Matrix metalloproteinases and their inhibitors in vascular remodeling and vascular disease

Serum neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin and cystatin C is associated with blood pressure in ex-preterm children and adolescents

BACKGROUND

As preterm birth is a risk factor for hypertension (HTN), biomarkers for early prediction of HTN in childhood is an emerging need. The aims of the study were to evaluate serum biomarkers in ex-preterm children and examine for associations with office peripheral and central SBP (cSBP), ambulatory BP parameters and pulse wave velocity (PWV).

METHODS

This case-control study included children and adolescents born prematurely (ex-preterms) and at full term (controls). All participants underwent office and ambulatory BP monitoring, assessment of cSBP, PWV and serum biomarkers at the same visit. Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), matrix metalloproteinase-2, metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-2, MMP-9) and Cystatin C (CysC) were measured using ELISA.

RESULTS

The study population included 52 ex-preterm individuals and 26 controls. Mean age was 10.7 ± 3.6 years. NGAL, MMP-2, MMP-9, and CysC levels were similar between the ex-preterm and the control group. In the ex-preterm group, NGAL is associated with office SBP z score ( β  = 1.007, 95% CI 1.001-0.014, P  = 0.049), CysC with office DBP z score ( β  = 1.003, 95% CI 1.001-0.005, P  = 0.018) and cSBP z score ( β  = 1.003, 95% CI 1.001-0.005, P  = 0.006) independently of age, sex and BMI z score. Among ex-preterm children and adolescents 17% had ambulatory HTN and 31% had white-coat HTN. NGAL levels were higher in ex-preterm children with WCH compared with children with normal BP [57.9 (IQR 50.8) versus 34.6 (IQR 46.2)], P  = 0.018].

CONCLUSION

WCH is common in ex-preterm children and adolescents and is associated with higher NGAL levels and CysC presents positive association with cSBP. The findings in this study provides preliminary evidence that NGAL and CysC may have a role in predicting the risk of developing hypertension later in life. Further studies are warranted.

Rats Exposed to Excess Sucrose During a Critical Period Develop Inflammation and Express a Secretory Phenotype of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells

BACKGROUND

Neonatal rats that receive sucrose during a critical postnatal period (CP, days 12 to 28) develop hypertension by the time they reach adulthood. Inflammation might contribute to changes during this period and could be associated with variations in the vascular smooth muscle (VSMC) phenotype.

OBJECTIVE

We studied changes in inflammatory pathways that could underlie the expression of the secretory phenotype in the VSMC in the thoracic aorta of rats that received sucrose during CP.

METHODS

We analyzed histological changes in the aorta and the expression of the COX-2, TLR4, iNOS, eNOS, MMP-2 and -9, and β- and α-actin, the quantities of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β using ELISA, and the levels of fatty acids using gas chromatography.

RESULTS

The aortic wall presented disorganization, decellularization, and wavy elastic fibers and an increase in the lumen area. The α- and β-actin expressions were decreased, while COX-2, TLR4, TNF-α, and the activity of IL-6 were increased. Oleic acid was increased in CP in comparison to the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

There is transient hypertension at the end of the CP that is accompanied by inflammation and a change in the phenotype of VSMC to the secretory phenotype. The inflammatory changes could act as epigenetic signals to determine the development of hypertension when animals reach adulthood.

[Effects of propranolol on the biological behavior of human umbilical vein endothelial cells and the expression of SOX18, MMP-7, and VEGFA]

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the effects of propranolol on the proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and tube formation ability of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC), as well as its impact on the expression of sex-determining region Y-box 18 (SOX18), matrix metalloproteinase-7 (MMP-7), and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA).

METHODS

HUVEC were treated with different concentrations of propranolol, and cell viability was assessed using the CCK-8 method to determine the optimal concentration and treatment duration. The experiment consisted of a control group and groups treated with different concentrations of propranolol (50, 100, 150 μmol/L). Apoptosis, migration, and tube formation of HUVEC were observed using flow cytometry, wound healing assays, and tube formation assays. Western blot and real-time quantitative PCR were used to detect the expression levels of SOX18, MMP-7, and VEGFA proteins and mRNA.

RESULTS

Compared to the control group, the apoptosis rate in the propranolol treatment groups increased significantly (P<0.05), and it rose significantly with increasing drug concentration (P<0.05). The wound healing rate decreased in the propranolol treatment groups, and both the number of tube formation nodes and total tube length were reduced (P<0.05). The expression levels of SOX18, MMP-7, and VEGFA proteins and mRNA were downregulated in the propranolol treatment groups (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Propranolol can inhibit the proliferation, migration, and tube formation ability of HUVEC and promote cell apoptosis, resulting in decreased expression levels of SOX18, MMP-7, and VEGFA.

Engineered TIMP2 with narrow MMP-9 specificity is an effective inhibitor of invasion and proliferation of triple negative breast cancer cells

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of endopeptidases that degrade extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, functioning in various physiological processes such as tissue remodeling, embryogenesis, and morphogenesis. Dysregulation of these enzymes is linked to multiple diseases. Specific inhibition of particular MMPs is crucial for anti-MMP drug development as some MMPs have shown anti-disease properties. In this study, we aimed to design a highly specific inhibitor of MMP-9, that plays a crucial role in cell invasion and metastasis, using tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 2 (TIMP2), an endogenous broad-family MMP inhibitor, as a prototype. In our earlier work, we were able to narrow down the specificity of the N-terminal domain of TIMP2 (N-TIMP2) toward MMP-9, yet at the expense of lowering its affinity to MMP-9. In this study, a library of N-TIMP2 mutants based on previous design with randomized additional positions was sorted for binding to MMP-9 using yeast surface display. Two selected N-TIMP2 mutants were expressed, purified and their inhibitory activity against a panel of MMPs was measured. The best engineered N-TIMP2 mutant (REY) exhibited a 2-fold higher affinity to MMP-9 compared to that of the WT N-TIMP2, and 6- to 1.1x104-fold increase in binding specificity toward MMP-9 compared to five alternative MMPs. Moreover, REY demonstrated a significant increase in inhibition of cell invasion and proliferation compared to the WT N-TIMP2 in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Therefore, our engineered N-TIMP2 mutant emerges as a promising candidate for future therapeutic development, offering precise targeting of MMP-9 in MMP-9-driven diseases.

Increased uterine arterial tone, stiffness and remodeling with augmented matrix metalloproteinase-1 and -7 in uteroplacental ischemia-induced hypertensive pregnancy

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-related disorder manifested as hypertensive pregnancy (HTN-Preg) and often fetal growth restriction (FGR), but the mechanisms involved are unclear. We have reported enhanced reactivity of systemic vessels in HTN-Preg rats, but the critical changes in the uterine circulation are less clear. We tested whether HTN-Preg involves localized aberrations in uterine arterial tone, stiffness and remodeling by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Blood pressure (BP) and litter size were recorded in normal pregnant (Preg) rats and Preg rats with reduced uteroplacental perfusion pressure (RUPP). Isolated uterine arteries were placed in a pressure myograph for measuring intrinsic and extrinsic tone and arterial stiffness. Arteries were bathed in normal Krebs solution (2.5 mM Ca2+), Ca2+-free (2 mM EGTA) Krebs, treated with sodium nitroprusside (SNP), or endothelium denuded, then pressurized at 10 mmHg steps from 10 to 110 mmHg, and the % change in diameter was analyzed to measure total (active + passive), active Ca2+-dependent myogenic, passive, and endothelium-dependent tone, respectively. BP was higher and the litter size and pup weight were reduced in RUPP vs Preg rats. In normal Krebs, increasing intraluminal pressure caused smaller increments in diameter in arteries of RUPP vs Preg rats, suggesting greater total vascular tone. Arterial incubation in Ca2+-free Krebs, treatment with SNP or endothelium-removal abolished the differences in vascular tone, and subtraction of each of these components from total vascular tone revealed significant active Ca2+-dependent myogenic, passive, and endothelium-dependent tone, respectively, in RUPP vs Preg rats. The total and passive strain-stress curves were shifted leftward in arteries of RUPP vs Preg rats, indicating increased uterine arterial stiffness. Arterial sections showed decreased lumen/total and increased wall/total area, and immunohistochemistry revealed greater MMP-1 and MMP-7 staining particularly in the media, suggesting uterine arterial remodeling by MMPs in RUPP vs Preg rats. The increased uterine arterial active myogenic, passive, and endothelium-dependent tone, arterial stiffness and remodeling by MMPs would further reduce uterine blood flow and exacerbate uteroplacental ischemia, FGR and HTN-Preg.

