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Liang L, Deng Y, Ao Z, Liao C, Tian J, Li C, Yu X. Recent progress in biomimetic nanomedicines based on versatile targeting strategy for atherosclerosis therapy. J Drug Target 2024; 32:606-623. [PMID: 38656224 DOI: 10.1080/1061186x.2024.2347353] [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: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis (AS) is considered to be one of the major causes of cardiovascular disease. Its pathological microenvironment is characterised by increased production of reactive oxygen species, lipid oxides, and excessive inflammatory factors, which accumulate at the monolayer endothelial cells in the vascular wall to form AS plaques. Therefore, intervention in the pathological microenvironment would be beneficial in delaying AS. Researchers have designed biomimetic nanomedicines with excellent biocompatibility and the ability to avoid being cleared by the immune system through different therapeutic strategies to achieve better therapeutic effects for the characteristics of AS. Biomimetic nanomedicines can further enhance delivery efficiency and improve treatment efficacy due to their good biocompatibility and ability to evade clearance by the immune system. Biomimetic nanomedicines based on therapeutic strategies such as neutralising inflammatory factors, ROS scavengers, lipid clearance and integration of diagnosis and treatment are versatile approaches for effective treatment of AS. The review firstly summarises the targeting therapeutic strategy of biomimetic nanomedicine for AS in recent 5 years. Biomimetic nanomedicines using cell membranes, proteins, and extracellular vesicles as carriers have been developed for AS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijuan Liang
- Department of Pharmacy, Hejiang County People's Hospital, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Yiping Deng
- Analysis and Testing Center, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Zuojin Ao
- Analysis and Testing Center, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Changli Liao
- Science and Technology Department, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Ji Tian
- Analysis and Testing Center, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Chunhong Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Xin Yu
- Chinese Pharmacy Laboratory, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
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Wu J, Zhang Y, Liu T, Yang J, Sun X, Gao XJ. The mechanism of selenium regulating the permeability of vascular endothelial cells through selenoprotein O. Redox Biol 2024; 70:103063. [PMID: 38316067 PMCID: PMC10862066 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2024.103063] [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: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Vascular diseases, a leading cause of death in human, are strongly associated with pathological damage to blood vessels. The selenoprotein (Sel) have been reported to play important roles in vascular disease. However, the role of SelO in vascular disease has not been conclusively investigated. The present experiment was to investigate the regulatory mechanism of the effect of SelO on the permeability of vascular endothelial. The H.E staining, FITC-Dextran staining, Dil-AC-LDL staining and FITC-WGA staining showed that vascular structure was damaged, and intercellular junctions were disrupted with selenium (Se)-deficient. Immunohistochemistry, qPCR and Western blot revealed decreased expression of the adhesion plaque proteins vinculin, talin and paxillin, decreased expression of the vascular connectivity effector molecules connexin, claudin-1 and E-cadherin and increased expression of JAM-A and N-cadherin, as well as decreased expression of the ZO-1 signaling pathways ZO-1, Rock, rhoGEF, cingulin and MLC-2. In a screening of 24 Sel present in mice, SelO showed the most pronounced changes in vascular tissues, and a possible association between SelO and vascular intercellular junction effectors was determined using IBM SPSS Statistics 25. Silencing of SelO, vascular endothelial intercellular junction adverse effects present. The regulatory relationship between SelO and vascular endothelial intercellular junctions was determined. The results showed that Se deficiency lead to increased vascular endothelial permeability and vascular tissue damage by decreasing SelO expression, suggesting a possible role for SelO in regulating vascular endothelial permeability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Wu
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - Yanhe Zhang
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - Tianjing Liu
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - Xiaoran Sun
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - Xue-Jiao Gao
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China.
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Zhou S, Zhao X, Wu L, Yan R, Sun L, Zhang Q, Gong C, Liu Y, Xiang L, Li S, Wang P, Yang Y, Ren W, Jiang J, Yang Y. Parishin treatment alleviates cardiac aging in naturally aged mice. Heliyon 2023; 9:e22970. [PMID: 38144278 PMCID: PMC10746429 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e22970] [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: 01/28/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cardiac aging progressively decreases physiological function and drives chronic/degenerative aging-related heart diseases. Therefore, it is crucial to postpone the aging process of heart and create products that combat aging. Aims & methods The objective of this study is to examine the effects of parishin, a phenolic glucoside isolated from traditional Chinese medicine Gastrodia elata, on anti-aging and its underlying mechanism. To assess the senescent biomarkers, cardiac function, cardiac weight/body weight ratio, cardiac transcriptomic changes, and cardiac histopathological features, heart tissue samples were obtained from young mice (12 weeks), aged mice (19 months) treated with parishin, and aged mice that were not treated. Results Parishin treatment improved cardiac function, ameliorated aging-induced cardiac injury, hypertrophy, and fibrosis, decreased cardiac senescence biomarkers p16Ink4a, p21Cip1, and IL-6, and increased the "longevity factor" SIRT1 expression in heart tissue. Furthermore, the transcriptomic analysis demonstrated that parishin treatment alleviated the cardiac aging-related Gja1 downregulation and Cyp2e1, Ccna2, Cdca3, and Fgf12 upregulation in the heart tissues. The correlation analysis suggested a strong connection between the anti-aging effect of parishin and its regulation of gut microbiota and metabolism in the aged intestine. Conclusion The present study demonstrates the protective role and underlying mechanism of parishin against cardiac aging in naturally aged mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shixian Zhou
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Aging and Physic-chemical Injury Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang province, China
| | - Xinxiu Zhao
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Aging and Physic-chemical Injury Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang province, China
| | - Li Wu
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Aging and Physic-chemical Injury Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang province, China
| | - Ren Yan
- State Key Laboratory for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang province, China
| | - Linlin Sun
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Aging and Physic-chemical Injury Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang province, China
| | - Qin Zhang
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Aging and Physic-chemical Injury Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang province, China
| | - Caixia Gong
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Aging and Physic-chemical Injury Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang province, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Aging and Physic-chemical Injury Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang province, China
| | - Lan Xiang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310012, Zhejiang province, China
| | - Shumin Li
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Aging and Physic-chemical Injury Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang province, China
| | - Peixia Wang
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Aging and Physic-chemical Injury Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang province, China
| | - Yichen Yang
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Aging and Physic-chemical Injury Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang province, China
| | - Wen Ren
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - JingJin Jiang
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Aging and Physic-chemical Injury Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang province, China
| | - Yunmei Yang
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Aging and Physic-chemical Injury Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang province, China
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Zhou E, Zhou J, Bi C, Zhang Z. Cx43 Facilitates Mesenchymal Transition of Endothelial Cells Induced by Shear Stress. J Vasc Res 2023; 60:204-212. [PMID: 37673049 PMCID: PMC10614473 DOI: 10.1159/000533320] [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: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to determine the function of Cx43 in the endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) process of endothelial cells (ECs) and to explore the potential signaling pathways underlying these functions. METHODS ECs were extracted from rat aorta. ECs were transfected with Cx43 cDNA and Cx43 siRNA and then exposed to 5 or 12 dyne/cm2. Immunofluorescence staining was used to detect the expression of SM22α, Cx43, and acetylated α-tubulin in ECs. Western blotting was used to detect the protein expression of α-SMA, CD31, Cx43, H1-calponin, Ift88, and p-smad3 in ECs. RESULTS The expression of αSMA, SM22α, and Cx43 was significantly increased, and CD31 was markedly decreased in ECs treated with laminar shear stress at 5 dyn/cm2. The Cx43 cDNA transfection could induce the expression of SM22α or H1-calponin and attenuate CD31 expression in ECs. Also, Cx43 overexpression harms cilia formation in ECs exposed to 5 dyn/cm2, accompanied with the regulated Ift88 and smad signaling. CONCLUSIONS This study found that laminar shear stress at 5 dyn/cm2 would increase the expression of Cx43 to facilitate the EndMT process of ECs, associated with morphological changes in primary cilia and the decreased expression of Ift88 in ECs.
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Affiliation(s)
- En Zhou
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Zhou
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Changlong Bi
- Department of Cardiology, Central Hospital of Minhang District, Shanghai, China
| | - Zongqi Zhang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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Lian Z, Ma Z, Zhang ZL, Liu PL, Zhang GY, Guo CX. Association between polymorphisms in connexin 40 gene (Cx40) and risk of atrial fibrillation: a meta-analysis based on 3,452 subjects. Biomarkers 2023; 28:519-530. [PMID: 37382580 DOI: 10.1080/1354750x.2023.2227361] [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: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common cardiac arrhythmia that is associated with heart failure and stroke, leading sometimes to death. But the pathogenesis of AF remains unclear. Numerous studies have investigated whether the connexin 40 (Cx40) polymorphisms influences the risk of AF, but the results are controversial. METHODS We searched English and Chinese databases and calculated the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) to examine the existence of genetic associations between the Cx40 polymorphisms and the risk of AF. All relevant studies were screened and meta-analyzed using Review Manager 5.0. RESULTS A total of 12 studies, including 10 studies for -44 polymorphism (rs35594137) and 4 studies for -26 polymorphism (rs10465885), were identified for the meta-analysis. For -44 polymorphism, the results showed a significantly increased risk of AF in the five genetic models in the overall analysis. Furthermore, in subgroup analysis, increased AF risks were also observed in Asian and non-Asian populations. For -26 polymorphism, the overall OR revealed an increased risk of AF in dominant model. In subgroup analysis, increased AF risk was only found in recessive genetic model of the Asian population. CONCLUSIONS The Cx40 polymorphisms were positively associated with AF in both populations, especially on -44 polymorphism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Lian
- Cardiovascular Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zheng Ma
- Cardiovascular Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhi-Li Zhang
- Cardiovascular Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Pei-Lin Liu
- Cardiovascular Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Guo-Yong Zhang
- Cardiovascular Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Cai-Xia Guo
- Cardiovascular Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Connexin 37 Regulates the Kv1.3 Pathway and Promotes the Development of Atherosclerosis. Mediators Inflamm 2022; 2022:2689918. [PMID: 36193415 PMCID: PMC9525889 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2689918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate the mechanism of Connexin 37 (Cx37) and Kv1.3 pathways in atherosclerosis (AS). Methods ApoE−/− mice were given a high-fat diet to establish atherosclerosis (AS) model, and macrophages in mice were isolated and extracted to transfect Cx37 vectors with silencing or overexpressing, and Kv1.3 pathway blockers were used to inhibit the pathway activity. The indexes of body weight, blood glucose, and blood lipid of mice were collected. The protein and mRNA expression levels of Cx37 and Kv1.3 were detected by reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR), Western blot, and immunofluorescence technique. Oil red O staining was used to observe plaque area. Masson staining was used to detect collagen content. The concentrations of chemokine CCL7 were quantified using the ELISA kits. CCK8 was used to detect cell proliferation. Results Cx37 and Kv1.3 were highly expressed in macrophages of AS mice, and the expression of Kv1.3 and CCL7 decreased after Cx37 was silenced, and the proliferation of macrophages was also decreased. Wild-type mice and AS model mice were treated with Cx37 overexpression vectors and Kv1.3 pathway blocking, and it was found that Cx37 overexpression could improve the blood lipid and blood glucose levels and increase the area of AS in AS mice. However, blocking the activity of Kv1.3 pathway can reduce the levels of blood lipid and blood glucose, increase the body weight of mice, and reduce the area of AS mice. Blocking the activity of Kv1.3 pathway can slow down the plaque development of AS mice and make its indexes close to wild-type mice. And the use of Kv1.3 pathway blockers on the basis of overexpression of Cx37 indicated that inhibition of Kv1.3 pathway activity did not affect the expression of Cx37, but could inhibit the collagen content in the plaque area of AS mice, inhibit the expression of chemokine CCL7, and reverse the effect of Cx37 overexpression. Conclusion Cx37 can improve the activity of macrophages by regulating the expression of chemokines and the activity of Kv1.3 pathway in AS mice, and enrich macrophages in inflammatory tissues and expand the area of plaque formation.
