1
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Serafin DS, Harris NR, Bálint L, Douglas ES, Caron KM. Proximity interactome of lymphatic VE-cadherin reveals mechanisms of junctional remodeling and reelin secretion. Nat Commun 2024; 15:7734. [PMID: 39232006 PMCID: PMC11374903 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-51918-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The adhesion receptor vascular endothelial (VE)-cadherin transduces an array of signals that modulate crucial lymphatic cell behaviors including permeability and cytoskeletal remodeling. Consequently, VE-cadherin must interact with a multitude of intracellular proteins to exert these functions. Yet, the full protein interactome of VE-cadherin in endothelial cells remains a mystery. Here, we use proximity proteomics to illuminate how the VE-cadherin interactome changes during junctional reorganization from dis-continuous to continuous junctions, triggered by the lymphangiogenic factor adrenomedullin. These analyses identified interactors that reveal roles for ADP ribosylation factor 6 (ARF6) and the exocyst complex in VE-cadherin trafficking and recycling. We also identify a requisite role for VE-cadherin in the in vitro and in vivo control of secretion of reelin-a lymphangiocrine glycoprotein with recently appreciated roles in governing heart development and injury repair. This VE-cadherin protein interactome shines light on mechanisms that control adherens junction remodeling and secretion from lymphatic endothelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Stephen Serafin
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 111 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, 27599, NC, USA
| | - Natalie R Harris
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 111 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, 27599, NC, USA
| | - László Bálint
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 111 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, 27599, NC, USA
| | - Elizabeth S Douglas
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 111 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, 27599, NC, USA
| | - Kathleen M Caron
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 111 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, 27599, NC, USA.
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2
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Banerjee R, Knauer LA, Iyer D, Barlow SE, Shalaby H, Dehghan R, Scallan JP, Yang Y. Rictor, an mTORC2 Protein, Regulates Murine Lymphatic Valve Formation Through the AKT-FOXO1 Signaling. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2024; 44:2004-2023. [PMID: 39087350 PMCID: PMC11335088 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.124.321164] [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: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lymphatic valves are specialized structures in collecting lymphatic vessels and are crucial for preventing retrograde lymph flow. Mutations in valve-forming genes have been clinically implicated in the pathology of congenital lymphedema. Lymphatic valves form when oscillatory shear stress from lymph flow signals through the PI3K/AKT pathway to promote the transcription of valve-forming genes that trigger the growth and maintenance of lymphatic valves. Conventionally, in many cell types, AKT is phosphorylated at Ser473 by the mTORC2 (mammalian target of rapamycin complex 2). However, mTORC2 has not yet been implicated in lymphatic valve formation. METHODS In vivo and in vitro techniques were used to investigate the role of Rictor, a critical component of mTORC2, in lymphatic endothelium. RESULTS Here, we showed that embryonic and postnatal lymphatic deletion of Rictor, a critical component of mTORC2, led to a significant decrease in lymphatic valves and prevented the maturation of collecting lymphatic vessels. RICTOR knockdown in human dermal lymphatic endothelial cells not only reduced the level of activated AKT and the expression of valve-forming genes under no-flow conditions but also abolished the upregulation of AKT activity and valve-forming genes in response to oscillatory shear stress. We further showed that the AKT target, FOXO1 (forkhead box protein O1), a repressor of lymphatic valve formation, had increased nuclear activity in Rictor knockout mesenteric lymphatic endothelial cells in vivo. Deletion of Foxo1 in Rictor knockout mice restored the number of valves to control levels in lymphatic vessels of the ear and mesentery. CONCLUSIONS Our work identifies a novel role for RICTOR in the mechanotransduction signaling pathway, wherein it activates AKT and prevents the nuclear accumulation of the valve repressor, FOXO1, which ultimately enables the formation and maintenance of lymphatic valves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richa Banerjee
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa
| | - Luz A. Knauer
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa
| | - Drishya Iyer
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa
| | - Sara E. Barlow
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa
| | - Hanan Shalaby
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa
| | - Razieh Dehghan
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa
| | - Joshua P. Scallan
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa
| | - Ying Yang
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa
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Vachon L, Jean G, Milasan A, Babran S, Lacroix E, Guadarrama Bello D, Villeneuve L, Rak J, Nanci A, Mihalache-Avram T, Tardif JC, Finnerty V, Ruiz M, Boilard E, Tessier N, Martel C. Platelet extracellular vesicles preserve lymphatic endothelial cell integrity and enhance lymphatic vessel function. Commun Biol 2024; 7:975. [PMID: 39128945 PMCID: PMC11317532 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-06675-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Lymphatic vessels are essential for preventing the accumulation of harmful components within peripheral tissues, including the artery wall. Various endogenous mechanisms maintain adequate lymphatic function throughout life, with platelets being essential for preserving lymphatic vessel integrity. However, since lymph lacks platelets, their impact on the lymphatic system has long been viewed as restricted to areas where lymphatics intersect with blood vessels. Nevertheless, platelets can also exert long range effects through the release of extracellular vesicles (EVs) upon activation. We observed that platelet EVs (PEVs) are present in lymph, a compartment to which they could transfer regulatory effects of platelets. Here, we report that PEVs in lymph exhibit a distinct signature enabling them to interact with lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs). In vitro experiments show that the internalization of PEVs by LECs maintains their functional integrity. Treatment with PEVs improves lymphatic contraction capacity in atherosclerosis-prone mice. We suggest that boosting lymphatic pumping with exogenous PEVs offers a novel therapeutic approach for chronic inflammatory diseases characterized by defective lymphatics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurent Vachon
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
- Montreal Heart Institute, Montreal, Canada
| | - Gabriel Jean
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
- Montreal Heart Institute, Montreal, Canada
| | - Andreea Milasan
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
- Montreal Heart Institute, Montreal, Canada
| | - Sara Babran
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
- Montreal Heart Institute, Montreal, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Lacroix
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
- Montreal Heart Institute, Montreal, Canada
| | | | | | - Janusz Rak
- McGill University and Research, Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
- Department of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Antonio Nanci
- Department of Stomatology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
| | | | - Jean-Claude Tardif
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
- Montreal Heart Institute, Montreal, Canada
| | | | - Matthieu Ruiz
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
- Montreal Heart Institute, Metabolomics platform, Montreal, Canada
| | - Eric Boilard
- Centre de Recherche ARThrite - Arthrite, Recherche, Traitements, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
- Infectious and Immune Diseases Axis, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Nolwenn Tessier
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
- Montreal Heart Institute, Montreal, Canada
| | - Catherine Martel
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada.
- Montreal Heart Institute, Montreal, Canada.
