1
|
Zhu Z, Liu Z, Zhang D, Li L, Pei J, Cai L. Models for calcific aortic valve disease in vivo and in vitro. CELL REGENERATION (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2024; 13:6. [PMID: 38424219 PMCID: PMC10904700 DOI: 10.1186/s13619-024-00189-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Calcific Aortic Valve Disease (CAVD) is prevalent among the elderly as the most common valvular heart disease. Currently, no pharmaceutical interventions can effectively reverse or prevent CAVD, making valve replacement the primary therapeutic recourse. Extensive research spanning decades has contributed to the establishment of animal and in vitro cell models, which facilitates a deeper understanding of the pathophysiological progression and underlying mechanisms of CAVD. In this review, we provide a comprehensive summary and analysis of the strengths and limitations associated with commonly employed models for the study of valve calcification. We specifically emphasize the advancements in three-dimensional culture technologies, which replicate the structural complexity of the valve. Furthermore, we delve into prospective recommendations for advancing in vivo and in vitro model studies of CAVD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zijin Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Science, National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of High-Throughput Drug Screening Technology, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062, China
| | - Zhirong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Science, National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of High-Throughput Drug Screening Technology, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062, China
| | - Donghui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Science, National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of High-Throughput Drug Screening Technology, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062, China
| | - Li Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Science, National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of High-Throughput Drug Screening Technology, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062, China.
| | - Jianqiu Pei
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Metabolic Disorders Related Cardiovascular Disease, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China.
| | - Lin Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Enzyme Engineering, School of Life Science, National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of High-Throughput Drug Screening Technology, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
van der Velden J, Asselbergs FW, Bakkers J, Batkai S, Bertrand L, Bezzina CR, Bot I, Brundel BJJM, Carrier L, Chamuleau S, Ciccarelli M, Dawson D, Davidson SM, Dendorfer A, Duncker DJ, Eschenhagen T, Fabritz L, Falcão-Pires I, Ferdinandy P, Giacca M, Girao H, Gollmann-Tepeköylü C, Gyongyosi M, Guzik TJ, Hamdani N, Heymans S, Hilfiker A, Hilfiker-Kleiner D, Hoekstra AG, Hulot JS, Kuster DWD, van Laake LW, Lecour S, Leiner T, Linke WA, Lumens J, Lutgens E, Madonna R, Maegdefessel L, Mayr M, van der Meer P, Passier R, Perbellini F, Perrino C, Pesce M, Priori S, Remme CA, Rosenhahn B, Schotten U, Schulz R, Sipido KR, Sluijter JPG, van Steenbeek F, Steffens S, Terracciano CM, Tocchetti CG, Vlasman P, Yeung KK, Zacchigna S, Zwaagman D, Thum T. Animal models and animal-free innovations for cardiovascular research: current status and routes to be explored. Consensus document of the ESC Working Group on Myocardial Function and the ESC Working Group on Cellular Biology of the Heart. Cardiovasc Res 2022; 118:3016-3051. [PMID: 34999816 PMCID: PMC9732557 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvab370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases represent a major cause of morbidity and mortality, necessitating research to improve diagnostics, and to discover and test novel preventive and curative therapies, all of which warrant experimental models that recapitulate human disease. The translation of basic science results to clinical practice is a challenging task, in particular for complex conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, which often result from multiple risk factors and comorbidities. This difficulty might lead some individuals to question the value of animal research, citing the translational 'valley of death', which largely reflects the fact that studies in rodents are difficult to translate to humans. This is also influenced by the fact that new, human-derived in vitro models can recapitulate aspects of disease processes. However, it would be a mistake to think that animal models do not represent a vital step in the translational pathway as they do provide important pathophysiological insights into disease mechanisms particularly on an organ and systemic level. While stem cell-derived human models have the potential to become key in testing toxicity and effectiveness of new drugs, we need to be realistic, and carefully validate all new human-like disease models. In this position paper, we highlight recent advances in trying to reduce the number of animals for cardiovascular research ranging from stem cell-derived models to in situ modelling of heart properties, bioinformatic models based on large datasets, and state-of-the-art animal models, which show clinically relevant characteristics observed in patients with a cardiovascular disease. We aim to provide a guide to help researchers in their experimental design to translate bench findings to clinical routine taking the replacement, reduction, and refinement (3R) as a guiding concept.
Collapse
Grants
- R01 HL150359 NHLBI NIH HHS
- RG/16/14/32397 British Heart Foundation
- FS/18/37/33642 British Heart Foundation
- PG/17/64/33205 British Heart Foundation
- PG/15/88/31780 British Heart Foundation
- FS/RTF/20/30009, NH/19/1/34595, PG/18/35/33786, CS/17/4/32960, PG/15/88/31780, and PG/17/64/33205 British Heart Foundation
- NC/T001488/1 National Centre for the Replacement, Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research
- PG/18/44/33790 British Heart Foundation
- CH/16/3/32406 British Heart Foundation
- FS/RTF/20/30009 British Heart Foundation
- NWO-ZonMW
- ZonMW and Heart Foundation for the translational research program
- Dutch Cardiovascular Alliance (DCVA)
- Leducq Foundation
- Dutch Research Council
- Association of Collaborating Health Foundations (SGF)
- UCL Hospitals NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, and the DCVA
- Netherlands CardioVascular Research Initiative CVON
- Stichting Hartekind and the Dutch Research Counsel (NWO) (OCENW.GROOT.2019.029)
- National Fund for Scientific Research, Belgium and Action de Recherche Concertée de la Communauté Wallonie-Bruxelles, Belgium
- Netherlands CardioVascular Research Initiative CVON (PREDICT2 and CONCOR-genes projects), the Leducq Foundation
- ERA PerMed (PROCEED study)
- Netherlands Cardiovascular Research Initiative
- Dutch Heart Foundation
- German Centre of Cardiovascular Research (DZHH)
- Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland
- Tenovus Scotland
- Friends of Anchor and Grampian NHS-Endowments
- National Institute for Health Research University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research
- European Research Council (ERC-AG IndivuHeart), the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft
- European Union Horizon 2020 (REANIMA and TRAINHEART)
- German Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF)
- Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK)
- European Union Horizon 2020
- DFG
- National Research, Development and Innovation Office of Hungary
- Research Excellence Program—TKP; National Heart Program
- Austrian Science Fund
- European Union Commission’s Seventh Framework programme
- CVON2016-Early HFPEF
- CVON She-PREDICTS
- CVON Arena-PRIME
- European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme
- Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft
- Volkswagenstiftung
- French National Research Agency
- ERA-Net-CVD
- Fédération Française de Cardiologie, the Fondation pour la Recherche Médicale
- French PIA Project
- University Research Federation against heart failure
- Netherlands Heart Foundation
- Dekker Senior Clinical Scientist
- Health Holland TKI-LSH
- TUe/UMCU/UU Alliance Fund
- south African National Foundation
- Cancer Association of South Africa and Winetech
- Netherlands Heart Foundation/Applied & Engineering Sciences
- Dutch Technology Foundation
- Pie Medical Imaging
- Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research
- Dr. Dekker Program
- Netherlands CardioVascular Research Initiative: the Dutch Heart Foundation
- Dutch Federation of University Medical Centres
- Netherlands Organization for Health Research and Development and the Royal Netherlands Academy of Sciences for the GENIUS-II project
- Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research (NWO) (VICI grant); the European Research Council
- Incyte s.r.l. and from Ministero dell’Istruzione, Università e Ricerca Scientifica
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (Junior Research Group & Translational Research Project), the European Research Council (ERC Starting Grant NORVAS),
- Swedish Heart-Lung-Foundation
- Swedish Research Council
- National Institutes of Health
- Bavarian State Ministry of Health and Care through the research project DigiMed Bayern
- ERC
- ERA-CVD
- Dutch Heart Foundation, ZonMw
- the NWO Gravitation project
- Ministero dell'Istruzione, Università e Ricerca Scientifica
- Regione Lombardia
- Netherlands Organisation for Health Research and Development
- ITN Network Personalize AF: Personalized Therapies for Atrial Fibrillation: a translational network
- MAESTRIA: Machine Learning Artificial Intelligence Early Detection Stroke Atrial Fibrillation
- REPAIR: Restoring cardiac mechanical function by polymeric artificial muscular tissue
- Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG, German Research Foundation)
- European Union H2020 program to the project TECHNOBEAT
- EVICARE
- BRAV3
- ZonMw
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK)
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiac Regeneration
- British Heart Foundation studentship
- NC3Rs
- Interreg ITA-AUS project InCARDIO