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The Bioactive Phenolic Agents Diaryl Ether CVB2-61 and Diarylheptanoid CVB4-57 as Connexin Hemichannel Blockers. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15101173. [PMID: 36297285 PMCID: PMC9611528 DOI: 10.3390/ph15101173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation mediators enhance the activity of connexin (Cx) hemichannels, especially in the epithelial and endothelial tissues. As potential release routes for injury signals, such as (oligo)nucleotides, Cx hemichannels may contribute to long-lasting inflammation. Specific inhibition of Cx hemichannels may therefore be a mode of prevention and treatment of long-lasting, chronic sterile inflammation. The activity of Cx hemichannels was analysed in N2A and HeLa cells transfected with human Cx26 and Cx46 as well as in Calu-3 cells, using dye uptake as functional assay. Moreover, the possible impacts of the bioactive phenolic agents CVB2-61 and CVB4-57 on the barrier function of epithelial cells was analysed using Calu-3 cells. Both agents inhibited the dye uptake in N2A cells expressing Cx26 (>5 µM) and Cx46 (>20 µM). In Calu-3 cells, CVB2-61 and CVB4-57 reversibly inhibited the dye uptake at concentrations as low as 5 µM, without affecting the gap junction communication and barrier function, even at concentrations of 20 µM. While CVB2-61 or CVB4-57 maintained a reduced dye uptake in Calu-3 cells, an enhancement of the dye uptake in response to the stimulation of adenosine signalling was still observed after removal of the agents. The report shows that CVB2-61 and CVB4-57 reversibly block Cx hemichannels. Deciphering the mechanisms of the interactions of these agents with Cx hemichannels could allow further development of phenolic compounds to target Cx hemichannels for better and safer treatment of pathologies that involve Cx hemichannels.
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Abstract
Cardiac remodelling is characterized by abnormal changes in the function and morphological properties such as diameter, mass, normal diameter of cavities, heart shape, fibrosis, thickening of vessels and heart layers, cardiomyopathy, infiltration of inflammatory cells, and some others. These damages are associated with damage to systolic and diastolic abnormalities, damage to ventricular function, and vascular remodelling, which may lead to heart failure and death. Exposure of the heart to radiation or anti-cancer drugs including chemotherapy drugs such as doxorubicin, receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (RTKIs) such as imatinib, and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) can induce several abnormal changes in the heart structure and function through the induction of inflammation and fibrosis, vascular remodelling, hypertrophy, and some others. This review aims to explain the basic mechanisms behind cardiac remodelling following cancer therapy by different anti-cancer modalities.
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Omolaoye TS, Jalaleddine N, Cardona Maya WD, du Plessis SS. Mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 and Male Infertility: Could Connexin and Pannexin Play a Role? Front Physiol 2022; 13:866675. [PMID: 35721552 PMCID: PMC9205395 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.866675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The impact of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) on male infertility has lately received significant attention. SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in humans, has been shown to impose adverse effects on both the structural components and function of the testis, which potentially impact spermatogenesis. These adverse effects are partially explained by fever, systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and an increased immune response leading to impaired blood-testis barrier. It has been well established that efficient cellular communication via gap junctions or functional channels is required for tissue homeostasis. Connexins and pannexins are two protein families that mediate autocrine and paracrine signaling between the cells and the extracellular environment. These channel-forming proteins have been shown to play a role in coordinating cellular communication in the testis and epididymis. Despite their role in maintaining a proper male reproductive milieu, their function is disrupted under pathological conditions. The involvement of these channels has been well documented in several physiological and pathological conditions and their designated function in infectious diseases. However, their role in COVID-19 and their meaningful contribution to male infertility remains to be elucidated. Therefore, this review highlights the multivariate pathophysiological mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 involvement in male reproduction. It also aims to shed light on the role of connexin and pannexin channels in disease progression, emphasizing their unexplored role and regulation of SARS-CoV-2 pathophysiology. Finally, we hypothesize the possible involvement of connexins and pannexins in SARS-CoV-2 inducing male infertility to assist future research ideas targeting therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Temidayo S. Omolaoye
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Nour Jalaleddine
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Walter D. Cardona Maya
- Reproduction Group, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellin, Colombia
| | - Stefan S. du Plessis
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
- *Correspondence: Stefan S. du Plessis,
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Connexin 43 Expression in Cutaneous Biopsies of Lupus Erythematosus. Am J Dermatopathol 2022; 44:664-668. [PMID: 35503887 DOI: 10.1097/dad.0000000000002217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gap junctions are channels between adjacent cells formed by connexins (Cxs). Cxs also form hemichannels that connect the cell with its extracellular milieu. These channels allow the transport of ions, metabolites, and small molecules; therefore, Cxs, and more specifically, connexin (Cx) 43 has been demonstrated to be in control of several crucial events such as inflammation and cell death. MATERIAL AND METHODS We examined the immunostaining of Cx43 in the endothelia of the cutaneous blood vessels of biopsies from 28 patients with several variants of lupus erythematosus. RESULTS In 19 cases (67.86%), staining of more than half of the dermal vessels including both vessels of the papillary and of the reticular dermis was identified. Only in 4 cases (14.28%), less than 25% of the vessels in the biopsy showed expression of the marker. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest a role of Cx43 in regulating the endothelial activity in lupus erythematosus, which also opens a door for targeted therapeutic options.
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Santiago-Fernandez C, Rodríguez-Díaz C, Ho-Plagaro A, Gutierrez-Repiso C, Oliva-Olivera W, Martin-Reyes F, Mela V, Bautista R, Tome M, Gómez-Maldonado J, Tinahones FJ, Garcia-Fuentes E, Garrido-Sánchez L. EVOO Promotes a Less Atherogenic Profile Than Sunflower Oil in Smooth Muscle Cells Through the Extracellular Vesicles Secreted by Endothelial Cells. Front Nutr 2022; 9:867745. [PMID: 35495944 PMCID: PMC9039400 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.867745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Little is known about the effect of extra virgin olive (EVOO) and sunflower oil (SO) on the composition of extracellular vesicles (EVs) secreted by endothelial cells and the effects of these EVs on smooth muscle cells (SMCs). These cells play an important role in the development of atherosclerosis. Methods We evaluated the effects of endothelial cells-derived EVs incubated with triglyceride-rich lipoproteins obtained after a high-fat meal with EVOO (EVOO-EVs) and SO (SO-EVs), on the transcriptomic profile of SMCs. Results We found 41 upregulated and 19 downregulated differentially expressed (DE)-miRNAs in EVOO-EVs. Afterwards, SMCs were incubated with EVOO-EVs and SO-EVs. SMCs incubated with SO-EVs showed a greater number of DE-mRNA involved in pathways related to cancer, focal adhesion, regulation of actin cytoskeleton, and MAPK, toll-like receptor, chemokine and Wnt signaling pathways than in SMCs incubated with EVOO-EVs. These DE-mRNAs were involved in biological processes related to the response to endogenous stimulus, cell motility, regulation of intracellular signal transduction and cell population proliferation. Conclusion EVOO and SO can differently modify the miRNA composition of HUVEC-derived EVs. These EVs can regulate the SMCs transcriptomic profile, with SO-EVs promoting a profile more closely linked to the development of atherosclerosis than EVOO-EVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Concepción Santiago-Fernandez
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga-IBIMA, Málaga, Spain
- Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Málaga, Spain
| | - Cristina Rodríguez-Díaz
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga-IBIMA, Málaga, Spain
- Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Málaga, Spain
| | - Ailec Ho-Plagaro
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga-IBIMA, Málaga, Spain
- Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Málaga, Spain
| | - Carolina Gutierrez-Repiso
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga-IBIMA, Málaga, Spain
- Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Endocrinología y Nutrición, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Málaga, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red-Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Málaga, Spain
| | - Wilfredo Oliva-Olivera
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga-IBIMA, Málaga, Spain
- Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Endocrinología y Nutrición, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Málaga, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red-Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Málaga, Spain
| | - Flores Martin-Reyes
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga-IBIMA, Málaga, Spain
- Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Málaga, Spain
| | - Virginia Mela
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga-IBIMA, Málaga, Spain
- Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Endocrinología y Nutrición, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Málaga, Spain
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Rocío Bautista
- Plataforma Andaluza de Bioinformática-Supercomputing and Bioinnovation Center, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Mónicas Tome
- Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Endocrinología y Nutrición, Hospital Regional Universitario, Málaga, Spain
| | - Josefa Gómez-Maldonado
- Unidad de Genómica y Ultrasecuenciación-Supercomputing and Bioinnovation Center, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Francisco J. Tinahones
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga-IBIMA, Málaga, Spain
- Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Endocrinología y Nutrición, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Málaga, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red-Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Málaga, Spain
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Eduardo Garcia-Fuentes
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga-IBIMA, Málaga, Spain
- Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Málaga, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Málaga, Spain
| | - Lourdes Garrido-Sánchez
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga-IBIMA, Málaga, Spain
- Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Endocrinología y Nutrición, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Málaga, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red-Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Málaga, Spain
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12
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Takeuchi Y, Saino O, Okinaka Y, Ogawa Y, Akamatsu R, Kikuchi-Taura A, Kataoka Y, Maeda M, Gul S, Claussen C, Boltze J, Taguchi A. Increased RNA Transcription of Energy Source Transporters in Circulating White Blood Cells of Aged Mice. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:759159. [PMID: 35185523 PMCID: PMC8850360 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.759159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Circulating white blood cells (WBC) contribute toward maintenance of cerebral metabolism and brain function. Recently, we showed that during aging, transcription of metabolism related genes, including energy source transports, in the brain significantly decreased at the hippocampus resulting in impaired neurological functions. In this article, we investigated the changes in RNA transcription of metabolism related genes (glucose transporter 1 [Glut1], Glut3, monocarboxylate transporter 4 [MCT4], hypoxia inducible factor 1-α [Hif1-α], prolyl hydroxylase 3 [PHD3] and pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 1 [PDK1]) in circulating WBC and correlated these with brain function in mice. Contrary to our expectations, most of these metabolism related genes in circulating WBC significantly increased in aged mice, and correlation between their increased RNA transcription and impaired neurological functions was observed. Bone marrow mononuclear transplantation into aged mice decreased metabolism related genes in WBC with accelerated neurogenesis in the hippocampus. In vitro analysis revealed that cell-cell interaction between WBC and endothelial cells via gap junction is impaired with aging, and blockade of the interaction increased their transcription in WBC. Our findings indicate that gross analysis of RNA transcription of metabolism related genes in circulating WBC has the potential to provide significant information relating to impaired cell-cell interaction between WBC and endothelial cells of aged mice. Additionally, this can serve as a tool to evaluate the change of the cell-cell interaction caused by various treatments or diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukiko Takeuchi
- Department of Regenerative Medicine Research, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Orie Saino
- Department of Regenerative Medicine Research, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Yuka Okinaka
- Department of Regenerative Medicine Research, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Yuko Ogawa
- Department of Regenerative Medicine Research, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Rie Akamatsu
- Department of Regenerative Medicine Research, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Akie Kikuchi-Taura
- Department of Regenerative Medicine Research, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Yosky Kataoka
- Multi-Modal Microstructure Analysis Unit, RIKEN-JEOL Collaboration Center, RIKEN, Hyogo, Japan
- Laboratory for Cellular Function Imaging, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, RIKEN, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Mitsuyo Maeda
- Multi-Modal Microstructure Analysis Unit, RIKEN-JEOL Collaboration Center, RIKEN, Hyogo, Japan
- Laboratory for Cellular Function Imaging, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, RIKEN, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Sheraz Gul
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP, Hamburg, Germany
- Fraunhofer Cluster of Excellence for Immune-Mediated Diseases (CIMD), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Carsten Claussen
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP, Hamburg, Germany
- Fraunhofer Cluster of Excellence for Immune-Mediated Diseases (CIMD), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Johannes Boltze
- Department of Regenerative Medicine Research, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Akihiko Taguchi
- Department of Regenerative Medicine Research, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
- *Correspondence: Akihiko Taguchi,
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13
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Peng B, Xu C, Wang S, Zhang Y, Li W. The Role of Connexin Hemichannels in Inflammatory Diseases. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11020237. [PMID: 35205103 PMCID: PMC8869213 DOI: 10.3390/biology11020237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The connexin protein family consists of approximately 20 members, and is well recognized as the structural unit of the gap junction channels that perforate the plasma membranes of coupled cells and, thereby, mediate intercellular communication. Gap junctions are assembled by two preexisting hemichannels on the membranes of apposing cells. Non-junctional connexin hemichannels (CxHC) provide a conduit between the cell interior and the extracellular milieu, and are believed to be in a protectively closed state under physiological conditions. The development and characterization of the peptide mimetics of the amino acid sequences of connexins have resulted in the development of a panel of blockers with a higher selectivity for CxHC, which have become important tools for defining the role of CxHC in various biological processes. It is increasingly clear that CxHC can be induced to open by pathogen-associated molecular patterns. The opening of CxHC facilitates the release of damage-associated molecular patterns, a class of endogenous molecules that are critical for the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases. The blockade of CxHC leads to attenuated inflammation, reduced tissue injury and improved organ function in human and animal models of about thirty inflammatory diseases and disorders. These findings demonstrate that CxHC may contribute to the intensification of inflammation, and serve as a common target in the treatments of various inflammatory diseases. In this review, we provide an update on the progress in the understanding of CxHC, with a focus on the role of these channels in inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Yijie Zhang
- Correspondence: (Y.Z.); (W.L.); Tel.: +86-13903782431 (Y.Z.); +86-17839250252 (W.L.)