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4
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Ohgaku S, Ida S, Ohashi N, Morino K, Ishikado A, Yanagimachi T, Murata K, Sato D, Ugi S, Nasiri A, Shulman GI, Maegawa H, Kume S, Fujita Y. O-GlcNAc modification in endothelial cells modulates adiposity via fat absorption from the intestine in mice. Heliyon 2024; 10:e34490. [PMID: 39130439 PMCID: PMC11315187 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e34490] [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: 10/08/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Endothelial cells have a crucial function in transporting and exchanging various nutrients. O-GlcNAcylation, mediated by O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT), involves the addition of N-acetylglucosamine to proteins and serves as an intracellular nutrient sensing mechanism. However, the role of O-GlcNAcylation in endothelial cells remains poorly understood. Objective This study investigated the role of O-GlcNAcylation in endothelial cells. Methods Endothelial-cell-specific Ogt -knockout mice (Ogt-ECKO) were generated by crossing Ogt-floxed mice (Ogt-flox) with VE-Cadherin Cre ERT2 mice. Ogt-ECKO mice and Ogt-flox control mice were subjected to a normal or high-fat diet, and their body weight, glucose metabolism, and lipid metabolism were examined. Results Ogt-ECKO mice exhibited reduced body weight compared with Ogt-flox control mice under a high-fat diet. Lipid absorption was significantly impaired in Ogt-ECKO mice. Changes in the intercellular junctions of small intestinal lacteal endothelial cells from a button-like to a zipper-like configuration were observed. Furthermore, Ogt-ECKO mice showed decreased expression of VEGFR3. The administration of a nitric oxide donor restored lipid absorption and reversed the morphological alterations in Ogt-ECKO mice. Conclusions These findings demonstrate the critical role of O-GlcNAcylation in endothelial cells in lipid absorption in the intestine through the modulation of lacteal junction morphology. These results provide novel insight into the metabolic regulatory mechanisms under physiological conditions and have implications for the development of new therapeutic strategies for obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seiichiro Ohgaku
- Department of Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu 520-2192, Japan
| | - Shogo Ida
- Department of Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu 520-2192, Japan
| | - Natsuko Ohashi
- Department of Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu 520-2192, Japan
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu 520-2192, Japan
| | - Katsutaro Morino
- Department of Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu 520-2192, Japan
- Institutional Research Office, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu 520-2192, Japan
| | - Atsushi Ishikado
- Department of Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu 520-2192, Japan
- R&D Department, Sunstar Inc., Osaka 569-1195, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Yanagimachi
- Department of Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu 520-2192, Japan
| | - Koichiro Murata
- Department of Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu 520-2192, Japan
| | - Daisuke Sato
- Department of Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu 520-2192, Japan
| | - Satoshi Ugi
- Department of Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu 520-2192, Japan
| | - Ali Nasiri
- Department of Medicine (Endocrinology), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Gerald I. Shulman
- Department of Medicine (Endocrinology), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Physiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Hiroshi Maegawa
- Department of Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu 520-2192, Japan
| | - Shinji Kume
- Department of Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu 520-2192, Japan
| | - Yukihiro Fujita
- Department of Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu 520-2192, Japan
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5
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Davis MJ, Castorena-Gonzalez JA, Li M, Zawieja SD, Simon AM, Geng X, Srinivasan RS. Connexin-45 is expressed in mouse lymphatic endothelium and required for lymphatic valve function. JCI Insight 2024; 9:e169931. [PMID: 39074069 PMCID: PMC11343601 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.169931] [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: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
The expression and functional relevance of the gap junction molecule connexin-45 (Cx45; GJC1) in lymphatic endothelium were not previously known. We found that Cx45 was expressed widely in the endothelium of murine lymphatics, in both valve and nonvalve regions. Cell-specific deletion of Cx45, driven by a constitutive Cre line (Lyve1-Cre) or an inducible Cre line (Prox1-CreERT2), compromised the function of lymphatic valves, as assessed by physiological tests (back leak and closure) of isolated, single-valve vessel segments. The defects were comparable to those previously reported for loss of Cx43, and as with Cx43, deletion of Cx45 resulted in shortening or increased asymmetry of lymphatic valve leaflets, providing an explanation for the compromised valve function. In contrast with Cx43, lymphatic endothelial cell-specific (LEC-specific) deletion of Cx45 did not alter the number of valves in mesenteric or dermal lymphatic networks or the expression patterns of the canonical valve-associated proteins PROX1, ITGA9, or CLAUDIN5. Constitutive deletion of Cx45 from LECs resulted in increased backflow of injected tracer in popliteal networks in vivo and compromised the integrity of the LEC permeability barrier in a subset of collecting vessels. These findings provide evidence for an unexpected role of Cx45 in the development and maintenance of lymphatic valves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Davis
- Department of Medical Pharmacology & Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | | | - Min Li
- Department of Medical Pharmacology & Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Scott D. Zawieja
- Department of Medical Pharmacology & Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Alex M. Simon
- Department of Physiology, University of Arizona School of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Xin Geng
- Cardiovascular Biology Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - R. Sathish Srinivasan
- Cardiovascular Biology Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
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6
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K. C. R, Patel NR, Shenoy A, Scallan JP, Chiang MY, Galazo MJ, Meadows SM. Zmiz1 is a novel regulator of lymphatic endothelial cell gene expression and function. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0302926. [PMID: 38718095 PMCID: PMC11078365 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Zinc Finger MIZ-Type Containing 1 (Zmiz1), also known as ZIMP10 or RAI17, is a transcription cofactor and member of the Protein Inhibitor of Activated STAT (PIAS) family of proteins. Zmiz1 is critical for a variety of biological processes including vascular development. However, its role in the lymphatic vasculature is unknown. In this study, we utilized human dermal lymphatic endothelial cells (HDLECs) and an inducible, lymphatic endothelial cell (LEC)-specific Zmiz1 knockout mouse model to investigate the role of Zmiz1 in LECs. Transcriptional profiling of ZMIZ1-deficient HDLECs revealed downregulation of genes crucial for lymphatic vessel development. Additionally, our findings demonstrated that loss of Zmiz1 results in reduced expression of proliferation and migration genes in HDLECs and reduced proliferation and migration in vitro. We also presented evidence that Zmiz1 regulates Prox1 expression in vitro and in vivo by modulating chromatin accessibility at Prox1 regulatory regions. Furthermore, we observed that loss of Zmiz1 in mesenteric lymphatic vessels significantly reduced valve density. Collectively, our results highlight a novel role of Zmiz1 in LECs and as a transcriptional regulator of Prox1, shedding light on a previously unknown regulatory factor in lymphatic vascular biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajan K. C.
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States of America
| | - Nehal R. Patel
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States of America
| | - Anoushka Shenoy
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States of America
| | - Joshua P. Scallan
- Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States of America
| | - Mark Y. Chiang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, Medical School, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America
| | - Maria J. Galazo
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States of America
- Tulane Brain Institute, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States of America
| | - Stryder M. Meadows
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States of America
- Tulane Brain Institute, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States of America
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7
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Hall E, Mendiola K, Lightsey NK, Hanjaya-Putra D. Mimicking blood and lymphatic vasculatures using microfluidic systems. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2024; 18:031502. [PMID: 38726373 PMCID: PMC11081709 DOI: 10.1063/5.0175154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
The role of the circulatory system, containing the blood and lymphatic vasculatures, within the body, has become increasingly focused on by researchers as dysfunction of either of the systems has been linked to serious complications and disease. Currently, in vivo models are unable to provide the sufficient monitoring and level of manipulation needed to characterize the fluidic dynamics of the microcirculation in blood and lymphatic vessels; thus in vitro models have been pursued as an alternative model. Microfluidic devices have the required properties to provide a physiologically relevant circulatory system model for research as well as the experimental tools to conduct more advanced research analyses of microcirculation flow. In this review paper, the physiological behavior of fluid flow and electrical communication within the endothelial cells of the systems are detailed and discussed to highlight their complexities. Cell co-culturing methods and other relevant organ-on-a-chip devices will be evaluated to demonstrate the feasibility and relevance of the in vitro microfluidic model. Microfluidic systems will be determined as a noteworthy model that can display physiologically relevant flow of the cardiovascular and lymphatic systems, which will enable researchers to investigate the systems' prevalence in diseases and identify potential therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Hall
- Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, Bioengineering Graduate Program, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA
| | | | - N. Keilany Lightsey
- Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, Bioengineering Graduate Program, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA
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8
