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Tain YL, Hsu CN. The Impact of the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor on Antenatal Chemical Exposure-Induced Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic Programming. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4599. [PMID: 38731818 PMCID: PMC11083012 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Early life exposure lays the groundwork for the risk of developing cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome in adulthood. Various environmental chemicals to which pregnant mothers are commonly exposed can disrupt fetal programming, leading to a wide range of CKM phenotypes. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) has a key role as a ligand-activated transcription factor in sensing these environmental chemicals. Activating AHR through exposure to environmental chemicals has been documented for its adverse impacts on cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, kidney disease, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, as evidenced by both epidemiological and animal studies. In this review, we compile current human evidence and findings from animal models that support the connection between antenatal chemical exposures and CKM programming, focusing particularly on AHR signaling. Additionally, we explore potential AHR modulators aimed at preventing CKM syndrome. As the pioneering review to present evidence advocating for the avoidance of toxic chemical exposure during pregnancy and deepening our understanding of AHR signaling, this has the potential to mitigate the global burden of CKM syndrome in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- You-Lin Tain
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan;
- Institute for Translational Research in Biomedicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Ning Hsu
- Department of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
- School of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
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2
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Guerra-Ojeda S, Suarez A, Valls A, Verdú D, Pereda J, Ortiz-Zapater E, Carretero J, Mauricio MD, Serna E. The Role of Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor in the Endothelium: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13537. [PMID: 37686342 PMCID: PMC10488274 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713537] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) has been shown to be important in physiological processes other than detoxification, including vascular homeostasis. Although AhR is highly expressed in the endothelium, its function has been poorly studied. This systematic review aims to summarise current knowledge on the AhR role in the endothelium and its cardiovascular implications. We focus on endogenous AhR agonists, such as some uremic toxins and other agonists unrelated to environmental pollutants, as well as studies using AhR knockout models. We conclude that AhR activation leads to vascular oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction and that blocking AhR signalling could provide a new target for the treatment of vascular disorders such as cardiovascular complications in patients with chronic kidney disease or pulmonary arterial hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sol Guerra-Ojeda
- Department of Physiology, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (S.G.-O.); (A.S.); (A.V.); (D.V.); (J.P.); (J.C.); (E.S.)
- Biomedical Research Institute INCLIVA, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Andrea Suarez
- Department of Physiology, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (S.G.-O.); (A.S.); (A.V.); (D.V.); (J.P.); (J.C.); (E.S.)
- Biomedical Research Institute INCLIVA, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Alicia Valls
- Department of Physiology, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (S.G.-O.); (A.S.); (A.V.); (D.V.); (J.P.); (J.C.); (E.S.)
| | - David Verdú
- Department of Physiology, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (S.G.-O.); (A.S.); (A.V.); (D.V.); (J.P.); (J.C.); (E.S.)
| | - Javier Pereda
- Department of Physiology, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (S.G.-O.); (A.S.); (A.V.); (D.V.); (J.P.); (J.C.); (E.S.)
| | - Elena Ortiz-Zapater
- Biomedical Research Institute INCLIVA, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Julián Carretero
- Department of Physiology, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (S.G.-O.); (A.S.); (A.V.); (D.V.); (J.P.); (J.C.); (E.S.)
| | - Maria D. Mauricio
- Department of Physiology, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (S.G.-O.); (A.S.); (A.V.); (D.V.); (J.P.); (J.C.); (E.S.)
- Biomedical Research Institute INCLIVA, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Eva Serna
- Department of Physiology, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (S.G.-O.); (A.S.); (A.V.); (D.V.); (J.P.); (J.C.); (E.S.)
- Biomedical Research Institute INCLIVA, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
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3
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Curran CS, Kopp JB. Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Mechanisms Affecting Chronic Kidney Disease. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:782199. [PMID: 35237156 PMCID: PMC8882872 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.782199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is a basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor that binds diverse endogenous and xenobiotic ligands, which regulate AHR stability, transcriptional activity, and cell signaling. AHR activity is strongly implicated throughout the course of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Many diverse organic molecules bind and activate AHR and these ligands are reported to either promote glomerular and tubular damage or protect against kidney injury. AHR crosstalk with estrogen, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ, and NF-κB pathways may contribute to the diversity of AHR responses during the various forms and stages of CKD. The roles of AHR in kidney fibrosis, metabolism and the renin angiotensin system are described to offer insight into CKD pathogenesis and therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen S. Curran
- Critical Care Medicine Department, Clinical Center, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States
- *Correspondence: Colleen S. Curran,
| | - Jeffrey B. Kopp
- Kidney Disease Section, NIDDK, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States
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4
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da Silva JF, Bolsoni JA, da Costa RM, Alves JV, Bressan AFM, Silva LEV, Costa TJ, Oliveira AER, Manzato CP, Aguiar CA, Fazan R, Cunha FQ, Nakaya HI, Carneiro FS, Tostes RC. Aryl-hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) activation contributes to high-fat diet-induced vascular dysfunction. Br J Pharmacol 2022; 179:2938-2952. [PMID: 34978070 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Metabolic and vascular dysfunction are common features of obesity. Aryl hydrocarbons receptors (AhR) regulate lipid metabolism and vascular homeostasis, but whether vascular AhR are activated in obesity or if AhR have protective or harmful effects on vascular function in obesity are not known. Thus, our study addressed whether AhR activation contributes to obesity-associated vascular dysfunction and the mechanisms involved in the AhR effects. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Male AhRKO (AhR knockout) and WT (wild type) mice were fed either a control or a HF (high-fat) diet for ten weeks. Metabolic and inflammatory parameters were measured in serum and adipose tissue. Vascular reactivity (isometric force) was evaluated using a myography. eNOS and AhR protein expression was determined by Western blot; Cyp1A1 and eNOS gene expression by RT-PCR. Nitric oxide (NO) production was quantified by DAF fluorescence. KEY RESULTS HF diet increased serum total, HDL, and LDL cholesterol, as well as vascular AhR protein expression and proinflammatory cytokines in the adipose tissue. HF diet decreased endothelium-dependent vasodilation. AhR deletion protected mice from HF diet-induced dyslipidemia, weight gain, and inflammatory processes. HF diet-induced endothelial dysfunction was attenuated in AhRKO mice. Vessels from AhRKO mice exhibited a greater NO reserve. In cultured endothelial cells, lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC, a major component of LDL and oxLDL) reduced eNOS gene expression and NO production. Antagonism of AhR abrogated LPC effects on endothelial cells and LPC-induced decreased endothelium-dependent vasodilation. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS AhR deletion attenuates HF diet-induced dyslipidemia and vascular dysfunction by improving eNOS/NO signalling. Targeting AhR may prevent obesity-associated vascular dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josiane Fernandes da Silva
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - Juliana A Bolsoni
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - Rafael M da Costa
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil.,Academic Unit on Health Sciences, Jataí Federal University, Jataí, Brazil
| | - Juliano V Alves
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - Alecsander F M Bressan
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - Luiz Eduardo V Silva
- Department of Physiology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | | | - Antonio E R Oliveira
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil.,Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carla P Manzato
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - Carlos A Aguiar
- Department of Physiology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - Rubens Fazan
- Department of Physiology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - Fernando Q Cunha
