (PMMH), CNRS, ESPCI, Paris, France
| | - Jérôme Larghero
- Inserm U976, CIC-BT CBT501, AP-HP, Université Paris-Cité, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Luc Aider
- Laboratoire Physique et mécanique des milieux Hétérogènes (PMMH), CNRS, ESPCI, Paris, France
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Wang T, Wang D, Sun Y, Zhuang T, Li X, Yang H, Zang Y, Liu Z, Yang P, Zhang C, Cui J, Fu M, Zhang S, Su P, Li Z, Zhu J, Ding Y. Regulation of the Hippo/YAP axis by CXCR7 in the tumorigenesis of gastric cancer. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:297. [PMID: 37950281 PMCID: PMC10636825 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02870-3] [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: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Hippo pathway is crucial in organ size control and tumorigenesis. Dysregulation of the Hippo/YAP axis is commonly observed in gastric cancer, while effective therapeutic targets for the Hippo/YAP axis are lacking. Identification of reliable drug targets and the underlying mechanisms that could inhibit the activity of the Hippo/YAP axis and gastric cancer progression is urgently needed. METHODS We used several gastric cancer cell lines and xenograft models and performed immunoblotting, qPCR, and in vivo studies to investigate the function of CXCR7 in gastric cancer progression. RESULTS In our current study, we demonstrate that the membrane receptor CXCR7 (C-X-C chemokine receptor 7) is an important modulator of the Hippo/YAP axis. The activation of CXCR7 could stimulate gastric cancer cell progression through the Hippo/YAP axis in vitro and in vivo, while pharmaceutical inhibition of CXCR7 via ACT-1004-1239 could block tumorigenesis in gastric cancer. Molecular studies revealed that the activation of CXCR7 could dephosphorylate YAP and facilitate YAP nuclear accumulation and transcriptional activation in gastric cancer. CXCR7 functions via G-protein Gαq/11 and Rho GTPase to activate YAP activity. Interestingly, ChIP assays showed that YAP could bind to the promoter region of CXCR7 and facilitate its gene transcription, which indicates that CXCR7 is both the upstream signalling and downstream target of the Hippo/YAP axis in gastric cancer. CONCLUSION In general, we identified a novel positive feedback loop between CXCR7 and the Hippo/YAP axis, and blockade of CXCR7 could be a plausible strategy for gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianshi Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250033, China
| | - Dehai Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250033, China
| | - Yanan Sun
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250033, China
| | - Ting Zhuang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Tumor Migration and Invasion Precision Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, P. R. China
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Shandong Province, P. R. China
| | - Xin Li
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Tumor Migration and Invasion Precision Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, P. R. China
| | - Huijie Yang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Tumor Migration and Invasion Precision Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, P. R. China
| | - Yifeng Zang
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250033, China
| | - Ziping Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250033, China
| | - Penghe Yang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Tumor Migration and Invasion Precision Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, P. R. China
| | - Chenmiao Zhang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Tumor Migration and Invasion Precision Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, P. R. China
| | - Jiayao Cui
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Tumor Migration and Invasion Precision Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, P. R. China
| | - Mingxi Fu
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Tumor Migration and Invasion Precision Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, P. R. China
| | - Shuqing Zhang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Tumor Migration and Invasion Precision Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, P. R. China
| | - Peng Su
- Department of Pathology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250033, China.
| | - Zhongbo Li
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Tumor Migration and Invasion Precision Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan Province, P. R. China.
| | - Jian Zhu
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| | - Yinlu Ding
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250033, China.