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Garlisi Torales LD, Sempowski BA, Krikorian GL, Woodis KM, Paulissen SM, Smith CL, Sheppard SE. Central conducting lymphatic anomaly: from bench to bedside. J Clin Invest 2024; 134:e172839. [PMID: 38618951 PMCID: PMC11014661 DOI: 10.1172/jci172839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Central conducting lymphatic anomaly (CCLA) is a complex lymphatic anomaly characterized by abnormalities of the central lymphatics and may present with nonimmune fetal hydrops, chylothorax, chylous ascites, or lymphedema. CCLA has historically been difficult to diagnose and treat; however, recent advances in imaging, such as dynamic contrast magnetic resonance lymphangiography, and in genomics, such as deep sequencing and utilization of cell-free DNA, have improved diagnosis and refined both genotype and phenotype. Furthermore, in vitro and in vivo models have confirmed genetic causes of CCLA, defined the underlying pathogenesis, and facilitated personalized medicine to improve outcomes. Basic, translational, and clinical science are essential for a bedside-to-bench and back approach for CCLA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Daniela Garlisi Torales
- Unit on Vascular Malformations, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Benjamin A. Sempowski
- Unit on Vascular Malformations, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Georgia L. Krikorian
- Unit on Vascular Malformations, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Kristina M. Woodis
- Unit on Vascular Malformations, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Scott M. Paulissen
- Unit on Vascular Malformations, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Christopher L. Smith
- Division of Cardiology, Jill and Mark Fishman Center for Lymphatic Disorders, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sarah E. Sheppard
- Unit on Vascular Malformations, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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9
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Stasi E, Sciascia S, Naretto C, Baldovino S, Roccatello D. Lymphatic System and the Kidney: From Lymphangiogenesis to Renal Inflammation and Fibrosis Development. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2853. [PMID: 38474100 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052853] [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: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The lymphatic kidney system plays a crucial role in managing interstitial fluid removal, regulating fluid balance, and tuning immune response. It also assists in the reabsorption of proteins, electrolytes, cytokines, growth factors, and immune cells. Pathological conditions, including tissue damage, excessive interstitial fluid, high blood glucose levels, and inflammation, can initiate lymphangiogenesis-the formation of new lymphatic vessels. This process is associated with various kidney diseases, including polycystic kidney disease, hypertension, ultrafiltration challenges, and complications post-organ transplantation. Although lymphangiogenesis has beneficial effects in removing excess fluid and immune cells, it may also contribute to inflammation and fibrosis within the kidneys. In this review, we aim to discuss the biology of the lymphatic system, from its development and function to its response to disease stimuli, with an emphasis on renal pathophysiology. Furthermore, we explore how innovative treatments targeting the lymphatic system could potentially enhance the management of kidney diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elodie Stasi
- University Center of Excellence on Nephrologic, Rheumatologic and Rare Diseases (ERK-Net, ERN-Reconnect and RITA-ERN Member) with Nephrology and Dialysis Unit and Center of Immuno-Rheumatology and Rare Diseases (CMID), Coordinating Center of the Interregional Network for Rare Diseases of Piedmont and Aosta Valley, ASL Città di Torino and Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10154 Turin, Italy
| | - Savino Sciascia
- University Center of Excellence on Nephrologic, Rheumatologic and Rare Diseases (ERK-Net, ERN-Reconnect and RITA-ERN Member) with Nephrology and Dialysis Unit and Center of Immuno-Rheumatology and Rare Diseases (CMID), Coordinating Center of the Interregional Network for Rare Diseases of Piedmont and Aosta Valley, ASL Città di Torino and Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10154 Turin, Italy
| | - Carla Naretto
- University Center of Excellence on Nephrologic, Rheumatologic and Rare Diseases (ERK-Net, ERN-Reconnect and RITA-ERN Member) with Nephrology and Dialysis Unit and Center of Immuno-Rheumatology and Rare Diseases (CMID), Coordinating Center of the Interregional Network for Rare Diseases of Piedmont and Aosta Valley, ASL Città di Torino and Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10154 Turin, Italy
| | - Simone Baldovino
- University Center of Excellence on Nephrologic, Rheumatologic and Rare Diseases (ERK-Net, ERN-Reconnect and RITA-ERN Member) with Nephrology and Dialysis Unit and Center of Immuno-Rheumatology and Rare Diseases (CMID), Coordinating Center of the Interregional Network for Rare Diseases of Piedmont and Aosta Valley, ASL Città di Torino and Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10154 Turin, Italy
| | - Dario Roccatello
- University Center of Excellence on Nephrologic, Rheumatologic and Rare Diseases (ERK-Net, ERN-Reconnect and RITA-ERN Member) with Nephrology and Dialysis Unit and Center of Immuno-Rheumatology and Rare Diseases (CMID), Coordinating Center of the Interregional Network for Rare Diseases of Piedmont and Aosta Valley, ASL Città di Torino and Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10154 Turin, Italy
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10
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Haghayegh Jahromi N, Gkountidi AO, Collado-Diaz V, Blatter K, Bauer A, Zambounis L, Medina-Sanchez JD, Russo E, Runge P, Restivo G, Gousopoulos E, Lindenblatt N, Levesque MP, Halin C. CD112 Supports Lymphatic Migration of Human Dermal Dendritic Cells. Cells 2024; 13:424. [PMID: 38474388 DOI: 10.3390/cells13050424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cell (DC) migration from peripheral tissues via afferent lymphatic vessels to draining lymph nodes (dLNs) is important for the organism's immune regulation and immune protection. Several lymphatic endothelial cell (LEC)-expressed adhesion molecules have thus far been found to support transmigration and movement within the lymphatic vasculature. In this study, we investigated the contribution of CD112, an adhesion molecule that we recently found to be highly expressed in murine LECs, to this process. Performing in vitro assays in the murine system, we found that transmigration of bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BM-DCs) across or adhesion to murine LEC monolayers was reduced when CD112 was absent on LECs, DCs, or both cell types, suggesting the involvement of homophilic CD112-CD112 interactions. While CD112 was highly expressed in murine dermal LECs, CD112 levels were low in endogenous murine dermal DCs and BM-DCs. This might explain why we observed no defect in the in vivo lymphatic migration of adoptively transferred BM-DCs or endogenous DCs from the skin to dLNs. Compared to murine DCs, human monocyte-derived DCs expressed higher CD112 levels, and their migration across human CD112-expressing LECs was significantly reduced upon CD112 blockade. CD112 expression was also readily detected in endogenous human dermal DCs and LECs by flow cytometry and immunofluorescence. Upon incubating human skin punch biopsies in the presence of CD112-blocking antibodies, DC emigration from the tissue into the culture medium was significantly reduced, indicating impaired lymphatic migration. Overall, our data reveal a contribution of CD112 to human DC migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neda Haghayegh Jahromi
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 1-5/10, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Anastasia-Olga Gkountidi
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 1-5/10, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Victor Collado-Diaz
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 1-5/10, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Katharina Blatter
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 1-5/10, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Aline Bauer
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 1-5/10, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Lito Zambounis
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 1-5/10, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Erica Russo
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 1-5/10, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Peter Runge
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 1-5/10, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Gaetana Restivo
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Epameinondas Gousopoulos
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, University Hospital Zurich, Raemistrasse 100, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nicole Lindenblatt
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, University Hospital Zurich, Raemistrasse 100, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mitchell P Levesque
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Cornelia Halin
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 1-5/10, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
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11
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Gu X, Chen X, Zhang X, Liu K, Li JJ, Lv W, Zeng L, Wu M, Zhou W, Wang W, Shi S, Deng Y, Li Y, Gao X, Ju R, Dubrac A, Liu X, Zhang F. Macrophage-induced integrin signaling promotes Schlemm's canal formation to prevent intraocular hypertension and glaucomatous optic neuropathy. Cell Rep 2024; 43:113799. [PMID: 38367239 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.113799] [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: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Schlemm's canal (SC) functions to maintain proper intraocular pressure (IOP) by draining aqueous humor and has emerged as a promising therapeutic target for glaucoma, the second-leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. However, our current understanding of the mechanisms governing SC development and functionality remains limited. Here, we show that vitronectin (VTN) produced by limbal macrophages promotes SC formation and prevents intraocular hypertension by activating integrin αvβ3 signaling. Genetic inactivation of this signaling system inhibited the phosphorylation of AKT and FOXO1 and reduced β-catenin activity and FOXC2 expression, thereby causing impaired Prox1 expression and deteriorated SC morphogenesis. This ultimately led to increased IOP and glaucomatous optic neuropathy. Intriguingly, we found that aged SC displayed downregulated integrin β3 in association with dampened Prox1 expression. Conversely, FOXO1 inhibition rejuvenated the aged SC by inducing Prox1 expression and SC regrowth, highlighting a possible strategy by targeting VTN/integrin αvβ3 signaling to improve SC functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Xun Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Xuan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Keli Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Jing-Jing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Wenyu Lv
- Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Lei Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Mingjuan Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Weibin Zhou
- Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Weifa Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Shunhua Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Yicheng Deng
- School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Yunhua Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Xinbo Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Rong Ju
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Alexandre Dubrac
- Centre de Recherche, CHU St. Justine, Montréal, QC, Canada; Département de Pathologie et Biologie Cellulaire, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Xialin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou 510060, China.