Bioassay-guided isolation of anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive metabolites among three Moroccan Juniperus leaves extract supported with in vitro enzyme inhibitory assays

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Herbs of the genus Juniperus (family Cupressaceae) have been commonly used in ancestral folk medicine known as "Al'Araar" for treatment of rheumatism, diabetes, inflammation, pain, and fever. Bioassay-guided isolation of bioactives from medicinal plants is recognized as a potential approach for the discovery of novel drug candidates. In particular, non-addictive painkillers are of special interest among herbal phytochemicals.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The current study aimed to assess the safety of J. thurifera, J. phoenicea, and J. oxycedrus aqueous extracts in oral treatments; validating the traditionally reported anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Further phytochemical investigations, especially for the most bioactive species, may lead to isolation of bioactive metabolites responsible for such bioactivities supported with in vitro enzyme inhibition assays.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Firstly, the acute toxicity study was investigated following the OECD Guidelines. Then, the antinociceptive, and anti-inflammatory bioactivities were evaluated based on chemical and mechanical trauma assays and investigated their underlying mechanisms. The most active J. thurifera n-butanol fraction was subjected to chromatographic studies for isolating the major anti-inflammatory metabolites. Moreover, several enzymatic inhibition assays (e.g., 5-lipoxygenase, protease, elastase, collagenase, and tyrosinase) were assessed for the crude extracts and isolated compounds.

RESULTS

The results showed that acute oral administration of the extracts (300-500 mg/kg, p. o.) inhibited both mechanically and chemically triggered inflammatory edema in mice (up to 70% in case of J. thurifera) with a dose-dependent antinociceptive (tail flick) and anti-inflammatory pain (formalin assay) activities. This effect was partially mediated by naloxone inhibition of the opioid receptor (2 mg/kg, i. p.). In addition, 3-methoxy gallic acid (1), quercetin (2), kaempferol (3), and ellagic acid (4) were successfully identified being involved most likely in J. thurifera extract bioactivities. Nevertheless, quercetin was found to be the most potent against 5-LOX, tyrosinase, and protease with IC50 of 1.52 ± 0.01, 192.90 ± 6.20, and 399 ± 9.05 μM, respectively.

CONCLUSION

J. thurifera extract with its major metabolites are prospective drug candidates for inflammatory pain supported with inhibition of inflammatory enzymes. Interestingly, antagonism of opioid and non-opioid receptors is potentially involved.

Glycomics of cervicovaginal fluid from women at risk of preterm birth reveals immuno-regulatory epitopes that are hallmarks of cancer and viral glycosylation

During pregnancy the immune system needs to maintain immune tolerance of the foetus while also responding to infection, which can cause premature activation of the inflammatory pathways leading to the onset of labour and preterm birth. The vaginal microbiome is an important modifier of preterm birth risk, with Lactobacillus dominance during pregnancy associated with term delivery while high microbial diversity is associated with an increased risk of preterm birth. Glycans on glycoproteins along the lower female reproductive tract are fundamental to microbiota-host interactions and the mediation of inflammatory responses. However, the specific glycan epitopes involved in these processes are not well understood. To address this, we conducted glycomic analyses of cervicovaginal fluid (CVF) from 36 pregnant women at high risk of preterm birth and 4 non-pregnant women. Our analysis of N- and O-glycans revealed a rich CVF glycome. While O-glycans were shown to be the main carriers of ABO blood group epitopes, the main features of N-glycans were the presence of abundant paucimannose and high mannose glycans, and a remarkable diversity of complex bi-, tri-, and tetra-antennary glycans decorated with fucose and sialic acid. We identified immuno-regulatory epitopes, such as Lewis antigens, and found that fucosylation was negatively correlated to pro-inflammatory factors, such as IL-1β, MMP-8, C3a and C5a, while glycans with only sialylated antennae were mainly positively correlated to those. Similarly, paucimannose glycans showed a positive correlation to pro-inflammatory factors. We revealed a high abundance of glycans which have previously been identified as hallmarks of cancer and viral glycosylation, such as Man8 and Man9 high mannose glycans. Although each pregnant woman had a unique glycomic profile, longitudinal studies showed that the main glycosylation features were consistent throughout pregnancy in women who delivered at term, whereas women who experienced extreme preterm birth exhibited sharp changes in the CVF glycome shortly before delivery. These findings shed light on the processes underlying the role of glycosylation in maintaining a healthy vaginal microbiome and associated host immune responses. In addition, these discoveries facilitate our understanding of the lower female reproductive tract which has broad implications for women's health.

Blood-brain barrier injury and neuroinflammation induced by SARS-CoV-2 in a lung-brain microphysiological system

In some patients, COVID-19 can trigger neurological symptoms with unclear pathogenesis. Here we describe a microphysiological system integrating alveolus and blood-brain barrier (BBB) tissue chips that recapitulates neuropathogenesis associated with infection by SARS-CoV-2. Direct exposure of the BBB chip to SARS-CoV-2 caused mild changes to the BBB, and infusion of medium from the infected alveolus chip led to more severe injuries on the BBB chip, including endothelial dysfunction, pericyte detachment and neuroinflammation. Transcriptomic analyses indicated downregulated expression of the actin cytoskeleton in brain endothelium and upregulated expression of inflammatory genes in glial cells. We also observed early cerebral microvascular damage following lung infection with a low viral load in the brains of transgenic mice expressing human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2. Our findings suggest that systemic inflammation is probably contributing to neuropathogenesis following SARS-CoV-2 infection, and that direct viral neural invasion might not be a prerequisite for this neuropathogenesis. Lung-brain microphysiological systems should aid the further understanding of the systemic effects and neurological complications of viral infection.

The role of matrix metalloproteinase-9 in cardiac remodeling and dysfunction and as a possible blood biomarker in heart failure

Heart failure (HF) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in cardiovascular diseases, being responsible for many hospitalizations annually. HF is considered a public health problem with significant economic and social impact, which makes searches essential for strategies that improve the ability to predict and diagnose HF. In this way, biomarkers can help in risk stratification for a more personalized approach to patients with HF. Preclinical and clinical evidence shows the participation of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) in the HF process. In this review, we will demonstrate the critical role that MMP-9 plays in cardiac remodeling and dysfunction. We will also show its importance as a blood biomarker in acute and chronic HF patients.

Current trends in the management of corneal neovascularization

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The aim of this study was to highlight recent developments in the medical and surgical management of corneal neovascularization (NV).

RECENT FINDINGS

Improved understanding and diagnostic criteria among clinicians have led to advancements in the characterization of corneal NV and objective assessment of treatment response through ancillary imaging devices. Developments in corneal NV treatments, such as antivascular endothelial growth factor, fine needle diathermy, and photodynamic therapy, have improved treatment success rates and visual outcomes. More recent surgical treatment advancements include corneal cross-linking, endothelial keratoplasty, and mitomycin intravascular chemoembolization. Finally, a greater appreciation of the molecular pathogenesis and angiogenic factors involved in corneal NV has identified numerous potential targeted therapies in the future.

SUMMARY

The management of corneal NV has evolved to include several standalone and combination medical and surgical options. Additionally, improvements in quantifying corneal NV and understanding its molecular basis have contributed to new management strategies with improved outcomes.

Arteriolar degeneration and stiffness in cerebral amyloid angiopathy are linked to β-amyloid deposition and lysyl oxidase

Cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) is a vasculopathy characterized by vascular β-amyloid (Aβ) deposition on cerebral blood vessels. CAA is closely linked to Alzheimer's disease (AD) and intracerebral hemorrhage. CAA is associated with the loss of autoregulation in the brain, vascular rupture, and cognitive decline. To assess morphological and molecular changes associated with the degeneration of penetrating arterioles in CAA, we analyzed post-mortem human brain tissue from 26 patients with mild, moderate, and severe CAA end neurological controls. The tissue was optically cleared for three-dimensional light sheet microscopy, and morphological features were quantified using surface volume rendering. We stained Aβ, vascular smooth muscle (VSM), lysyl oxidase (LOX), and vascular markers to visualize the relationship between degenerative morphological features, including vascular dilation, dolichoectasia (variability in lumenal diameter) and tortuosity, and the volumes of VSM, Aβ, and LOX in arterioles. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used to assess arteriolar wall stiffness, and we identified a pattern of morphological features associated with degenerating arterioles in the cortex. The volume of VSM associated with the arteriole was reduced by around 80% in arterioles with severe CAA and around 60% in cases with mild/moderate CAA. This loss of VSM correlated with increased arteriolar diameter and variability of diameter, suggesting VSM loss contributes to arteriolar laxity. These vascular morphological features correlated strongly with Aβ deposits. At sites of microhemorrhage, Aβ was consistently present, although the morphology of the deposits changed from the typical organized ring shape to sharply contoured shards with marked dilation of the vessel. AFM showed that arteriolar walls with CAA were more than 400% stiffer than those without CAA. Finally, we characterized the association of vascular degeneration with LOX, finding strong associations with VSM loss and vascular degeneration. These results show an association between vascular Aβ deposition, microvascular degeneration, and increased vascular stiffness, likely due to the combined effects of replacement of VSM by β-amyloid, cross-linking of extracellular matrices (ECM) by LOX, and possibly fibrosis. This advanced microscopic imaging study clarifies the association between Aβ deposition and vascular fragility. Restoration of physiologic ECM properties in penetrating arteries may yield a novel therapeutic strategy for CAA.