| | - Wei Li
- Correspondence: (Y.Z.); (W.L.); Tel.: +86-13903782431 (Y.Z.); +86-17839250252 (W.L.)
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14
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Ling X, Peng S, Xu Y, Chu F. Beneficial effect of simvastatin on human umbilical vein endothelial cells gap junctions induced by TNF-α. Anim Cells Syst (Seoul) 2022; 26:10-18. [PMID: 35308127 PMCID: PMC8928848 DOI: 10.1080/19768354.2021.2023037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Although simvastatin has been shown to inhibit vascular permeability, which might be amplified via gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC), the underlying mechanism of action remains unclear. In the present study, we investigated the effects and mechanisms of simvastatin on endothelial cells GJIC. Specifically, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were stimulated with TNF-α (10 ng/mL) alone or in combination with simvastatin (5 µM), and their effects on vascular endothelial cell GJIC tested via the scrape loading/dye transfer (SL/DT) assay. Next, we performed immunofluorescence, real-time PCR and western blot assays to analyze expression of Cx37, Cx40 and Cx43 in HUVECs. Results showed that GJIC activity in HUVECs was markedly elevated in HUVECs treated with TNF-α in combination with simvastatin. In addition, simvastatin treatment significantly upregulated expression of Cx37 and Cx40 but downregulated Cx43 mRNAs and proteins. Taken together, these marked changes indicated that simvastatin exerts its regulatory effects on gap junction function by upregulating Cx37 and Cx40 and downregulating Cx43 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiwen Ling
- School of Biosciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Siyuan Peng
- School of Biosciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yaqin Xu
- School of Biosciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fujiang Chu
- School of Biosciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
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15
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Botts SR, Fish JE, Howe KL. Dysfunctional Vascular Endothelium as a Driver of Atherosclerosis: Emerging Insights Into Pathogenesis and Treatment. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:787541. [PMID: 35002720 PMCID: PMC8727904 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.787541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis, the chronic accumulation of cholesterol-rich plaque within arteries, is associated with a broad spectrum of cardiovascular diseases including myocardial infarction, aortic aneurysm, peripheral vascular disease, and stroke. Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of mortality in high-income countries and recent years have witnessed a notable increase in prevalence within low- and middle-income regions of the world. Considering this prominent and evolving global burden, there is a need to identify the cellular mechanisms that underlie the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis to discover novel therapeutic targets for preventing or mitigating its clinical sequelae. Despite decades of research, we still do not fully understand the complex cell-cell interactions that drive atherosclerosis, but new investigative approaches are rapidly shedding light on these essential mechanisms. The vascular endothelium resides at the interface of systemic circulation and the underlying vessel wall and plays an essential role in governing pathophysiological processes during atherogenesis. In this review, we present emerging evidence that implicates the activated endothelium as a driver of atherosclerosis by directing site-specificity of plaque formation and by promoting plaque development through intracellular processes, which regulate endothelial cell proliferation and turnover, metabolism, permeability, and plasticity. Moreover, we highlight novel mechanisms of intercellular communication by which endothelial cells modulate the activity of key vascular cell populations involved in atherogenesis, and discuss how endothelial cells contribute to resolution biology - a process that is dysregulated in advanced plaques. Finally, we describe important future directions for preclinical atherosclerosis research, including epigenetic and targeted therapies, to limit the progression of atherosclerosis in at-risk or affected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven R. Botts
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jason E. Fish
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Peter Munk Cardiac Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kathryn L. Howe
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Peter Munk Cardiac Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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16
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GJA1 Expression and Left Atrial Remodeling in the Incidence of Atrial Fibrillation in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9101463. [PMID: 34680580 PMCID: PMC8533106 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9101463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is an important risk factor for atrial fibrillation (AF). GJA1 gene encoding connexin43, a major protein in cardiac gap junctions, plays a crucial role in the synchronized contraction of the heart and in cardiac arrhythmia. However, little is known regarding the role of GJA1 expression in the incidence of AF in patients with OSAS. All prospectively enrolled OSAS patients underwent polysomnography, electrocardiography, a 24-h Holter test, and echocardiography. Moderate-to-severe OSAS was defined as an apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) ≥ 15. Exosomes were purified from the plasma of all OSAS patients and incubated in HL-1 cells to investigate the effect of exosomes from patients with and without AF on GJA1 expression. A total of 129 patients were recruited for this study; 26 were excluded due to an AHI < 15. Of the 103 enrolled patients, 21 had AF, and 82 did not. Multivariate analysis showed diabetes mellitus, lower sleep efficiency, lower left ventricular ejection fraction, and larger left atrial (LA) size were independent predictors of AF occurrence in OSAS patients. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for LA with a size ≥38.5 mm for predicting AF occurrence in OSAS patients was 0.795 (95% confidence interval [0.666, 0.925]); p < 0.001). GJA1 expression in HL-1 cells incubated with exosomes from OSAS patients with AF was lower than that with exosomes from patients without AF after controlling for age and sex and was negatively correlated with the AHI and oxygen desaturation index (ODI), especially during the non-rapid eye movement period (NREM) of OSAS patients with AF (all p < 0.05). LA size was an independent predictor of AF occurrence in OSAS patients. The AHI and ODI in the NREM period of OSAS patients with AF were negatively correlated with GJA1 expression in HL-1 cells, which offers a hint that GJA1 may play a crucial role in the development of AF in patients with OSAS.
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17
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Cellular Crosstalk between Endothelial and Smooth Muscle Cells in Vascular Wall Remodeling. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147284. [PMID: 34298897 PMCID: PMC8306829 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathological vascular wall remodeling refers to the structural and functional changes of the vessel wall that occur in response to injury that eventually leads to cardiovascular disease (CVD). Vessel wall are composed of two major primary cells types, endothelial cells (EC) and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). The physiological communications between these two cell types (EC–VSMCs) are crucial in the development of the vasculature and in the homeostasis of mature vessels. Moreover, aberrant EC–VSMCs communication has been associated to the promotor of various disease states including vascular wall remodeling. Paracrine regulations by bioactive molecules, communication via direct contact (junctions) or information transfer via extracellular vesicles or extracellular matrix are main crosstalk mechanisms. Identification of the nature of this EC–VSMCs crosstalk may offer strategies to develop new insights for prevention and treatment of disease that curse with vascular remodeling. Here, we will review the molecular mechanisms underlying the interplay between EC and VSMCs. Additionally, we highlight the potential applicable methodologies of the co-culture systems to identify cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in pathological vascular wall remodeling, opening questions about the future research directions.
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18
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Mussbacher M, Pirabe A, Brunnthaler L, Schrottmaier WC, Assinger A. Horizontal MicroRNA Transfer by Platelets - Evidence and Implications. Front Physiol 2021; 12:678362. [PMID: 34149456 PMCID: PMC8209332 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.678362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
For decades, platelets have been known for their central role in hemostasis and their ability to release bioactive molecules, allowing inter-platelet communication and crosstalk with the immune system and vascular cells. However, with the detection of microRNAs in platelets and platelet-derived microvesicles (MVs), a new level of inter-cellular regulation was revealed. By shedding MVs from their plasma membrane, platelets are able to release functional microRNA complexes that are protected from plasma RNases. Upon contact with macrophages, endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells platelet microRNAs are rapidly internalized and fine-tune the functionality of the recipient cell by post-transcriptional reprogramming. Moreover, microRNA transfer by platelet MVs allows infiltration into tissues with limited cellular access such as solid tumors, thereby they not only modulate tumor progression but also provide a potential route for drug delivery. Understanding the precise mechanisms of horizontal transfer of platelet microRNAs under physiological and pathological conditions allows to design side-specific therapeutic (micro)RNA delivery systems. This review summarizes the current knowledge and the scientific evidence of horizontal microRNA transfer by platelets and platelet-derived MVs into vascular and non-vascular cells and its physiological consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion Mussbacher
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Anita Pirabe
- Center of Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Laura Brunnthaler
- Center of Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Alice Assinger
- Center of Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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19
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Xia LZ, Tao J, Chen YJ, Liang LL, Luo GF, Cai ZM, Wang Z. Factors Affecting the Re-Endothelialization of Endothelial Progenitor Cell. DNA Cell Biol 2021; 40:1009-1025. [PMID: 34061680 DOI: 10.1089/dna.2021.0082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The vascular endothelium, which plays an essential role in maintaining the normal shape and function of blood vessels, is a natural barrier between the circulating blood and the vascular wall tissue. The endothelial damage can cause vascular lesions, such as atherosclerosis and restenosis. After the vascular intima injury, the body starts the endothelial repair (re-endothelialization) to inhibit the neointimal hyperplasia. Endothelial progenitor cell is the precursor of endothelial cells and plays an important role in the vascular re-endothelialization. However, re-endothelialization is inevitably affected in vivo and in vitro by factors, which can be divided into two types, namely, promotion and inhibition, and act on different links of the vascular re-endothelialization. This article reviews these factors and related mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin-Zhen Xia
- Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Arteriosclerotic Disease, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Jun Tao
- Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Arteriosclerotic Disease, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Yan-Jun Chen
- Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Arteriosclerotic Disease, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Ling-Li Liang
- Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Arteriosclerotic Disease, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Gui-Fang Luo
- Department of Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Ze-Min Cai
- Pediatrics Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Zuo Wang
- Key Laboratory for Arteriosclerology of Hunan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Arteriosclerotic Disease, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, China
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20
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Okamoto T, Park EJ, Kawamoto E, Usuda H, Wada K, Taguchi A, Shimaoka M. Endothelial connexin-integrin crosstalk in vascular inflammation. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2021; 1867:166168. [PMID: 33991620 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2021.166168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases including blood vessel disorders represent a major cause of death globally. The essential roles played by local and systemic vascular inflammation in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases have been increasingly recognized. Vascular inflammation triggers the aberrant activation of endothelial cells, which leads to the functional and structural abnormalities in vascular vessels. In addition to humoral mediators such as pro-inflammatory cytokines and prostaglandins, the alteration of physical and mechanical microenvironment - including vascular stiffness and shear stress - modify the gene expression profiles and metabolic profiles of endothelial cells via mechano-transduction pathways, thereby contributing to the pathogenesis of vessel disorders. Notably, connexins and integrins crosstalk each other in response to the mechanical stress, and, thereby, play an important role in regulating the mechano-transduction of endothelial cells. Here, we provide an overview on how the inter-play between connexins and integrins in endothelial cells unfold during the mechano-transduction in vascular inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takayuki Okamoto
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Shimane University, 89-1 Enya-cho, Izumo-city, Shimane 693-8501, Japan.
| | - Eun Jeong Park
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology and Cell Adhesion Biology, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-174 Edobashi, Tsu-city, Mie 514-8507, Japan
| | - Eiji Kawamoto
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology and Cell Adhesion Biology, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-174 Edobashi, Tsu-city, Mie 514-8507, Japan; Department of Emergency and Disaster Medicine, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-174 Edobashi, Tsu-city, Mie 514-8507, Japan
| | - Haruki Usuda
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Shimane University, 89-1 Enya-cho, Izumo-city, Shimane 693-8501, Japan
| | - Koichiro Wada
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Shimane University, 89-1 Enya-cho, Izumo-city, Shimane 693-8501, Japan
| | - Akihiko Taguchi
- Department of Regenerative Medicine Research, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe, 2-2 Minatojima-Minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Motomu Shimaoka
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology and Cell Adhesion Biology, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-174 Edobashi, Tsu-city, Mie 514-8507, Japan.