- Italian Association for Cancer Research
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jolanda van der Velden
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Physiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Science, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Netherlands Heart Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Folkert W Asselbergs
- Division Heart & Lungs, Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Faculty of Population Health Sciences, Institute of Cardiovascular Science and Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jeroen Bakkers
- Hubrecht Institute-KNAW and University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sandor Batkai
- Hannover Medical School, Institute of Molecular and Translational Therapeutic Strategies, Hannover, Germany
| | - Luc Bertrand
- Hannover Medical School, Institute of Molecular and Translational Therapeutic Strategies, Hannover, Germany
| | - Connie R Bezzina
- Université catholique de Louvain, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Pole of Cardiovascular Research, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ilze Bot
- Heart Center, Department of Experimental Cardiology, Amsterdam UMC, Location Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Bianca J J M Brundel
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Physiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Science, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lucie Carrier
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Steven Chamuleau
- Amsterdam UMC, Heart Center, Cardiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Science, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Michele Ciccarelli
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Odontology, University of Salerno, Fisciano (SA), Italy
| | - Dana Dawson
- Department of Cardiology, Aberdeen Cardiovascular and Diabetes Centre, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary and University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Sean M Davidson
- The Hatter Cardiovascular Institute, University College London, 67 Chenies Mews, London WC1E 6HX, UK
| | - Andreas Dendorfer
- Walter-Brendel-Centre of Experimental Medicine, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Dirk J Duncker
- Division of Experimental Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, Thoraxcenter, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas Eschenhagen
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Larissa Fabritz
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Hamburg, Germany
- University Center of Cardiovascular Sciences and Department of Cardiology, University Heart Center Hamburg, Germany and Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, UK
| | - Ines Falcão-Pires
- UnIC - Cardiovascular Research and Development Centre, Department of Surgery and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Portugal
| | - Péter Ferdinandy
- Cardiometabolic Research Group and MTA-SE System Pharmacology Research Group, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Pharmahungary Group, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Mauro Giacca
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences and Cardiovascular Department, Centre for Translational Cardiology, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Integrata Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- International Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
- King’s British Heart Foundation Centre, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Henrique Girao
- Univ Coimbra, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Centre of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | - Mariann Gyongyosi
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine II, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Tomasz J Guzik
- Instutute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- Jagiellonian University, Collegium Medicum, Kraków, Poland
| | - Nazha Hamdani
- Division Cardiology, Molecular and Experimental Cardiology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Institute of Physiology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Stephane Heymans
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Andres Hilfiker
- Department for Cardiothoracic, Transplant, and Vascular Surgery, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Denise Hilfiker-Kleiner
- Department for Cardiology and Angiology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- Department of Cardiovascular Complications in Pregnancy and in Oncologic Therapies, Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Germany
| | - Alfons G Hoekstra
- Computational Science Lab, Informatics Institute, Faculty of Science, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jean-Sébastien Hulot
- Université de Paris, INSERM, PARCC, F-75015 Paris, France
- CIC1418 and DMU CARTE, AP-HP, Hôpital Européen Georges-Pompidou, F-75015 Paris, France
| | - Diederik W D Kuster
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Physiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Science, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Linda W van Laake
- Division Heart & Lungs, Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Sandrine Lecour
- Department of Medicine, Hatter Institute for Cardiovascular Research in Africa and Cape Heart Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tim Leiner
- Department of Radiology, Utrecht University Medical Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Wolfgang A Linke
- Institute of Physiology II, University of Muenster, Robert-Koch-Str. 27B, 48149 Muenster, Germany
| | - Joost Lumens
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Esther Lutgens
- Experimental Vascular Biology Division, Department of Medical Biochemistry, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU), Munich, Germany
- DZHK, Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Rosalinda Madonna
- Department of Pathology, Cardiology Division, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiology Division, University of Texas Medical School in Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Lars Maegdefessel
- DZHK, Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
- Department for Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
- Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Manuel Mayr
- King’s British Heart Foundation Centre, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Peter van der Meer
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Robert Passier
- Department of Applied Stem Cell Technologies, TechMed Centre, University of Twente, 7500AE Enschede, The Netherlands
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Centre, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Filippo Perbellini
- Hannover Medical School, Institute of Molecular and Translational Therapeutic Strategies, Hannover, Germany
| | - Cinzia Perrino
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Maurizio Pesce
- Unità di Ingegneria Tissutale Cardiovascolare, Centro cardiologico Monzino, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Priori
- Molecular Cardiology, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, Pavia, Italy
- University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Carol Ann Remme
- Université catholique de Louvain, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Pole of Cardiovascular Research, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Bodo Rosenhahn
- Institute for information Processing, Leibniz University of Hanover, 30167 Hannover, Germany
| | - Ulrich Schotten
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Rainer Schulz
- Institute of Physiology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Karin R Sipido
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Joost P G Sluijter
- Experimental Cardiology Laboratory, Department of Cardiology, Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, Circulatory Health Laboratory, Utrecht University, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Frank van Steenbeek
- Division Heart & Lungs, Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sabine Steffens
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU), Munich, Germany
- DZHK, Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Carlo Gabriele Tocchetti
- Cardio-Oncology Unit, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), Interdepartmental Center for Clinical and Translational Research (CIRCET), Interdepartmental Hypertension Research Center (CIRIAPA), Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Patricia Vlasman
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Physiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Science, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kak Khee Yeung
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Surgery, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Science, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Serena Zacchigna
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences and Cardiovascular Department, Centre for Translational Cardiology, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Integrata Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- International Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Trieste, Italy
| | - Dayenne Zwaagman
- Amsterdam UMC, Heart Center, Cardiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Science, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas Thum