Co-delivery of Cas9 mRNA and guide RNAs for editing of LGMN gene represses breast cancer cell metastasis

Legumain (or asparagine endopeptidase/AEP) is a lysosomal cysteine endopeptidase associated with increased invasive and migratory behavior in a variety of cancers. In this study, co-delivery of Cas9 mRNA and guide RNA (gRNA) by lipid nanoparticles (LNP) for editing of LGMN gene was performed. For in-vitro transcription (IVT) of gRNA, two templates were designed: linearized pUC57-T7-gRNA and T7-gRNA oligos, and the effectiveness of gRNA was verified in multiple ways. Cas9 plasmid was modified and optimized for IVT of Cas9 mRNA. The effects of LGMN gene editing on lysosomal/autophagic function and cancer cell metastasis were investigated. Co-delivery of Cas9 mRNA and gRNA resulted in impaired lysosomal/autophagic degradation, clone formation, migration, and invasion capacity of cancer cells in-vitro. Experimental lung metastasis experiment indicates co-delivery of Cas9 mRNA and gRNA by LNP reduced the migration and invasion capacity of cancer cells in-vivo. These results indicate that co-delivery of Cas9 mRNA and gRNA can enhance the efficiency of CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene editing in-vitro and in-vivo, and suggest that Cas9 mRNA and gRNA gene editing of LGMN may be a potential treatment for breast tumor metastasis.

Development strategy of novel drug formulations for the delivery of doxycycline in the treatment of wounds of various etiologies

Doxycycline hyclate (DOXH) is a broad-spectrum antibiotic derived synthetically from tetracycline. Despite its use in clinical practice for more than 40 years, DOXH remains an effective antibiotic with retained activity. The potential advantages of DOXH for wound healing therapy include its mechanisms of action, such as anti-inflammatory effects, antioxidant properties, modulation of cellular processes, stimulation of collagen synthesis, and antimicrobial activity. As current standards of care aim to improve wound healing by promoting rapid closure, a relevant direction is the development of novel DOXH formulations for parenteral delivery that enhance both skin regeneration and control of infectious conditions. Oral delivery is the most common and commercially available route for administering DOXH therapeutic agents. However, parenteral delivery of DOXH, where the antibiotic substance is not in a solid state (as in powdered or compressed solid form) but rather dissolved in any carrier, presents challenges regarding DOX solubility and the stability of DOXH solutions, which are major factors complicating the development of new formulations for parenteral administration. This review discusses the achievements in research strategies and the development of new pharmaceutical formulations for the delivery of doxycycline in the treatment of wounds of various etiologies.

Vascular calcification inhibitors and cardiovascular events in peritoneal dialysis patients

The prevalence of cardiovascular diseases is high among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients, which increases morbidity and mortality in this population and represents a significant financial burden for both the patients and the healthcare systems. Vascular calcification (VC) is associated with increased morbidity and mortality and VC risk is higher in patients with CKD than in healthy individuals. Calcification inhibitors, compounds that inhibit VC, were discovered as a result of efforts to explain why some patients are spared. It was found that certain proteins (e.g., fetuin-A, osteopontin, osteoprotegerin, bone morphogenetic protein-7) inhibit calcification in dialysis patients. In this narrative review, we provide an overview of known calcification inhibitors, describe the relevant regulatory mechanisms, and discuss their relation to VC development in PD patients.

Role of non-coding RNAs and exosomal non-coding RNAs in vasculitis: A narrative review

A category of very uncommon systemic inflammatory blood vessel illnesses known as vasculitides. The pathogenesis and etiology of vasculitis are still poorly known. Despite all of the progress made in understanding the genetics and causes behind vasculitis, there is still more to learn. Epigenetic dysregulation is a significant contributor to immune-mediated illnesses, and epigenetic aberrancies in vasculitis are becoming more widely acknowledged. Less than 2 % of the genome contains protein-encoding DNA. Studies have shown that a variety of RNAs originating from the non-coding genome exist. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs) have attracted the most attention in recent years as they are becoming more and more important regulators of different biological processes, such as diseases of the veins. Extracellular vehicles (EVs) such as exosomes, are membrane-bound vesicular structures that break free either during programmed cell death, such as apoptosis, pyroptosis, and necroptosis or during cell activation. Exosomes may be involved in harmful ways in inflammation, procoagulation, autoimmune reactions, endothelial dysfunction/damage, intimal hyperplasia and angiogenesis, all of which may be significant in vasculitis. Herein, we summarized various non-coding RNAs that are involved in vasculitides pathogenesis. Moreover, we highlighted the role of exosomes in vasculitides.

Exosomes from preconditioned mesenchymal stem cells: Tissue repair and regeneration

As a prominent research area in tissue repair and regeneration, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have garnered substantial attention for their potential in the treatment of various diseases. It is now widely recognized that the therapeutic effects of MSCs primarily occur through paracrine mechanisms. Among these mechanisms, exosomes play a crucial role by exerting a series of regulatory effects on surrounding cells and tissues. While exosomes have shown promise in treating various diseases, they do have some limitations, such as limited secretion, poor targeting, and single functionality. However, MSC preconditioning can enhance the production of exosomes, lead to more stable functionality and improve therapeutic effects. Moreover, exosomes could also serve as carriers for specific drugs or genes, enabling more precise treatments of diseases. This review summarizes the most recent literatures on how preconditioning of MSCs influences the regenerative potential of their exosomes in tissue repair and provides new insights into the therapeutic application of exosomes derived from MSCs.

Physical and social environmental enrichment alleviate ferroptosis and inflammation with inhibition of TLR4/MyD88/p38MAPK pathway in chronic cerebral hypoperfusion rats

A typical enriched environment (EE), which combines physical activity and social interaction, has been proven to mitigate cognitive impairment caused by chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH). However, it remains unclear how the different components of EE promote cognitive recovery after CCH. This study stripped out the different components of EE into physical environmental enrichment (PE) and social environmental enrichment (SE), and compared the neuroprotective effects of PE, SE and typical EE (PSE) in CCH. The results of novel object recognition and Morris water maze tests showed that PE, SE, and PSE improved cognitive function in CCH rats. Additionally, Nissl and TUNEL staining revealed that three EEs reduced neuronal loss in the hippocampus. PSE exhibited superior neuroprotective and functional improvement effects compared to PE and SE, while there was no significant difference between PE and SE. Furthermore, three EEs reduced lipid peroxidation in the hippocampus with decreasing the levels of MDA and increasing the activities of SOD and GSH. The expression of SLC7A11 and GPX4 was increased, while the level of p53 was reduced in three EEs. This suggested that three EEs inhibited ferroptosis by maintaining the redox homeostasis in the hippocampus. Three EEs reduced the levels of IL-β, TNF-α, and IL-6, thereby inhibiting neuroinflammation. Additionally, Western blotting and immunofluorescence results indicated that three EEs also inhibited the TLR4/MyD88/p38MAPK signaling pathway. These findings collectively demonstrated that the three EEs alleviated hippocampal ferroptosis and neuroinflammation in CCH rats, thereby reducing neuronal loss, which might be associated with the inhibition of the TLR4/MyD88/p38MAPK signaling pathway. Moreover, the study results supported that it is only through the combination of physical exercise and social interaction that the optimal neuroprotective effects can be achieved. These findings provided valuable insights for the prevention and treatment of vascular cognitive impairment.

Matrisome and Immune Pathways Contribute to Extreme Vascular Outcomes in Williams-Beuren Syndrome

BACKGROUND

Supravalvar aortic stenosis (SVAS) is a characteristic feature of Williams-Beuren syndrome (WBS). Its severity varies: ~20% of people with Williams-Beuren syndrome have SVAS requiring surgical intervention, whereas ~35% have no appreciable SVAS. The remaining individuals have SVAS of intermediate severity. Little is known about genetic modifiers that contribute to this variability.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We performed genome sequencing on 473 individuals with Williams-Beuren syndrome and developed strategies for modifier discovery in this rare disease population. Approaches include extreme phenotyping and nonsynonymous variant prioritization, followed by gene set enrichment and pathway-level association tests. We next used GTEx v8 and proteomic data sets to verify expression of candidate modifiers in relevant tissues. Finally, we evaluated overlap between the genes/pathways identified here and those ascertained through larger aortic disease/trait genome-wide association studies. We show that SVAS severity in Williams-Beuren syndrome is associated with increased frequency of common and rarer variants in matrisome and immune pathways. Two implicated matrisome genes (ACAN and LTBP4) were uniquely expressed in the aorta. Many genes in the identified pathways were previously reported in genome-wide association studies for aneurysm, bicuspid aortic valve, or aortic size.