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21
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Van Campenhout R, Gomes AR, De Groof TW, Muyldermans S, Devoogdt N, Vinken M. Mechanisms Underlying Connexin Hemichannel Activation in Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22073503. [PMID: 33800706 PMCID: PMC8036530 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions and connexin hemichannels mediate intercellular and extracellular communication, respectively. While gap junctions are seen as the “good guys” by controlling homeostasis, connexin hemichannels are considered as the “bad guys”, as their activation is associated with the onset and dissemination of disease. Open connexin hemichannels indeed mediate the transport of messengers between the cytosol and extracellular environment and, by doing so, fuel inflammation and cell death in a plethora of diseases. The present mini-review discusses the mechanisms involved in the activation of connexin hemichannels during pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raf Van Campenhout
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (R.V.C.); (A.R.G.)
| | - Ana Rita Gomes
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (R.V.C.); (A.R.G.)
| | - Timo W.M. De Groof
- Department of Medical Imaging, In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (T.W.M.D.G.); (N.D.)
| | - Serge Muyldermans
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Nick Devoogdt
- Department of Medical Imaging, In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (T.W.M.D.G.); (N.D.)
| | - Mathieu Vinken
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (R.V.C.); (A.R.G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +32-2-4774587
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22
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Zhang YX, Tang RN, Wang LT, Liu BC. Role of crosstalk between endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells in vascular calcification in chronic kidney disease. Cell Prolif 2021; 54:e12980. [PMID: 33502070 PMCID: PMC7941222 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.12980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a severe health problem worldwide, and vascular calcification (VC) contributes substantially to the cardiovascular morbidity and high mortality of CKD. CKD is often accompanied by a variety of pathophysiological states, such as inflammation, oxidative stress, hyperglycaemia, hyperparathyroidism and haemodynamic derangement, that can cause injuries to smooth muscle cells (SMCs) and endothelial cells (ECs) to promote VC. Similar to SMCs, whose role has been widely explored in VC, ECs may contribute to VC via osteochondral transdifferentiation, apoptosis, etc. In addition, given their location in the innermost layer of the blood vessel lumen and preferential reception of various pro‐calcification stimuli, ECs can pass messages to vascular wall cells and communicate with them. Crosstalk between ECs and SMCs via cytokines through a paracrine mechanism, extracellular vesicles, miRNAs and myoendothelial gap junctions also plays a role in VC. In this review, we emphasize the role of intercellular crosstalk between ECs and SMCs in VC associated with CKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Xia Zhang
- Institute of Nephrology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.,Institute of Nephrology, Zhongda Hospital, Nanjing Lishui People' Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Ri-Ning Tang
- Institute of Nephrology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.,Institute of Nephrology, Zhongda Hospital, Nanjing Lishui People' Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Li-Ting Wang
- Institute of Nephrology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.,Institute of Nephrology, Zhongda Hospital, Nanjing Lishui People' Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Bi-Cheng Liu
- Institute of Nephrology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.,Institute of Nephrology, Zhongda Hospital, Nanjing Lishui People' Hospital, Nanjing, China
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The role of connexin proteins and their channels in radiation-induced atherosclerosis. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:3087-3103. [PMID: 33388835 PMCID: PMC8038956 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-020-03716-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Radiotherapy is an effective treatment for breast cancer and other thoracic tumors. However, while high-energy radiotherapy treatment successfully kills cancer cells, radiation exposure of the heart and large arteries cannot always be avoided, resulting in secondary cardiovascular disease in cancer survivors. Radiation-induced changes in the cardiac vasculature may thereby lead to coronary artery atherosclerosis, which is a major cardiovascular complication nowadays in thoracic radiotherapy-treated patients. The underlying biological and molecular mechanisms of radiation-induced atherosclerosis are complex and still not fully understood, resulting in potentially improper radiation protection. Ionizing radiation (IR) exposure may damage the vascular endothelium by inducing DNA damage, oxidative stress, premature cellular senescence, cell death and inflammation, which act to promote the atherosclerotic process. Intercellular communication mediated by connexin (Cx)-based gap junctions and hemichannels may modulate IR-induced responses and thereby the atherosclerotic process. However, the role of endothelial Cxs and their channels in atherosclerotic development after IR exposure is still poorly defined. A better understanding of the underlying biological pathways involved in secondary cardiovascular toxicity after radiotherapy would facilitate the development of effective strategies that prevent or mitigate these adverse effects. Here, we review the possible roles of intercellular Cx driven signaling and communication in radiation-induced atherosclerosis.
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Wang J, He SY. Effect of ischemic postconditioning on cell apoptosis and expression of relevant genes in non-culprit coronary arteries. J Investig Med 2020; 68:1276-1281. [PMID: 32784207 PMCID: PMC7525782 DOI: 10.1136/jim-2020-001328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
This study was performed to determine the effect of ischemic postconditioning on cell apoptosis and angiotensin II receptor type 1 (AT1), connexin 43 (Cx43), and β-tubulin mRNA expression in non-culprit arteries. Non-culprit arterial tissues were isolated from a rabbit myocardial ischemia-reperfusion model and randomly divided into sham, ischemia-reperfusion, and ischemic postconditioning groups. Cell apoptosis was detected by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) staining. Expression of angiotensin II, AT1, Cx43, and β-tubulin mRNA was evaluated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). TUNEL analysis indicated significantly higher ratios of apoptotic cells in the ischemia-reperfusion group than in the sham group. However, significantly fewer apoptotic cells were observed in the ischemic postconditioning group than in the ischemia-reperfusion group. The qRT-PCR results indicated significantly higher expression of AT1, Cx43, and β-tubulin mRNA in the ischemia-reperfusion group than in the sham group. However, expression of AT1, Cx43, and β-tubulin was lower in the ischemic postconditioning group than in the ischemia-reperfusion group. The ratios of apoptotic cells and mRNA expression of AT1, Cx43, and β-tubulin in non-culprit arteries were increased after ischemia-reperfusion. Ischemic postconditioning may decrease these features and inhibit the progression of non-culprit arteries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Aerospace Center Hospital, Peking University Aerospace School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Song-Yuan He
- Department of Cardiology, Aerospace Center Hospital, Peking University Aerospace School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing, China
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Pan L, Ni H, Jin W, Su X. Inhibition of ERK or Akt ameliorates intimal hyperplasia via up-regulation of Cx37 and down-regulation of Cx43 in balloon injury rat model. Cardiovasc Diagn Ther 2020; 10:658-666. [PMID: 32968622 DOI: 10.21037/cdt-20-345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Background Connexins (Cxs) are reported to participate in atherosclerosis associated intimal hyperplasia (IH), while their function involved in the balloon injury (BI) induced IH and restenosis is less reported. Methods Forty-eight male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to not injured (NI) group and BI group, which were further administrated with ERK-inhibitor U0216 and Akt-inhibitor MIK2206. Western blot and RT-PCR were utilized to detect the expression of Cx30, Cx37, Cx40, and Cx43 at 6 hours, 24 hours, 7 days, and 14 days post-surgery. H&E staining and related intima area, media area, and luminal area measurement were applied to indicate neointima formation and IH. ERK and Akt phosphorylation levels and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) immunostaining were also detected. Results Among the four Cxs detected, Cx37 showed down-regulated, and Cx43 showed up-regulated temporal expression pattern in BI rats with confirmed neointima formation. Up-regulated p-ERK (P<0.01) and p-Akt (P<0.01) can be detected in BI rats compared with NI rats. Meanwhile, U0216 and MIK2206 can significantly reduce Cx43 expression and increase CX37 expression accompanied with reduced neointima formation and PCNA staining (P<0.05 or P<0.01) in BI rats. Conclusions ERK or Akt inhibition can alleviate BI-induced IH via up-regulation of Cx37 and down-regulation of Cx43.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lemen Pan
- Department of Vascular Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Haizhen Ni
- Department of Vascular Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Wenxu Jin
- Department of Vascular Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiang Su
- Department of Vascular Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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Abstract
Of the 21 members of the connexin family, 4 (Cx37, Cx40, Cx43, and Cx45) are expressed in the endothelium and/or smooth muscle of intact blood vessels to a variable and dynamically regulated degree. Full-length connexins oligomerize and form channel structures connecting the cytosol of adjacent cells (gap junctions) or the cytosol with the extracellular space (hemichannels). The different connexins vary mainly with regard to length and sequence of their cytosolic COOH-terminal tails. These COOH-terminal parts, which in the case of Cx43 are also translated as independent short isoforms, are involved in various cellular signaling cascades and regulate cell functions. This review focuses on channel-dependent and -independent effects of connexins in vascular cells. Channels play an essential role in coordinating and synchronizing endothelial and smooth muscle activity and in their interplay, in the control of vasomotor actions of blood vessels including endothelial cell reactivity to agonist stimulation, nitric oxide-dependent dilation, and endothelial-derived hyperpolarizing factor-type responses. Further channel-dependent and -independent roles of connexins in blood vessel function range from basic processes of vascular remodeling and angiogenesis to vascular permeability and interactions with leukocytes with the vessel wall. Together, these connexin functions constitute an often underestimated basis for the enormous plasticity of vascular morphology and function enabling the required dynamic adaptation of the vascular system to varying tissue demands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich Pohl
- Walter-Brendel-Centre of Experimental Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany; Biomedical Centre, Cardiovascular Physiology, LMU Munich, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany; German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany; and Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
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Expression and functional regulation of gap junction protein connexin 43 in dermal mesenchymal stem cells from psoriasis patients. Acta Histochem 2020; 122:151550. [PMID: 32303340 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2020.151550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Revised: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psoriasis is a chronic recurrent inflammatory disease. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can regulate the inflammatory microenvironment, thereby controlling the proliferation, differentiation, and migration of immune cells. Connexin 43(Cx43), a key gap junction protein, has been shown to form gap junctions for communication between neighboring cells. OBJECTIVE We investigated the expression of Cx43 in dermal mesenchymal stem cells (DMSCs) derived from psoriasis patients and explored the relationship between the Cx43-mediated gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) and DMSCs. METHODS Human DMSCs were isolated and propagated in adherent culture. Quantitative real-time reverse transcription PCR and western blot and immunofluorescence were used to detect the expression and localization of Cx43 in DMSCs. Fluorescence redistribution after photobleaching was performed to assess adjacent DMSCs GJIC. CCK8 was used to detect the proliferation of DMSCs before and after gap junction blocker (18α-glycyrrhetinic acid; AGA) treatment. Cell energy metabolism was analyzed with an energy metabolism analyzer. RESULTS Cx43 was located in the cytoplasm and cytomembrane, as well as partially in the nucleus of DMSCs. The expression of Cx43 in psoriasis DMSCs was higher than that in control samples and the gap junction function was enhanced. In addition, the glycolysis and mitochondrial respiration of psoriasis DMSCs were also enhanced. However, AGA inhibited the expression of Cx43, attenuated GJIC function, and inhibited the proliferation of DMSCs. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicated that the expression of Cx43 in DMSCs from psoriasis lesions is increased and that the inhibition of Cx43 leads to the inhibition of both GJIC and DMSCs proliferation.