- Hannover Medical School, Institute of Molecular and Translational Therapeutic Strategies, Hannover, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine, Hannover, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Bogdanova M, Zabirnyk A, Malashicheva A, Semenova D, Kvitting JPE, Kaljusto ML, Perez MDM, Kostareva A, Stensløkken KO, Sullivan GJ, Rutkovskiy A, Vaage J. Models and Techniques to Study Aortic Valve Calcification in Vitro, ex Vivo and in Vivo. An Overview. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:835825. [PMID: 35721220 PMCID: PMC9203042 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.835825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Aortic valve stenosis secondary to aortic valve calcification is the most common valve disease in the Western world. Calcification is a result of pathological proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of resident valve interstitial cells. To develop non-surgical treatments, the molecular and cellular mechanisms of pathological calcification must be revealed. In the current overview, we present methods for evaluation of calcification in different ex vivo, in vitro and in vivo situations including imaging in patients. The latter include echocardiography, scanning with computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Particular emphasis is on translational studies of calcific aortic valve stenosis with a special focus on cell culture using human primary cell cultures. Such models are widely used and suitable for screening of drugs against calcification. Animal models are presented, but there is no animal model that faithfully mimics human calcific aortic valve disease. A model of experimentally induced calcification in whole porcine aortic valve leaflets ex vivo is also included. Finally, miscellaneous methods and aspects of aortic valve calcification, such as, for instance, biomarkers are presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Bogdanova
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Arsenii Zabirnyk
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Research and Development, Division of Emergencies and Critical Care, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anna Malashicheva
- Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Daria Semenova
- Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | | | - Mari-Liis Kaljusto
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Anna Kostareva
- Almazov National Medical Research Centre, Saint Petersburg, Russia.,Department of Woman and Children Health, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kåre-Olav Stensløkken
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Gareth J Sullivan
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Norwegian Center for Stem Cell Research, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Immunology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Pediatric Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Arkady Rutkovskiy
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Jarle Vaage
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Research and Development, Division of Emergencies and Critical Care, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Dahal S, Bramsen JA, Alber BR, Murray BT, Huang P, Chen MH, Mahler GJ. Chondroitin Sulfate Promotes Interstitial Cell Activation and Calcification in an In Vitro Model of the Aortic Valve. Cardiovasc Eng Technol 2021; 13:481-494. [PMID: 34735711 DOI: 10.1007/s13239-021-00586-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD), has been characterized as a cascade of cellular changes leading to leaflet thickening and valvular calcification. In diseased aortic valves, glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) normally found in the valve spongiosa migrate to the collagen I-rich fibrosa layer near calcified nodules. Current treatments for CAVD are limited to valve replacement or drugs tailored to other cardiovascular diseases. METHODS Porcine aortic valve interstitial cells and porcine aortic valve endothelial cells were seeded into collagen I hydrogels of varying initial stiffness or initial stiffness-matched collagen I hydrogels containing the glycosaminoglycans chondroitin sulfate (CS), hyaluronic acid (HA), or dermatan sulfate (DS). Assays were performed after 2 weeks in culture to determine cell gene expression, protein expression, protein secretion, and calcification. Multiple regression analyses were performed to determine the importance of initial hydrogel stiffness, GAGs, and the presence of endothelial cells on calcification, both with and without osteogenic medium. RESULTS High initial stiffness hydrogels and osteogenic medium promoted calcification, while for DS or HA the presence of endothelial cells prevented calcification. CS was found to increase the expression of pro-calcific genes, increase activated myofibroblast protein expression, induce the secretion of collagen I by activated interstitial cells, and increase calcified nodule formation. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates a more complete model of aortic valve disease, including endothelial cells, interstitial cells, and a stiff and disease-like ECM. In vitro models of both healthy and diseased valves can be useful for understanding the mechanisms of CAVD pathogenesis and provide a model for testing novel therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sudip Dahal
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY, USA
| | | | - Bridget R Alber
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY, USA
| | - Bruce T Murray
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY, USA
| | - Peter Huang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY, USA
| | - Mei-Hsiu Chen
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY, USA
| | - Gretchen J Mahler
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Dittfeld C, Winkelkotte M, Behrens S, Schmieder F, Jannasch A, Matschke K, Sonntag F, Tugtekin SM. Establishment of a resazurin-based aortic valve tissue viability assay for dynamic culture in a microphysiological system. Clin Hemorheol Microcirc 2021; 79:167-178. [PMID: 34487029 DOI: 10.3233/ch-219112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Tissue pathogenesis of aortic valve (AV) stenosis is research focus in cardiac surgery. Model limitations of conventional 2D culture of human or porcine valvular interstitial/endothelial cells (VIC/VECs) isolated from aortic valve tissues but also limited ability of (small) animal models to reflect human (patho)physiological situation in AV position raise the need to establish an in vitro setup using AV tissues. Resulting aim is to approximate (patho)physiological conditions in a dynamic pulsatile Microphysiological System (MPS) to culture human and porcine AV tissue with preservation of tissue viability but also defined ECM composition. MATERIALS/METHODS A tissue incubation chamber (TIC) was designed to implement human or porcine tissues (3×5 mm2) in a dynamic pulsatile culture in conventional cell culture ambience in a MPS. Cell viability assays based on lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)-release or resazurin-conversion were tested for applicability in the system and applied for a culture period of 14 days with interval evaluation of tissue viability on every other day. Resazurin-assay setup was compared in static vs. dynamic culture using varying substance saturation settings (50-300μM), incubation times and tissue masses and was consequently adapted. RESULTS Sterile dynamic culture of human and porcine AV tissue segments was established at a pulsatile flow rate range of 0.9-13.4μl/s. Implementation of tissues was realized by stitching the material in a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)-ring and insertion in the TIC-MPS-system. Culture volume of 2 ml caused LDH dilution not detectable in standard membrane integrity assay setup. Therefore, detection of resazurin-conversion of viable tissue was investigated. Optimal incubation time for viability conversion was determined at two hours at a saturated concentration of 300μM resazurin. Measurement in static conditions was shown to offer comparable results as dynamic condition but allowing optimal handling and TIC sterilization protocols for long term culture. Preliminary results revealed favourable porcine AV tissue viability over a 14 day period confirmed via resazurin-assay comparing statically cultured tissue counterparts. CONCLUSIONS Human and porcine AV tissue can be dynamically cultured in a TIC-MPS with monitoring of tissue viability using an adapted resazurin-assay setup. Preliminary results reveal advantageous viability of porcine AV tissues after dynamic TIC-MPS culture compared to static control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Dittfeld
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Carl Gustav Carus Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Heart Centre Dresden, Dresden,Germany
| | - M Winkelkotte
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Carl Gustav Carus Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Heart Centre Dresden, Dresden,Germany
| | - S Behrens
- Fraunhofer Institute for Material and Beam Technology IWS, Dresden, Germany
| | - F Schmieder
- Fraunhofer Institute for Material and Beam Technology IWS, Dresden, Germany
| | - A Jannasch
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Carl Gustav Carus Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Heart Centre Dresden, Dresden,Germany
| | - K Matschke
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Carl Gustav Carus Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Heart Centre Dresden, Dresden,Germany
| | - F Sonntag
- Fraunhofer Institute for Material and Beam Technology IWS, Dresden, Germany
| | - S M Tugtekin
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Carl Gustav Carus Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Heart Centre Dresden, Dresden,Germany
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Engineering the aortic valve extracellular matrix through stages of development, aging, and disease. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2021; 161:1-8. [PMID: 34339757 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2021.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
For such a thin tissue, the aortic valve possesses an exquisitely complex, multi-layered extracellular matrix (ECM), and disruptions to this structure constitute one of the earliest hallmarks of fibrocalcific aortic valve disease (CAVD). The native valve structure provides a challenging target for engineers to mimic, but the development of advanced, ECM-based scaffolds may enable mechanistic and therapeutic discoveries that are not feasible in other culture or in vivo platforms. This review first discusses the ECM changes that occur during heart valve development, normal aging, onset of early-stage disease, and progression to late-stage disease. We then provide an overview of the bottom-up tissue engineering strategies that have been used to mimic the valvular ECM, and opportunities for advancement in these areas.