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12
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Davis MJ, Zawieja SD, Yang Y. Developmental progression of lymphatic valve morphology and function. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1331291. [PMID: 38450249 PMCID: PMC10915029 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1331291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The bileaflet valves found in collecting lymphatic vessels and some veins are essential for maintaining a unidirectional flow, which is important for lymphatic and venous function. Under an adverse pressure gradient, the two leaflets tightly overlap to prevent backflow. Valves are proposed to share four main stages of development, based on images obtained from randomly oriented valves in fixed mouse embryos, with the best structural views obtained from larger venous valves. It is not known at what stage lymphatic valves (LVs) become functional (e.g., able to oppose backflow), although a requirement for stage 4 is presumed. Methods: To gain an insight into this sequence of events for LVs, we used Prox1CreER T2 :Foxo1 fl/fl mice and Foxc2CreER T2 :Foxo1 fl/fl mouse models, in which deletion of the valve repressor factor Foxo1 promotes the development of new LVs in adult lymphatic vessels. Both strains also contained a Prox1eGFP reporter to image the lymphatic endothelium. Mesenteric collecting lymphatic vessels were dissected, cannulated, and pressurized for ex vivo tests of valve function. LVs at various stages (1-4 and intermediate) were identified in multi-valve segments, which were subsequently shortened to perform the backleak test on single valves. The GFP signal was then imaged at high magnification using a confocal microscope. Z-stack reconstructions enabled 1:1 comparisons of LV morphology with a quantitative measurement of back leak. Results: As expected, LVs of stages 1-3 were completely leaky in response to outflow pressure elevation. Stage 4 valves were generally not leaky, but valve integrity depended on the Cre line used to induce new valve formation. A high percentage of valves at leaflet an intermediate stage (3.5), in which there was an insertion of a second commissure, but without proper luminal alignment, effectively resisted back leak when the outflow pressure was increased. Discussion: Our findings represent the first 3D images of developing lymphatic valves and indicate that valves become competent between stages 3 and 4 of development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Davis
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Scott D. Zawieja
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Ying Yang
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, USF Health Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
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13
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Kraus S, Lee E. A human initial lymphatic chip reveals distinct mechanisms of primary lymphatic valve dysfunction in acute and chronic inflammation. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:5180-5194. [PMID: 37981867 PMCID: PMC10908576 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00486d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
Interstitial fluid uptake and retention by lymphatic vessels (LVs) play a role in maintaining interstitial fluid homeostasis. While it is well-established that intraluminal lymphatic valves in the collecting LVs prevent fluid backflow (secondary lymphatic valves), a separate valve system in the initial LVs that only permits interstitial fluid influx into the LVs, preventing fluid leakage back to the interstitium (primary lymphatic valves), remains incompletely understood. Although lymphatic dysfunction is commonly observed in inflammation and autoimmune diseases, how the primary lymphatic valves are affected by acute and chronic inflammation has scarcely been explored and even less so using in vitro lymphatic models. Here, we developed a human initial lymphatic vessel chip where interstitial fluid pressure and luminal fluid pressure are controlled to examine primary lymph valve function. In normal conditions, lymphatic drainage (fluid uptake) and permeability (fluid leakage) in engineered LVs were maintained high and low, respectively, which was consistent with our understanding of healthy primary lymph valves. Next, we examined the effects of acute and chronic inflammation. Under the acute inflammation condition with a TNF-α treatment (2 hours), degradation of fibrillin and impeded lymphatic drainage were observed, which were reversed by treatment with anti-inflammatory dexamethasone. Surprisingly, the chronic inflammation condition (repeated TNF-α treatments during 48 hours) deposited fibrillin to compensate for the fibrillin loss, showing no change in lymphatic drainage. Instead, the chronic inflammation condition led to cell death and disruption of lymphatic endothelial cell-cell junctions, increasing lymphatic permeability and fluid leakage. Our human lymphatic model shows two distinct mechanisms by which primary lymphatic valve dysfunction occurs in acute and chronic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Kraus
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
| | - Esak Lee
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
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14
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Iyer D, Mastrogiacomo DM, Li K, Banerjee R, Yang Y, Scallan JP. eNOS Regulates Lymphatic Valve Specification by Controlling β-Catenin Signaling During Embryogenesis in Mice. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2023; 43:2197-2212. [PMID: 37767708 PMCID: PMC10655861 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.123.319405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lymphatic valves play a critical role in ensuring unidirectional lymph transport. Loss of lymphatic valves or dysfunctional valves are associated with several diseases including lymphedema, lymphatic malformations, obesity, and ileitis. Lymphatic valves first develop during embryogenesis in response to mechanotransduction signaling pathways triggered by oscillatory lymph flow. In blood vessels, eNOS (endothelial NO synthase; gene name: Nos3) is a well-characterized shear stress signaling effector, but its role in lymphatic valve development remains unexplored. METHODS We used global Nos3-/- mice and cultured human dermal lymphatic endothelial cells to investigate the role of eNOS in lymphatic valve development, which requires oscillatory shear stress signaling. RESULTS Our data reveal a 45% reduction in lymphatic valve specification cell clusters and that loss of eNOS protein inhibited activation of β-catenin and its nuclear translocation. Genetic knockout or knockdown of eNOS led to downregulation of β-catenin target proteins in vivo and in vitro. However, pharmacological inhibition of NO production did not reproduce these effects. Co-immunoprecipitation and proximity ligation assays reveal that eNOS directly binds to β-catenin and their binding is enhanced by oscillatory shear stress. Finally, genetic ablation of the Foxo1 gene enhanced FOXC2 expression and partially rescued the loss of valve specification in the eNOS knockouts. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, we demonstrate a novel, NO-independent role for eNOS in regulating lymphatic valve specification and propose a mechanism by which eNOS directly binds β-catenin to regulate its nuclear translocation and thereby transcriptional activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Drishya Iyer
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa
| | - Diandra M Mastrogiacomo
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa
| | - Kunyu Li
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa
| | - Richa Banerjee
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa
| | - Ying Yang
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa
| | - Joshua P Scallan
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa
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15
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Yang Y, McCullough CG, Seninge L, Guo L, Kwon WJ, Zhang Y, Li NY, Gaddam S, Pan C, Zhen H, Torkelson J, Glass IA, Charville G, Que J, Stuart J, Ding H, Oro A. A Spatiotemporal and Machine-Learning Platform Accelerates the Manufacturing of hPSC-derived Esophageal Mucosa. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.24.563664. [PMID: 37961271 PMCID: PMC10634774 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.24.563664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cell-derived tissue engineering offers great promise in designer cell-based personalized therapeutics. To harness such potential, a broader approach requires a deeper understanding of tissue-level interactions. We previously developed a manufacturing system for the ectoderm-derived skin epithelium for cell replacement therapy. However, it remains challenging to manufacture the endoderm-derived esophageal epithelium, despite both possessing similar stratified structure. Here we employ single cell and spatial technologies to generate a spatiotemporal multi-omics cell atlas for human esophageal development. We illuminate the cellular diversity, dynamics and signal communications for the developing esophageal epithelium and stroma. Using the machine-learning based Manatee, we prioritize the combinations of candidate human developmental signals for in vitro derivation of esophageal basal cells. Functional validation of the Manatee predictions leads to a clinically-compatible system for manufacturing human esophageal mucosa. Our approach creates a versatile platform to accelerate human tissue manufacturing for future cell replacement therapies to treat human genetic defects and wounds.