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Angiotensin II induces RAW264.7 macrophage polarization to the M1‑type through the connexin 43/NF‑κB pathway. Mol Med Rep 2020; 21:2103-2112. [PMID: 32186758 PMCID: PMC7115186 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2020.11023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Angiotensin II (AngII) serves an important inflammatory role in cardiovascular disease; it can induce macrophages to differentiate into the M1-type, produce inflammatory cytokines and resist pathogen invasion, and can cause a certain degree of damage to the body. Previous studies have reported that connexin 43 (Cx43) and NF-κB (p65) are involved in the AngII-induced inflammatory pathways of macrophages; however, the mechanisms underlying the effects of Cx43 and NF-κB (p65) on AngII-induced macrophage polarization have not been determined. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the effects of Cx43 and NF-κB (p65) on the polarization process of AngII-induced macrophages. The macrophage polarization-related proteins and mRNAs were examined by flow cytometry, western blotting, immunofluorescence, ELISA and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR analyses. RAW264.7 macrophages were treated with AngII to simulate chronic inflammation and it was subsequently found that AngII promoted RAW 264.7 macrophage polarization towards the M1-type by such effects as the release of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, IL-1β, the secretion of IL-6, and the expression of M1-type indicators, such as CD86. Simultaneously, compared with the control group, the protein expression levels of Cx43 and phosphorylated (p)-p65 were significantly increased following AngII treatment. The M1-related phenotypic indicators, iNOS, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and CD86, were inhibited by the NF-κB (p65) signalling pathway inhibitor BAY117082. Similarly, the Cx43 inhibitors, Gap26 and Gap19, also inhibited the expression of M1-related factors, and the protein expression levels of p-p65 in the Gap26/Gap19 groups were significantly decreased compared with the AngII group. Altogether, these findings suggested that AngII may induce the polarization of RAW264.7 macrophages to the M1-type through the Cx43/NF-κB (p65) signalling pathway.
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Ramadan R, Vromans E, Anang DC, Goetschalckx I, Hoorelbeke D, Decrock E, Baatout S, Leybaert L, Aerts A. Connexin43 Hemichannel Targeting With TAT-Gap19 Alleviates Radiation-Induced Endothelial Cell Damage. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:212. [PMID: 32210810 PMCID: PMC7066501 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emerging evidence indicates an excess risk of late occurring cardiovascular diseases, especially atherosclerosis, after thoracic cancer radiotherapy. Ionizing radiation (IR) induces cellular effects which may induce endothelial cell dysfunction, an early marker for atherosclerosis. In addition, intercellular communication through channels composed of transmembrane connexin proteins (Cxs), i.e. Gap junctions (direct cell-cell coupling) and hemichannels (paracrine release/uptake pathway) can modulate radiation-induced responses and therefore the atherosclerotic process. However, the role of endothelial hemichannel in IR-induced atherosclerosis has never been described before. MATERIALS AND METHODS Telomerase-immortalized human Coronary Artery/Microvascular Endothelial cells (TICAE/TIME) were exposed to X-rays (0.1 and 5 Gy). Production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), DNA damage, cell death, inflammatory responses, and senescence were assessed with or without applying a Cx43 hemichannel blocker (TAT-Gap19). RESULTS We report here that IR induces an increase in oxidative stress, cell death, inflammatory responses (IL-8, IL-1β, VCAM-1, MCP-1, and Endothelin-1) and premature cellular senescence in TICAE and TIME cells. These effects are significantly reduced in the presence of the Cx43 hemichannel-targeting peptide TAT-Gap19. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that endothelial Cx43 hemichannels contribute to various IR-induced processes, such as ROS, cell death, inflammation, and senescence, resulting in an increase in endothelial cell damage, which could be protected by blocking these hemichannels. Thus, targeting Cx43 hemichannels may potentially exert radioprotective effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raghda Ramadan
- Radiobiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK•CEN), Mol, Belgium
- Department of Fundamental and Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Els Vromans
- Centre for Environmental Health Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Dornatien Chuo Anang
- Biomedical Research Institute and Transnational University of Limburg, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Ines Goetschalckx
- Protein Chemistry, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling Group, Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Delphine Hoorelbeke
- Department of Fundamental and Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Elke Decrock
- Department of Fundamental and Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sarah Baatout
- Radiobiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK•CEN), Mol, Belgium
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Luc Leybaert
- Department of Fundamental and Basic Medical Sciences, Physiology Group, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - An Aerts
- Radiobiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK•CEN), Mol, Belgium
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Li J, Qin R, Wang W, Huang Z, Huang DL, Li T, Wang F, Zeng XT, Sun ZY, Liu XF, Huang F, Guo T. Relationship between SNP rs1764391 and Susceptibility, Risk Factors, Gene-environment Interactions of Acute Myocardial Infarction in Guangxi Han Chinese Population. Curr Pharm Biotechnol 2020; 21:79-88. [PMID: 31580250 DOI: 10.2174/1389201019666191003150015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Revised: 02/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Large-scale population studies showed that the SNP rs1764391 of Connexin37 gene also known as Cx37 gene may play a pivotal role in the occurrence and development of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Published results, however, are highly controversial. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to examine the association between SNP rs1764391 of Cx37 and diseasesusceptibility, several risk factors, and gene-environment interactions of AMI in Guangxi Han Chinese population. METHODS In this study, 344 healthy controls and 344 AMI patients of Han Chinese population were enrolled. The TaqMan assay was implemented to identify genotypes of Cx37 and allele frequencies of SNP rs1764391 in both the AMI and control groups. RESULTS Significant differences were detected in TT genotype frequencies of SNP rs1764391 between the AMI and control groups (P < 0.05). In the context of gender stratification, the result was also statistically different in women (P < 0.05). Each variable such as age, BMI, diabetes, high blood pressure, smoking and TC was a risk factor and correlated significantly (P < 0.05) with the development of AMI. HDL-C correlated negatively with the risk of AMI (P < 0.001). BMI, smoking or alcohol consumed interacts significantly (P < 0.017) with the presence of the SNP rs1764391 CC genotype. CONCLUSION Evidences were presented that Cx37 rs1764391 variation may contribute to the risk for AMI, especially in women and this genetic variant may prove to be a potential biomarker for AMI risk stratification and may prove to be a useful target for therapeutic intervention to further improve prognosis in high-risk patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Li
- Graduate School, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Rui Qin
- Department of Gynaecology, Guangxi Nationalities Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Emergency, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Zhou Huang
- Department of Emergency, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Dong-Ling Huang
- Department of Emergency, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Tian Li
- Department of Emergency, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Fan Wang
- Graduate School, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Xiang-Tao Zeng
- Graduate School, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Zhong-Yi Sun
- Graduate School, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Xue-Feng Liu
- Graduate School, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Feng Huang
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Tao Guo
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
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Ramadan R, Vromans E, Anang DC, Decrock E, Mysara M, Monsieurs P, Baatout S, Leybaert L, Aerts A. Single and fractionated ionizing radiation induce alterations in endothelial connexin expression and channel function. Sci Rep 2019; 9:4643. [PMID: 31217426 PMCID: PMC6584668 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-39317-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiotherapy is an effective treatment for most tumor types. However, emerging evidence indicates an increased risk for atherosclerosis after ionizing radiation exposure, initiated by endothelial cell dysfunction. Interestingly, endothelial cells express connexin (Cx) proteins that are reported to exert proatherogenic as well as atheroprotective effects. Furthermore, Cxs form channels, gap junctions and hemichannels, that are involved in bystander signaling that leads to indirect radiation effects in non-exposed cells. We here aimed to investigate the consequences of endothelial cell irradiation on Cx expression and channel function. Telomerase immortalized human Coronary Artery/Microvascular Endothelial cells were exposed to single and fractionated X-rays. Several biological endpoints were investigated at different time points after exposure: Cx gene and protein expression, gap junctional dye coupling and hemichannel function. We demonstrate that single and fractionated irradiation induce upregulation of proatherogenic Cx43 and downregulation of atheroprotective Cx40 gene and protein levels in a dose-dependent manner. Single and fractionated irradiation furthermore increased gap junctional communication and induced hemichannel opening. Our findings indicate alterations in Cx expression that are typically observed in endothelial cells covering atherosclerotic plaques. The observed radiation-induced increase in Cx channel function may promote bystander signaling thereby exacerbating endothelial cell damage and atherogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raghda Ramadan
- Radiobiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK·CEN), Mol, Belgium
- Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Physiology group, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Els Vromans
- Centre for Environmental Health Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Dornatien Chuo Anang
- Biomedical Research Institute and transnational university of Limburg, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Elke Decrock
- Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Physiology group, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mohamed Mysara
- Microbiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK·CEN), Mol, Belgium
| | - Pieter Monsieurs
- Microbiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK·CEN), Mol, Belgium
| | - Sarah Baatout
- Radiobiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK·CEN), Mol, Belgium
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Luc Leybaert
- Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Physiology group, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - An Aerts
- Radiobiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK·CEN), Mol, Belgium.
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Wang M, Wu Y, Yu Y, Fu Y, Yan H, Wang X, Li T, Peng W, Luo D. Rutaecarpine prevented ox-LDL-induced VSMCs dysfunction through inhibiting overexpression of connexin 43. Eur J Pharmacol 2019; 853:84-92. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2019.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Revised: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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Pogoda K, Kameritsch P. Molecular regulation of myoendothelial gap junctions. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2019; 45:16-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2019.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Revised: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Rutaecarpine: A promising cardiovascular protective alkaloid from Evodia rutaecarpa (Wu Zhu Yu). Pharmacol Res 2019; 141:541-550. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2018.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Krga I, Tamaian R, Mercier S, Boby C, Monfoulet LE, Glibetic M, Morand C, Milenkovic D. Anthocyanins and their gut metabolites attenuate monocyte adhesion and transendothelial migration through nutrigenomic mechanisms regulating endothelial cell permeability. Free Radic Biol Med 2018; 124:364-379. [PMID: 29964169 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2018.06.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cardioprotective effects of dietary anthocyanins are partly attributed to their ability to maintain endothelial function. However, the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms of action are not fully understood. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of anthocyanins and their gut metabolites, at physiologically-relevant conditions, on endothelial cell (EC) function and decipher the underlying molecular mechanisms of action using integrated omics approaches. Primary EC were treated with a mixture of 0.1 μM cyanidin-3-arabinoside, 0.1 μM cyanidin-3-galactoside, 0.1 μM cyanidin-3-glucoside, 0.1 μM delphinidin-3-glucoside, 0.1 μM peonidin-3-glucoside and 0.5 μM 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde for 3 h or a mixture of gut metabolites: 0.2 μM protocatechuic, 2 μM vanillic, 1 μM ferulic and 2 μM hippuric acids for 18 h. Also, successive exposure of EC to both mixtures was performed to mimic anthocyanin pharmacokinetics following their intake. Inflammatory stress was induced using TNFα and monocytes added to assess adhesion and transmigration. Effects of these mixtures on gene, miRNA expression and their potential interaction with cell signalling were investigated. Anthocyanins and their gut metabolites significantly reduced monocyte adhesion and transendothelial migration. Gene expression analysis, using macroarrays, showed that tested compounds modulated the expression of genes involved in cell-cell adhesion, cytoskeleton organisation or focal adhesion. Bioinformatics analyses of gene expression data identified potential transcription factors involved in the observed nutrigenomic effects and signalling proteins regulating their activity. Molecular docking revealed cell signalling proteins to which these bioactives may bind to and potentially affect their activity and the activation of downstream signalling, effects that were in agreement with the results of Western blot analyses. Microarray analysis showed that anthocyanins and their gut metabolites affected miRNA expression in EC, especially those involved in regulation of EC permeability, contributing to the observed changes in EC function. Integration of these results revealed endothelial-protective properties of anthocyanins and their gut metabolites and deciphered new underlying multi-target and multi-layered mode of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irena Krga
- Université Clermont Auvergne, INRA, UNH, CRNH Auvergne, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France; Centre of Research Excellence in Nutrition and Metabolism, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Radu Tamaian
- Research and Development Department, National Institute for Research and Development for Cryogenic and Isotopic Technologies, RO-240050 Râmnicu Vâlcea, Romania; SC Biotech Corp SRL, RO-240050 Râmnicu Vâlcea, Romania.