Collapse
|
7
|
Büttner P, Feistner L, Lurz P, Thiele H, Hutcheson JD, Schlotter F. Dissecting Calcific Aortic Valve Disease-The Role, Etiology, and Drivers of Valvular Fibrosis. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 8:660797. [PMID: 34041283 PMCID: PMC8143377 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.660797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) is a highly prevalent and progressive disorder that ultimately causes gradual narrowing of the left ventricular outflow orifice with ensuing devastating hemodynamic effects on the heart. Calcific mineral accumulation is the hallmark pathology defining this process; however, fibrotic extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling that leads to extensive deposition of fibrous connective tissue and distortion of the valvular microarchitecture similarly has major biomechanical and functional consequences for heart valve function. Significant advances have been made to unravel the complex mechanisms that govern these active, cell-mediated processes, yet the interplay between fibrosis and calcification and the individual contribution to progressive extracellular matrix stiffening require further clarification. Specifically, we discuss (1) the valvular biomechanics and layered ECM composition, (2) patterns in the cellular contribution, temporal onset, and risk factors for valvular fibrosis, (3) imaging valvular fibrosis, (4) biomechanical implications of valvular fibrosis, and (5) molecular mechanisms promoting fibrotic tissue remodeling and the possibility of reverse remodeling. This review explores our current understanding of the cellular and molecular drivers of fibrogenesis and the pathophysiological role of fibrosis in CAVD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Petra Büttner
- Department of Internal Medicine/Cardiology, Heart Center Leipzig at University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Lukas Feistner
- Department of Internal Medicine/Cardiology, Heart Center Leipzig at University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Philipp Lurz
- Department of Internal Medicine/Cardiology, Heart Center Leipzig at University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Holger Thiele
- Department of Internal Medicine/Cardiology, Heart Center Leipzig at University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Joshua D. Hutcheson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Florida International University, Miami, FL, United States
- Biomolecular Sciences Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Florian Schlotter
- Department of Internal Medicine/Cardiology, Heart Center Leipzig at University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Woodward HJ, Zhu D, Hadoke PWF, MacRae VE. Regulatory Role of Sex Hormones in Cardiovascular Calcification. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:4620. [PMID: 33924852 PMCID: PMC8125640 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex differences in cardiovascular disease (CVD), including aortic stenosis, atherosclerosis and cardiovascular calcification, are well documented. High levels of testosterone, the primary male sex hormone, are associated with increased risk of cardiovascular calcification, whilst estrogen, the primary female sex hormone, is considered cardioprotective. Current understanding of sexual dimorphism in cardiovascular calcification is still very limited. This review assesses the evidence that the actions of sex hormones influence the development of cardiovascular calcification. We address the current question of whether sex hormones could play a role in the sexual dimorphism seen in cardiovascular calcification, by discussing potential mechanisms of actions of sex hormones and evidence in pre-clinical research. More advanced investigations and understanding of sex hormones in calcification could provide a better translational outcome for those suffering with cardiovascular calcification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Holly J. Woodward
- The Roslin Institute & R(D)SVS, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian EH25 9RG, UK;
| | - Dongxing Zhu
- Guangzhou Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Vascular Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510260, China
| | - Patrick W. F. Hadoke
- University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK;
| | - Victoria E. MacRae
- The Roslin Institute & R(D)SVS, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian EH25 9RG, UK;
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Weber A, Pfaff M, Schöttler F, Schmidt V, Lichtenberg A, Akhyari P. Reproducible In Vitro Tissue Culture Model to Study Basic Mechanisms of Calcific Aortic Valve Disease: Comparative Analysis to Valvular Interstitials Cells. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9050474. [PMID: 33925890 PMCID: PMC8146785 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9050474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The hallmarks of calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD), an active and regulated process involving the creation of calcium nodules, lipoprotein accumulation, and chronic inflammation, are the significant changes that occur in the composition, organization, and mechanical properties of the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the aortic valve (AV). Most research regarding CAVD is based on experiments using two-dimensional (2D) cell culture or artificially created three-dimensional (3D) environments of valvular interstitial cells (VICs). Because the valvular ECM has a powerful influence in regulating pathological events, we developed an in vitro AV tissue culture model, which is more closely able to mimic natural conditions to study cellular responses underlying CAVD. AV leaflets, isolated from the hearts of 6-8-month-old sheep, were fixed with needles on silicon rubber rings to achieve passive tension and treated in vitro under pro-degenerative and pro-calcifying conditions. The degeneration of AV leaflets progressed over time, commencing with the first visible calcified domains after 14 d and winding up with the distinct formation of calcium nodules, heightened stiffness, and clear disruption of the ECM after 56 d. Both the expression of pro-degenerative genes and the myofibroblastic differentiation of VICs were altered in AV leaflets compared to that in VIC cultures. In this study, we have established an easily applicable, reproducible, and cost-effective in vitro AV tissue culture model to study pathological mechanisms underlying CAVD. The valvular ECM and realistic VIC-VEC interactions mimic natural conditions more closely than VIC cultures or 3D environments. The application of various culture conditions enables the examination of different pathological mechanisms underlying CAVD and could lead to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms that lead to VIC degeneration and AS. Our model provides a valuable tool to study the complex pathobiology of CAVD and can be used to identify potential therapeutic targets for slowing disease progression.
Collapse
|
10
|
Iop L. Toward the Effective Bioengineering of a Pathological Tissue for Cardiovascular Disease Modeling: Old Strategies and New Frontiers for Prevention, Diagnosis, and Therapy. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 7:591583. [PMID: 33748193 PMCID: PMC7969521 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2020.591583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) still represent the primary cause of mortality worldwide. Preclinical modeling by recapitulating human pathophysiology is fundamental to advance the comprehension of these diseases and propose effective strategies for their prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. In silico, in vivo, and in vitro models have been applied to dissect many cardiovascular pathologies. Computational and bioinformatic simulations allow developing algorithmic disease models considering all known variables and severity degrees of disease. In vivo studies based on small or large animals have a long tradition and largely contribute to the current treatment and management of CVDs. In vitro investigation with two-dimensional cell culture demonstrates its suitability to analyze the behavior of single, diseased cellular types. The introduction of induced pluripotent stem cell technology and the application of bioengineering principles raised the bar toward in vitro three-dimensional modeling by enabling the development of pathological tissue equivalents. This review article intends to describe the advantages and disadvantages of past and present modeling approaches applied to provide insights on some of the most relevant congenital and acquired CVDs, such as rhythm disturbances, bicuspid aortic valve, cardiac infections and autoimmunity, cardiovascular fibrosis, atherosclerosis, and calcific aortic valve stenosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Iop