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16
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Pohl L, Schiessl IM. Endothelial cell plasticity in kidney fibrosis and disease. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2023; 239:e14038. [PMID: 37661749 DOI: 10.1111/apha.14038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Renal endothelial cells demonstrate an impressive remodeling potential during angiogenic sprouting, vessel repair or while transitioning into mesenchymal cells. These different processes may play important roles in both renal disease progression or regeneration while underlying signaling pathways of different endothelial cell plasticity routes partly overlap. Angiogenesis contributes to wound healing after kidney injury and pharmaceutical modulation of angiogenesis may home a great therapeutic potential. Yet, it is not clear whether any differentiated endothelial cell can proliferate or whether regenerative processes are largely controlled by resident or circulating endothelial progenitor cells. In the glomerular compartment for example, a distinct endothelial progenitor cell population may remodel the glomerular endothelium after injury. Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) in the kidney is vastly documented and often associated with endothelial dysfunction, fibrosis, and kidney disease progression. Especially the role of EndoMT in renal fibrosis is controversial. Studies on EndoMT in vivo determined possible conclusions on the pathophysiological role of EndoMT in the kidney, but whether endothelial cells really contribute to kidney fibrosis and if not what other cellular and functional outcomes derive from EndoMT in kidney disease is unclear. Sequencing data, however, suggest no participation of endothelial cells in extracellular matrix deposition. Thus, more in-depth classification of cellular markers and the fate of EndoMT cells in the kidney is needed. In this review, we describe different signaling pathways of endothelial plasticity, outline methodological approaches and evidence for functional and structural implications of angiogenesis and EndoMT in the kidney, and eventually discuss controversial aspects in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Layla Pohl
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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17
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Breslin JW. Edema and lymphatic clearance: molecular mechanisms and ongoing challenges. Clin Sci (Lond) 2023; 137:1451-1476. [PMID: 37732545 PMCID: PMC11025659 DOI: 10.1042/cs20220314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Resolution of edema remains a significant clinical challenge. Conditions such as traumatic shock, sepsis, or diabetes often involve microvascular hyperpermeability, which leads to tissue and organ dysfunction. Lymphatic insufficiency due to genetic causes, surgical removal of lymph nodes, or infections, leads to varying degrees of tissue swelling that impair mobility and immune defenses. Treatment options are limited to management of edema as there are no specific therapeutics that have demonstrated significant success for ameliorating microvascular leakage or impaired lymphatic function. This review examines current knowledge about the physiological, cellular, and molecular mechanisms that control microvascular permeability and lymphatic clearance, the respective processes for interstitial fluid formation and removal. Clinical conditions featuring edema, along with potential future directions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerome W Breslin
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, FL, U.S.A
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18
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Mehrara BJ, Radtke AJ, Randolph GJ, Wachter BT, Greenwel P, Rovira II, Galis ZS, Muratoglu SC. The emerging importance of lymphatics in health and disease: an NIH workshop report. J Clin Invest 2023; 133:e171582. [PMID: 37655664 PMCID: PMC10471172 DOI: 10.1172/jci171582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The lymphatic system (LS) is composed of lymphoid organs and a network of vessels that transport interstitial fluid, antigens, lipids, cholesterol, immune cells, and other materials in the body. Abnormal development or malfunction of the LS has been shown to play a key role in the pathophysiology of many disease states. Thus, improved understanding of the anatomical and molecular characteristics of the LS may provide approaches for disease prevention or treatment. Recent advances harnessing single-cell technologies, clinical imaging, discovery of biomarkers, and computational tools have led to the development of strategies to study the LS. This Review summarizes the outcomes of the NIH workshop entitled "Yet to be Charted: Lymphatic System in Health and Disease," held in September 2022, with emphasis on major areas for advancement. International experts showcased the current state of knowledge regarding the LS and highlighted remaining challenges and opportunities to advance the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babak J. Mehrara
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Andrea J. Radtke
- Lymphocyte Biology Section and Center for Advanced Tissue Imaging, Laboratory of Immune System Biology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Gwendalyn J. Randolph
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Brianna T. Wachter
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Patricia Greenwel
- Division of Digestive Diseases & Nutrition, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, and
| | - Ilsa I. Rovira
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Zorina S. Galis
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Selen C. Muratoglu
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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19
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Jannaway M, Iyer D, Mastrogiacomo DM, Li K, Sung DC, Yang Y, Kahn ML, Scallan JP. VEGFR3 is required for button junction formation in lymphatic vessels. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112777. [PMID: 37454290 PMCID: PMC10503778 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Lymphatic capillaries develop discontinuous cell-cell junctions that permit the absorption of large macromolecules, chylomicrons, and fluid from the interstitium. While excessive vascular endothelial growth factor 2 (VEGFR2) signaling can remodel and seal these junctions, whether and how VEGFR3 can alter lymphatic junctions remains incompletely understood. Here, we use lymphatic-specific Flt4 knockout mice to investigate VEGFR3 signaling in lymphatic junctions. We show that loss of Flt4 prevents specialized button junction formation in multiple tissues and impairs interstitial absorption. Knockdown of FLT4 in human lymphatic endothelial cells results in impaired NOTCH1 expression and activation, and overexpression of the NOTCH1 intracellular domain in Flt4 knockout vessels rescues the formation of button junctions and absorption of interstitial molecules. Together, our data reveal a requirement for VEGFR3 and NOTCH1 signaling in the development of button junctions during postnatal development and may hold clinical relevance to lymphatic diseases with impaired VEGFR3 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Jannaway
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Drishya Iyer
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Diandra M Mastrogiacomo
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Kunyu Li
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Derek C Sung
- Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Ying Yang
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Mark L Kahn
- Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Joshua P Scallan
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA.
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20
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Rajan KC, Patel NR, Shenoy A, Scallan JP, Chiang MY, Galazo MJ, Meadows SM. Zmiz1 is a novel regulator of lymphatic endothelial cell gene expression and function. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.22.550165. [PMID: 37503058 PMCID: PMC10370198 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.22.550165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Zinc Finger MIZ-Type Containing 1 (Zmiz1), also known as ZIMP10 or RAI17, is a transcription cofactor and member of the Protein Inhibitor of Activated STAT (PIAS) family of proteins. Zmiz1 is critical for a variety of biological processes including vascular development. However, its role in the lymphatic vasculature is unknown. In this study, we utilized human dermal lymphatic endothelial cells (HDLECs) and an inducible, lymphatic endothelial cell (LEC)-specific Zmiz1 knockout mouse model to investigate the role of Zmiz1 in LECs. Transcriptional profiling of Zmiz1-deficient HDLECs revealed downregulation of genes crucial for lymphatic vessel development. Additionally, our findings demonstrated that loss of Zmiz1 results in reduced expression of proliferation and migration genes in HDLECs and reduced proliferation and migration in vitro. We also presented evidence that Zmiz1 regulates Prox1 expression in vitro and in vivo by modulating chromatin accessibility at Prox1 regulatory regions. Furthermore, we observed that loss of Zmiz1 in mesenteric lymphatic vessels significantly reduced valve density. Collectively, our results highlight a novel role of Zmiz1 in LECs and as a transcriptional regulator of Prox1, shedding light on a previously unknown regulatory factor in lymphatic vascular biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- K C Rajan
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA
| | - Nehal R Patel
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA
| | - Anoushka Shenoy
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA
| | - Joshua P Scallan
- Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
| | - Mark Y Chiang
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Maria J Galazo
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA
- Tulane Brain Institute, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA
| | - Stryder M Meadows
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA
- Tulane Brain Institute, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA
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21
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Rustenhoven J, Pavlou G, Storck SE, Dykstra T, Du S, Wan Z, Quintero D, Scallan JP, Smirnov I, Kamm RD, Kipnis J. Age-related alterations in meningeal immunity drive impaired CNS lymphatic drainage. J Exp Med 2023; 220:e20221929. [PMID: 37027179 PMCID: PMC10083715 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20221929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The meningeal lymphatic network enables the drainage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and facilitates the removal of central nervous system (CNS) waste. During aging and in Alzheimer's disease, impaired meningeal lymphatic drainage promotes the buildup of toxic misfolded proteins in the CNS. Reversing this age-related dysfunction represents a promising strategy to augment CNS waste clearance; however, the mechanisms underlying this decline remain elusive. Here, we demonstrate that age-related alterations in meningeal immunity underlie this lymphatic impairment. Single-cell RNA sequencing of meningeal lymphatic endothelial cells from aged mice revealed their response to IFNγ, which was increased in the aged meninges due to T cell accumulation. Chronic elevation of meningeal IFNγ in young mice via AAV-mediated overexpression attenuated CSF drainage-comparable to the deficits observed in aged mice. Therapeutically, IFNγ neutralization alleviated age-related impairments in meningeal lymphatic function. These data suggest manipulation of meningeal immunity as a viable approach to normalize CSF drainage and alleviate the neurological deficits associated with impaired waste removal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Rustenhoven
- Brain Immunology and Glia Center, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre for Brain Research, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Georgios Pavlou
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Steffen E. Storck
- Brain Immunology and Glia Center, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Taitea Dykstra
- Brain Immunology and Glia Center, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Siling Du
- Brain Immunology and Glia Center, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Immunology Graduate Program, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Zhengpeng Wan
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Daniel Quintero
- Brain Immunology and Glia Center, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Joshua P. Scallan
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Igor Smirnov
- Brain Immunology and Glia Center, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Roger D. Kamm
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jonathan Kipnis
- Brain Immunology and Glia Center, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Immunology Graduate Program, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
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22
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Banerjee R, Knauer LA, Iyer D, Barlow SE, Scallan JP, Yang Y. Rictor induces AKT signaling to regulate lymphatic valve formation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.12.544698. [PMID: 37397997 PMCID: PMC10312634 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.12.544698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Lymphatic valves are specialized structures of the collecting lymphatic vessels and are crucial for preventing retrograde lymph flow. Mutations in valve-forming genes have been clinically implicated in the pathology of congenital lymphedema. Lymphatic valves form when oscillatory shear stress (OSS) from lymph flow signals through the PI3K/AKT pathway to promote the transcription of valve-forming genes that trigger the growth and maintenance of lymphatic valves throughout life. Conventionally, in other tissue types, AKT activation requires dual kinase activity and the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 2 (mTORC2) commands this process by phosphorylating AKT at Ser473. Here we showed that embryonic and postnatal lymphatic deletion of Rictor , a critical component of mTORC2, led to a significant decrease in lymphatic valves and prevented the maturation of collecting lymphatic vessels. RICTOR knockdown in human lymphatic endothelial cells (hdLECs) not only significantly reduced the level of activated AKT and the expression of valve-forming genes under no-flow conditions, but also abolished the upregulation of AKT activity and valve-forming genes in response to flow. We further showed that the AKT target, FOXO1, a repressor of lymphatic valve formation, had increased nuclear activity in Rictor knockout mesenteric LECs, in vivo . Deletion of Foxo1 in Rictor knockout mice restored the number of valves to control levels in both mesenteric and ear lymphatics. Our work revealed a novel role of RICTOR signaling in the mechanotransduction signaling pathway, wherein it activates AKT and prevents the nuclear accumulation of the valve repressor, FOXO1, which ultimately allows the formation and maintenance of a normal lymphatic valve.