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - Helder I Nakaya
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil.,Israelita Albert Einstein Hospital, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernando S Carneiro
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - Rita C Tostes
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
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5
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Long P, Li Y, Wen Q, Huang M, Li S, Lin Y, Huang X, Chen M, Ouyang J, Ao Y, Qi Q, Zhang H, Ye W, Cheng G, Zhang X, Zhang D. 3'-Oxo-tabernaelegantine A (OTNA) selectively relaxes pulmonary arteries by inhibiting AhR. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 92:153751. [PMID: 34563984 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2021.153751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 09/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), characterized by pulmonary artery constriction and vascular remodeling, has a high mortality rate. New drugs for the treatment of PAH urgently need to be developed. PURPOSE This study was designed to investigate the vasorelaxant activity of OTNA in isolated pulmonary arteries, and explore its molecular mechanism. METHODS Pulmonary arteries and thoracic aortas were isolated from mice, and vascular tone was tested with a Wire Myograph System. Nitric oxide levels were determined with DAF-FM DA and DAX-J2™ Red. Cellular thermal shift assays, microscale thermophoresis, and molecular docking were used to identify the interaction between OTNA and aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). The levels of PI3K, p-PI3K, Akt, p-Akt, eNOS, p-eNOS, and AhR were analyzed by Western blotting. RESULTS OTNA selectively relaxed the isolated pulmonary artery rings in an endothelium-dependent manner. Mechanistic study showed that OTNA induced NO production through activation of the PI3K/Akt/eNOS pathway in endothelial cells. Furthermore, we also found that OTNA directly bound to AhR and activated the PI3K/Akt/eNOS pathway to dilate pulmonary arteries by inhibiting AhR. CONCLUSIONS OTNA relaxes pulmonary arteries by antagonizing AhR. This study provides a new natural antagonist of AhR as a promising lead compound for PAH treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Long
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drugs Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Yong Li
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drugs Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; School of Pharmacy, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong 637100, China
| | - Qing Wen
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drugs Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Maohua Huang
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drugs Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Songtao Li
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drugs Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Yuning Lin
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drugs Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Xiaojun Huang
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drugs Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Minfeng Chen
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drugs Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Jie Ouyang
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drugs Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Yunlin Ao
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drugs Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Qi Qi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Haipeng Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Wencai Ye
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drugs Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Guohua Cheng
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China.
| | - Xiaoqi Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drugs Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China.
| | - Dongmei Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of Traditional Chinese Medicine and New Drugs Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China.
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6
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Developmental and lifelong dioxin exposure induces measurable changes in cardiac structure and function in adulthood. Sci Rep 2021; 11:10378. [PMID: 34001975 PMCID: PMC8129097 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-89825-w] [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: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common congenital abnormality. A precise etiology for CHD remains elusive, but likely results from interactions between genetic and environmental factors during development, when the heart adapts to physiological and pathophysiological conditions. Further, it has become clearer that early exposure to toxins that do not result in overt CHD may be associated with adverse cardiac outcomes that are not manifested until later life. Previously, interference with endogenous developmental functions of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), either by gene ablation or by in utero exposure to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), a potent AHR ligand, was shown to cause structural, molecular and functional cardiac abnormalities and altered heart physiology in mouse embryos. Here, we show that continuous exposure to TCDD from fertilization throughout adulthood caused male mice to underperform at exercise tolerance tests compared to their control and female counterparts, confirming previous observations of a sexually dimorphic phenotype. Renin-angiotensin stimulation by angiotensin II (Ang II) caused measurable increases in blood pressure and left ventricle mass, along with decreased end diastolic volume and preserved ejection fraction. Interestingly, TCDD exposure caused measurable reductions in the myocardial hypertrophic effects of Ang II, suggesting that endogenous AHR signaling present in adulthood may play a role in the pathogenesis of hypertrophy. Overall, the findings reported in this pilot study highlight the complex systems underlying TCDD exposure in the development of cardiac dysfunction in later life.
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7
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Coelho NR, Matos C, Pimpão AB, Correia MJ, Sequeira CO, Morello J, Pereira SA, Monteiro EC. AHR canonical pathway: in vivo findings to support novel antihypertensive strategies. Pharmacol Res 2021; 165:105407. [PMID: 33418029 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2020] [Revised: 12/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Essential hypertension (HTN) is a disease where genetic and environmental factors interact to produce a high prevalent set of almost indistinguishable phenotypes. The weak definition of what is under the umbrella of HTN is a consequence of the lack of knowledge on the players involved in environment-gene interaction and their impact on blood pressure (BP) and mechanisms. The disclosure of these mechanisms that sense and (mal)adapt to toxic-environmental stimuli might at least determine some phenotypes of essential HTN and will have important therapeutic implications. In the present manuscript, we looked closer to the environmental sensor aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), a ligand-activated transcription factor involved in cardiovascular physiology, but better known by its involvement in biotransformation of xenobiotics through its canonical pathway. This review aims to disclose the contribution of the AHR-canonical pathway to HTN. For better mirror the complexity of the mechanisms involved in BP regulation, we privileged evidence from in vivo studies. Here we ascertained the level of available evidence and a comprehensive characterization of the AHR-related phenotype of HTN. We reviewed clinical and rodent studies on AHR-HTN genetic association and on AHR ligands and their impact on BP. We concluded that AHR is a druggable mechanistic linker of environmental exposure to HTN. We conclude that is worth to investigate the canonical pathway of AHR and the expression/polymorphisms of its related genes and/or other biomarkers (e.g. tryptophan-related ligands), in order to identify patients that may benefit from an AHR-centered antihypertensive treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuno R Coelho
- Translational Pharmacology Lab, CEDOC, Chronic Diseases Research Centre, NOVA Medical School
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campo Mártires da Pátria, 130, Lisboa, 1169-056, Portugal
| | - Clara Matos
- Translational Pharmacology Lab, CEDOC, Chronic Diseases Research Centre, NOVA Medical School
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campo Mártires da Pátria, 130, Lisboa, 1169-056, Portugal
| | - António B Pimpão
- Translational Pharmacology Lab, CEDOC, Chronic Diseases Research Centre, NOVA Medical School
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campo Mártires da Pátria, 130, Lisboa, 1169-056, Portugal
| | - M João Correia
- Translational Pharmacology Lab, CEDOC, Chronic Diseases Research Centre, NOVA Medical School
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campo Mártires da Pátria, 130, Lisboa, 1169-056, Portugal
| | - Catarina O Sequeira
- Translational Pharmacology Lab, CEDOC, Chronic Diseases Research Centre, NOVA Medical School
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campo Mártires da Pátria, 130, Lisboa, 1169-056, Portugal
| | - Judit Morello
- Translational Pharmacology Lab, CEDOC, Chronic Diseases Research Centre, NOVA Medical School
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campo Mártires da Pátria, 130, Lisboa, 1169-056, Portugal
| | - Sofia A Pereira
- Translational Pharmacology Lab, CEDOC, Chronic Diseases Research Centre, NOVA Medical School
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campo Mártires da Pátria, 130, Lisboa, 1169-056, Portugal.