| | - Sylvie Mercier
- Université Clermont Auvergne, INRA, UNH, CRNH Auvergne, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Celine Boby
- Université Clermont Auvergne, INRA, VetAgro Sup, UMR Herbivores, Metabolism Exploration Platform, F-63122 Saint-Genès-Champanelle, France
| | | | - Marija Glibetic
- Centre of Research Excellence in Nutrition and Metabolism, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Christine Morand
- Université Clermont Auvergne, INRA, UNH, CRNH Auvergne, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Dragan Milenkovic
- Université Clermont Auvergne, INRA, UNH, CRNH Auvergne, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France; Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95616, United States of America.
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Molica F, Figueroa XF, Kwak BR, Isakson BE, Gibbins JM. Connexins and Pannexins in Vascular Function and Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19061663. [PMID: 29874791 PMCID: PMC6032213 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19061663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Revised: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexins (Cxs) and pannexins (Panxs) are ubiquitous membrane channel forming proteins that are critically involved in many aspects of vascular physiology and pathology. The permeation of ions and small metabolites through Panx channels, Cx hemichannels and gap junction channels confers a crucial role to these proteins in intercellular communication and in maintaining tissue homeostasis. This review provides an overview of current knowledge with respect to the pathophysiological role of these channels in large arteries, the microcirculation, veins, the lymphatic system and platelet function. The essential nature of these membrane proteins in vascular homeostasis is further emphasized by the pathologies that are linked to mutations and polymorphisms in Cx and Panx genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Molica
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Xavier F Figueroa
- Departamento de Fisiología, Faculdad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontifica Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330025, Chile.
| | - Brenda R Kwak
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Brant E Isakson
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA.
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA.
| | - Jonathan M Gibbins
- Institute for Cardiovascular & Metabolic Research, School of Biological Sciences, Harborne Building, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6AS, UK.
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Johnson RD, Camelliti P. Role of Non-Myocyte Gap Junctions and Connexin Hemichannels in Cardiovascular Health and Disease: Novel Therapeutic Targets? Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19030866. [PMID: 29543751 PMCID: PMC5877727 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19030866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2018] [Revised: 03/10/2018] [Accepted: 03/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The heart is a complex organ composed of multiple cell types, including cardiomyocytes and different non-myocyte populations, all working closely together to determine the hearts properties and maintain normal cardiac function. Connexins are abundantly expressed proteins that form plasma membrane hemichannels and gap junctions between cells. Gap junctions are intracellular channels that allow for communication between cells, and in the heart they play a crucial role in cardiac conduction by coupling adjacent cardiomyocytes. Connexins are expressed in both cardiomyocytes and non-myocytes, including cardiac fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and macrophages. Non-myocytes are the largest population of cells in the heart, and therefore it is important to consider what roles connexins, hemichannels, and gap junctions play in these cell types. The aim of this review is to provide insight into connexin-based signalling in non-myocytes during health and disease, and highlight how targeting these proteins could lead to the development of novel therapies. We conclude that connexins in non-myocytes contribute to arrhythmias and adverse ventricular remodelling following myocardial infarction, and are associated with the initiation and development of atherosclerosis. Therefore, therapeutic interventions targeting these connexins represent an exciting new research avenue with great potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert D Johnson
- School of Biosciences and Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK.
| | - Patrizia Camelliti
- School of Biosciences and Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK.
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38
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Sylvester CB, Abe JI, Patel ZS, Grande-Allen KJ. Radiation-Induced Cardiovascular Disease: Mechanisms and Importance of Linear Energy Transfer. Front Cardiovasc Med 2018; 5:5. [PMID: 29445728 PMCID: PMC5797745 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2018.00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 01/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiation therapy (RT) in the form of photons and protons is a well-established treatment for cancer. More recently, heavy charged particles have been used to treat radioresistant and high-risk cancers. Radiation treatment is known to cause cardiovascular disease (CVD) which can occur acutely during treatment or years afterward in the form of accelerated atherosclerosis. Radiation-induced cardiovascular disease (RICVD) can be a limiting factor in treatment as well as a cause of morbidity and mortality in successfully treated patients. Inflammation plays a key role in both acute and chronic RICVD, but the underling pathophysiology is complex, involving DNA damage, reactive oxygen species, and chronic inflammation. While understanding of the molecular mechanisms of RICVD has increased, the growing number of patients receiving RT warrants further research to identify individuals at risk, plans for prevention, and targets for the treatment of RICVD. Research on RICVD is also relevant to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) due to the prevalent space radiation environment encountered by astronauts. NASA's current research on RICVD can both contribute to and benefit from concurrent work with cell and animal studies informing radiotoxicities resulting from cancer therapy. This review summarizes the types of radiation currently in clinical use, models of RICVD, current knowledge of the mechanisms by which they cause CVD, and how this knowledge might apply to those exposed to various types of radiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher B Sylvester
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States.,Medical Scientist Training Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Jun-Ichi Abe
- Department of Cardiology, Division of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Zarana S Patel
- Science and Space Operations, KBRwyle, Houston, TX, United States
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Carballo S, Pfenniger A, Carballo D, Garin N, James RW, Mach F, Shah D, Kwak BR. Differential Association of Cx37 and Cx40 Genetic Variants in Atrial Fibrillation with and without Underlying Structural Heart Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E295. [PMID: 29351227 PMCID: PMC5796240 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19010295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Revised: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) appears in the presence or absence of structural heart disease. The majority of foci causing AF are located near the ostia of pulmonary veins (PVs), where cardiomyocytes and vascular smooth muscle cells interdigitate. Connexins (Cx) form gap junction channels and participate in action potential propagation. Genetic variants in genes encoding Cx40 and Cx37 affect their expression or function and may contribute to PV arrhythmogenicity. DNA was obtained from 196 patients with drug-resistant, symptomatic AF with and without structural heart disease, who were referred for percutaneous catheter ablation. Eighty-nine controls were matched for age, gender, hypertension, and BMI. Genotyping of the Cx40 -44G > A, Cx40 +71A > G, Cx40 -26A > G, and Cx37 1019C > T polymorphisms was performed. The promoter A Cx40 polymorphisms (-44G > A and +71A > G) showed no association with non-structural or structural AF. Distribution of the Cx40 promoter B polymorphism (-26A > G) was different in structural AF when compared to controls (p = 0.03). There was no significant difference with non-structural AF (p = 0.50). The distribution of the Cx37 1019C > T polymorphism was different in non-structural AF (p = 0.03) but not in structural AF (p = 0.08) when compared to controls. Our study describes for the first time an association of drug-resistant non-structural heart disease AF with the Cx37 1019C > T gene polymorphism. We also confirmed the association of the Cx40 - 26G > A polymorphism in patients with AF and structural disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Carballo
- Service of General Internal medicine, University Hospitals of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Anna Pfenniger
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - David Carballo
- Service of Cardiology, University Hospitals of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Nicolas Garin
- Service of General Internal medicine, University Hospitals of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Richard W James
- Service of Endocrinology and Diabetes, University Hospitals of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - François Mach
- Service of Cardiology, University Hospitals of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Dipen Shah
- Service of Cardiology, University Hospitals of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Brenda R Kwak
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
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40
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Guo S, Yang Y, Yang Z, You H, Shi Y, Hu Z, Meng Z, Xiao J. Improving myocardial fractional flow reserve in coronary atherosclerosis via CX37 gene silence: a preclinical validation study in pigs. Interact Cardiovasc Thorac Surg 2018; 26:139-145. [PMID: 29049831 DOI: 10.1093/icvts/ivx218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2017] [Accepted: 05/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of CX37 gene silence on myocardial fractional flow reserve (FFR). METHODS A total of 90 male pigs were randomly divided into saline, mock and 3 different doses (5, 10 and 20 µl) of CX37 viral suspension groups that could induce coronary plaque formation with high-fat diet. After performing myocardial FFR by intravascular ultrasound, different doses of CX37 viral suspension, saline and mock small interfering RNA (siRNA) were transfected into the related coronary. The FFR, the myocardial enzymes and the cardiac structures and functions of the pigs were detected at baseline, 4th, 8th and 12th week after transfection, respectively. RESULTS Repeated measures analysis of variance comparison showed that the difference in the FFR among the 5 groups was statistically significant (F = 27.0, P < 0.01). Post hoc analysis showed that FFR were highest in the siRNA CX37 group (20 µl), followed by the siRNA CX37 group (10 µl) and the siRNA CX37 group (5 µl), and lowest in the mock and saline groups. Left ventricular end-diastolic diameter was significantly smaller and ejection fraction was obviously higher in the 3 siRNA CX37 groups compared with the untreated groups. CONCLUSIONS Our study showed that FFR levels increased along with decreased doses of siRNA CX37 lentivirus, indicating that siRNA CX37 lentivirus may reduce the risk of coronary atherosclerosis and provide a potential approach to treat coronary heart disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suxia Guo
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Ying Yang
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University in Wuxi and People's Hospital of Wuxi City, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhenyu Yang
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University in Wuxi and People's Hospital of Wuxi City, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Huayan You
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University in Wuxi and People's Hospital of Wuxi City, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yunke Shi
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Zhao Hu
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Zhaohui Meng
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Jianming Xiao
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
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The Role of Gap Junction-Mediated Endothelial Cell-Cell Interaction in the Crosstalk between Inflammation and Blood Coagulation. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18112254. [PMID: 29077057 PMCID: PMC5713224 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18112254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2017] [Revised: 10/21/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Endothelial cells (ECs) play a pivotal role in the crosstalk between blood coagulation and inflammation. Endothelial cellular dysfunction underlies the development of vascular inflammatory diseases. Recent studies have revealed that aberrant gap junctions (GJs) and connexin (Cx) hemichannels participate in the progression of cardiovascular diseases such as cardiac infarction, hypertension and atherosclerosis. ECs can communicate with adjacent ECs, vascular smooth muscle cells, leukocytes and platelets via GJs and Cx channels. ECs dynamically regulate the expression of numerous Cxs, as well as GJ functionality, in the context of inflammation. Alterations to either result in various side effects across a wide range of vascular functions. Here, we review the roles of endothelial GJs and Cx channels in vascular inflammation, blood coagulation and leukocyte adhesion. In addition, we discuss the relevant molecular mechanisms that endothelial GJs and Cx channels regulate, both the endothelial functions and mechanical properties of ECs. A better understanding of these processes promises the possibility of pharmacological treatments for vascular pathogenesis.