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23
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Arany Z. Riding up the escaLEC-TOR for valvular health. J Cell Biol 2023; 222:e202305005. [PMID: 37227450 PMCID: PMC10225616 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202305005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Endothelial-lined valves assure unidirectional flow in the lymphatic system. In this issue, Saygili Demir et al. (2023. J. Cell Biol.https://doi.org/10.1083/jcb.202207049) demonstrate how continuous repair of these valves occur, beginning with mTOR-activated cell replication in valve sinuses, and followed by cell migration to cover the valve surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zolt Arany
- Cardiovascular Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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24
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Banerjee R, Knauer LA, Yang Y. Protocol for in vivo and in vitro study of lymphatic valve formation driven by shear stress signaling pathway. STAR Protoc 2023; 4:102141. [PMID: 37071531 PMCID: PMC10322886 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2023.102141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Here we detail a protocol for the isolation and processing of lymphatic enriched tissue of mouse models for the purpose of immunostaining and quantification of lymphatic valves, vessel length, and vessel diameter. Furthermore, we describe an optimized protocol for exposing treated human dermal lymphatic endothelial cells to flow for the purpose of studying lymph shear stress responses via gene expression and protein detection methods. This approach is useful to study lymphatic valve formation driven by oscillatory shear stress. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Scallan et al. (2021).1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richa Banerjee
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology & Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Luz A Knauer
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology & Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Ying Yang
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology & Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA.
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25
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Iyer D, Mastrogiacomo D, Li K, Banerjee R, Yang Y, Scallan JP. Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase Regulates Lymphatic Valve Specification By Controlling β - catenin Signaling During Embryogenesis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.10.536303. [PMID: 37090551 PMCID: PMC10120724 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.10.536303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Objective Lymphatic valves play a critical role in ensuring unidirectional lymph transport. Loss of lymphatic valves or dysfunctional valves are associated with several diseases including lymphedema, lymphatic malformations, obesity, and ileitis. Lymphatic valves first develop during embryogenesis in response to mechanotransduction signaling pathways triggered by oscillatory lymph flow. In blood vessels, eNOS (gene name: Nos3 ) is a well characterized shear stress signaling effector, but its role in lymphatic valve development remains unexplored. Approach and Results We used global Nos3 -/- mice and cultured hdLECs to investigate the role of eNOS in lymphatic valve development, which requires oscillatory shear stress signaling. Our data reveal a 45% reduction in lymphatic valve specification cell clusters and that loss of eNOS protein inhibited activation of β-catenin and its nuclear translocation. Genetic knockout or knockdown of eNOS led to downregulation of β-catenin target proteins in vivo and in vitro . However, pharmacological inhibition of NO production did not reproduce these effects. Coimmunoprecipitation experiments reveal that eNOS forms a complex with β-catenin and their association is enhanced by oscillatory shear stress. Finally, genetic ablation of the Foxo1 gene enhanced FOXC2 expression and rescued the loss of valve specification in the eNOS knockouts. Conclusion In conclusion, we demonstrate a novel, nitric oxide-independent role for eNOS in regulating lymphatic valve specification and propose a mechanism by which eNOS forms a complex with β-catenin to regulate its nuclear translocation and thereby transcriptional activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Drishya Iyer
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL USA 33612
| | - Diandra Mastrogiacomo
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL USA 33612
| | - Kunyu Li
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL USA 33612
| | - Richa Banerjee
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL USA 33612
| | - Ying Yang
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL USA 33612
| | - Joshua P Scallan
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL USA 33612
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26
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Deng H, Zhang J, Wu F, Wei F, Han W, Xu X, Zhang Y. Current Status of Lymphangiogenesis: Molecular Mechanism, Immune Tolerance, and Application Prospect. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15041169. [PMID: 36831512 PMCID: PMC9954532 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15041169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The lymphatic system is a channel for fluid transport and cell migration, but it has always been controversial in promoting and suppressing cancer. VEGFC/VEGFR3 signaling has long been recognized as a major molecular driver of lymphangiogenesis. However, many studies have shown that the neural network of lymphatic signaling is complex. Lymphatic vessels have been found to play an essential role in the immune regulation of tumor metastasis and cardiac repair. This review describes the effects of lipid metabolism, extracellular vesicles, and flow shear forces on lymphangiogenesis. Moreover, the pro-tumor immune tolerance function of lymphatic vessels is discussed, and the tasks of meningeal lymphatic vessels and cardiac lymphatic vessels in diseases are further discussed. Finally, the value of conversion therapy targeting the lymphatic system is introduced from the perspective of immunotherapy and pro-lymphatic biomaterials for lymphangiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyang Deng
- Hepatic-Biliary-Pancreatic Institute, Department of General Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730030, China
| | - Jiaxing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of the Digestive System Tumors of Gansu Province, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730030, China
| | - Fahong Wu
- Hepatic-Biliary-Pancreatic Institute, Department of General Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730030, China
| | - Fengxian Wei
- Hepatic-Biliary-Pancreatic Institute, Department of General Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730030, China
| | - Wei Han
- Hepatic-Biliary-Pancreatic Institute, Department of General Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730030, China
| | - Xiaodong Xu
- Hepatic-Biliary-Pancreatic Institute, Department of General Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730030, China
| | - Youcheng Zhang
- Hepatic-Biliary-Pancreatic Institute, Department of General Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730030, China
- Correspondence:
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27
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Khademi M, Babaei Z, Ghorbanhosseini SS, Emami Razavi A, Aghaei M. Molecular mechanisms of miR-1236 in the assessment of tumor lymphangiogenesis in human ovarian cancer patients. J Gene Med 2023; 25:e3480. [PMID: 36750632 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.3480] [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: 09/18/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumor lymphangiogenesis is a critical component in the progression of cancers and specific microRNAs have been reported to be implicated in this process. Recent studies revealed the involvement of miR-1236 in lymphangiogenic signaling by targeting vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 3 (VEGFR3). However, the prognostic importance of miR-1236 and its clinical relevance for lymphangiogenesis in ovarian cancer (OC) remains unclear. METHODS The study included 52 ovarian tumors and 28 normal ovarian tissues. Quantitative real-time PCR was utilized to analyze the VEGFR3, VEGF-C, LYVE-1 and PROX1 mRNA expression as well as miR-1236. VEGFR3 protein expression was measured by immunohistochemistry staining. Immunohistochemistry for the podoplanin marker (D2-40) was performed to measure lymphatic vessel density (LVD). In addition, diagnostic evaluation based on the receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve was performed. The influence of miR-1236 on overall survival was evaluated by Kaplan-Meier method. RESULTS Here, we show that miR-1236 expression was significantly decreased in ovarian tumors compared with control tissues (p < 0.001) and correlated with advanced clinical stage, lymph node metastasis, distant metastasis and patient survival (All P < 0.05). Moreover, in ovarian tumors, LVD as well as the gene expression of VEGFR3, VEGF-C and LYVE-1, but not PROX1, were found to be remarkably higher compared with control tissues. We also detected a more robust positive staining for VEGFR3 in OC tissues than in control tissues. Furthermore, our results demonstrated an inverse association of miR-1236 expression with LVD, VEGFR3, LYVE-1 and PROX1 expression in OC tissues. The ROC curve analysis indicated that miR-1236 expression has the potential to be used as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in OC. Survival analysis further verified a lowered overall survival rate in patients with low miR-1236 expression than in those with high expression. CONCLUSIONS Our results provide evidence for the translational involvement of miR-1236 in the lymphangiogenesis of OC by regulating lymphangiogenesis-related factors and support the clinical importance of miR-1236 as a new diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for OC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Khademi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Zeinab Babaei
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Biophysics, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Seyedeh Sara Ghorbanhosseini
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Amirnader Emami Razavi
- Iran National Tumor Bank, Cancer Biology Research Center, Cancer Institute of Iran. Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Aghaei
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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28
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Brown S, Dayan JH, Kataru RP, Mehrara BJ. The Vicious Circle of Stasis, Inflammation, and Fibrosis in Lymphedema. Plast Reconstr Surg 2023; 151:330e-341e. [PMID: 36696336 PMCID: PMC9881755 DOI: 10.1097/prs.0000000000009866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