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic Vascular Sciences, and Public Health, University of Padua Medical School, Padua, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Tandon I, Johns S, Woessner A, Perez J, Cross D, Ozkizilcik A, Muldoon TJ, Vallurupalli S, Padala M, Quinn KP, Balachandran K. Label-free optical biomarkers detect early calcific aortic valve disease in a wild-type mouse model. BMC Cardiovasc Disord 2020; 20:521. [PMID: 33308143 PMCID: PMC7731510 DOI: 10.1186/s12872-020-01776-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) pathophysiology is a complex, multistage process, usually diagnosed at advanced stages after significant anatomical and hemodynamic changes in the valve. Early detection of disease progression is thus pivotal in the development of prevention and mitigation strategies. In this study, we developed a diet-based, non-genetically modified mouse model for early CAVD progression, and explored the utility of two-photon excited fluorescence (TPEF) microscopy for early detection of CAVD progression. TPEF imaging provides label-free, non-invasive, quantitative metrics with the potential to correlate with multiple stages of CAVD pathophysiology including calcium deposition, collagen remodeling and osteogenic differentiation. Methods Twenty-week old C57BL/6J mice were fed either a control or pro-calcific diet for 16 weeks and monitored via echocardiography, histology, immunohistochemistry, and quantitative polarized light imaging. Additionally, TPEF imaging was used to quantify tissue autofluorescence (A) at 755 nm, 810 nm and 860 nm excitation, to calculate TPEF 755–860 ratio (A860/525/(A755/460 + A860/525)) and TPEF Collagen-Calcium ratio (A810/525/(A810/460 + A810/525)) in the murine valves. In a separate experiment, animals were fed the above diets till 28 weeks to assess for later-stage calcification. Results Pro-calcific mice showed evidence of lipid deposition at 4 weeks and calcification at 16 weeks at the valve commissures. The valves of pro-calcific mice also showed positive expression for markers of osteogenic differentiation, myofibroblast activation, proliferation, inflammatory cytokines and collagen remodeling. Pro-calcific mice exhibited lower TPEF autofluorescence ratios, at locations coincident with calcification, that correlated with increased collagen disorganization and positive expression of osteogenic markers. Additionally, locations with lower TPEF autofluorescence ratios at 4 and 16 weeks exhibited increased calcification at later 28-week timepoints. Conclusions This study suggests the potential of TPEF autofluorescence metrics to serve as a label-free tool for early detection and monitoring of CAVD pathophysiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ishita Tandon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Arkansas, 122 John A. White Jr. Engineering Hall, Fayetteville, AR, 72701, USA
| | - Shelby Johns
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Arkansas, 122 John A. White Jr. Engineering Hall, Fayetteville, AR, 72701, USA
| | - Alan Woessner
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Arkansas, 122 John A. White Jr. Engineering Hall, Fayetteville, AR, 72701, USA
| | - Jessica Perez
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Arkansas, 122 John A. White Jr. Engineering Hall, Fayetteville, AR, 72701, USA
| | - Delaney Cross
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Arkansas, 122 John A. White Jr. Engineering Hall, Fayetteville, AR, 72701, USA
| | - Asya Ozkizilcik
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Arkansas, 122 John A. White Jr. Engineering Hall, Fayetteville, AR, 72701, USA
| | - Timothy J Muldoon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Arkansas, 122 John A. White Jr. Engineering Hall, Fayetteville, AR, 72701, USA
| | - Srikanth Vallurupalli
- Division of Cardiology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Muralidhar Padala
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Joseph P. Whitehead Department of Surgery, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Kyle P Quinn
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Arkansas, 122 John A. White Jr. Engineering Hall, Fayetteville, AR, 72701, USA
| | - Kartik Balachandran
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Arkansas, 122 John A. White Jr. Engineering Hall, Fayetteville, AR, 72701, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
The focal mechanical properties of normal and diseased porcine aortic valve tissue measured by a novel microindentation device. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2020; 115:104245. [PMID: 33310684 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2020.104245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Cells sense and respond to the heterogeneous mechanical properties of their tissue microenvironment, with implications for the development of many diseases, including cancer, fibrosis, and aortic valve disease. Characterization of tissue mechanical heterogeneity on cellular length scales of tens of micrometers is thus important for understanding disease mechanobiology. In this study, we developed a low-cost bench-top microindentation system to readily map focal microscale soft tissue mechanical properties. The device was validated by comparison with atomic force microscopy nanoindentation of polyacrylamide gels. To demonstrate its utility, the device was used to measure the focal microscale elastic moduli of normal and diseased porcine aortic valve leaflet tissue. Consistent with previous studies, the fibrosa layer of intact leaflets was found to be 1.91-fold stiffer than the ventricularis layer, with both layers exhibiting significant heterogeneity in focal elastic moduli. For the first time, the microscale compressive moduli of focal proteoglycan-rich lesions in the fibrosa of early diseased porcine aortic valve leaflets were measured and found to be 2.44-fold softer than those of normal tissue. These data provide new insights into the tissue micromechanical environment in valvular disease and demonstrate the utility of the microindentation device for facile measurement of the focal mechanical properties of soft tissues.
Collapse
|
13
|
Go JL, Prem K, Al-Hijji MA, Qin Q, Noble C, Young MD, Lerman LO, Lerman A. Experimental Metabolic Syndrome Model Associated with Mechanical and Structural Degenerative Changes of the Aortic Valve. Sci Rep 2018; 8:17835. [PMID: 30546028 PMCID: PMC6292876 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-36388-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that an experimental high fat (HF) animal with metabolic syndrome results in structural degeneration of the aortic valve. Domestic pigs were divided (n = 12) and administered either a normal or HF diet. After 16-weeks, the HF diet group had increased weight (p ≤ 0.05), total cholesterol (p ≤ 0.05), and systolic and diastolic pressure (p ≤ 0.05). The aortic valve extracellular matrix showed loss of elastin fibers and increased collagen deposition in the HF diet group. Collagen was quantified with ELISA, which showed an increased concentration of collagen types 1 and 3 (p ≤ 0.05). In the HF diet group, the initial stages of microcalcification were observed. Uniaxial mechanical testing of aortic cusps revealed that the HF diet group expressed a decrease in ultimate tensile strength and elastic modulus compared to the control diet group (p ≤ 0.05). Western blot and immunohistochemistry indicated the presence of proteins: lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2, osteopontin, and osteocalcin with an increased expression in the HF diet group. The current study demonstrates that experimental metabolic syndrome induced by a 16-week HF diet was associated with a statistically significant alteration to the physical architecture of the aortic valve.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jason L Go
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, 55905, MN, USA
| | - Komal Prem
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, 55905, MN, USA.,Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, 55905, MN, USA
| | - Mohammed A Al-Hijji
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, 55905, MN, USA
| | - Qing Qin
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, 55905, MN, USA
| | - Christopher Noble
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, 55905, MN, USA
| | - Melissa D Young
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, 55905, MN, USA
| | - Lilach O Lerman
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, 55905, MN, USA.,Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, 55905, MN, USA
| | - Amir Lerman
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, 55905, MN, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
The Roles of Matrix Stiffness and ß-Catenin Signaling in Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition of Aortic Valve Endothelial Cells. Cardiovasc Eng Technol 2018; 9:158-167. [PMID: 29761409 DOI: 10.1007/s13239-018-0363-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2018] [Accepted: 05/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Valve stiffening is a hallmark of aortic valve stenosis caused by excess extracellular matrix accumulation by myofibroblasts. We aimed to elucidate whether matrix stiffness regulates endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) of adult valvular endothelial cells (VECs) to myofibroblasts as a mechanism to further promote valve fibrosis. In addition, we specifically examined the role of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in the development of myofibroblasts during EndMT, as Wnt/β-catenin signaling has been implicated in EndMT during heart development, is reactivated in valve disease, and is required for mechanically-regulated myofibrogenesis of valve interstitial cells. Clonally derived porcine VECs were cultured on soft (5 kPa) or stiff (50 kPa) silicone Sylgard 527 substrates and treated with transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 to induce EndMT. Immunofluorescent staining revealed that TGF-β1 preferentially promoted EndMT in VECs on stiffer substrates, evidenced by a decrease in the endothelial marker VE-cadherin and an increase in the myofibroblast marker α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). These changes were accompanied by β-catenin nuclear localization both in vitro and in vivo, assessed by immunostaining. Degradation of β-catenin with endostatin reduced VEC myofibroblast transition, as indicated by decreased α-SMA fiber expression. We conclude that TGF-β1-induced EndMT in aortic VECs is dependent on matrix stiffness and Wnt/β-catenin signaling promotes myofibrogenesis during EndMT.