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Song J, Gerecht S. Hydrogels to Recapture Extracellular Matrix Cues That Regulate Vascularization. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2023; 43:e291-e302. [PMID: 37317849 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.122.318235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The ECM (extracellular matrix) is a 3-dimensional network that supports cellular responses and maintains structural tissue integrity in healthy and pathological conditions. The interactions between ECM and cells trigger signaling cascades that lead to phenotypic changes and structural and compositional turnover of the ECM, which in turn regulates vascular cell behavior. Hydrogel biomaterials are a powerful platform for basic and translational studies and clinical applications due to their high swelling capacity and exceptional versatility in compositions and properties. This review highlights recent developments and uses of engineered natural hydrogel platforms that mimic the ECM and present defined biochemical and mechanical cues for vascularization. Specifically, we focus on modulating vascular cell stimulation and cell-ECM/cell-cell interactions in the microvasculature that are the established biomimetic microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyeon Song
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC
| | - Sharon Gerecht
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC
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Xu Z, Chen Y, Wang Y, Han W, Xu W, Liao X, Zhang T, Wang G. Matrix stiffness, endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:7027-7041. [PMID: 37382775 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08502-5] [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: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis (AS) is the leading cause of the human cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Endothelial dysfunction promotes the monocytes infiltration and inflammation that participate fundamentally in atherogenesis. Endothelial cells (EC) have been recognized as mechanosensitive cells and have different responses to distinct mechanical stimuli. Emerging evidence shows matrix stiffness-mediated EC dysfunction plays a vital role in vascular disease, but the underlying mechanisms are not yet completely understood. This article aims to summarize the effect of matrix stiffness on the pro-atherosclerotic characteristics of EC including morphology, rigidity, biological behavior and function as well as the related mechanical signal. The review also discusses and compares the contribution of matrix stiffness-mediated phagocytosis of macrophages and EC to AS progression. These advances in our understanding of the relationship between matrix stiffness and EC dysfunction open the avenues to improve the prevention and treatment of now-ubiquitous atherosclerotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zichen Xu
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400030, China
| | - Yi Chen
- Chongqing Engineering Laboratory of Nano/Micro Biomedical Detection, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Nano/Micro Composite Material and Device, School of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, Chongqing University of Science and Technology, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Yi Wang
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Wenbo Han
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400030, China
| | - Wenfeng Xu
- Chongqing Engineering Laboratory of Nano/Micro Biomedical Detection, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Nano/Micro Composite Material and Device, School of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, Chongqing University of Science and Technology, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Xiaoling Liao
- Chongqing Engineering Laboratory of Nano/Micro Biomedical Detection, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Nano/Micro Composite Material and Device, School of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, Chongqing University of Science and Technology, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Chongqing Engineering Laboratory of Nano/Micro Biomedical Detection, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Nano/Micro Composite Material and Device, School of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, Chongqing University of Science and Technology, Chongqing, 401331, China.
| | - Guixue Wang
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400030, China.
- Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, NO.174, Shazheng Street, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400030, PR China.
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Chen S, Saeed AFUH, Liu Q, Jiang Q, Xu H, Xiao GG, Rao L, Duo Y. Macrophages in immunoregulation and therapeutics. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:207. [PMID: 37211559 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01452-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 172.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Macrophages exist in various tissues, several body cavities, and around mucosal surfaces and are a vital part of the innate immune system for host defense against many pathogens and cancers. Macrophages possess binary M1/M2 macrophage polarization settings, which perform a central role in an array of immune tasks via intrinsic signal cascades and, therefore, must be precisely regulated. Many crucial questions about macrophage signaling and immune modulation are yet to be uncovered. In addition, the clinical importance of tumor-associated macrophages is becoming more widely recognized as significant progress has been made in understanding their biology. Moreover, they are an integral part of the tumor microenvironment, playing a part in the regulation of a wide variety of processes including angiogenesis, extracellular matrix transformation, cancer cell proliferation, metastasis, immunosuppression, and resistance to chemotherapeutic and checkpoint blockade immunotherapies. Herein, we discuss immune regulation in macrophage polarization and signaling, mechanical stresses and modulation, metabolic signaling pathways, mitochondrial and transcriptional, and epigenetic regulation. Furthermore, we have broadly extended the understanding of macrophages in extracellular traps and the essential roles of autophagy and aging in regulating macrophage functions. Moreover, we discussed recent advances in macrophages-mediated immune regulation of autoimmune diseases and tumorigenesis. Lastly, we discussed targeted macrophage therapy to portray prospective targets for therapeutic strategies in health and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanze Chen
- Department of Respiratory Diseases and Critic Care Unit, Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Disease, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, 518020, China
| | - Abdullah F U H Saeed
- Department of Cancer Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Quan Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital (Nanshan Hospital), Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518052, China
| | - Qiong Jiang
- Department of Respiratory Diseases and Critic Care Unit, Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Disease, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, 518020, China
| | - Haizhao Xu
- Department of Respiratory Diseases and Critic Care Unit, Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Disease, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, 518020, China
- Department of Respiratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Gary Guishan Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China.