SUMMARY Lymphedema is a progressive disease of the lymphatic system arising from impaired lymphatic drainage, accumulation of interstitial fluid, and fibroadipose deposition. Secondary lymphedema resulting from cancer treatment is the most common form of the disease in developed countries, affecting 15% to 40% of patients with breast cancer after lymph node dissection. Despite recent advances in microsurgery, outcomes remain variable and, in some cases, inadequate. Thus, development of novel treatment strategies is an important goal. Research over the past decade suggests that lymphatic injury initiates a chronic inflammatory response that regulates the pathophysiology of lymphedema. T-cell inflammation plays a key role in this response. In this review, the authors highlight the cellular and molecular mechanisms of lymphedema and discuss promising preclinical therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stav Brown
- From the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
| | - Joseph H Dayan
- From the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
| | - Raghu P Kataru
- From the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
| | - Babak J Mehrara
- From the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
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29
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Ogunsina O, Banerjee R, Knauer LA, Yang Y. Pharmacological inhibition of FOXO1 promotes lymphatic valve growth in a congenital lymphedema mouse model. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 10:1024628. [PMID: 36742198 PMCID: PMC9890395 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1024628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations in many genes that regulate lymphatic valve development are associated with congenital lymphedema. Oscillatory shear stress (OSS) from lymph provides constant signals for the growth and maintenance of valve cells throughout life. The expression of valve-forming genes in lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) is upregulated by OSS. The transcription factor FOXO1 represses lymphatic valve formation by inhibiting the expression of these genes, which makes FOXO1 a potential target for treating lymphedema. Here, we tested the ability of a FOXO1 inhibitor, AS1842856, to induce the formation of new lymphatic valves. Our quantitative RT-PCR and Western blot data showed that treatment of cultured human LECs with AS1842856 for 48 h significantly increased the expression levels of valve-forming genes. To investigate the function of AS1842856 in vivo, Foxc2 +/- mice, the mouse model for lymphedema-distichiasis, were injected with AS1842856 for 2 weeks. The valve number in AS-treated Foxc2+/- mice was significantly higher than that of the vehicle-treated Foxc2+/- mice. Furthermore, since β-catenin upregulates the expression of Foxc2 and Prox1 during lymphatic valve formation, and AS1842856 treatment increased the level of active β-catenin in both cultured human LECs and in mouse mesenteric LECs in vivo, we used the mouse model with constitutive active β-catenin to rescue loss of lymphatic valves in Foxc2 +/- mice. Foxc2 +/- mice have 50% fewer lymphatic valves than control, and rescue experiments showed that the valve number was completely restored to the control level upon nuclear β-catenin activation. These findings indicate that pharmacological inhibition of FOXO1 can be explored as a viable strategy to resolve valve defects in congenital lymphedema.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ying Yang
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology & Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
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30
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Sakurai Y, Yoshikawa K, Arai K, Kazaoka A, Aoki S, Ito K, Nakai Y, Tange K, Furihata T, Tanaka H, Akita H. siRNA delivery to lymphatic endothelial cells via ApoE-mediated uptake by lipid nanoparticles. J Control Release 2023; 353:125-133. [PMID: 36414194 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.11.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Systemically administered lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are complexed with Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) in the bloodstream, and the complex is subsequently largely taken up by hepatocytes. Based on a previous report showing that, like blood, lymph fluid also contains ApoE, and that LECs, in turn, expresses a low density-lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), which is the receptor responsible for the ApoE-bound LNP, we hypothesized that subcutaneously administered LNPs would be taken up by LECs via an ApoE-LDLR pathway. Our in vitro studies using immortal LECs that we established in a previous study showed that LEC indeed took up LNPs in an ApoE-dependent manner. We then reported on the development of LNPs that target the lymphatic endothelium for in vivo siRNA delivery after subcutaneous administration. The key to success for in vivo LEC targeting is that the surface needs to be modified with a high density of polyethylene glycol (PEG)-conjugated lipids with short acyl chains (C14). The LNPs were drained into the lymphatic system, and then accumulated in lymphatic endothelial cells in an ApoE-dependent manner, most likely after the release of the PEG-lipid. Subcutaneous administration of optimized LNPs containing encapsulated siRNA against VEGFR3, a marker of LECs, significantly inhibited the expression of VEGFR3. These findings are the first report of a simple straightforward strategy for targeting lymphatic endothelial cells by using ionizable lipid-formulated LNPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Sakurai
- Laboratory of DDS Design and Drug Disposition, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8578, Japan
| | - Keito Yoshikawa
- Laboratory of DDS Design and Drug Disposition, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba 260-8675, Japan
| | - Kenta Arai
- Laboratory of DDS Design and Drug Disposition, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba 260-8675, Japan
| | - Akira Kazaoka
- Laboratory of Biopharmaceutics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba 260-8675, Japan
| | - Shigeki Aoki
- Laboratory of Biopharmaceutics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba 260-8675, Japan
| | - Kousei Ito
- Laboratory of Biopharmaceutics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba 260-8675, Japan
| | - Yuta Nakai
- DDS Research Laboratory, NOF Corporation, Kanagawa 210-0865, Japan
| | - Kota Tange
- DDS Research Laboratory, NOF Corporation, Kanagawa 210-0865, Japan
| | - Tomomi Furihata
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacy & Experimental Therapeutics, School of Pharmacy, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Tokyo 192-0392, Japan
| | - Hiroki Tanaka
- Laboratory of DDS Design and Drug Disposition, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba 260-8675, Japan
| | - Hidetaka Akita
- Laboratory of DDS Design and Drug Disposition, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8578, Japan.
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31
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Sung DC, Chen M, Dominguez MH, Mahadevan A, Chen X, Yang J, Gao S, Ren AA, Tang AT, Mericko P, Patton R, Lee M, Jannaway M, Nottebaum A, Vestweber D, Scallan JP, Kahn ML. Sinusoidal and lymphatic vessel growth is controlled by reciprocal VEGF-C-CDH5 inhibition. NATURE CARDIOVASCULAR RESEARCH 2022; 1:1006-1021. [PMID: 36910472 PMCID: PMC9997205 DOI: 10.1038/s44161-022-00147-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Sinusoids are specialized, low pressure blood vessels in the liver, bone marrow, and spleen required for definitive hematopoiesis. Unlike other blood endothelial cells (ECs), sinusoidal ECs express high levels of VEGFR3. VEGFR3 and its ligand VEGF-C are known to support lymphatic growth, but their function in sinusoidal vessels is unknown. In this study, we define a reciprocal VEGF-C/VEGFR3-CDH5 (VE-cadherin) signaling axis that controls growth of both sinusoidal and lymphatic vessels. Loss of VEGF-C or VEGFR3 resulted in cutaneous edema, reduced fetal liver size, and bloodless bone marrow due to impaired lymphatic and sinusoidal vessel growth. Mice with membrane-retained VE-cadherin conferred identical lymphatic and sinusoidal defects, suggesting that VE-cadherin opposes VEGF-C/VEGFR3 signaling. In developing mice, loss of VE-cadherin rescued defects in sinusoidal and lymphatic growth caused by loss of VEGFR3 but not loss of VEGF-C, findings explained by potentiated VEGF-C/VEGFR2 signaling in VEGFR3-deficient lymphatic ECs. Mechanistically, VEGF-C/VEGFR3 signaling induces VE-cadherin endocytosis and loss of function via SRC-mediated phosphorylation, while VE-cadherin prevents VEGFR3 endocytosis required for optimal receptor signaling. These findings establish an essential role for VEGF-C/VEGFR3 signaling during sinusoidal vascular growth, identify VE-cadherin as a powerful negative regulator of VEGF-C signaling that acts through both VEGFR3 and VEGFR2 receptors, and suggest that negative regulation of VE-cadherin is required for effective VEGF-C/VEGFR3 signaling during growth of sinusoidal and lymphatic vessels. Manipulation of this reciprocal negative regulatory mechanism, e.g. by reducing VE-cadherin function, may be used to stimulate therapeutic sinusoidal or lymphatic vessel growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek C. Sung
- Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Mei Chen
- Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Martin H. Dominguez
- Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Aparna Mahadevan
- Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Xiaowen Chen
- Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Jisheng Yang
- Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Siqi Gao
- Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Aileen A. Ren
- Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Alan T. Tang
- Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Patricia Mericko
- Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Raiyah Patton
- Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Michelle Lee
- University Laboratory Animal Resources, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Melanie Jannaway
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida
| | - Astrid Nottebaum
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
| | | | - Joshua P. Scallan
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida
| | - Mark L. Kahn
- Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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32
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Sugiyama A, Hirashima M. Fetal nuchal edema and developmental anomalies caused by gene mutations in mice. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:949013. [PMID: 36111337 PMCID: PMC9468611 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.949013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Fetal nuchal edema, a subcutaneous accumulation of extracellular fluid in the fetal neck, is detected as increased nuchal translucency (NT) by ultrasonography in the first trimester of pregnancy. It has been demonstrated that increased NT is associated with chromosomal anomalies and genetic syndromes accompanied with fetal malformations such as defective lymphatic vascular development, cardiac anomalies, anemia, and a wide range of other fetal anomalies. However, in many clinical cases of increased NT, causative genes, pathogenesis and prognosis have not been elucidated in humans. On the other hand, a large number of gene mutations have been reported to induce fetal nuchal edema in mouse models. Here, we review the relationship between the gene mutants causing fetal nuchal edema with defective lymphatic vascular development, cardiac anomalies, anemia and blood vascular endothelial barrier anomalies in mice. Moreover, we discuss how studies using gene mutant mouse models will be useful in developing diagnostic method and predicting prognosis.