Collapse
|
15
|
Engineering a 3D-Bioprinted Model of Human Heart Valve Disease Using Nanoindentation-Based Biomechanics. NANOMATERIALS 2018; 8:nano8050296. [PMID: 29751516 PMCID: PMC5977310 DOI: 10.3390/nano8050296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2018] [Revised: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
In calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD), microcalcifications originating from nanoscale calcifying vesicles disrupt the aortic valve (AV) leaflets, which consist of three (biomechanically) distinct layers: the fibrosa, spongiosa, and ventricularis. CAVD has no pharmacotherapy and lacks in vitro models as a result of complex valvular biomechanical features surrounding resident mechanosensitive valvular interstitial cells (VICs). We measured layer-specific mechanical properties of the human AV and engineered a three-dimensional (3D)-bioprinted CAVD model that recapitulates leaflet layer biomechanics for the first time. Human AV leaflet layers were separated by microdissection, and nanoindentation determined layer-specific Young’s moduli. Methacrylated gelatin (GelMA)/methacrylated hyaluronic acid (HAMA) hydrogels were tuned to duplicate layer-specific mechanical characteristics, followed by 3D-printing with encapsulated human VICs. Hydrogels were exposed to osteogenic media (OM) to induce microcalcification, and VIC pathogenesis was assessed by near infrared or immunofluorescence microscopy. Median Young’s moduli of the AV layers were 37.1, 15.4, and 26.9 kPa (fibrosa/spongiosa/ventricularis, respectively). The fibrosa and spongiosa Young’s moduli matched the 3D 5% GelMa/1% HAMA UV-crosslinked hydrogels. OM stimulation of VIC-laden bioprinted hydrogels induced microcalcification without apoptosis. We report the first layer-specific measurements of human AV moduli and a novel 3D-bioprinted CAVD model that potentiates microcalcification by mimicking the native AV mechanical environment. This work sheds light on valvular mechanobiology and could facilitate high-throughput drug-screening in CAVD.
Collapse
|
16
|
Hulin A, Hego A, Lancellotti P, Oury C. Advances in Pathophysiology of Calcific Aortic Valve Disease Propose Novel Molecular Therapeutic Targets. Front Cardiovasc Med 2018; 5:21. [PMID: 29594151 PMCID: PMC5862098 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2018.00021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Calcific Aortic Valve Disease (CAVD) is the most common heart valve disease and its incidence is expected to rise with aging population. No medical treatment so far has shown slowing progression of CAVD progression. Surgery remains to this day the only way to treat it. Effective drug therapy can only be achieved through a better insight into the pathogenic mechanisms underlying CAVD. The cellular and molecular events leading to leaflets calcification are complex. Upon endothelium cell damage, oxidized LDLs trigger a proinflammatory response disrupting healthy cross-talk between valve endothelial and interstitial cells. Therefore, valve interstitial cells transform into osteoblasts and mineralize the leaflets. Studies have investigated signaling pathways driving and connecting lipid metabolism, inflammation and osteogenesis. This review draws a summary of the recent advances and discusses their exploitation as promising therapeutic targets to treat CAVD and reduce valve replacement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexia Hulin
- GIGA Cardiovascular Sciences, Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis and Valvular Heart Disease, University of Liège, CHU Sart Tilman, Liège, Belgium
| | - Alexandre Hego
- GIGA Cardiovascular Sciences, Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis and Valvular Heart Disease, University of Liège, CHU Sart Tilman, Liège, Belgium
| | - Patrizio Lancellotti
- GIGA Cardiovascular Sciences, Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis and Valvular Heart Disease, University of Liège, CHU Sart Tilman, Liège, Belgium.,GIGA Cardiovascular Sciences, Department of Cardiology, University of Liège Hospital, Heart Valve Clinic, CHU Sart Tilman, Liège, Belgium.,Gruppo Villa Maria Care and Research, Anthea Hospital, Bari, Italy
| | - Cécile Oury
- GIGA Cardiovascular Sciences, Laboratory of Thrombosis and Hemostasis and Valvular Heart Disease, University of Liège, CHU Sart Tilman, Liège, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Creation of disease-inspired biomaterial environments to mimic pathological events in early calcific aortic valve disease. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017; 115:E363-E371. [PMID: 29282325 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1704637115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
An insufficient understanding of calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) pathogenesis remains a major obstacle in developing treatment strategies for this disease. The aim of the present study was to create engineered environments that mimic the earliest known features of CAVD and apply this in vitro platform to decipher relationships relevant to early valve lesion pathobiology. Glycosaminoglycan (GAG) enrichment is a dominant hallmark of early CAVD, but culture of valvular interstitial cells (VICs) in biomaterial environments containing pathological amounts of hyaluronic acid (HA) or chondroitin sulfate (CS) did not directly increase indicators of disease progression such as VIC activation or inflammatory cytokine production. However, HA-enriched matrices increased production of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), while matrices displaying pathological levels of CS were effective at retaining lipoproteins, whose deposition is also found in early CAVD. Retained oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL), in turn, stimulated myofibroblastic VIC differentiation and secretion of numerous inflammatory cytokines. OxLDL also increased VIC deposition of GAGs, thereby creating a positive feedback loop to further enrich GAG content and promote disease progression. Using this disease-inspired in vitro platform, we were able to model a complex, multistep pathological sequence, with our findings suggesting distinct roles for individual GAGs in outcomes related to valve lesion progression, as well as key differences in cell-lipoprotein interactions compared with atherosclerosis. We propose a pathogenesis cascade that may be relevant to understanding early CAVD and envision the extension of such models to investigate other tissue pathologies or test pharmacological treatments.
Collapse
|
18
|
Krishnamurthy VK, Stout AJ, Sapp MC, Matuska B, Lauer ME, Grande-Allen KJ. Dysregulation of hyaluronan homeostasis during aortic valve disease. Matrix Biol 2017; 62:40-57. [PMID: 27856308 PMCID: PMC10615645 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2016.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2016] [Revised: 11/05/2016] [Accepted: 11/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Aortic valve disease (AVD) is one of the leading causes of cardiovascular mortality. Abnormal expression of hyaluronan (HA) and its synthesizing/degrading enzymes have been observed during latent AVD however, the mechanism of impaired HA homeostasis prior to and after the onset of AVD remains unexplored. Transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) pathway defects and biomechanical dysfunction are hallmarks of AVD, however their association with altered HA regulation is understudied. Expression of HA homeostatic markers was evaluated in diseased human aortic valves and TGFβ1-cultured porcine aortic valve tissues using histology, immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. Further, porcine valve interstitial cell cultures were stretched (using Flexcell) and simultaneously treated with exogenous TGFβ1±inhibitors for activated Smad2/3 (SB431542) and ERK1/2 (U0126) pathways, and differential HA regulation was assessed using qRT-PCR. Pathological heavy chain HA together with abnormal regional expression of the enzymes HAS2, HYAL1, KIAA1199, TSG6 and IαI was demonstrated in calcified valve tissues identifying the collapse of HA homeostatic machinery during human AVD. Heightened TSG6 activity likely preceded the end-stage of disease, with the existence of a transitional, pre-calcific phase characterized by HA dysregulation. TGFβ1 elicited a fibrotic remodeling response in porcine aortic valves similar to human disease pathology, with increased collagen and HYAL to HAS ratio, and site-specific abnormalities in the expression of CD44 and RHAMM receptors. Further in these porcine valves, expression of HAS2 and HYAL1 was found to be differentially regulated by the Smad2/3 and ERK1/2 pathways, and CD44 expression was highly responsive to biomechanical strain. Leveraging the regulatory pathways that control both HA maintenance in normal valves and early postnatal dysregulation of HA homeostasis during disease may identify new mechanistic insight into AVD pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrew J Stout
- Department of Materials Science and Nanoengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Matthew C Sapp
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Brittany Matuska
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Mark E Lauer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Yu B, Hafiane A, Thanassoulis G, Ott L, Filwood N, Cerruti M, Gourgas O, Shum-Tim D, Al Kindi H, de Varennes B, Alsheikh-Ali A, Genest J, Schwertani A. Lipoprotein(a) Induces Human Aortic Valve Interstitial Cell Calcification. JACC Basic Transl Sci 2017; 2:358-371. [PMID: 30062157 PMCID: PMC6034440 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacbts.2017.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Revised: 03/30/2017] [Accepted: 03/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Lp(a) significantly increased alkaline phosphatase activity, phosphate and calcium content, and matrix vesicle formation and induced apoptosis and calcification of normal human aortic valve interstitial cells. The type of minerals induced by Lp(a) resembles that seen in calcified human aortic valves as shown by Raman spectroscopy. Lp(a)-induced calcification of human aortic valve interstitial cells is mediated by activation of MAPK38, GSK3β, and Wnt signaling. Inhibition of GSK3β and MAPK38 significantly reduced lipoprotein(a)-induced aortic valve interstitial cell calcification. Lp(a)is abundant in calcified aortic valves, and lipoprotein(a) immunoreactivity colocalized with that of oxidized phospholipids.
Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), significantly increased alkaline phosphatase activity, release of phosphate, calcium deposition, hydroxyapatite, cell apoptosis, matrix vesicle formation, and phosphorylation of signal transduction proteins; increased expression of chondro-osteogenic mediators; and decreased SOX9 and matrix Gla protein (p < 0.001). Inhibition of MAPK38 and GSK3β significantly reduced Lp(a)-induced calcification of human aortic valve interstitial cells (p < 0.001). There was abundant presence of Lp(a) and E06 immunoreactivity in diseased human aortic valves. The present study demonstrates a causal effect for Lp(a) in aortic valve calcification and suggests that interfering with the Lp(a)pathway could provide a novel therapeutic approach in the management of this debilitating disease.
Collapse
Key Words
- ALP, alkaline phosphatase
- BMP, bone morphogenetic protein
- FWHM, full width half maximum
- HAVIC, human aortic valve interstitial cell
- LDL, low-density lipoprotein
- LOX-1, oxidized LDL receptor 1
- Lp(a), lipoprotein(a)
- MAPK, mitogen-activated protein kinase
- MGP, matrix Gla protein
- OxPL, oxidized phospholipid
- Raman spectroscopy
- apo(a), apolipoprotein(a)
- mRNA, messenger ribonucleic acid
- oxidized phospholipids
- real-time PCR
- stenosis
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bin Yu
- Divisions of Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pathology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Anouar Hafiane
- Divisions of Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pathology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - George Thanassoulis
- Divisions of Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pathology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Leah Ott
- Divisions of Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pathology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Nial Filwood
- Divisions of Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pathology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Marta Cerruti
- Department of Materials Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Ophélie Gourgas
- Department of Materials Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Dominique Shum-Tim
- Divisions of Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pathology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Hamood Al Kindi
- Divisions of Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pathology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Benoit de Varennes
- Divisions of Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pathology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Alawi Alsheikh-Ali
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medical and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Jacques Genest
- Divisions of Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pathology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Adel Schwertani
- Divisions of Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pathology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Liu X, Xu Z. Osteogenesis in calcified aortic valve disease: From histopathological observation towards molecular understanding. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2016; 122:156-161. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2016.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2015] [Revised: 02/23/2016] [Accepted: 02/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
|
21
|
Schoen FJ, Gotlieb AI. Heart valve health, disease, replacement, and repair: a 25-year cardiovascular pathology perspective. Cardiovasc Pathol 2016; 25:341-352. [PMID: 27242130 DOI: 10.1016/j.carpath.2016.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Revised: 05/04/2016] [Accepted: 05/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The past several decades have witnessed major advances in the understanding of the structure, function, and biology of native valves and the pathobiology and clinical management of valvular heart disease. These improvements have enabled earlier and more precise diagnosis, assessment of the proper timing of surgical and interventional procedures, improved prosthetic and biologic valve replacements and repairs, recognition of postoperative complications and their management, and the introduction of minimally invasive approaches that have enabled definitive and durable treatment for patients who were previously considered inoperable. This review summarizes the current state of our understanding of the mechanisms of heart valve health and disease arrived at through innovative research on the cell and molecular biology of valves, clinical and pathological features of the most frequent intrinsic structural diseases that affect the valves, and the status and pathological considerations in the technological advances in valvular surgery and interventions. The contributions of many cardiovascular pathologists and other scientists, engineers, and clinicians are emphasized, and potentially fruitful areas for research are highlighted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frederick J Schoen
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA 02115; Pathology and Health Sciences and Technology (HST), Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA 02115.
| | - Avrum I Gotlieb
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada; Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada; Laboratory Medicine Program, University Health Network, Medical Sciences Building, 1 King's College Circle, Rm. 6275A, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Active tissue stiffness modulation controls valve interstitial cell phenotype and osteogenic potential in 3D culture. Acta Biomater 2016; 36:42-54. [PMID: 26947381 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2016.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2015] [Revised: 03/02/2016] [Accepted: 03/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) progression is a highly dynamic process whereby normally fibroblastic valve interstitial cells (VIC) undergo osteogenic differentiation, maladaptive extracellular matrix (ECM) composition, structural remodeling, and tissue matrix stiffening. However, how VIC with different phenotypes dynamically affect matrix properties and how the altered matrix further affects VIC phenotypes in response to physiological and pathological conditions have not yet been determined. In this study, we develop 3D hydrogels with tunable matrix stiffness to investigate the dynamic interplay between VIC phenotypes and matrix biomechanics. We find that VIC populated within hydrogels with valve leaflet like stiffness differentiate towards myofibroblasts in osteogenic media, but surprisingly undergo osteogenic differentiation when cultured within lower initial stiffness hydrogels. VIC differentiation progressively stiffens the hydrogel microenvironment, which further upregulates both early and late osteogenic markers. These findings identify a dynamic positive feedback loop that governs acceleration of VIC calcification. Temporal stiffening of pathologically lower stiffness matrix back to normal level, or blocking the mechanosensitive RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway, delays the osteogenic differentiation process. Therefore, direct ECM biomechanical modulation can affect VIC phenotypes towards and against osteogenic differentiation in 3D culture. These findings highlight the importance of the homeostatic maintenance of matrix stiffness to restrict pathological VIC differentiation. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE We implement 3D hydrogels with tunable matrix stiffness to investigate the dynamic interaction between valve interstitial cells (VIC, major cell population in heart valve) and matrix biomechanics. This work focuses on how human VIC responses to changing 3D culture environments. Our findings identify a dynamic positive feedback loop that governs acceleration of VIC calcification, which is the hallmark of calcific aortic valve disease. Temporal stiffening of pathologically lower stiffness matrix back to normal level, or blocking the mechanosensitive signaling pathway, delays VIC osteogenic differentiation. Our findings provide an improved understanding of VIC-matrix interactions to aid in interpretation of VIC calcification studies in vitro and suggest that ECM disruption resulting in local tissue stiffness decreases may promote calcific aortic valve disease.