| | - Lang Rao
- Institute of Biomedical Health Technology and Engineering, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518132, China.
| | - Yanhong Duo
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology (MTC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Liu W, Wang X, Feng Y. Restoring endothelial function: shedding light on cardiovascular stent development. Biomater Sci 2023. [PMID: 37161519 DOI: 10.1039/d3bm00390f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Complete endothelialization is highly important for maintaining long-term patency and avoiding subsequent complications in implanting cardiovascular stents. It not only refers to endothelial cells (ECs) fully covering the inserted stents, but also includes the newly formed endothelium, which could exert physiological functions, such as anti-thrombosis and anti-stenosis. Clinical outcomes have indicated that endothelial dysfunction, especially the insufficiency of antithrombotic and barrier functions, is responsible for stent failure. Learning from vascular pathophysiology, endothelial dysfunction on stents is closely linked to the microenvironment of ECs. Evidence points to inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, altered hemodynamic shear stress, and impaired endothelial barrier affecting the normal growth of ECs, which are the four major causes of endothelial dysfunction. The related molecular mechanisms and efforts dedicated to improving the endothelial function are emphasized in this review. From the perspective of endothelial function, the design principles, advantages, and disadvantages behind current stents are introduced to enlighten the development of new-generation stents, aiming to offer new alternatives for restoring endothelial function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Liu
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Yaguan Road 135, Tianjin 300350, P. R. China.
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Chemical Engineering (Tianjin), Weijin Road 92, Tianjin 300072, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Yaguan Road 135, Tianjin 300350, P. R. China.
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Chemical Engineering (Tianjin), Weijin Road 92, Tianjin 300072, P. R. China
| | - Yakai Feng
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Yaguan Road 135, Tianjin 300350, P. R. China.
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Chemical Engineering (Tianjin), Weijin Road 92, Tianjin 300072, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), Tianjin University, Weijin Road 92, Tianjin 300072, P. R. China
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin University, Weijin Road 92, Tianjin 300072, China
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Darwish NHE, Hussein KA, Elmasry K, Ibrahim AS, Humble J, Moustafa M, Awadalla F, Al-Shabrawey M. Bone Morphogenetic Protein-4 Impairs Retinal Endothelial Cell Barrier, a Potential Role in Diabetic Retinopathy. Cells 2023; 12:1279. [PMID: 37174679 PMCID: PMC10177364 DOI: 10.3390/cells12091279] [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: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Bone Morphogenetic Protein 4 (BMP4) is a secreted growth factor of the Transforming Growth Factor beta (TGFβ) superfamily. The goal of this study was to test whether BMP4 contributes to the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy (DR). Immunofluorescence of BMP4 and the vascular marker isolectin-B4 was conducted on retinal sections of diabetic and non-diabetic human and experimental mice. We used Akita mice as a model for type-1 diabetes. Proteins were extracted from the retina of postmortem human eyes and 6-month diabetic Akita mice and age-matched control. BMP4 levels were measured by Western blot (WB). Human retinal endothelial cells (HRECs) were used as an in vitro model. HRECs were treated with BMP4 (50 ng/mL) for 48 h. The levels of phospho-smad 1/5/9 and phospho-p38 were measured by WB. BMP4-treated and control HRECs were also immunostained with anti-Zo-1. We also used electric cell-substrate impedance sensing (ECIS) to calculate the transcellular electrical resistance (TER) under BMP4 treatment in the presence and absence of noggin (200 ng/mL), LDN193189 (200 nM), LDN212854 (200 nM) or inhibitors of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2; SU5416, 10 μM), p38 (SB202190, 10 μM), ERK (U0126, 10 μM) and ER stress (Phenylbutyric acid or PBA, 30 μmol/L). The impact of BMP4 on matrix metalloproteinases (MMP2 and MMP9) was also evaluated using specific ELISA kits. Immunofluorescence of human and mouse eyes showed increased BMP4 immunoreactivity, mainly localized in the retinal vessels of diabetic humans and mice compared to the control. Western blots of retinal proteins showed a significant increase in BMP4 expression in diabetic humans and mice compared to the control groups (p < 0.05). HRECs treated with BMP4 showed a marked increase in phospho-smad 1/5/9 (p = 0.039) and phospho-p38 (p = 0.013). Immunofluorescence of Zo-1 showed that BMP4-treated cells exhibited significant barrier disruption. ECIS also showed a marked decrease in TER of HRECs by BMP4 treatment compared to vehicle-treated HRECs (p < 0.001). Noggin, LDN193189, LDN212854, and inhibitors of p38 and VEGFR2 significantly mitigated the effects of BMP4 on the TER of HRECs. Our finding provides important insights regarding the role of BMP4 as a potential player in retinal endothelial cell dysfunction in diabetic retinopathy and could be a novel target to preserve the blood-retinal barrier during diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noureldien H. E. Darwish