| | - Emília C Monteiro
- Translational Pharmacology Lab, CEDOC, Chronic Diseases Research Centre, NOVA Medical School
- Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campo Mártires da Pátria, 130, Lisboa, 1169-056, Portugal
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8
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Mescoli A, Maffei G, Pillo G, Bortone G, Marchesi S, Morandi E, Ranzi A, Rotondo F, Serra S, Vaccari M, Zauli Sajani S, Mascolo MG, Jacobs MN, Colacci A. The Secretive Liaison of Particulate Matter and SARS-CoV-2. A Hypothesis and Theory Investigation. Front Genet 2020; 11:579964. [PMID: 33240326 PMCID: PMC7680895 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.579964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
As the novel coronavirus disease sweeps across the world, there is growing speculation on the role that atmospheric factors may have played on the different distribution of SARS-CoV-2, and on the epidemiological characteristics of COVID-19. Knowing the role that environmental factors play in influenza virus outbreaks, environmental pollution and, in particular, atmospheric airborne (particulate matter, PM) has been considered as a potential key factor in the spread and mortality of COVID-19. A possible role of the PM as the virus carrier has also been debated. The role of PM in exacerbating respiratory and cardiovascular disease has been well recognized. Accumulating evidence support the hypothesis that PM can trigger inflammatory response at molecular, cellular and organ levels. On this basis, we developed the hypothesis that PM may play a role as a booster of COVID-19 rather than as a carrier of SARS-CoV-2. To support our hypothesis, we analyzed the molecular signatures detected in cells exposed to PM samples collected in one of the most affected areas by the COVID-19 outbreak, in Italy. T47D human breast adenocarcinoma cells were chosen to explore the global gene expression changes induced by the treatment with organic extracts of PM 2.5. The analysis of the KEGG's pathways showed modulation of several gene networks related to the leucocyte transendothelial migration, cytoskeleton and adhesion system. Three major biological process were identified, including coagulation, growth control and immune response. The analysis of the modulated genes gave evidence for the involvement of PM in the endothelial disease, coagulation disorders, diabetes and reproductive toxicity, supporting the hypothesis that PM, directly or through molecular interplay, affects the same molecular targets as so far known for SARS-COV-2, contributing to the cytokines storm and to the aggravation of the symptoms triggered by COVID-19. We provide evidence for a plausible cooperation of receptors and transmembrane proteins, targeted by PM and involved in COVID-19, together with new insights into the molecular interplay of chemicals and pathogens that could be of importance for sustaining public health policies and developing new therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ada Mescoli
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Section of Cancerology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giangabriele Maffei
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Section of Cancerology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Gelsomina Pillo
- Agency for Prevention, Environment and Energy (Arpae), Emilia-Romagna, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Bortone
- Agency for Prevention, Environment and Energy (Arpae), Emilia-Romagna, Italy
| | - Stefano Marchesi
- Agency for Prevention, Environment and Energy (Arpae), Emilia-Romagna, Italy
| | - Elena Morandi
- Agency for Prevention, Environment and Energy (Arpae), Emilia-Romagna, Italy
| | - Andrea Ranzi
- Agency for Prevention, Environment and Energy (Arpae), Emilia-Romagna, Italy
| | - Francesca Rotondo
- Agency for Prevention, Environment and Energy (Arpae), Emilia-Romagna, Italy
| | - Stefania Serra
- Agency for Prevention, Environment and Energy (Arpae), Emilia-Romagna, Italy
| | - Monica Vaccari
- Agency for Prevention, Environment and Energy (Arpae), Emilia-Romagna, Italy
| | | | | | - Miriam Naomi Jacobs
- Department of Toxicology, Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards Public Health England, Chilton, United Kingdom
| | - Annamaria Colacci
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Section of Cancerology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Agency for Prevention, Environment and Energy (Arpae), Emilia-Romagna, Italy
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9
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First evidence of aryl hydrocarbon receptor as a druggable target in hypertension induced by chronic intermittent hypoxia. Pharmacol Res 2020; 159:104869. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.104869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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10
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Hsu CN, Lin IC, Yu HR, Huang LT, Tiao MM, Tain YL. Maternal Tryptophan Supplementation Protects Adult Rat Offspring against Hypertension Programmed by Maternal Chronic Kidney Disease: Implication of Tryptophan-Metabolizing Microbiome and Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21124552. [PMID: 32604820 PMCID: PMC7349830 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21124552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypertension and chronic kidney disease (CKD) can originate during early-life. Tryptophan metabolites generated by different pathways have both detrimental and beneficial effects. In CKD, uremic toxins from the tryptophan-generating metabolites are endogenous ligands of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR). The interplay between AHR, nitric oxide (NO), the renin–angiotensin system (RAS), and gut microbiota is involved in the development of hypertension. We examined whether tryptophan supplementation in pregnancy can prevent hypertension and kidney disease programmed by maternal CKD in adult offspring via the aforementioned mechanisms. Sprague–Dawley (SD) female rats received regular chow or chow supplemented with 0.5% adenine for 3 weeks to induce CKD before pregnancy. Pregnant controls or CKD rats received vehicle or tryptophan 200 mg/kg per day via oral gavage during pregnancy. Male offspring were divided into four groups (n = 8/group): control, CKD, tryptophan supplementation (Trp), and CKD plus tryptophan supplementation (CKDTrp). All rats were sacrificed at the age of 12 weeks. We found maternal CKD induced hypertension in adult offspring, which tryptophan supplementation prevented. Maternal CKD-induced hypertension is related to impaired NO bioavailability and non-classical RAS axis. Maternal CKD and tryptophan supplementation differentially shaped distinct gut microbiota profile in adult offspring. The protective effect of tryptophan supplementation against maternal CKD-induced programmed hypertension is relevant to alterations to several tryptophan-metabolizing microbes and AHR signaling pathway. Our findings support interplay among tryptophan-metabolizing microbiome, AHR, NO, and the RAS in hypertension of developmental origins. Furthermore, tryptophan supplementation in pregnancy could be a potential approach to prevent hypertension programmed by maternal CKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chien-Ning Hsu
- Department of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan;
- School of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - I-Chun Lin
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (I.-C.L.); (H.-R.Y.); (L.-T.H.); (M.-M.T.)
| | - Hong-Ren Yu
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (I.-C.L.); (H.-R.Y.); (L.-T.H.); (M.-M.T.)
| | - Li-Tung Huang
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (I.-C.L.); (H.-R.Y.); (L.-T.H.); (M.-M.T.)