Collapse
|
23
|
Tsang HG, Rashdan NA, Whitelaw CBA, Corcoran BM, Summers KM, MacRae VE. Large animal models of cardiovascular disease. Cell Biochem Funct 2016; 34:113-32. [PMID: 26914991 PMCID: PMC4834612 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2015] [Revised: 01/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The human cardiovascular system is a complex arrangement of specialized structures with distinct functions. The molecular landscape, including the genome, transcriptome and proteome, is pivotal to the biological complexity of both normal and abnormal mammalian processes. Despite our advancing knowledge and understanding of cardiovascular disease (CVD) through the principal use of rodent models, this continues to be an increasing issue in today's world. For instance, as the ageing population increases, so does the incidence of heart valve dysfunction. This may be because of changes in molecular composition and structure of the extracellular matrix, or from the pathological process of vascular calcification in which bone-formation related factors cause ectopic mineralization. However, significant differences between mice and men exist in terms of cardiovascular anatomy, physiology and pathology. In contrast, large animal models can show considerably greater similarity to humans. Furthermore, precise and efficient genome editing techniques enable the generation of tailored models for translational research. These novel systems provide a huge potential for large animal models to investigate the regulatory factors and molecular pathways that contribute to CVD in vivo. In turn, this will help bridge the gap between basic science and clinical applications by facilitating the refinement of therapies for cardiovascular disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H G Tsang
- The Roslin Institute, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, SCT, UK
| | - N A Rashdan
- The Roslin Institute, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, SCT, UK
| | - C B A Whitelaw
- The Roslin Institute, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, SCT, UK
| | - B M Corcoran
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, SCT, UK
| | - K M Summers
- The Roslin Institute, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, SCT, UK
| | - V E MacRae
- The Roslin Institute, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, SCT, UK
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
|
25
|
Porras AM, Shanmuganayagam D, Meudt JJ, Krueger CG, Hacker TA, Rahko PS, Reed JD, Masters KS. Development of Aortic Valve Disease in Familial Hypercholesterolemic Swine: Implications for Elucidating Disease Etiology. J Am Heart Assoc 2015; 4:e002254. [PMID: 26508741 PMCID: PMC4845146 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.115.002254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Background Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a prevalent hereditary disease associated with increased atherosclerosis and calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD). However, in both FH and non‐FH individuals, the role of hypercholesterolemia in the development of CAVD is poorly understood. This study used Rapacz FH (RFH) swine, an established model of human FH, to investigate the role of hypercholesterolemia alone in the initiation and progression of CAVD. The valves of RFH swine have not previously been examined. Methods and Results Aortic valve leaflets were isolated from wild‐type (0.25‐ and 1‐year‐old) and RFH (0.25‐, 1‐, 2‐, and 3‐year‐old) swine. Adult RFH animals exhibited numerous hallmarks of early CAVD. Significant leaflet thickening was found in adult RFH swine, accompanied by extensive extracellular matrix remodeling, including proteoglycan enrichment, collagen disorganization, and elastin fragmentation. Increased lipid oxidation and infiltration of macrophages were also evident in adult RFH swine. Intracardiac echocardiography revealed mild aortic valve sclerosis in some of the adult RFH animals, but unimpaired valve function. Microarray analysis of valves from adult versus juvenile RFH animals revealed significant upregulation of inflammation‐related genes, as well as several commonalities with atherosclerosis and overlap with human CAVD. Conclusions Adult RFH swine exhibited several hallmarks of early human CAVD, suggesting potential for these animals to help elucidate CAVD etiology in both FH and non‐FH individuals. The development of advanced atherosclerotic lesions, but only early‐stage CAVD, in RFH swine supports the hypothesis of an initial shared disease process, with additional stimulation necessary for further progression of CAVD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana M. Porras
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of Wisconsin–MadisonMadisonWI
| | | | - Jennifer J. Meudt
- Department of Animal SciencesUniversity of Wisconsin–MadisonMadisonWI
| | | | - Timothy A. Hacker
- Division of Cardiovascular MedicineDepartment of MedicineUniversity of Wisconsin–MadisonMadisonWI
| | - Peter S. Rahko
- Division of Cardiovascular MedicineDepartment of MedicineUniversity of Wisconsin–MadisonMadisonWI
| | - Jess D. Reed
- Department of Animal SciencesUniversity of Wisconsin–MadisonMadisonWI
| | - Kristyn S. Masters
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of Wisconsin–MadisonMadisonWI
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Ahn MY, Kim MJ, Kwon RH, Hwang JS, Park KK. Gene expression profiling and inhibition of adipose tissue accumulation of G. bimaculatus extract in rats on high fat diet. Lipids Health Dis 2015; 14:116. [PMID: 26403915 PMCID: PMC4582626 DOI: 10.1186/s12944-015-0113-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2015] [Accepted: 09/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Molecular genetic mechanisms underlying the anti-inflammatory effects of ethanol extract (GB) from G. bimaculatus, a type of cricket, are not fully elucidated. G. bimaculatus was reported to be rich in unsaturated fatty acid and to decrease the omega-6/omega-3 fatty acid ratio when fed to chickens. GB may reduce the amount of fat or increase the unsaturated fatty acid ratio. Methods Male Wistar rats fed a high-fat diet (HFD) were orally administered with 5 groups: phosphate buffered saline (PBS, control), GB (100 mg/kg or 200 mg/kg), Pravastatin or Isaria sinclairii (IS) extract, which is reported to have fat-reducing effects, for either 1 or 2 months. GB’s sero-biochemial, hematological and anti-oxidizing hepato-cellular biomarker levels were evaluated to dertermine their antilipidemic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-coagulant effect in rats after 1 or 2 month GB treatments on HFD (fat 60 %) Wistar rat. The abdominal and epididymidal fat weight were measured and the composition of fatty acid was analyzed by GC/MS. Microarray analyses were performed with a rat 28 K cDNA clone set array to identify the gene-expression profiles for the GB exposed high fat dieted Wistar rat. Results The weight and fatty acid composition of abdominal fat and epididymidal fat, total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and triglyceride in GB treated rats were at lower levels than those of the control group. The anti-oxidant hepato-cellular biomarker levels, protein carbonyl content and malondialdehyde concentration in GB treated rats were significantly decreased. Compared to the control, the GB treated rat group (treated at a dose of 100 and 200 mg/kg), had 190 up-regulated genes including Gpm6a (glycoprotein m6a), Tmem14a (transmembrane protein 14A) and Fasin (fatty acid synthase), with down-regulated 235 genes including Cc121b (chemokine ligand 21b), Glycan1 (glycosylation dependent cell adhesion moleule, Serpinb1a (serine proteinase inhibitor) and Tcrb (T-cell receptor beta chain). Conclusion The data suggest Fasin-related fatty acid synthesis and adipose differentiation related protein (Adfp), which is related to obesity, were upregulated by GB treatment, indicating their potential therapeutic markers for anti-atheriosclerosis or inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mi Young Ahn
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science, RDA, Wanju-Gun, 565-851, South Korea.
| | - Min-Ji Kim
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science, RDA, Wanju-Gun, 565-851, South Korea
| | - Ryun Hee Kwon
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science, RDA, Wanju-Gun, 565-851, South Korea
| | - Jae Sam Hwang
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science, RDA, Wanju-Gun, 565-851, South Korea
| | - Kun-Koo Park
- Pharmacogenechips Inc., Chuncheon, 200-160, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|