- Eye Research Center, Department of Foundational Medical Studies, Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
- Eye Research Institute, Oakland University, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35111, Egypt
| | - Khaled A. Hussein
- Oral and Dental Research Insitute, Department of Oral Medicine and Surgery, National Research Center, Cairo 11553, Egypt
| | - Khaled Elmasry
- Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Science, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- Department of Anatomy, Mansoura Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35111, Egypt
| | - Ahmed S. Ibrahim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35111, Egypt
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
| | - Julia Humble
- Eye Research Center, Department of Foundational Medical Studies, Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
- Eye Research Institute, Oakland University, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
| | - Mohamed Moustafa
- Eye Research Center, Department of Foundational Medical Studies, Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
- Eye Research Institute, Oakland University, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
| | - Fatma Awadalla
- Eye Research Center, Department of Foundational Medical Studies, Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
- Eye Research Institute, Oakland University, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35111, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Al-Shabrawey
- Eye Research Center, Department of Foundational Medical Studies, Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
- Eye Research Institute, Oakland University, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
- Department of Anatomy, Mansoura Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35111, Egypt
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Cheremkhina M, Klein S, Babendreyer A, Ludwig A, Schmitz-Rode T, Jockenhoevel S, Cornelissen CG, Thiebes AL. Influence of Aerosolization on Endothelial Cells for Efficient Cell Deposition in Biohybrid and Regenerative Applications. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:575. [PMID: 36984982 PMCID: PMC10053765 DOI: 10.3390/mi14030575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The endothelialization of gas exchange membranes can increase the hemocompatibility of extracorporeal membrane oxygenators and thus become a long-term lung replacement option. Cell seeding on large or uneven surfaces of oxygenator membranes is challenging, with cell aerosolization being a possible solution. In this study, we evaluated the endothelial cell aerosolization for biohybrid lung application. A Vivostat® system was used for the aerosolization of human umbilical vein endothelial cells with non-sprayed cells serving as a control. The general suitability was evaluated using various flow velocities, substrate distances and cell concentrations. Cells were analyzed for survival, apoptosis and necrosis levels. In addition, aerosolized and non-sprayed cells were cultured either static or under flow conditions in a dynamic microfluidic model. Evaluation included immunocytochemistry and gene expression via quantitative PCR. Cell survival for all tested parameters was higher than 90%. No increase in apoptosis and necrosis levels was seen 24 h after aerosolization. Spraying did not influence the ability of the endothelial cells to form a confluent cell layer and withstand shear stresses in a dynamic microfluidic model. Immunocytochemistry revealed typical expression of CD31 and von Willebrand factor with cobble-stone cell morphology. No change in shear stress-induced factors after aerosolization was reported by quantitative PCR analysis. With this study, we have shown the feasibility of endothelial cell aerosolization with no significant changes in cell behavior. Thus, this technique could be used for efficient the endothelialization of gas exchange membranes in biohybrid lung applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Cheremkhina
- Department of Biohybrid & Medical Textiles (BioTex), AME-Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute Aachen, RWTH Aachen University, Forckenbeckstraße 55, 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Aachen-Maastricht Institute for Biobased Materials, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Maastricht University, Brightlands Chemelot Campus, Urmonderbaan 22, 6167 RD Geleen, The Netherlands
| | - Sarah Klein
- Department of Biohybrid & Medical Textiles (BioTex), AME-Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute Aachen, RWTH Aachen University, Forckenbeckstraße 55, 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Aachen-Maastricht Institute for Biobased Materials, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Maastricht University, Brightlands Chemelot Campus, Urmonderbaan 22, 6167 RD Geleen, The Netherlands
| | - Aaron Babendreyer
- Institute of Molecular Pharmacology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Wendlingweg 2, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Andreas Ludwig
- Institute of Molecular Pharmacology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Wendlingweg 2, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Thomas Schmitz-Rode
- Department of Biohybrid & Medical Textiles (BioTex), AME-Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute Aachen, RWTH Aachen University, Forckenbeckstraße 55, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Stefan Jockenhoevel