CONCLUSIONS

Smaller sample sizes in rare disease studies necessitate new approaches to detect modifiers. Our strategies identified variation in matrisome and immune pathways that are associated with SVAS severity. These findings suggest that, like other aortopathies, SVAS may be influenced by the balance of synthesis and degradation of matrisome proteins. Leveraging multiomic data and results from larger aorta-focused genome-wide association studies may accelerate modifier discovery for rare aortopathies like SVAS.

Serum Brevican as a Biomarker of Cerebrovascular Disease in an Elderly Cognitively Impaired Cohort

In the brain, the extracellular matrix (ECM) composition shapes the neuronal microenvironment and can undergo substantial changes with cerebral pathology. Brevican is integral to the formation of the ECM's neuroprotective perineuronal nets (PNNs). Decreased brevican levels were reported in vascular dementia (VaD) but not in Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the status of brevican in clinical cohorts with high concomitance of AD pathological burden and cerebrovascular disease (CeVD) is unclear. In this study, 32 non-cognitively impaired (NCI), 97 cognitively impaired no dementia (CIND), 46 AD, and 23 VaD participants recruited from memory clinics based in Singapore underwent neuropsychological and neuroimaging assessments, together with measurements of serum brevican. Association analyses were performed between serum brevican and neuroimaging measures of CeVDs, including white matter hyperintensities (WMHs), lacunes, cortical infarcts, and cerebral microbleeds. Using an aggregated score for CeVD burden, only CIND participants showed lower brevican levels with higher CeVD compared to those with lower CeVD burden (p = 0.006). Among the CeVD subtypes assessed, only elevated WMH burden was associated with lower brevican levels (OR = 2.7; 95% CI = 1.3-5.5). Our findings suggest that brevican deficits may play a role in early cerebrovascular damage in participants at risk of developing dementia.

Role of ADAM and ADAMTS proteases in pathological tissue remodeling

Pathological tissue remodeling is closely associated with the occurrence and aggravation of various diseases. A Disintegrin And Metalloproteinases (ADAM), as well as A Disintegrin And Metalloproteinase with ThromboSpondin motifs (ADAMTS), belong to zinc-dependent metalloproteinase superfamily, are involved in a range of pathological states, including cancer metastasis, inflammatory disorders, respiratory diseases and cardiovascular diseases. Mounting studies suggest that ADAM and ADAMTS proteases contribute to the development of tissue remodeling in various diseases, mainly through the regulation of cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration and extracellular matrix remodeling. This review focuses on the roles of ADAM and ADAMTS proteinases in diseases with pathological tissue remodeling, with particular emphasis on the molecular mechanisms through which ADAM and ADAMTS proteins mediate tissue remodeling. Some of these reported proteinases have defined protective or contributing roles in indicated diseases, while their underlying regulation is obscure. Future studies are warranted to better understand the catalytic and non-catalytic functions of ADAM and ADAMTS proteins, as well as to evaluate the efficacy of targeting these proteases in pathological tissue remodeling.

Arterial mechanics, extracellular matrix, and smooth muscle differentiation in carotid arteries deficient for Rac1

Stiffening of the extracellular matrix (ECM) occurs after vascular injury and contributes to the injury-associated proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs). ECM stiffness also activates Rac-GTP, and SMC Rac1 deletion strongly reduces the proliferative response to injury in vivo . However, ECM stiffening and Rac can affect SMC differentiation, which, in itself, can influence ECM stiffness and proliferation. Here, we used pressure myography and immunofluorescence analysis of mouse carotid arteries to ask if the reported effect of Rac1 deletion on in vivo SMC proliferation might be secondary to a Rac effect on basal arterial stiffness or SMC differentiation. The results show that Rac1 deletion does not affect the abundance of arterial collagen-I, -III, or -V, the integrity of arterial elastin, or the arterial responses to pressure, including the axial and circumferential stretch-strain relationships that are assessments of arterial stiffness. Medial abundance of alpha-smooth muscle actin and smooth muscle-myosin heavy chain, markers of the SMC differentiated phenotype, were not statistically different in carotid arteries containing or deficient in Rac1. Nor did Rac1 deficiency have a statistically significant effect on carotid artery contraction to KCl. Overall, these data argue that the inhibitory effect of Rac1 deletion on in vivo SMC proliferation reflects a primary effect of Rac1 signaling to the cell cycle rather than a secondary effect associated with altered SMC differentiation or arterial stiffness.

Comprehensive bioinformatics analysis revealed potential key genes and pathways underlying abdominal aortic aneurysm

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a permanent, asymptomatic segmental dilatation of the abdominal aorta, with a high mortality risk upon rupture. Identification of potential key genes and pathways may help to develop curative drugs for AAA. We conducted RNA-seq on abdominal aortic tissues from both AAA patients and normal individuals as a control group. Integrated bioinformatic analysis was subsequently performed to comprehensively reveal potential key genes and pathways. A total of 1148 differential expressed genes (DEGs) (631 up-regulated and 517 down-regulated) were identified in our study. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis revealed enrichment in terms related to extracellular matrix organization, while KEGG analysis indicated enrichment in hematopoietic cell lineage and ECM-receptor interaction. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis revealed several candidate key genes, and differential expression of 6 key genes (CXCL8, CCL2, PTGS2, SELL, CCR7, and CXCL1) was validated by Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets. Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis demonstrated these genes' high discriminatory ability between AAA and normal tissues. Immunohistochemistry indicated that several key genes were highly expressed in AAA tissues. Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed differential distribution patterns of these identified key genes among various cell types. 26 potential drugs linked to our key genes were found through DGIdb. Overall, our study provides a comprehensive evaluation of potential key genes and pathways in AAA, which could pave the way for the development of curative pharmacological therapies.

The microenvironment of the atheroma expresses phenotypes of plaque instability

Data from histopathology studies of human atherosclerotic tissue specimens and from vascular imaging studies support the concept that the local arterial microenvironment of a stable atheroma promotes destabilizing conditions that result in the transition to an unstable atheroma. Destabilization is characterized by several different plaque phenotypes that cause major clinical events such as acute coronary syndrome and cerebrovascular strokes. There are several rupture-associated phenotypes causing thrombotic vascular occlusion including simple fibrous cap rupture of an atheroma, fibrous cap rupture at site of previous rupture-and-repair of an atheroma, and nodular calcification with rupture. Endothelial erosion without rupture has more recently been shown to be a common phenotype to promote thrombosis as well. Microenvironment features that are linked to these phenotypes of plaque instability are neovascularization arising from the vasa vasorum network leading to necrotic core expansion, intraplaque hemorrhage, and cap rupture; activation of adventitial and perivascular adipose tissue cells leading to secretion of cytokines, growth factors, adipokines in the outer artery wall that destabilize plaque structure; and vascular smooth muscle cell phenotypic switching through transdifferentiation and stem/progenitor cell activation resulting in the promotion of inflammation, calcification, and secretion of extracellular matrix, altering fibrous cap structure, and necrotic core growth. As the technology evolves, studies using noninvasive vascular imaging will be able to investigate the transition of stable to unstable atheromas in real time. A limitation in the field, however, is that reliable and predictable experimental models of spontaneous plaque rupture and/or erosion are not currently available to study the cell and molecular mechanisms that regulate the conversion of the stable atheroma to an unstable plaque.

In vitro microvascular engineering approaches and strategies for interstitial tissue integration

The increasing gap between clinical demand for tissue or organ transplants and the availability of donated tissue highlights the emerging opportunities for lab-grown or synthetically engineered tissue. While the field of tissue engineering has existed for nearly half a century, its clinical translation remains unrealised, in part, due to a limited ability to engineer sufficient vascular supply into fabricated tissue, which is necessary to enable nutrient and waste exchange, prevent cellular necrosis, and support tissue proliferation. Techniques to develop anatomically relevant, functional vascular networks in vitro have made significant progress in the last decade, however, the challenge now remains as to how best incorporate these throughout dense parenchymal tissue-like structures to address diffusion-limited development and allow for the fabrication of large-scale vascularised tissue. This review explores advances made in the laboratory engineering of vasculature structures and summarises recent attempts to integrate vascular networks together with sophisticated in vitro avascular tissue and organ-like structures. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The ability to grow full scale, functional tissue and organs in vitro is primarily limited by an inability to adequately diffuse oxygen and nutrients throughout developing cellularised structures, which generally results from the absence of perfusable vessel networks. Techniques to engineering both perfusable vascular networks and avascular miniaturised organ-like structures have recently increased in complexity, sophistication, and physiological relevance. However, integrating these two essential elements into a single functioning vascularised tissue structure represents a significant spatial and temporal engineering challenge which is yet to be surmounted. Here, we explore a range of vessel morphogenic phenomena essential for tissue-vascular co-development, as well as evaluate a range of recent noteworthy approaches for generating vascularised tissue products in vitro.