- Department of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Linkow 244, Taiwan
| | - Mao-Meng Tiao
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (I.-C.L.); (H.-R.Y.); (L.-T.H.); (M.-M.T.)
| | - You-Lin Tain
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; (I.-C.L.); (H.-R.Y.); (L.-T.H.); (M.-M.T.)
- Institute for Translational Research in Biomedicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-975-056-995; Fax: +886-7733-8009
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11
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Ichihara S, Li P, Mise N, Suzuki Y, Izuoka K, Nakajima T, Gonzalez F, Ichihara G. Ablation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor promotes angiotensin II-induced cardiac fibrosis through enhanced c-Jun/HIF-1α signaling. Arch Toxicol 2019; 93:1543-1553. [PMID: 31016362 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-019-02446-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is a transcription factor that binds to DNA as a heterodimer with the AHR nuclear translocator (ARNT) after interaction with ligands, such as polycyclic and halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons and other xenobiotics. The endogenous ligands and functions of AHR have been the subject of many investigations. In the present study, the potential role of AHR signaling in the development of left ventricular hypertrophy and cardiac fibrosis by angiotensin II (Ang II) infusion was investigated in mice lacking the AHR gene (Ahr-/-). We also assessed the hypothesis that fenofibrate, a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPARα) activator, reduces cardiac fibrosis through the c-Jun signaling. Male Ahr-/- and age-matched wild-type mice (n = 8 per group) were infused with Ang II at 100 ng/kg/min daily for 2 weeks. Treatment with Ang II increased systolic blood pressure to comparable levels in Ahr-/- and wild-type mice. However, Ahr-/- mice developed severe cardiac fibrosis after Ang II infusion compared with wild-type mice. Ang II infusion also significantly increased the expression of endothelin in the left ventricles of Ahr-/- mice, but not in wild-type mice, and significantly increased the c-Jun signaling in Ahr-/- mice. Ang II infusion also significantly enhanced the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and the downstream target vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the left ventricles of Ahr-/- mice. These results suggested pathogenic roles for the AHR signaling pathway in the development of cardiac fibrosis. Treatment with fenofibrate reduced cardiac fibrosis and abrogated the effects of Ang II on the expression of endothelin, HIF-1α, and VEGF. The inhibitory effect of fenofibrate on cardiac fibrosis was mediated by suppression of VEGF expression through modulation of c-Jun/HIF-1α signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahoko Ichihara
- Graduate School of Regional Innovation Studies, Mie University, Tsu, Japan. .,Department of Environmental and Preventive Medicine, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke, 329-0498, Japan.
| | - Ping Li
- Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan.,Department of Cardiology, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Disease, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Nathan Mise
- Department of Environmental and Preventive Medicine, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke, 329-0498, Japan
| | - Yuka Suzuki
- Graduate School of Regional Innovation Studies, Mie University, Tsu, Japan
| | - Kiyora Izuoka
- Graduate School of Regional Innovation Studies, Mie University, Tsu, Japan
| | - Tamie Nakajima
- Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan.,Department of Lifelong Sports and Health Sciences, Chubu University, Kasugai, Japan
| | - Frank Gonzalez
- Laboratory of Metabolism, Center of Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Gaku Ichihara
- Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan.,Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Tokyo University of Science, Noda, Japan
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12
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Hsu CN, Lin YJ, Lu PC, Tain YL. Maternal Resveratrol Therapy Protects Male Rat Offspring against Programmed Hypertension Induced by TCDD and Dexamethasone Exposures: Is It Relevant to Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor? Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19082459. [PMID: 30127255 PMCID: PMC6121911 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19082459] [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: 07/20/2018] [Revised: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 08/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypertension can originate from early-life adverse environmental in utero exposure to dexamethasone (DEX) or 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD). Since DEX and TCDD are related to the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) signaling pathway, we examined whether resveratrol, an AHR modulator and antioxidant, could prevent programmed hypertension via regulating AHR signaling and oxidative stress. Groups of four-month-old male rat offspring were studied (n = 7⁻8 per group): control, DEX (0.1 mg/kg i.p. from a gestational age of 16 to 22 days), TCDD (200 ng/kg in four once-weekly oral doses), DEX + TCDD, and DEX + TCDD + R (resveratrol 0.05% in drinking water throughout pregnancy and lactation). Maternal TCDD exposure aggravated prenatal DEX-induced hypertension in adult male offspring, which maternal resveratrol therapy prevented. Maternal TCDD exposure aggravated DEX-induced oxidative damage in offspring kidneys, which was prevented by resveratrol therapy. Maternal resveratrol therapy decreased asymmetric and symmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA and SDMA) levels, thereby preventing combined DEX and TCDD exposure-induced programmed hypertension. Increases in renal Ahrr and Cyp1a1 expression induced by DEX + TCDD exposure were restored by resveratrol therapy. The beneficial effects of resveratrol on DEX + TCDD-induced hypertension relate to reduced renal mRNA expression of Ren, Ace, and Agtr1a expression. Thus, the beneficial effects of resveratrol on DEX + TCDD-induced hypertension include reduction of oxidative stress, restoration of nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability, blockade of the renin⁻angiotensin system (RAS), and antagonizing AHR signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chien-Ning Hsu
- Department of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan.
| | - Yu-Ju Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan.
| | - Pei-Chen Lu
- Departments of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan.
| | - You-Lin Tain
- Departments of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan.
- Institute for Translational Research in Biomedicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan.