- Department of Biohybrid & Medical Textiles (BioTex), AME-Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute Aachen, RWTH Aachen University, Forckenbeckstraße 55, 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Aachen-Maastricht Institute for Biobased Materials, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Maastricht University, Brightlands Chemelot Campus, Urmonderbaan 22, 6167 RD Geleen, The Netherlands
| | - Christian G. Cornelissen
- Department of Biohybrid & Medical Textiles (BioTex), AME-Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute Aachen, RWTH Aachen University, Forckenbeckstraße 55, 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Department of Pneumology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, Medical Clinic V, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Anja Lena Thiebes
- Department of Biohybrid & Medical Textiles (BioTex), AME-Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute Aachen, RWTH Aachen University, Forckenbeckstraße 55, 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Aachen-Maastricht Institute for Biobased Materials, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Maastricht University, Brightlands Chemelot Campus, Urmonderbaan 22, 6167 RD Geleen, The Netherlands
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Mechanical Cues Regulate Histone Modifications and Cell Behavior. Stem Cells Int 2022; 2022:9179111. [PMID: 35599845 PMCID: PMC9117061 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9179111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Change of biophysical factors in tissue microenvironment is an important step in a chronic disease development process. A mechanical and biochemical factor from cell living microniche can regulate cell epigenetic decoration and, therefore, further induce change of gene expression. In this review, we will emphasize the mechanism that biophysical microenvironment manipulates cell behavior including gene expression and protein decoration, through modifying histone amino acid residue modification. The influence given by different mechanical forces, including mechanical stretch, substrate surface stiffness, and shear stress, on cell fate and behavior during chronic disease development including tumorigenesis will also be teased out. Overall, the recent work summarized in this review culminates on the hypothesis that a mechanical factor stimulates the modification on histone which could facilitate disease detection and potential therapeutic target.
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Sihombing MAEM, Safitri M, Zhou T, Wang L, McGinty S, Zhang HJ, Yin Y, Peng Q, Qiu J, Wang G. Unexpected Role of Nonimmune Cells: Amateur Phagocytes. DNA Cell Biol 2021; 40:157-171. [PMID: 33439750 DOI: 10.1089/dna.2020.5647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Effective and efficient efferocytosis of dead cells and associated cellular debris are critical to tissue homeostasis and healing of injured tissues. This important task was previously thought to be restricted to professional phagocytes (PPs). However, accumulating evidence has revealed another type of phagocyte, the amateur phagocyte (AP), which can also participate in efferocytosis. APs are non-myeloid progenitor/nonimmune cells that include differentiated cells (e.g., epithelial cells, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells [ECs]) and stem cells (e.g., neuronal progenitor cells and mesenchymal cells) and can be found throughout the human body. Studies have shown that APs have two prominent roles: identifying and removing dead cells presumably before PPs reach the site of injury and assisting PPs in the removal of cell corpses and the resolution of inflamed tissue. With respect to the engulfment and degradation of dead cells, APs are slower and less efficient than PPs. However, APs are fundamental to preventing the spread of inflammation over a large area. In this review, we present the diversity and characteristics of healthy and non-neoplastic APs in mammals. We also propose a hypothetical mechanism of the efferocytosis of immunoglobulin G (IgG)-opsonized myelin debris by ECs (APs). Furthermore, the ingestion and clearance of dead cells can induce proinflammatory or anti-inflammatory cytokine production, endothelial activation, and cellular fate transition, which contribute to the progression of disease. An understanding of the role of APs is necessary to develop effective intervention strategies, including potential molecular targets for clinical diagnosis and drug development, for inflammation-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maic Audo Eybi Mayer Sihombing
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Maharani Safitri
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Tian Zhou
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Sean McGinty
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Hai-Jun Zhang
- Department of Vascular and Intervention, Tenth People's Hospital of Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuxia Yin
- National United Engineering Laboratory for Biomedical Material Modification, Denzhou, China
| | - Qin Peng
- Institute of Systems and Physical Biology, Shenzen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, China
| | - Juhui Qiu
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Guixue Wang
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
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