Construction of enzyme digested holes on hydrogel surface inspired by cell migration processes

The construction of in vitro capillary network models for drug testing and toxicity evaluation has become a major challenge in the field of tissue engineering. Previously, we discovered a novel phenomenon of hole formation by endothelial cell migration on the surface of fibrin gels. Interestingly, the hole characteristics, such as depth and number, were strongly influenced by the gel stiffness, but the details of hole formation are not to be clarified. In this study, we tried to understand the effect of hydrogel stiffness on the hole formation by dropping collagenase solution onto the surface of the hydrogels because the endothelial cell migration was made possible by the metalloproteinases' digestion. We found that smaller hole structures were formed on stiffer fibrin gels, but larger ones were formed on softer fibrin gels after the hydrogel digestion of the collagenase. This is consistent with our previous results in experiments on hole structures formed by endothelial cells. Furthermore, deep and small hole structures were successfully obtained by optimizing the volume of collagenase solution and incubation time. This unique approach inspired by endothelial cell hole formation may provide new methods of fabricating hydrogels with opening hole structures.

Sustained and intermittent hypoxia differentially modulate primary monocyte immunothrombotic responses to IL-1β stimulation

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a leading cause of preventable deaths in hospitals, and its incidence is not decreasing despite extensive efforts in clinical and laboratory research. Venous thrombi are primarily formed in the valve pockets of deep veins, where activated monocytes play a crucial role in bridging innate immune activation and hemostatic pathways through the production of inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and tissue factor (TF) - a principal initiator of coagulation. In the valve pocket inflammation and hypoxia (sustained/intermittent) coexist, however their combined effects on immunothrombotic processes are poorly understood. Inflammation is strongly associated with VTE, while the additional contribution of hypoxia remains largely unexplored. To investigate this, we modelled the intricate conditions of the venous valve pocket using a state-of-the-art hypoxia chamber with software-controlled oxygen cycling. We comprehensively studied the effects of sustained and intermittent hypoxia alone, and in combination with VTE-associated inflammatory stimuli on primary monocytes. TF expression and activity was measured in monocytes subjected to sustained and intermittent hypoxia alone, or in combination with IL-1β. Monocyte responses were further analyzed in detailed by RNA sequencing and validated by ELISA. Stimulation with IL-1β alone promoted both transcription and activity of TF. Interestingly, the stimulatory effect of IL-1β on TF was attenuated by sustained hypoxia, but not by intermittent hypoxia. Our transcriptome analysis further confirmed that sustained hypoxia limited the pro-inflammatory response induced by IL-1β, and triggered a metabolic shift in monocytes. Intermittent hypoxia alone had a modest effect on monocyte transcript. However, in combination with IL-1β intermittent hypoxia significantly altered the expression of 2207 genes and enhanced the IL-1β-stimulatory effects on several chemokine and interleukin genes (e.g., IL-19, IL-24, IL-32, MIF), as well as genes involved in coagulation (thrombomodulin) and fibrinolysis (VEGFA, MMP9, MMP14 and PAI-1). Increased production of CCL2, IL-6 and TNF following stimulation with intermittent hypoxia and IL-1β was confirmed by ELISA. Our findings provide valuable insights into how the different hypoxic profiles shape the immunothrombotic response of monocytes and shed new light on the early events in the pathogenesis of venous thrombosis.

Anti-Atherogenic Protection by Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins via Regulating Collagen Crosslinking Against CC Diet-Induced Atherosclerosis in Rats

The synthesis of collagen and its turnover remained as critical determinants for the progression of atherosclerosis. During this condition, proteases secreted by SMCs and foam cells in the necrotic core degrade collagen. Growing evidences demonstrated that consumption of antioxidant rich diet is highly associated with a reduced risk of atherosclerosis. Oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPC) have been proved to possess promising antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective activity, based on our previous studies. The present study aims to investigate the efficacy of OPC isolated from Crataegus oxyacantha berries as a natural collagen crosslinker and anti-atherogenic agent. Spectral studies like FTIR, ultraviolet and circular dichroism analysis confirmed the in vitro crosslinking ability of OPC with rat tail collagen when compared to the standard epigallocatechin gallate. The administration of cholesterol:cholic acid (CC) diet induces proteases-mediated collagen degradation that could result in plaque instability. Further, the CC diet fed rats showed significantly increased levels of total cholesterol and triacylglycerols which, in turn, increases the activities of collagen degrading proteases-MMPs (MMP 1, 2 and 9) and Cathepsin S and D. Upon OPC treatment, marked reduction in the lipid content, activation of proteases with concomitant increase in the mRNA levels of collagen Type I and Type III as similar to atorvastatin treatment were observed .Thus, OPC supplementation may contribute to the prevention of atherosclerotic plaque instability by acting as a natural crosslinker of collagen.

Association between FGA gene polymorphisms and coronary artery lesion in Kawasaki disease

Objective

To investigate the correlation between FGA gene polymorphisms and coronary artery lesion in Kawasaki disease.

Methods

Two hundred and thirty four children with Kawasaki disease (KD group), 200 healthy children (normal group) and 208 children with non-KD fever (fever group) were enrolled. General clinical indicators, the concentration of serum MMPs, TIMP-1, FG-α,fibrinogen level, molecular function (FMPV/ODmax) and FGA Thr312Ala polymorphism were detected individually by testing peripheral venous blood after fasting in the morning.

Results

There was no significant difference in average age among the three groups, which were 3.03 ± 1.22 years, 3.17 ± 1.30 years, and 3.21 ± 1.31 years, respectively. Compared with those in the fever group, the levels of white blood cell count (WBC), platelet count (PLT), procalcitonin (PCT), C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), interleukin-6 (IL-6), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), and fibrinogen (Fg) levels were significantly increased in the KD group. Red blood cell count (RBC) and hemoglobin (Hb) levels were significantly decreased (p < 0.05).The concentration of serum MMPs, TIMP-1, and FG-α in the KD and fever groups were significantly higher than those in the normal group (p < 0.05). The concentration of MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-9, MMP-13, TIMP-1, and FG-α in the KD group were significantly higher than those in the fever group (p < 0.05).The KD group was divided into two subgroups,55 patients with combined CAL and 179 patients without combined CAL. The plasma fibrinogen concentration in the combined CAL group was significantly higher than that in the non-combined CAL and normal groups (p < 0.01). There was no statistically significant difference in FMPV/ODmax among the three groups (p > 0.05). Compared with normal group, the FGA GG, GA, and AA genotype and G, A allele frequency of the FGA gene polymorphism in the KD group showed no significant difference (p > 0.05). In the KD group, the most common type in children with CAL was GA, while the most common type in children without CAL was GG.

Conclusion

MMPs and FG-α were significantly upregulated in KD patients. The proportion of FGA genotype GA in children with CAL was significantly higher than that in children without CAL, suggesting that FGA gene polymorphisms affect coronary artery lesion in children with KD.

Lariciresinol protects rats from complete Freund's adjuvant induced arthritis in rats via modulation of transforming growth factor-β and nuclear factor kappa B pathway: An in vivo and in silico study

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a severe inflammatory auto-immune disorder affecting millions of people across the globe. The current therapeutic options are not adequate to address the complications of RA. Therefore, the present study was conducted to elucidate the protective effect of lariciresinol, a lignan, against Complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-induced arthritis in rats. The results of the study showed that lariciresinol improves paw swelling and arthritic scores in rats as compared to CFA rats. Lariciresinol also showed a significant reduction in rheumatoid factor, C-reactive protein, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-17, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-3 level with a simultaneous increase in IL-4 level. The burden of oxidative stress was also reduced in CFA rats, as shown by reduced MDA levels and increased SOD and GPx after the administration of lariciresinol. In a Western blot analysis, lariciresinol showed a significant reduction of transforming growth factor-β and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) protein levels in CFA rats. To understand the binding characteristic of lariciresinol with NF-κB, molecular docking analysis was conducted, which showed Larciresinol interacted with the active site of NF-κB. Our study demonstrated the significant protective effect of lariciresinol against RA via multi-target action.