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13
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Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor: A New Player of Pathogenesis and Therapy in Cardiovascular Diseases. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 2018:6058784. [PMID: 29984241 PMCID: PMC6015699 DOI: 10.1155/2018/6058784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2017] [Revised: 03/14/2018] [Accepted: 04/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a DNA binding protein that acts as a nuclear receptor mediating xenobiotic metabolism and environmental responses. Owing to the evolutionary conservation of this gene and its widespread expression in the immune and circulatory systems, AhR has for many years been almost exclusively studied by the pharmacological/toxicological field for its role in contaminant toxicity. More recently, the functions of AhR in environmental adaption have been examined in the context of the occurrence, development, and therapy of cardiovascular diseases. Increasing evidence suggests that AhR is involved in maintaining homeostasis or in triggering pathogenesis by modulating the biological responses of critical cell types in the cardiovascular system. Here, we describe the structure, distribution, and ligands of AhR and the AhR signaling pathway and review the impact of AhR on cardiovascular physiology. We also discuss the potential contribution of AhR as a new potential factor in the targeted treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
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14
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Akbar MF. Inhibition of indoxyl sulfate-induced intrarenal renin-angiotensin system activation: targeting the aryl hydrocarbon receptor. Transl Clin Pharmacol 2017; 25:114-116. [PMID: 32095460 PMCID: PMC7033375 DOI: 10.12793/tcp.2017.25.3.114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2017] [Revised: 06/17/2017] [Accepted: 06/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Indoxyl sulfate, a protein-bound uremic toxin, leads to CKD (chronic kidney disease) progression and its complications through the activation of AhR (aryl hydrocarbon receptor) and RAS (renin-angiotensin system). Inhibition of these pathways may slow the development of CKD and CKD-associated complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Firman Akbar
- Department of General Health Service, Sahabat Sehat Clinic, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia, Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne St. Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Australia
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15
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Chang CC, Hsu YH, Chou HC, Lee YCG, Juan SH. 3-Methylcholanthrene/Aryl-Hydrocarbon Receptor-Mediated Hypertension Through eNOS Inactivation. J Cell Physiol 2016; 232:1020-1029. [PMID: 27442426 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.25497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2016] [Accepted: 07/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) modulates vascular blood pressure and is predominantly expressed in endothelial cells and activated through the protein kinase B (Akt/PKB)-dependent pathway. We previously reported that 3-methylcholanthrene (3MC) activates the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and reduces PI3K/Akt phosphorylation. This study investigated the mechanism underlying the downregulatory effects of 3-MC on nitric oxide (NO) production occurring through the AhR/RhoA/Akt-mediated mechanism. The mechanism underlying the effects of 3-MC on eNOS activity and blood pressure was examined in vitro and in vivo through genetic and pharmacological approaches. Results indicated that 3-MC modified heat shock protein 90 (HSP90), caveolin-1, dynein, and eNOS mRNA and protein expression through the AhR/RhoA-dependent mechanism in mouse cerebral vascular endothelial cells (MCVECs) and that 3-MC reduced eNOS phosphorylation through the AhR/RhoA-mediated inactivation of Akt1. The upregulation of dynein expression was associated with decreased eNOS dimer formation (eNOS dimer; an activated form of the enzyme). Coimmunoprecipitation assay results indicated that 3-MC significantly reduced the interaction between eNOS and its regulatory proteins, including Akt1 and HSP90, but increased the interaction between eNOS and caveolin-1. Immunofluorescence and Western blot analysis revealed that 3-MC reduced the amount of membrane-bound activated eNOS, and a modified Griess assay revealed that 3-MC concomitantly reduced NO production. However, simvastatin reduced 3-MC-mediated murine hypertension. Our study results indicate that AhR, RhoA, and eNOS have major roles in blood pressure regulation. Statin intervention might provide a potential therapeutic approach for reducing hypertension caused by 3-MC. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 1020-1029, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Cheng Chang
- Departmentof Physiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Ho Hsu
- Department of Nephrology, Taipei Medical University Shuang-Ho Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsiu-Chu Chou
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yuan-Chii G Lee
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Informatics, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Hui Juan
- Departmentof Physiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
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16
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Gerger CJ, Thomas JK, Janz DM, Weber LP. Acute effects of β-naphthoflavone on cardiorespiratory function and metabolism in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio). FISH PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY 2015; 41:289-298. [PMID: 25186110 DOI: 10.1007/s10695-014-9982-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2014] [Accepted: 08/26/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) agonists are known to cause lethal cardiovascular deformities in fish after developmental exposure. Acute adult fish toxicity of AhR agonists is thought to be minimal, but limited evidence suggests sublethal effects may also involve the cardiac system in fish. In the present study, adult zebrafish (Danio rerio) were aqueously exposed to solvent control or three nominal concentrations of the commonly used model AhR agonist, β-naphthoflavone (BNF), for 48 h. Following exposure, fish were subjected to echocardiography to determine cardiac function or swimming tests with concurrent oxygen consumption measurement. Critical swimming speed and standard metabolic rate were not significantly changed, while active metabolic rate decreased with increasing BNF exposure, reaching statistical significance at the highest BNF exposure. Factorial aerobic scope was the most sensitive end-point and was decreased at even lower BNF concentrations, indicating a reduced aerobic capacity after acute AhR agonist exposure in adult fish. The highest BNF concentration caused a significant decrease in cardiac output, while increasing the ratio of atrial to ventricular heart rate (indicating atrioventricular conduction blockade). In conclusion, the effect of acute BNF exposure on zebrafish metabolic capacity and cardiac function is likely to be physiologically important given that fish have a critical need for adequate oxygen to fuel essential survival behaviors such as swimming, growth, and reproduction. Future studies should be directed at examining the effects of other polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons on fish cardiorespiratory function to determine whether their effects and modes of action are similar to BNF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney J Gerger
- Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5B3, Canada
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17
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Sun RX, Chong LC, Simmons TT, Houlahan KE, Prokopec SD, Watson JD, Moffat ID, Lensu S, Lindén J, P'ng C, Okey AB, Pohjanvirta R, Boutros PC. Cross-species transcriptomic analysis elucidates constitutive aryl hydrocarbon receptor activity. BMC Genomics 2014; 15:1053. [PMID: 25467400 PMCID: PMC4301818 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-15-1053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2014] [Accepted: 11/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Research on the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) has largely focused on variations in toxic outcomes resulting from its activation by halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons. But the AHR also plays key roles in regulating pathways critical for development, and after decades of research the mechanisms underlying physiological regulation by the AHR remain poorly characterized. Previous studies identified several core genes that respond to xenobiotic AHR ligands across a broad range of species and tissues. However, only limited inferences have been made regarding its role in regulating constitutive gene activity, i.e. in the absence of exogenous ligands. To address this, we profiled transcriptomic variations between AHR-active and AHR-less-active animals in the absence of an exogenous agonist across five tissues, three of which came from rats (hypothalamus, white adipose and liver) and two of which came from mice (kidney and liver). Because AHR status alone has been shown sufficient to alter transcriptomic responses, we reason that by contrasting profiles amongst AHR-variant animals, we may elucidate effects of the AHR on constitutive mRNA abundances. Results We found significantly more overlap in constitutive mRNA abundances amongst tissues within the same species than from tissues between species and identified 13 genes (Agt, Car3, Creg1, Ctsc, E2f6, Enpp1, Gatm, Gstm4, Kcnj8, Me1, Pdk1, Slc35a3, and Sqrdl) that are affected by AHR-status in four of five tissues. One gene, Creg1, was significantly up-regulated in all AHR-less-active animals. We also find greater overlap between tissues at the pathway level than at the gene level, suggesting coherency to the AHR signalling response within these processes. Analysis of regulatory motifs suggests that the AHR mostly mediates transcriptional regulation via direct binding to response elements. Conclusions These findings, though preliminary, present a platform for further evaluating the role of the AHR in regulation of constitutive mRNA levels and physiologic function. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/1471-2164-15-1053) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Paul C Boutros
- Informatics and Bio-computing Program, Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, Canada.