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42
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Li L, Liu H, Xu C, Deng M, Song M, Yu X, Xu S, Zhao X. VEGF promotes endothelial progenitor cell differentiation and vascular repair through connexin 43. Stem Cell Res Ther 2017; 8:237. [PMID: 29065929 PMCID: PMC5655878 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-017-0684-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2017] [Revised: 09/27/2017] [Accepted: 09/28/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Endothelial progenitor cell (EPC) differentiation is considered crucial for vascular repair. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) induces EPC differentiation, but the underlying mechanism of this phenomenon remains unclear. Connexin 43 (Cx43) is reported to be involved in the regulation of stem cell differentiation. Therefore, we sought to determine whether Cx43 is involved in VEGF-induced EPC differentiation and vascular repair. Methods Rat spleen-derived EPCs were cultured and treated with various concentrations of VEGF (0, 10, or 50 ng/mL), and the relationship between EPC differentiation and Cx43 expression was evaluated. Thereafter, fluorescence redistribution after photobleaching was performed to assess the relationship between adjacent EPC differentiation and Cx43-induced gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC). After carotid artery injury, EPCs pretreated with VEGF were injected into the tail veins, and the effects of Cx43 on vascular repair were evaluated. Results EPCs cultured with VEGF exhibited accelerated differentiation and increased expression of Cx43. However, inhibition of Cx43 expression using short interfering RNA (siRNA) attenuated EPC GJIC and consequent EPC differentiation. VEGF-pretreated EPC transplantation promoted EPC homing and reendothelialization, and inhibited neointimal formation. These effects were attenuated by siRNA inhibition of Cx43. Conclusions Our results from in vivo and in vitro experiments indicated that VEGF promotes EPC differentiation and vascular repair through Cx43. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13287-017-0684-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lufeng Li
- Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Xinqiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, China
| | - Huanyun Liu
- Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Xinqiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, China.,Cardiovascular Department, First People's Hospital of Chong Qing Liang Jiang New Zone, Chongqing, 401120, China
| | - Chunxin Xu
- Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Xinqiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, China
| | - Mengyang Deng
- Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Xinqiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, China
| | - Mingbao Song
- Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Xinqiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, China
| | - Xuejun Yu
- Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Xinqiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, China
| | - Shangcheng Xu
- Department of Occupational Health, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Xiaohui Zhao
- Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Xinqiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, China.
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43
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Leybaert L, Lampe PD, Dhein S, Kwak BR, Ferdinandy P, Beyer EC, Laird DW, Naus CC, Green CR, Schulz R. Connexins in Cardiovascular and Neurovascular Health and Disease: Pharmacological Implications. Pharmacol Rev 2017; 69:396-478. [PMID: 28931622 PMCID: PMC5612248 DOI: 10.1124/pr.115.012062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 164] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexins are ubiquitous channel forming proteins that assemble as plasma membrane hemichannels and as intercellular gap junction channels that directly connect cells. In the heart, gap junction channels electrically connect myocytes and specialized conductive tissues to coordinate the atrial and ventricular contraction/relaxation cycles and pump function. In blood vessels, these channels facilitate long-distance endothelial cell communication, synchronize smooth muscle cell contraction, and support endothelial-smooth muscle cell communication. In the central nervous system they form cellular syncytia and coordinate neural function. Gap junction channels are normally open and hemichannels are normally closed, but pathologic conditions may restrict gap junction communication and promote hemichannel opening, thereby disturbing a delicate cellular communication balance. Until recently, most connexin-targeting agents exhibited little specificity and several off-target effects. Recent work with peptide-based approaches has demonstrated improved specificity and opened avenues for a more rational approach toward independently modulating the function of gap junctions and hemichannels. We here review the role of connexins and their channels in cardiovascular and neurovascular health and disease, focusing on crucial regulatory aspects and identification of potential targets to modify their function. We conclude that peptide-based investigations have raised several new opportunities for interfering with connexins and their channels that may soon allow preservation of gap junction communication, inhibition of hemichannel opening, and mitigation of inflammatory signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luc Leybaert
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium (L.L.); Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington (P.D.L.); Institute for Pharmacology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany (S.D.); Department of Pathology and Immunology, Department of Medical Specialization-Cardiology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland (B.R.K.); Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (P.F.); Pharmahungary Group, Szeged, Hungary (P.F.); Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois (E.C.B.); Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, Dental Science Building, London, Ontario, Canada (D.W.L.); Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (C.C.N.); Department of Ophthalmology and The New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand (C.R.G.); and Physiologisches Institut, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany (R.S.)
| | - Paul D Lampe
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium (L.L.); Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington (P.D.L.); Institute for Pharmacology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany (S.D.); Department of Pathology and Immunology, Department of Medical Specialization-Cardiology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland (B.R.K.); Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (P.F.); Pharmahungary Group, Szeged, Hungary (P.F.); Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois (E.C.B.); Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, Dental Science Building, London, Ontario, Canada (D.W.L.); Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (C.C.N.); Department of Ophthalmology and The New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand (C.R.G.); and Physiologisches Institut, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany (R.S.)
| | - Stefan Dhein
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium (L.L.); Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington (P.D.L.); Institute for Pharmacology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany (S.D.); Department of Pathology and Immunology, Department of Medical Specialization-Cardiology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland (B.R.K.); Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (P.F.); Pharmahungary Group, Szeged, Hungary (P.F.); Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois (E.C.B.); Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, Dental Science Building, London, Ontario, Canada (D.W.L.); Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (C.C.N.); Department of Ophthalmology and The New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand (C.R.G.); and Physiologisches Institut, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany (R.S.)
| | - Brenda R Kwak
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium (L.L.); Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington (P.D.L.); Institute for Pharmacology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany (S.D.); Department of Pathology and Immunology, Department of Medical Specialization-Cardiology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland (B.R.K.); Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (P.F.); Pharmahungary Group, Szeged, Hungary (P.F.); Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois (E.C.B.); Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, Dental Science Building, London, Ontario, Canada (D.W.L.); Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (C.C.N.); Department of Ophthalmology and The New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand (C.R.G.); and Physiologisches Institut, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany (R.S.)
| | - Peter Ferdinandy
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium (L.L.); Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington (P.D.L.); Institute for Pharmacology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany (S.D.); Department of Pathology and Immunology, Department of Medical Specialization-Cardiology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland (B.R.K.); Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (P.F.); Pharmahungary Group, Szeged, Hungary (P.F.); Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois (E.C.B.); Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, Dental Science Building, London, Ontario, Canada (D.W.L.); Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (C.C.N.); Department of Ophthalmology and The New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand (C.R.G.); and Physiologisches Institut, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany (R.S.)
| | - Eric C Beyer
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium (L.L.); Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington (P.D.L.); Institute for Pharmacology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany (S.D.); Department of Pathology and Immunology, Department of Medical Specialization-Cardiology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland (B.R.K.); Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (P.F.); Pharmahungary Group, Szeged, Hungary (P.F.); Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois (E.C.B.); Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, Dental Science Building, London, Ontario, Canada (D.W.L.); Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (C.C.N.); Department of Ophthalmology and The New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand (C.R.G.); and Physiologisches Institut, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany (R.S.)
| | - Dale W Laird
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium (L.L.); Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington (P.D.L.); Institute for Pharmacology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany (S.D.); Department of Pathology and Immunology, Department of Medical Specialization-Cardiology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland (B.R.K.); Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (P.F.); Pharmahungary Group, Szeged, Hungary (P.F.); Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois (E.C.B.); Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, Dental Science Building, London, Ontario, Canada (D.W.L.); Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (C.C.N.); Department of Ophthalmology and The New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand (C.R.G.); and Physiologisches Institut, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany (R.S.)
| | - Christian C Naus
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium (L.L.); Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington (P.D.L.); Institute for Pharmacology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany (S.D.); Department of Pathology and Immunology, Department of Medical Specialization-Cardiology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland (B.R.K.); Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (P.F.); Pharmahungary Group, Szeged, Hungary (P.F.); Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois (E.C.B.); Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, Dental Science Building, London, Ontario, Canada (D.W.L.); Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (C.C.N.); Department of Ophthalmology and The New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand (C.R.G.); and Physiologisches Institut, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany (R.S.)
| | - Colin R Green
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium (L.L.); Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington (P.D.L.); Institute for Pharmacology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany (S.D.); Department of Pathology and Immunology, Department of Medical Specialization-Cardiology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland (B.R.K.); Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (P.F.); Pharmahungary Group, Szeged, Hungary (P.F.); Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois (E.C.B.); Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, Dental Science Building, London, Ontario, Canada (D.W.L.); Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (C.C.N.); Department of Ophthalmology and The New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand (C.R.G.); and Physiologisches Institut, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany (R.S.)
| | - Rainer Schulz
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium (L.L.); Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington (P.D.L.); Institute for Pharmacology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany (S.D.); Department of Pathology and Immunology, Department of Medical Specialization-Cardiology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland (B.R.K.); Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (P.F.); Pharmahungary Group, Szeged, Hungary (P.F.); Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois (E.C.B.); Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, Dental Science Building, London, Ontario, Canada (D.W.L.); Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (C.C.N.); Department of Ophthalmology and The New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand (C.R.G.); and Physiologisches Institut, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany (R.S.)
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Rutaecarpine Reverses the Altered Connexin Expression Pattern Induced by Oxidized Low-density Lipoprotein in Monocytes. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2017; 67:519-25. [PMID: 26859198 DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0000000000000372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Adhesion of monocytes to the vascular endothelium is crucial in atherosclerosis development. Connexins (Cxs) which form hemichannels or gap junctions, modulate monocyte-endothelium interaction. We previously found that rutaecarpine, an active ingredient of the Chinese herbal medicine Evodia, reversed the altered Cx expression induced by oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) in human umbilical vein endothelial cells, and consequently decreases the adhesive properties of endothelial cells to monocytes. This study further investigated the effect of rutaecarpine on Cx expression in monocytes exposed to ox-LDL. In cultured human monocytic cell line THP-1, ox-LDL rapidly reduced the level of atheroprotective Cx37 but enhanced that of atherogenic Cx43, thereby inhibiting adenosine triphosphate release through hemichannels. Pretreatment with rutaecarpine recovered the expression of Cx37 but inhibited the upregulation of Cx43 induced by ox-LDL, thereby improving adenosine triphosphate-dependent hemichannel activity and preventing monocyte adhesion. These effects of rutaecarpine were attenuated by capsazepine, an antagonist of transient receptor potential vanilloid subtype 1. The antiadhesive effects of rutaecarpine were also attenuated by hemichannel blocker 18α-GA. This study provides additional evidence that rutaecarpine can modulate Cx expression through transient receptor potential vanilloid subtype 1 activation in monocytes, which contributes to the antiadhesive properties of rutaecarpine.