The angiogenic gene profile of pulmonary endarterectomy specimens: Initial study

Objectives

The underlying mechanisms for the development of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension and prognostic biomarkers are not clear yet. Thus, our aim is to assess and identify new biomarkers for the expression of 84 key genes linked to angiogenesis.

Methods

Patients who had levels more than 1000 dynes·sec·cm^-5 were included in the test group, and the other patients were included in the control group. Twelve specimens were taken from the patients. RT² Profiler PCR Array (Qiagen) was used to quantify the expression of the 84 key genes.

Results

Eight patients (6 male, 2 female, median age 54.4 ± 13.1 years) who underwent pulmonary endarterectomy were included. Pulmonary vascular resistance improved significantly from 811 ± 390 dyn/s/cm^-5 to 413.3 ± 144.9 dyn/s/cm^-5 (P < .005). A difference was also detected in median mean pulmonary arterial pressure, which decreased from 49.8 ± 9 mm Hg to 32.62 ± 2.50 mm Hg (P > .005) after surgery. Median length of hospital stay was 11.62 ± 2.97 days. The test group had a distinct pattern of impaired angiogenic and antiangiogenic genes. The expression levels of TGFA, TGFB1, THBS2, THBS1, TGFBR1, SERPINE1, SERPINF1, TGFB2, TIMP2, VEGFC, IFNA1, TNF, CXCL10, NOS3, IGF1, and MMP14 were downregulated in the specimens from the patients who had higher pulmonary vascular resistance values, whereas some genes, including PDGFA, showed upregulation that was statistically nonsignificant in the same group.

Conclusions

These results can lead to the development of new markers that could predict adverse outcomes of patients with CTEPH. Identification of new markers that are related to worse outcomes would enable screening patients for early diagnosis and treatment.

Sulodexide Develops Contraction in Human Saphenous Vein via Endothelium-Dependent Nitric Oxide Pathway

Chronic venous disease (CVD) is a proqgressive and underestimated condition related to a vicious circle established by venous reflux and endothelial inflammation, leading to vein dilation and histology distortion, including loss of media tone. Sulodexide (SDX) is a drug restoring the glycocalyx that demonstrated endothelial protection and permeability regulation, together with anti-thrombotic and anti-inflammatory roles. In the lab it also exhibited vein contractility function. The aim of the present study was to show the possible role of endothelium and nitric oxide pathway on SDX's veno-contractile effect on human saphenous veins. The remnants of great saphenous vein (GSV) segments (n = 14) were harvested during coronary artery bypass graft surgery. They were dissected as endothelium-intact (n = 8) and denuded rings (n = 6). First, a viability test was carried out in bath with Krebs-Henseleit solution to investigate a control and basal tension value. After this, cumulative doses of SDX were applied to rings and contraction values were studied in endothelium-intact phenylephrine (PheE, 6 × 10^-7 M) pre-contracted vein rings. Finally, endothelium-intact PheE pre-contacted vein rings were treated by nitric oxide synthase inhibitor Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 10^-4 M) for 10 min. Contraction protocol was applied, and contraction values were measured in cumulative doses of SDX. The same protocol was applied to endothelium-denuded vein rings to investigate the effect of SDX. Saphenous vein rings showed an increase in contraction to cumulative doses of SDX. In endothel-intact rings, KCL-induced contraction from 92.6% ± 0.3 to 112.9% ± 0.4 with cumulative SDX doses. However, SDX did not show any veno-contractile effect on endothel-denuded rings. In denuded rings contraction responses measured from 94.9% ± 0.3 to 85.2% ± 0.3 with increasing doses of SDX, indicating no significant change. Nitric oxide synthase inhibitor (L-NAME) prohibited the contraction response of the sulodexide in all dosages, indicating that the contractile function of SDX was mediated by endothelial derived nitric oxide. Results of endothel-intact and denuded rings with L-NAME showed a similar incline with denuded rings with SDX only. The results confirmed SDX's veno-contractile effect in human samples, by means of nitric oxide synthase pathways involvement.

Progesterone Enhances the Invasion of Trophoblast Cells by Activating PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway to Prevent Preeclampsia

We aimed to explore whether the effect of progesterone on preeclampsia via the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. First, we studied the role of progesterone in preeclampsia patients and HTR-8/Svneo cells by adding progesterone. Then PI3K inhibitor LY294002 was added. The effects of progesterone on preeclampsia were also studied in animals by constructing a preeclampsia rat model. CCK-8 and Transwell assay were applied to measure cell viability and invasion ability. ELISA was performed to measure progesterone, MMP-2, MMP-9, pro-inflammatory factors TNF-α, IL-1β, and anti-inflammatory factors IL-4, IL-10, and IL-13 levels. HE staining was used to detect the pathological changes in uterine spiral artery. Western blot was performed to detect Cyclin D1, PCNA, MMP-2, MMP-9, inflammatory factors TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-4, IL-10, IL-13, and PI3K/AKT signaling pathway related proteins AKT, p-AKT, PI3K, and p-PI3K expressions. Progesterone could reduce blood pressure and urine protein in pregnant women with preeclampsia. TNF-α and IL-1β levels were decreased, but IL-4, IL-10, IL-13, cyclin D1, and PCNA levels were increased in pregnant women with preeclampsia after using progesterone. After the use of progesterone, the symptoms of the PE model group were improved. Among them, the lumen of the placental uterine spiral artery was enlarged, and the fibrinoid necrosis of the uterine wall and acute atherosclerotic lesions were relieved. In addition, progesterone promoted HTR-8/Svneo cells proliferation and invasion. However, high expression of MMP-2, MMP-9, p-AKT, and p-PI3K in Normal and preeclampsia groups caused by progesterone was weakened after adding LY294002, indicating that progesterone could activate PI3K/AKT signaling pathway to regulate HTR-8/Svneo cells. Progesterone decreased urine protein and blood pressure of preeclampsia rats in a concentration-dependent manner. Moreover, progesterone activated the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and inhibited the inflammatory response in preeclampsia rats.

Biomechanical forces in the aged brain: Relationship to AD

The pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, has been studied with a focus on biochemical mechanisms, such as the amyloid-β plaque deposition and removal. Recently, the importance of brain microenvironmental cues, which comprise the sophisticated cellular and fluid system, has been emphasized in the aged brain or in pathological conditions. Especially, substrate rigidity and biomechanical forces of the brain microenvironment determine the function of glial cells and neurons; furthermore, these microenvironmental cues change with age. However, our understanding of role of the biomechanical cues on glial cells and neurons is relatively poor. In this review, we briefly introduce an overview of biomechanical forces that present in the aged brain and its sensations, and then examine the brain in Alzheimer's disease, which constitutes a representative neurodegenerative disorder, with regard to changes in the biomechanical forces associated with disease and aging.

De novo disruptive heterozygous MMP21 variants are potential predisposing genetic risk factors in Chinese Han heterotaxy children

Background

Heterotaxy syndrome (HTX) is caused by aberrant left–right patterning early in embryonic development, which results in abnormal positioning and morphology of the thoracic and abdominal organs. Currently, genetic testing discerns the underlying genetic cause in less than 20% of sporadic HTX cases, indicating that genetic pathogenesis remains poorly understood. In this study, we aim to garner a deeper understanding of the genetic factors of this disease by documenting the effect of different matrix metalloproteinase 21 (MMP21) variants on disease occurrence and pathogenesis.

Methods

Eighty-one HTX patients with complex congenital heart defects and 89 healthy children were enrolled, and we investigated the pathogenetic variants related to patients with HTX by exome sequencing. Zebrafish splice-blocking Morpholino oligo-mediated transient suppression assays were performed to confirm the potential pathogenicity of missense variants found in these patients with HTX.

Results

Three MMP21 heterozygous non-synonymous variants (c.731G > A (p.G244E), c.829C > T (p.L277F), and c.1459A > G (p.K487E)) were identified in three unrelated Chinese Han patients with HTX and complex congenital heart defects. Sanger sequencing confirmed that all variants were de novo. Cell transfection assay showed that none of the variants affect mRNA and protein expression levels of MMP21. Knockdown expression of mmp21 by splice-blocking Morpholino oligo in zebrafish embryos revealed a heart looping disorder, and mutant human MMP21 mRNA (c.731G > A, c.1459A > G, heterozygous mRNA (wild-type&c.731G > A), as well as heterozygous mRNA (wild-type& c.1459A > G) could not effectively rescue the heart looping defects. A patient with the MMP21 p.G244E variant was identified with other potential HTX-causing missense mutations, whereas the patient with the MMP21 p.K487E variant had no genetic mutations in other causative genes related to HTX.

Conclusion

Our study highlights the role of the disruptive heterozygous MMP21 variant (p.K487E) in the etiology of HTX with complex cardiac malformations and expands the current mutation spectrum of MMP21 in HTX.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40246-022-00409-9.