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18
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Susceptibility Based Upon Chemical Interaction with Disease Processes: Potential Implications for Risk Assessment. Curr Environ Health Rep 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s40572-014-0030-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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19
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Agbor LN, Wiest EF, Rothe M, Schunck WH, Walker MK. Role of CYP1A1 in modulating the vascular and blood pressure benefits of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2014; 351:688-98. [PMID: 25316121 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.114.219535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms that mediate the cardiovascular protective effects of omega 3 (n-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have not been fully elucidated. Cytochrome P450 1A1 efficiently metabolizes n-3 PUFAs to potent vasodilators. Thus, we hypothesized that dietary n-3 PUFAs increase nitric oxide (NO)-dependent blood pressure regulation and vasodilation in a CYP1A1-dependent manner. CYP1A1 wild-type (WT) and knockout (KO) mice were fed an n-3 or n-6 PUFA-enriched diet for 8 weeks and were analyzed for tissue fatty acids and metabolites, NO-dependent blood pressure regulation, NO-dependent vasodilation of acetylcholine (ACh) in mesenteric resistance arterioles, and endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) and phospho-Ser1177-eNOS expression in the aorta. All mice fed the n-3 PUFA diet showed significantly higher levels of n-3 PUFAs and their metabolites, and significantly lower levels of n-6 PUFAs and their metabolites. In addition, KO mice on the n-3 PUFA diet accumulated significantly higher levels of n-3 PUFAs in the aorta and kidney without a parallel increase in the levels of their metabolites. Moreover, KO mice exhibited significantly less NO-dependent regulation of blood pressure on the n-3 PUFA diet and significantly less NO-dependent, ACh-mediated vasodilation in mesenteric arterioles on both diets. Finally, the n-3 PUFA diet significantly increased aortic phospho-Ser1177-eNOS/eNOS ratio in the WT compared with KO mice. These data demonstrate that CYP1A1 contributes to eNOS activation, NO bioavailability, and NO-dependent blood pressure regulation mediated by dietary n-3 PUFAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larry N Agbor
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico (L.N.A., E.F.W., M.K.W.); Lipidomix GmbH, Berlin, Germany (M.R.); and Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany (W.-H.S.)
| | - Elani F Wiest
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico (L.N.A., E.F.W., M.K.W.); Lipidomix GmbH, Berlin, Germany (M.R.); and Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany (W.-H.S.)
| | - Michael Rothe
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico (L.N.A., E.F.W., M.K.W.); Lipidomix GmbH, Berlin, Germany (M.R.); and Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany (W.-H.S.)
| | - Wolf-Hagen Schunck
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico (L.N.A., E.F.W., M.K.W.); Lipidomix GmbH, Berlin, Germany (M.R.); and Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany (W.-H.S.)
| | - Mary K Walker
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico (L.N.A., E.F.W., M.K.W.); Lipidomix GmbH, Berlin, Germany (M.R.); and Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany (W.-H.S.)
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Hayes MD, Ovcinnikovs V, Smith AG, Kimber I, Dearman RJ. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor: differential contribution to T helper 17 and T cytotoxic 17 cell development. PLoS One 2014; 9:e106955. [PMID: 25203682 PMCID: PMC4159274 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0106955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2014] [Accepted: 08/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) has been shown to be required for optimal Thelper (Th) 17 cell activation. Th17 cells provide immunity against extracellular pathogens and are implicated in autoimmune diseases. Herein, the role of the AhR in cytokine production by Th17, and by the analogous population of T cytotoxic (Tc)17 cells, has been examined. Lymph node Tc (CD8(+)) and Th (CD4(+)) cells were isolated by negative selection from naive AhR(+/-) and AhR(-/-) mice and polarised to Tc1/Th1 or Tc17/Th17 phenotypes with appropriate cytokines. Cell differentiation was assessed as a function of mRNA and protein (ELISA and flow cytometry) expression for interferon (IFN)-γ and for key Th17 cytokines. In AhR(+/-) mice, Th17 cells displayed an exclusive IL-17 profile, which was markedly inhibited by a selective AhR antagonist to levels observed in AhR knockout mice. Addition of the natural AhR agonist 6-formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole (FICZ) markedly enhanced Th17 cell activity in the heterozygotes. In contrast, Tc17 cells polarised into 3 distinct subsets: producing either IL-17 or IFN-γ alone, or both cytokines. Blocking AhR was also detrimental to Tc17 development, with reduced responses recorded in AhR(-/-) mice and antagonist-mediated reduction of IL-17 expression in the heterozygotes. However, Tc17 cells were largely refractory to exogenous FICZ, presumably because Tc17 cells express baseline AhR mRNA, but unlike Th17 cells, there is no marked up-regulation during polarisation. Thus, Th17 cell development is more dependent upon AhR activation than is Tc17 cell development, suggesting that endogenous AhR ligands play a much greater role in driving Th17 cell responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark D. Hayes
- Faculty of Life Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Vitalijs Ovcinnikovs
- Faculty of Life Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew G. Smith
- MRC Toxicology Unit, The University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Ian Kimber
- Faculty of Life Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca J. Dearman
- Faculty of Life Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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Agbor LN, Walsh MT, Boberg JR, Walker MK. Elevated blood pressure in cytochrome P4501A1 knockout mice is associated with reduced vasodilation to omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2012; 264:351-60. [PMID: 22995157 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2012.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2012] [Revised: 09/04/2012] [Accepted: 09/09/2012] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
In vitro cytochrome P4501A1 (CYP1A1) metabolizes omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs); eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), primarily to 17,18-epoxyeicosatetraenoic acid (17,18-EEQ) and 19,20-epoxydocosapentaenoic acid (19,20-EDP), respectively. These metabolites have been shown to mediate vasodilation via increases in nitric oxide (NO) and activation of potassium channels. We hypothesized that genetic deletion of CYP1A1 would reduce vasodilatory responses to n-3 PUFAs, but not the metabolites, and increase blood pressure (BP) due to decreases in NO. We assessed BP by radiotelemetry in CYP1A1 wildtype (WT) and knockout (KO) mice±NO synthase (NOS) inhibitor. We also assessed vasodilation to acetylcholine (ACh), EPA, DHA, 17,18-EEQ and 19,20-EDP in aorta and mesenteric arterioles. Further, we assessed vasodilation to an NO donor and to DHA±inhibitors of potassium channels. CYP1A1 KO mice were hypertensive, compared to WT, (mean BP in mmHg, WT 103±1, KO 116±1, n=5/genotype, p<0.05), and exhibited a reduced heart rate (beats per minute, WT 575±5; KO 530±7; p<0.05). However, BP responses to NOS inhibition and vasorelaxation responses to ACh and an NO donor were normal in CYP1A1 KO mice, suggesting that NO bioavailability was not reduced. In contrast, CYP1A1 KO mice exhibited significantly attenuated vasorelaxation responses to EPA and DHA in both the aorta and mesenteric arterioles, but normal vasorelaxation responses to the CYP1A1 metabolites, 17,18-EEQ and 19,20-EDP, and normal responses to potassium channel inhibition. Taken together these data suggest that CYP1A1 metabolizes n-3 PUFAs to vasodilators in vivo and the loss of these vasodilators may lead to increases in BP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larry N Agbor