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Meens MJ, Kutkut I, Rochemont V, Dubrot J, Kaladji FR, Sabine A, Lyons O, Hendrikx S, Bernier-Latmani J, Kiefer F, Smith A, Hugues S, Petrova TV, Kwak BR. Cx47 fine-tunes the handling of serum lipids but is dispensable for lymphatic vascular function. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0181476. [PMID: 28732089 PMCID: PMC5521787 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0181476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 06/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the gap junction protein connexin47 (Cx47) are associated with lymphedema. However, the role of Cx47 in lymphatic pathophysiology is unknown. We demonstrate that Cx47 is expressed in lymphatic endothelial cells by whole-mount immunostaining and qPCR. To determine if Cx47 plays a role in lymphatic vessel function we analysed Cx47-/- mice. Cx47-deficiency did not affect lymphatic contractility (contractile amplitude or frequency) or lymphatic morphology (vessel diameter or number of valves). Interstitial fluid drainage or dendritic cell migration through lymphatic vessels was also not affected by Cx47-deficiency. Cx47 is dispensable for long-chain fatty acid absorption from the gut but rather promotes serum lipid handling as prolonged elevated triglyceride levels were observed in Cx47-deficient mice after oral lipid tolerance tests. When crossed with Apolipoprotein E-deficient (Apoe-/-) mice, LDL-cholesterol was decreased in young Cx47-/-Apoe-/- adults as compared to Apoe-/- mice, which was inverted later in life. Finally, advanced atherosclerotic plaques in thoracic-abdominal aortas of 15 months-old mice tended to be larger in Cx47-/-Apoe-/- mice. These plaques contained fewer macrophages but similar amounts of T lymphocytes, collagen and lipids than plaques of Apoe-/- mice. In conclusion, Cx47 is expressed in lymphatic endothelium and seems modestly implicated in multiple aspects of lymphatic pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merlijn J. Meens
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- * E-mail:
| | - Issa Kutkut
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Viviane Rochemont
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Juan Dubrot
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Fouad R. Kaladji
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Amélie Sabine
- Department of Fundamental Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Oliver Lyons
- Academic Department of Vascular Surgery, Cardiovascular Division, King's College London, BHF Centre of Research Excellence & NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at King's Health Partners, St Thomas' Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Stefanie Hendrikx
- Department of Fundamental Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jeremiah Bernier-Latmani
- Department of Fundamental Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Friedemann Kiefer
- Mammalian Cell Signalling Laboratory, Department of Vascular Cell Biology, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
| | - Alberto Smith
- Academic Department of Vascular Surgery, Cardiovascular Division, King's College London, BHF Centre of Research Excellence & NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at King's Health Partners, St Thomas' Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Stéphanie Hugues
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Tatiana V. Petrova
- Department of Fundamental Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, School of Life Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Brenda R. Kwak
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Medical Specialties – Cardiology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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Mourino-Alvarez L, Baldan-Martin M, Rincon R, Martin-Rojas T, Corbacho-Alonso N, Sastre-Oliva T, Barderas MG. Recent advances and clinical insights into the use of proteomics in the study of atherosclerosis. Expert Rev Proteomics 2017; 14:701-713. [PMID: 28689450 DOI: 10.1080/14789450.2017.1353912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The application of new proteomics methods may help to identify new diagnostic/predictive molecular markers in an attempt to improve the clinical management of atherosclerosis. Areas covered: Technological advances in proteomics have enhanced its sensitivity and multiplexing capacity, as well as the possibility of studying protein interactions and tissue structure. These advances will help us better understand the molecular mechanisms at play in atherosclerosis as a biological system. Moreover, this should help identify new predictive/diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets that may facilitate effective risk stratification and early diagnosis, with the ensuing rapid implementation of treatment. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the novel methods in proteomics, including state-of-the-art techniques, novel biological samples and applications for the study of atherosclerosis. Expert commentary: Collaboration between clinicians and researchers is crucial to further validate and introduce new molecular markers to manage atherosclerosis that are identified using the most up to date proteomic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Mourino-Alvarez
- a Department of Vascular Physiopathology , Hospital Nacional de Paraplejicos , Toledo , Spain
| | | | - Raul Rincon
- a Department of Vascular Physiopathology , Hospital Nacional de Paraplejicos , Toledo , Spain
| | - Tatiana Martin-Rojas
- a Department of Vascular Physiopathology , Hospital Nacional de Paraplejicos , Toledo , Spain
| | - Nerea Corbacho-Alonso
- a Department of Vascular Physiopathology , Hospital Nacional de Paraplejicos , Toledo , Spain
| | - Tamara Sastre-Oliva
- a Department of Vascular Physiopathology , Hospital Nacional de Paraplejicos , Toledo , Spain
| | - Maria G Barderas
- a Department of Vascular Physiopathology , Hospital Nacional de Paraplejicos , Toledo , Spain
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Piwowarczyk K, Paw M, Ryszawy D, Rutkowska-Zapała M, Madeja Z, Siedlar M, Czyż J. Connexin43 high prostate cancer cells induce endothelial connexin43 up-regulation through the activation of intercellular ERK1/2-dependent signaling axis. Eur J Cell Biol 2017; 96:337-346. [PMID: 28396058 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2017.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2016] [Revised: 03/24/2017] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Connexin(Cx)43 regulates the invasive potential of prostate cancer cells and participates in their extravasation. To address the role of endothelial Cx43 in this process, we analyzed Cx43 regulation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells in the proximity of Cx43high (DU-145 and MAT-LyLu) and Cx43low prostate cancer cells (PC-3 and AT-2). Endothelial Cx43 up-regulation was observed during the diapedesis of DU-145 and MAT-LyLu cells. This process was attenuated by transient Cx43 silencing in cancer cells and by chemical inhibition of ERK1/2-dependent signaling in endothelial cells. Cx43 expression in endothelial cells was insensitive to the inhibition of gap junctional intercellular coupling between Cx43high prostate cancer and endothelial cells by 18α-glycyrrhetinic acid. Instead, endothelial Cx43 up-regulation was correlated with the local contraction of endothelial cells and with their activation in the proximity of Cx43high DU-145 and MAT-LyLu cells. It was also sensitive to pro-inflammatory factors secreted by peripheral blood monocytes, such as TNFα. In contrast to Cx43low AT-2 cells, Cx43low PC-3 cells produced angioactive factors that locally activated the endothelial cells in the absence of endothelial Cx43 up-regulation. Collectively, these data show that Cx43low and Cx43high prostate cancer cells can adapt discrete, Cx43-independent and Cx43-dependent strategies of diapedesis. Our observations identify a novel strategy of prostate cancer cell diapedesis, which depends on the activation of intercellular Cx43/ERK1/2/Cx43 signaling axis at the interfaces between Cx43high prostate cancer and endothelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Piwowarczyk
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Milena Paw
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Damian Ryszawy
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Magdalena Rutkowska-Zapała
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Institute of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Zbigniew Madeja
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Maciej Siedlar
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Institute of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Jarosław Czyż
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland.
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Xu D, Liu T, Lin L, Li S, Hang X, Sun Y. Exposure to endosulfan increases endothelial permeability by transcellular and paracellular pathways in relation to cardiovascular diseases. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2017; 223:111-119. [PMID: 28108160 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2016.12.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2016] [Revised: 11/19/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to environmental pollutants results in out-of-balance of vascular homeostasis. Endothelial dysfunction leads to a disruption of the endothelial permeability characteristics, associated with cardiovascular diseases. We previously reported that endosulfan could cause endothelial dysfunction, but the role of endosulfan in permeability of endothelial cells has been unexplored. To elucidate molecular mechanism of endosulfan-induced changes in endothelial permeability, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were exposed to endosulfan, followed by endothelial permeability analysis. The results showed that permeability of HUVECs was enhanced at 48 h after exposure to endosulfan in a dose-dependent manner. Immunofluorescence analysis demonstrated the disruptions of actin cytoskeleton and focal adhesion in endosulfan-exposed cells. Endosulfan activated MMP3/LAMC1/FAK signaling pathway, and downregulated ROCK and PXN in transcellular pathway. Endosulfan affected adherens junctions via E-cadherin and β-catenin, and impaired gap junctions through downregulation of Cx43 in paracellular pathway. We predicted four closely related human cardiovascular diseases in Nextbio, including shock, coronary arteriosclerosis, disorder of cardiac function and hypertensive disorder in relation to endosulfan exposure. Some genes such as ROCK2 and PXN were predicted to be key genes in these diseases. These findings suggest that endosulfan increased endothelial permeability by paracellular and transcellular pathways, implicating the potential correlation between endosulfan and cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Xu
- Institute of Environmental Systems Biology, Dalian Maritime University, Linghai Road 1, Dalian, 116026, PR China.
| | - Tong Liu
- Institute of Environmental Systems Biology, Dalian Maritime University, Linghai Road 1, Dalian, 116026, PR China.
| | - Limei Lin
- Institute of Environmental Systems Biology, Dalian Maritime University, Linghai Road 1, Dalian, 116026, PR China.
| | - Shuai Li
- Institute of Environmental Systems Biology, Dalian Maritime University, Linghai Road 1, Dalian, 116026, PR China.
| | - Xiaoming Hang
- Institute of Environmental Systems Biology, Dalian Maritime University, Linghai Road 1, Dalian, 116026, PR China.
| | - Yeqing Sun
- Institute of Environmental Systems Biology, Dalian Maritime University, Linghai Road 1, Dalian, 116026, PR China.
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Li H, Xiang Y, Fan LJ, Zhang XY, Li JP, Yu CX, Bao LY, Cao DS, Xing WB, Liao XH, Zhang TC. Myocardin inhibited the gap protein connexin 43 via promoted miR-206 to regulate vascular smooth muscle cell phenotypic switch. Gene 2017; 616:22-30. [PMID: 28342807 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2017.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2016] [Revised: 03/17/2017] [Accepted: 03/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Myocardin is regarded as a key mediator for the change of smooth muscle phenotype. The gap junction protein connexin 43 (Cx43) has been shown to be involved in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) proliferation and the development of atherosclerosis. However, the role of myocardin on gap junction of cell communication and the relation between myocardin and Cx43 in VSMC phenotypic switch has not been investigated. The goal of the present study is to investigate the molecular mechanism by which myocardin affects Cx43-regulated VSMC proliferation. Data presented in this study demonstrated that inhibition of the Cx43 activation process impaired VSMC proliferation. On the other hand, overexpression miR-206 inhibited VSMC proliferation. In additon, miR-206 silences the expression of Cx43 via targeting Cx43 3' Untranslated Regions. Importantly, myocardin can significantly promote the expression of miR-206. Cx43 regulates VSMCs' proliferation and metastasis through miR-206, which could be promoted by myocardin and used as a marker for diagnosis and a target for therapeutic intervention. Thus myocardin affected the gap junction by inhibited Cx43 and myocardin-miR-206-Cx43 formed a loop to regulate VSMC phenotypic switch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Li
- Institute of Biology and Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, 430000, PR China
| | - Yuan Xiang
- Institute of Biology and Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, 430000, PR China
| | - Li-Juan Fan
- Institute of Biology and Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, 430000, PR China
| | - Xiao-Yu Zhang
- Institute of Biology and Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, 430000, PR China
| | - Jia-Peng Li
- Institute of Biology and Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, 430000, PR China
| | - Cheng-Xi Yu
- Institute of Biology and Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, 430000, PR China
| | - Le-Yuan Bao
- Institute of Biology and Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, 430000, PR China
| | - Dong-Sun Cao
- Institute of Biology and Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, 430000, PR China
| | - Wei-Bing Xing
- Institute of Biology and Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, 430000, PR China
| | - Xing-Hua Liao
- Institute of Biology and Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, 430000, PR China; Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology, Ministry of Education and Tianjin, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, 300457, PR China.
| | - Tong-Cun Zhang
- Institute of Biology and Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, 430000, PR China; Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology, Ministry of Education and Tianjin, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, 300457, PR China.
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50
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Tang M, Fang J. TNF‑α regulates apoptosis of human vascular smooth muscle cells through gap junctions. Mol Med Rep 2017; 15:1407-1411. [PMID: 28075455 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.6106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2015] [Accepted: 11/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory cytokines are released by immune cells and are able to induce vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) to undergo apoptosis, causing atherosclerotic plaque rupture. Changes in the expression levels of connexins (Cxs) have been demonstrated in VSMCs to be involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerotic progression. The present study examined the effect of tumor necrosis factor‑α (TNF‑α) on Cx43 expression levels and apoptosis in human VSMCs. Overexpression of Cx43 plasmids notably stimulated VSMC proliferation. TNF‑α directly inhibited Cx43 expression levels in a dose‑ and time‑dependent manner in VSMCs, however this was blocked by c‑Jun N‑terminal kinase inhibitor. TNF‑α also increased caspase‑3 activity and apoptosis of VSMCs through the inhibition of Cx43. These data suggested that TNF‑α induced the apoptosis of VMSCs and prompted the destabilization of atherosclerotic plaques by downregulating Cx43.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Tang
- Infusion Preparation Center of Pharmacy Department, Xianning Central Hospital & The First Clinical Hospital of Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, Hubei 437100, P.R. China
| | - Jun Fang
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Xianning Central Hospital & The First Clinical Hospital of Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, Hubei 437100, P.R. China
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