Pathophysiology of Cardiovascular Diseases: New Insights into Molecular Mechanisms of Atherosclerosis, Arterial Hypertension, and Coronary Artery Disease

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are disorders associated with the heart and circulatory system. Atherosclerosis is its major underlying cause. CVDs are chronic and can remain hidden for a long time. Moreover, CVDs are the leading cause of global morbidity and mortality, thus creating a major public health concern. This review summarizes the available information on the pathophysiological implications of CVDs, focusing on coronary artery disease along with atherosclerosis as its major cause and arterial hypertension. We discuss the endothelium dysfunction, inflammatory factors, and oxidation associated with atherosclerosis. Mechanisms such as dysfunction of the endothelium and inflammation, which have been identified as critical pathways for development of coronary artery disease, have become easier to diagnose in recent years. Relatively recently, evidence has been found indicating that interactions of the molecular and cellular elements such as matrix metalloproteinases, elements of the immune system, and oxidative stress are involved in the pathophysiology of arterial hypertension. Many studies have revealed several important inflammatory and genetic risk factors associated with CVDs. However, further investigation is crucial to improve our knowledge of CVDs progression and, more importantly, accelerate basic research to improve our understanding of the mechanism of pathophysiology.

Theories and Molecular Basis of Vascular Aging: A Review of the Literature from VascAgeNet Group on Pathophysiological Mechanisms of Vascular Aging

Vascular aging, characterized by structural and functional alterations of the vascular wall, is a hallmark of aging and is tightly related to the development of cardiovascular mortality and age-associated vascular pathologies. Over the last years, extensive and ongoing research has highlighted several sophisticated molecular mechanisms that are involved in the pathophysiology of vascular aging. A more thorough understanding of these mechanisms could help to provide a new insight into the complex biology of this non-reversible vascular process and direct future interventions to improve longevity. In this review, we discuss the role of the most important molecular pathways involved in vascular ageing including oxidative stress, vascular inflammation, extracellular matrix metalloproteinases activity, epigenetic regulation, telomere shortening, senescence and autophagy.

Deletion of matrix metalloproteinase-12 compromises mechanical homeostasis and leads to an aged aortic phenotype in young mice

Mechanical homeostasis emerges following normal development of the arterial wall and requires thereafter a slow balanced degradation and deposition of extracellular matrix constituents within an unchanging mechanical state. Recent findings suggest that homeostasis is compromised in arterial aging, which contributes to the structural stiffening that is characteristic of aged central arteries. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) have strong proteolytic activity and play fundamental roles in matrix turnover. Here, we use Mmp12-/- mice to examine effects of a potent metalloelastase, MMP-12, on the biomechanical phenotype of the thoracic and abdominal aorta in young and naturally aged mice. A key finding is that germline deletion of the gene (Mmp12) that encodes MMP-12 alters biomechanical properties from normal more in young adult than in older adult mice. Consequently, percent changes in biomechanical properties during aortic aging are greater in wild-type than in MMP-12 deficient mice, though with similar overall decreases in elastic energy storage and distensibility and increases in calculated pulse wave velocity. Reduced elastic energy storage compromises the ability of the aorta to augment antegrade and retrograde blood flow while an increased pulse wave velocity can adversely affect end organs, both conditions being characteristic of aortic aging in humans. In summary, MMP-12 is fundamental for establishing homeostatic values of biomechanical metrics in the aorta and its absence leads to a pre-aged aortic phenotype in young mice.

Matrix metalloproteinase-induced cervical extracellular matrix remodelling in pregnancy and cervical cancer

Abstract

The phenomenal extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling of the cervix that precedes the myometrial contraction of labour at term or preterm appears to share some common mechanisms with the occurrence, growth, invasion and metastasis of cervical carcinoma. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are zinc-dependent endopeptidases that are pivotal to the complex extracellular tissue modulation that includes degradation, remodelling and exchange of ECM components, which contribute to homeostasis under normal physiological conditions such as cervical remodelling during pregnancy and puerperium. However, in cancer such as that of the uterine cervix, this extensive network of extracellular tissue modulation is altered leading to disrupted cell-cell and cell-basement membrane adhesion, abnormal tissue growth, neovascularization and metastasis that disrupt homeostasis. Cervical ECM remodelling during pregnancy and puerperium could be a physiological albeit benign neoplasm. In this review, we examined the pathophysiologic differences and similarities in the role of MMPs in cervical remodelling and cervical carcinoma.

Lay summary

During pregnancy and childbirth, the cervix, which is the barrel-shaped lower portion of the womb that connects to the vagina, gradually softens, shortens and opens to allow birth of the baby. This process requires structural and biochemical changes in the cervix that are stimulated by enzymes known as matrix metalloproteinases. Interestingly, these enzymes also affect the structural and biochemical framework of the cervix during cervical cancer, although cervical cancers usually occur after infection by human papillomavirus. This review is intended to identify and explain the similarities and differences between the structural and chemical changes in the cervix during pregnancy and childbirth and the changes seen in cervical cancer.

Increased proteolytic cleavage of osteoglycin is associated with a stable plaque phenotype and lower risk of cardiovascular events

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling is one of the key components in the formation of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques and cardiovascular events. We recently showed that the full-length ECM-proteoglycan osteoglycin was associated with plaque vulnerability and future cardiovascular events. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the association of cleaved osteoglycin with plaque phenotype.

METHODS

Two-hundred human carotid plaques were analyzed by immunohistochemistry. Cleaved osteoglycin and active caspase-3 were assessed by ELISA. ECM components (collagen, elastin and glycosaminoglycans) were assessed by colorimetric assays in plaque tissue homogenates. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) were assessed using Milliplex. MMP-cleavage of osteoglycin and its effect on apoptosis were studied in vitro. Cardiovascular events were recorded during follow-up using national registries.

RESULTS

Plaque levels of cleaved osteoglycin were significantly higher in asymptomatic plaques and correlated to α-actin plaque area, collagen, elastin and inversely to lipids, active. caspase-3 and a histological vulnerability index. Cleaved osteoglycin correlated to several MMPs, especially MMP-12, which was also shown to cleave osteoglycin in vitro. In vitro cleavage of osteoglycin was also associated with less smooth muscle cell apoptosis. Patients with high plaque levels of cleaved osteoglycin had a significantly lower risk to suffer from future cardiovascular events.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study shows that cleaved osteoglycin is associated with a stable plaque phenotype and lower risk for future cardiovascular events. Potentially due to reduced cell apoptosis and ability to retain LDL. These results indicate that targeting the cleavage of osteoglycin may be a potential therapeutic strategy to stabilize plaques.

Hypoxia induced-disruption of lncRNA TUG1/PRC2 interaction impairs human trophoblast invasion through epigenetically activating Nodal/ALK7 signalling

Inadequate trophoblastic invasion is considered as one of hallmarks of preeclampsia (PE), which is characterized by newly onset of hypertension (>140/90 mmHg) and proteinuria (>300 mg in a 24‐h urine) after 20 weeks of gestation. Accumulating evidence has indicated that long noncoding RNAs are aberrantly expressed in PE, whereas detailed mechanisms are unknown. In the present study, we showed that lncRNA Taurine upregulated 1 (TUG1) were downregulated in preeclamptic placenta and in HTR8/SVneo cells under hypoxic conditions, together with reduced enhancer of zeste homolog2 (EZH2) and embryonic ectoderm development (EED) expression, major components of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), as well as activation of Nodal/ALK7 signalling pathway. Mechanistically, we found that TUG1 bound to PRC2 (EZH2/EED) in HTR8/SVneo cells and weakened TUG1/PRC2 interplay was correlated with upregulation of Nodal expression via decreasing H3K27me3 mark at the promoter region of Nodal gene under hypoxic conditions. And activation of Nodal signalling prohibited trophoblast invasion via reducing MMP2 levels. Overexpression of TUG1 or EZH2 significantly attenuated hypoxia‐induced reduction of trophoblastic invasiveness via negative modulating Nodal/ALK7 signalling and rescuing expression of its downstream target MMP2. These investigations might provide some evidence for novel mechanisms responsible for inadequate trophoblastic invasion and might shed some light on identifying future therapeutic targets for PE.