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
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22
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Walker MK, Boberg JR, Walsh MT, Wolf V, Trujillo A, Duke MS, Palme R, Felton LA. A less stressful alternative to oral gavage for pharmacological and toxicological studies in mice. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2012; 260:65-9. [PMID: 22326784 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2012.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2011] [Revised: 01/24/2012] [Accepted: 01/25/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Oral gavage dosing can induce stress and potentially confound experimental measurements, particularly when blood pressure and heart rate are endpoints of interest. Thus, we developed a pill formulation that mice would voluntarily consume and tested the hypothesis that pill dosing would be significantly less stressful than oral gavage. C57Bl/6 male mice were singly housed and on four consecutive days were exposed to an individual walking into the room (week 1, control), a pill being placed into the cage (week 2), and a dose of water via oral gavage (week 3). Blood pressure and heart rate were recorded by radiotelemetry continuously for 5h after treatment, and feces collected 6-10h after treatment for analysis of corticosterone metabolites. Both pill and gavage dosing significantly increased mean arterial pressure (MAP) during the first hour, compared to control. However, the increase in MAP was significantly greater after gavage and remained elevated up to 5h, while MAP returned to normal within 2h after a pill. Neither pill nor gavage dosing significantly increased heart rate during the first hour, compared to control; however, pill dosing significantly reduced heart rate while gavage significantly increased heart rate 2-5h post dosing. MAP and heart rate did not differ 24h after dosing. Lastly, only gavage dosing significantly increased fecal corticosterone metabolites, indicating a systemic stress response via activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. These data demonstrated that this pill dosing method of mice is significantly less stressful than oral gavage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary K Walker
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA.
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Zhang N. The role of endogenous aryl hydrocarbon receptor signaling in cardiovascular physiology. J Cardiovasc Dis Res 2011; 2:91-5. [PMID: 21814412 PMCID: PMC3144625 DOI: 10.4103/0975-3583.83033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is an orphan nuclear receptor with a primary function of mediating xenobiotic metabolism through transcriptional activation of Phase I and Phase II drug-metabolizing enzymes. Although no high-affinity physiological activators of AHR have been discovered, the endogenous signaling of the AHR pathway is believed to play an important role in the development and function of the cardiovascular system, based on the observations on ahr gene-deficient mice. The AHR knockout mice develop cardiac hypertrophy, abnormal vascular structure in multiple organs and altered blood pressure depending on their host environment. In this review, the endogenous role of AHR in cardiovascular physiology, including heart function, vascular development and blood pressure regulation has been summarized and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Zhang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, USA
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Choi EY, Lee H, Dingle RWC, Kim KB, Swanson HI. Development of novel CH223191-based antagonists of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor. Mol Pharmacol 2011; 81:3-11. [PMID: 21967751 DOI: 10.1124/mol.111.073643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor that regulates genes involved in drug/xenobiotic metabolism, cell cycle progression, cell fate determination, immune function, and inflammatory response. Increasing evidence that AHR plays a role in the pathophysiology of a number of human disease states is driving the need for improved pharmacological tools to be used for understanding the in vivo impact of AHR modulation. In this study, we have characterized and used structure-activity relationship analyses of a newly synthesized library of derivatives of the potent AHR antagonist 2-methyl-2H-pyrazole-3-carboxylic acid (2-methyl-4-o-tolylazo-phenyl)-amide (CH223191). Initial screening of these compounds revealed that those bearing groups with strong electronegativity at the R1 position (i.e., CHD-5, CHD-11, and CHD-12) versus those that are more electron-poor at this position (i.e., CHD-7 and CHD-8) elicited the most potent AHR antagonistic properties. The ability of these derivatives to inhibit agonist (2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin) binding, nuclear translocation of AHR, and agonist-induced enzyme activity also were determined and support the initial findings. Furthermore, CH223191, but not CHD-5, CHD-11, or CHD-12, was found to exhibit AHR-independent proproliferative properties. These results contribute to our understanding of the structural requirements of potent AHR antagonists and the development of effective pharmacological tools to be used for studying the pathophysiological role of AHR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun-Young Choi
- Department of Molecular and Biomedical Pharmacology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, USA
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Arsenescu V, Arsenescu R, Parulkar M, Karounos M, Zhang X, Baker N, Cassis LA. Polychlorinated biphenyl 77 augments angiotensin II-induced atherosclerosis and abdominal aortic aneurysms in male apolipoprotein E deficient mice. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2011; 257:148-54. [PMID: 21925196 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2011.08.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2011] [Revised: 08/22/2011] [Accepted: 08/29/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Infusion of angiotensin II (AngII) to hyperlipidemic mice augments atherosclerosis and causes formation of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs). Each of these AngII-induced vascular pathologies exhibit pronounced inflammation. Previous studies demonstrated that coplanar polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) promote inflammation in endothelial cells and adipocytes, two cell types implicated in AngII-induced vascular pathologies. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that administration of PCB77 to male apolipoprotein E (ApoE) -/- mice promotes AngII-induced atherosclerosis and AAA formation. Male ApoE-/- mice were administered vehicle or PCB77 (49 mg/kg, i.p.) during week 1 and 4 (2 divided doses/week) of AngII infusion. Body weights and total serum cholesterol concentrations were not influenced by administration of PCB77. Systolic blood pressure was increased in AngII-infused mice administered PCB77 compared to vehicle (156±6 vs 137±5 mmHg, respectively). The percentage of aortic arch covered by atherosclerotic lesions was increased in AngII-infused mice administered PCB77 compared to vehicle (2.0±0.4 vs 0.9±0.1%, respectively). Lumen diameters of abdominal aortas determined by in vivo ultrasound and external diameters of excised suprarenal aortas were increased in AngII-infused mice administered PCB77 compared to vehicle. In addition, AAA incidence increased from 47 to 85% in AngII-infused mice administered PCB77. Adipose tissue in close proximity to AAAs from mice administered PCB77 exhibited increased mRNA abundance of proinflammatory cytokines and elevated expression of components of the renin-angiotensin system (angiotensinogen, angiotensin type 1a receptor (AT1aR)). These results demonstrate that PCB77 augments AngII-induced atherosclerosis and AAA formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Violeta Arsenescu
- Graduate Center for Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky, 800 Rose Street, Lexington, KY 40536-0200, USA
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Agbor LN, Elased KM, Walker MK. Endothelial cell-specific aryl hydrocarbon receptor knockout mice exhibit hypotension mediated, in part, by an attenuated angiotensin II responsiveness. Biochem Pharmacol 2011; 82:514-23. [PMID: 21684261 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2011.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2011] [Revised: 05/27/2011] [Accepted: 06/01/2011] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Hypotension in aryl hydrocarbon receptor knockout mice (ahr(-/-)) is mediated, in part, by a reduced contribution of angiotensin (Ang) II to basal blood pressure (BP). Since AHR is highly expressed in endothelial cells (EC), we hypothesized that EC-specific ahr(-/-) (ECahr(-/-)) mice would exhibit a similar phenotype. We generated ECahr(-/-) mice by crossing AHR floxed mice (ahr(fx/fx)) to mice expressing Cre recombinase driven by an EC-specific promoter. BP was assessed by radiotelemetry prior to and following an acute injection of Ang II or chronic treatment with an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEi). ECahr(-/-) mice were hypotensive (ECahr(+/+): 116.1±1.4; ECahr(-/-): 107.4±2.0 mmHg, n=11, p<0.05) and exhibited significantly different responses to Ang II and ACEi. While Ang II increased BP in both genotypes, the increase was sustained in ECahr(+/+), whereas the increase in ECahr(-/-) mice steadily declined. Area under the curve analysis showed that Ang II-induced increase in diastolic BP (DBP) over 30 min was significantly lower in ECahr(-/-) mice (ECahr(+/+) 1297±223 mmHg/30 min; ECahr(-/-)(AUC): 504±138 mmHg/30 min, p<0.05). In contrast, while ACEi decreased BP in both genotypes, the subsequent rise in DBP after treatment was significantly delayed in the ECahr(-/-) mice. ECahr(-/-) mice also exhibited reduced vascular and adipose Ang II type 1 receptor (AT1R) expression, and reduced aortic Ang II-dependent vasoconstriction in the presence of vascular adipose. Taken together these data suggest that hypotension in ECahr(-/-) mice results from reduced vascular responsiveness to Ang II that is influenced by AT1R expression and adipose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larry N Agbor
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico, Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
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de Frutos S, Diaz JMR, Nitta CH, Sherpa ML, Bosc LVG. Endothelin-1 contributes to increased NFATc3 activation by chronic hypoxia in pulmonary arteries. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2011; 301:C441-50. [PMID: 21525433 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00029.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Chronic hypoxia (CH) activates the Ca(2+)-dependent transcription factor nuclear factor of activated T cells isoform c3 (NFATc3) in mouse pulmonary arteries. However, the mechanism of this response has not been explored. Since we have demonstrated that NFATc3 is required for CH-induced pulmonary arterial remodeling, establishing how CH activates NFATc3 is physiologically significant. The goal of this study was to test the hypothesis that endothelin-1 (ET-1) contributes to CH-induced NFATc3 activation. We propose that this mechanism requires increased pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cell (PASMC) intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) and stimulation of RhoA/Rho kinase (ROK), leading to calcineurin activation and actin cytoskeleton polymerization, respectively. We found that: 1) CH increases pulmonary arterial pre-pro-ET-1 mRNA expression and lung RhoA activity; 2) inhibition of ET receptors, calcineurin, L-type Ca(2+) channels, and ROK blunts CH-induced NFATc3 activation in isolated intrapulmonary arteries from NFAT-luciferase reporter mice; and 3) both ET-1-induced NFATc3 activation in isolated mouse pulmonary arteries ex vivo and ET-1-induced NFATc3-green fluorescence protein nuclear import in human PASMC depend on ROK and actin polymerization. This study suggests that CH increases ET-1 expression, thereby elevating PASMC [Ca(2+)](i) and RhoA/ROK activity. As previously demonstrated, elevated [Ca(2+)](i) is required to activate calcineurin, which dephosphorylates NFATc3, allowing its nuclear import. Here, we demonstrate that ROK increases actin polymerization, thus providing structural support for NFATc3 nuclear transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio de Frutos
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
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Intranasal benzo[a]pyrene alters circadian blood pressure patterns and causes lung inflammation in rats. Arch Toxicol 2010; 85:337-46. [DOI: 10.1007/s00204-010-0589-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2010] [Accepted: 09/01/2010] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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de Frutos S, Caldwell E, Nitta CH, Kanagy NL, Wang J, Wang W, Walker MK, Gonzalez Bosc LV. NFATc3 contributes to intermittent hypoxia-induced arterial remodeling in mice. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2010; 299:H356-63. [PMID: 20495147 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00341.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Sleep apnea (SA) is defined as intermittent respiratory arrest during sleep and affects up to 20% of the adult population. SA is also associated with an increased incidence of hypertension and peripheral vascular disease. Exposing rodents to intermittent hypoxia during sleep mimics the cyclical hypoxia/normoxia of SA. We have previously shown that in mice and rats intermittent hypoxia induces ET-1 upregulation and systemic hypertension. Furthermore, intermittent hypoxia (IH) in mice increases nuclear factor of activated T cells isoform 3 (NFATc3) transcriptional activity in aorta and mesenteric arteries, whereas the calcineurin/NFAT inhibitor cyclosporin A prevents IH-induced hypertension. More importantly, NFATc3 knockout (KO) mice do not develop IH-induced hypertension. The goals of this study were to determine the role of NFATc3 in IH-induced arterial remodeling and whether IH-induced NFATc3 activation is mediated by ET-1. Oral administration of both a dual (bosentan) and a selective endothelin receptor type A antagonist (PD155080) during 2 days of IH exposure attenuated NFAT activation in aorta and mesenteric arteries. Rho kinase inhibition with fasudil also prevented IH-induced NFAT activation. Mesenteric artery cross-sectional wall thickness was increased by IH in wild-type (WT) and vehicle-treated mice but not in bosentan-treated and NFATc3 KO mice. The arterial remodeling in mesenteric arteries after IH was characterized by increased expression of the hypertrophic NFATc3 target smooth muscle-alpha-actin in WT but not in KO mice. These results indicate that ET-1 is an upstream activator of NFATc3 during intermittent hypoxia, contributing to the resultant hypertension and increased wall thickness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio de Frutos
- Vascular Physiology Group, Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
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