High Sucrose Ingestion during a Critical Period of Vessel Development Promotes the Synthetic Phenotype of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells and Modifies Vascular Contractility Leading to Hypertension in Adult Rats

Cardiometabolic diseases, including hypertension, may result from exposure to high sugar diets during critical periods of development. Here, we studied the effect of sucrose ingestion during a critical period (CP) between postnatal days 12 and 28 of the rat on blood pressure, aortic histology, vascular smooth muscle phenotype, expression of metalloproteinases 2 and 9, and vascular contractility in adult rats and compared it with those of adult rats that received sucrose for 6 months and developed metabolic syndrome (MS). Blood pressure increased to a similar level in CP and MS rats. The diameter of lumen, media, and adventitia of aortas from CP rats was decreased. Muscle fibers were discontinuous. There was a decrease in the expression of alpha-actin in CP and MS rat aortas, suggesting a change to the secretory phenotype in vascular smooth muscle. Metalloproteinases 2 and 9 were decreased in CP and MS rats, suggesting that phenotype remains in an altered steady stationary state with little interchange of the vessel matrix. Aortic contraction to norepinephrine did not change, but aortic relaxation was diminished in CP and MS aortas. In conclusion, high sugar diets during the CP increase predisposition to hypertension in adults.

Effects of uric acid-lowering therapy in patients with essential arterial hypertension

OBJECTIVES

Asymptomatic hyperuricemia (AHU) is elevated serum uric acid (UA) without symptoms. This study aimed to determine the effects of AHU treatment with allopurinol on selected hypertension-mediated organ damage (HMOD) indices in patients with uncomplicated essential arterial hypertension (AH).

METHODS

Patients aged 30-70 years with AHU and AH grade 1-2 with adequate blood pressure (BP) control, without previous urate-lowering therapy (ULT), were divided into two groups: (a) ULT (receiving allopurinol) and (b) control (age- and sex-matched patients without ULT). Both received a UA-lowering diet. BP (office, 24 h and central), echocardiographic parameters, carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) and lab tests [high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP)] were measured at baseline and at 6 months follow-up.

RESULTS

Of 100 participants, 87 (44 ULT, 43 controls) completed the study. At 6 months follow-up, there was a greater reduction in serum UA concentration in the ULT group than in the control group. Patients receiving allopurinol had significant reductions in office systolic and diastolic BP, central systolic BP, pulse pressure, IMT (0.773 ± 0.121 vs. 0.752 ± 0.13 mm, P = 0.044) and hs-CRP (3.36 ± 2.73 vs. 2.74 ± 1.91 mg/L, P = 0.028) compared to controls. Multivariate regression analysis revealed the independent relationship between reduction in IMT and UA lowering (P < 0.026).

CONCLUSION

In patients with AH and AHU, treatment with allopurinol leads to improvement in BP control and reduction in HMOD intensity, in particular IMT. The decrease in hs-CRP concentration associated with ULT may have a beneficial effect on a patient's long-term prognosis.

Reactive Oxygen Species─Responsive Lipid Nanoparticles for Effective RNAi and Corneal Neovascularization Therapy

Corneal neovascularization (CNV) is a common disease that affects the vision ability of more than 1 million people annually. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) delivery nanoparticle platforms are a promising therapeutic modality for CNV treatment. However, the efficient delivery of siRNA into cells and the effective release of siRNA from delivery vehicles in a particular cell type challenge effective RNAi clinical application for CNV suppression. This study reports the design of a novel reactive oxygen species (ROS)-responsive lipid nanoparticle for siRNA delivery into corneal lesions for enhanced RNAi as a potential CNV treatment. We demonstrated that lipid nanoparticles could efficiently deliver siRNA into human umbilical vein endothelial cells and release siRNA for enhanced gene silencing by using the upregulated ROS of CNV to promote lipid nanoparticle degradation. Moreover, the subconjunctival injection of siRNA nanocomplexes into corneal lesions effectively knocked down vascular endothelial growth factor expression and suppressed CNV formation in an alkali burn model. Thus, we believe that the strategy of using ROS-responsive lipid nanoparticles for enhanced RNAi in CNV could be further extended to a promising clinical therapeutic approach to attenuate CNV formation.

Changes in Serum Levels of Matrix Metalloproteinase-1 and Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinases-1 in Patients with Essential Hypertension

Hypertension (HTN) is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular (CV) disease. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) are thought to be actively involved in the remodeling of the CV extracellular matrix (ECM) during hypertensive damage. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate serum levels of MMP-1 and TIMP-1 in patients with essential HTN and compare them with those of normotensive individuals. We measured serum concentrations of MMP-1 and TIMP-1 in 60 patients with HTN and 20 healthy controls using an ELISA. The obtained results showed that in patients with HTN, the mean levels of MMP-1 (1.82 ± 0.9 ng/mL) were significantly higher (p = 0.03) than the mean levels in the control group (1.19 ± 0.7 ng/mL). The levels of TIMP-1 in patients with essential HTN (0.44 ± 0.1 ng/mL) were also significantly higher (p = 0.005) than those in the control group (0.33 ± 0.1 ng/mL). In HTN, elevated serum MMP-1 levels may be associated with increased collagen degradation in the CV ECM, whereas elevated TIMP-1 levels may favor its accumulation and the development of pathological remodeling and fibrosis of the heart and arterial vessels.

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Formation with a Focus on Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a lethal degenerative vascular disease that affects, mostly, the elder population, with a high mortality rate (>80%) upon rupture. It features a dilation of the aortic diameter to larger than 30 mm or more than 50%. Diverse pathological processes are involved in the development of AAA, including aortic wall inflammation, elastin breakdown, oxidative stress, smooth muscle cell (SMC) phenotypic switching and dysfunction, and extracellular matrix degradation. With open surgery being the only therapeutic option up to date, the lack of pharmaceutical treatment approach calls for identifying novel and effective targets and further understanding the pathological process of AAA. Both lifestyle and genetic predisposition have an important role in increasing the risk of AAA. Several cell types are closely related to the pathogenesis of AAA. Among them, vascular SMCs (VSMCs) are gaining much attention as a critical contributor for AAA initiation and/or progression. In this review, we summarize what is known about AAA, including the risk factors, the pathophysiology, and the established animal models of AAA. In particular, we focus on the VSMC phenotypic switching and dysfunction in AAA formation. Further understanding the regulation of VSMC phenotypic changes may provide novel therapeutic targets for the treatment or prevention of AAA.

NLRC4 Inflammasome-Mediated Regulation of Eosinophilic Functions

Eosinophils play critical roles in the maintenance of homeostasis in innate and adaptive immunity. Although primarily known for their roles in parasitic infections and the development of Th2 cell responses, eosinophils also play complex roles in other immune responses ranging from anti-inflammation to defense against viral and bacterial infections. However, the contributions of pattern recognition receptors in general, and NOD-like receptors (NLRs) in particular, to eosinophil involvement in these immune responses remain relatively underappreciated. Our in vivo studies demonstrated that NLRC4 deficient mice had a decreased number of eosinophils and impaired Th2 responses after induction of an allergic airway disease model. Our in vitro data, utilizing human eosinophilic EoL-1 cells, suggested that TLR2 induction markedly induced pro-inflammatory responses and inflammasome forming NLRC4 and NLRP3. Moreover, activation by their specific ligands resulted in caspase-1 cleavage and mature IL-1β secretion. Interestingly, Th2 responses such as secretion of IL-5 and IL-13 decreased after transfection of EoL-1 cells with short interfering RNAs targeting human NLRC4. Specific induction of NLRC4 with PAM3CSK4 and flagellin upregulated the expression of IL-5 receptor and expression of Fc epsilon receptors (FcεR1α, FcεR2). Strikingly, activation of the NLRC4 inflammasome also promoted expression of the costimulatory receptor CD80 as well as expression of immunoregulatory receptors PD-L1 and Siglec-8. Concomitant with NLRC4 upregulation, we found an increase in expression and activation of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9, but not MMP-2. Collectively, our results present new potential roles of NLRC4 in mediating a variety of eosinopilic functions.

Correlation Between Matrix Metalloproteinases With Coronary Artery Lesion Caused by Kawasaki Disease

This study was designed to clarify the role of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in coronary artery lesions (CAL). Serum samples were acquired from healthy, febrile, and Kawasaki disease (KD) children with or without CAL. Standard blood parameters were examined and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to assess the levels of MMP-2 and MMP-9. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy was conducted on the KD patients and the changes of MMPs before and after treatment were compared. The correlations between MMP levels and clinical parameters were also evaluated. Compared to febrile and healthy controls, KD patients demonstrated clinical signs characteristic of abnormal immunoregulation. However, the clinical parameters of KD patients with or without CAL were not significantly different. MMP-2 and MMP-9 levels, however, were significantly higher in KD patients with CAL than those without CAL. IVIG treatment effectively downregulated the levels of MMPs in KD patients, which was more prominent in those with CAL. Significant correlations were found between MMP levels and some clinical parameters of KD, such as fever time, white blood cell count, etc. The upregulation of MMPs significantly correlates with coronary artery aneurysms (CAAs) in KD patients, making it important biomarkers of CAL in KD patients.