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33
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Scallan JP, Jannaway M. Lymphatic Vascular Permeability. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2022; 12:a041274. [PMID: 35879102 PMCID: PMC9380735 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Blood vessels have a regulated permeability to fluid and solutes, which allows for the delivery of nutrients and signaling molecules to all cells in the body, a process essential to life. The lymphatic vasculature is the second network of vessels in the body, making up part of the immune system, yet is not typically thought of as having a permeability to fluid and solute. However, the major function of the lymphatic vasculature is to regulate tissue fluid balance to prevent edema, so lymphatic vessels must be permeable to absorb and transport fluid efficiently. Only recently were lymphatic vessels discovered to be permeable, which has had many functional implications. In this review, we will provide an overview of what is known about lymphatic vascular permeability, discuss the biophysical and signaling mechanisms regulating lymphatic permeability, and examine the disease relevance of this new property of lymphatic vessels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua P Scallan
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida 33612, USA
| | - Melanie Jannaway
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida 33612, USA
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34
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Geng X, Srinivasan RS. Molecular Mechanisms Driving Lymphedema and Other Lymphatic Anomalies. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2022; 12:a041272. [PMID: 35817543 PMCID: PMC9341459 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Lymphatic vasculature regulates fluid homeostasis by absorbing interstitial fluid and returning it to blood. Lymphatic vasculature is also critical for lipid absorption and inflammatory response. Lymphatic vasculature is composed of lymphatic capillaries, collecting lymphatic vessels, lymphatic valves, and lymphovenous valves. Defects in any of these structures could lead to lymphatic anomalies such as lymphedema, cystic lymphatic malformation, and Gorham-Stout disease. Basic research has led to a deeper understanding of the stepwise development of the lymphatic vasculature. VEGF-C and shear stress signaling pathways have evolved as critical regulators of lymphatic vascular development. Loss-of-function and gain-of-function mutations in genes that are involved in these signaling pathways are associated with lymphatic anomalies. Importantly, drugs that target these molecules are showing outstanding efficacy in treating certain lymphatic anomalies. In this article, we summarize these exciting developments and highlight the future challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Geng
- Cardiovascular Biology Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73013, USA
| | - R Sathish Srinivasan
- Cardiovascular Biology Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73013, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73117, USA
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35
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Bonetti G, Paolacci S, Samaja M, Maltese PE, Michelini S, Michelini S, Michelini S, Ricci M, Cestari M, Dautaj A, Medori MC, Bertelli M. Low Efficacy of Genetic Tests for the Diagnosis of Primary Lymphedema Prompts Novel Insights into the Underlying Molecular Pathways. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137414. [PMID: 35806420 PMCID: PMC9267137 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Lymphedema is a chronic inflammatory disorder caused by ineffective fluid uptake by the lymphatic system, with effects mainly on the lower limbs. Lymphedema is either primary, when caused by genetic mutations, or secondary, when it follows injury, infection, or surgery. In this study, we aim to assess to what extent the current genetic tests detect genetic variants of lymphedema, and to identify the major molecular pathways that underlie this rather unknown disease. We recruited 147 individuals with a clinical diagnosis of primary lymphedema and used established genetic tests on their blood or saliva specimens. Only 11 of these were positive, while other probands were either negative (63) or inconclusive (73). The low efficacy of such tests calls for greater insight into the underlying mechanisms to increase accuracy. For this purpose, we built a molecular pathways diagram based on a literature analysis (OMIM, Kegg, PubMed, Scopus) of candidate and diagnostic genes. The PI3K/AKT and the RAS/MAPK pathways emerged as primary candidates responsible for lymphedema diagnosis, while the Rho/ROCK pathway appeared less critical. The results of this study suggest the most important pathways involved in the pathogenesis of lymphedema, and outline the most promising diagnostic and candidate genes to diagnose this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Bonetti
- MAGI’s LAB, 38068 Rovereto, Italy; (S.P.); (P.E.M.); (A.D.); (M.C.M.); (M.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0365-62-061
| | - Stefano Paolacci
- MAGI’s LAB, 38068 Rovereto, Italy; (S.P.); (P.E.M.); (A.D.); (M.C.M.); (M.B.)
| | | | | | - Sandro Michelini
- Vascular Diagnostics and Rehabilitation Service, Marino Hospital, ASL Roma 6, 00047 Marino, Italy;
| | - Serena Michelini
- Unit of Physical Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | | | - Maurizio Ricci
- Division of Rehabilitation Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Ospedali Riuniti di Ancona, 60126 Ancona, Italy;
| | - Marina Cestari
- Study Centre Pianeta Linfedema, 05100 Terni, Italy;
- Lymphology Sector of the Rehabilitation Service, USLUmbria2, 05100 Terni, Italy
| | - Astrit Dautaj
- MAGI’s LAB, 38068 Rovereto, Italy; (S.P.); (P.E.M.); (A.D.); (M.C.M.); (M.B.)
| | - Maria Chiara Medori
- MAGI’s LAB, 38068 Rovereto, Italy; (S.P.); (P.E.M.); (A.D.); (M.C.M.); (M.B.)
| | - Matteo Bertelli
- MAGI’s LAB, 38068 Rovereto, Italy; (S.P.); (P.E.M.); (A.D.); (M.C.M.); (M.B.)
- MAGI Group, 25010 San Felice del Benaco, Italy;
- MAGI Euregio, 39100 Bolzano, Italy
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36
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Sung C, Wang S, Hsu J, Yu R, Wong AK. Current Understanding of Pathological Mechanisms of Lymphedema. Adv Wound Care (New Rochelle) 2022; 11:361-373. [PMID: 34521256 PMCID: PMC9051876 DOI: 10.1089/wound.2021.0041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Significance: Lymphedema is a common disease that affects hundreds of millions of people worldwide with significant financial and social burdens. Despite increasing prevalence and associated morbidities, the mainstay treatment of lymphedema is largely palliative without an effective cure due to incomplete understanding of the disease. Recent Advances: Recent studies have described key histological and pathological processes that contribute to the progression of lymphedema, including lymphatic stasis, inflammation, adipose tissue deposition, and fibrosis. This review aims to highlight cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in each of these pathological processes. Critical Issues: Despite recent advances in the understanding of the pathophysiology of lymphedema, cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the disease remains elusive due to its complex nature. Future Directions: Additional research is needed to gain a better insight into the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the pathophysiology of lymphedema, which will guide the development of therapeutic strategies that target specific pathology of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia Sung
- Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Division of Plastic Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Sarah Wang
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jerry Hsu
- Division of Plastic Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA.,Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Roy Yu
- Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Alex K. Wong
- Division of Plastic Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA.,Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Correspondence: Division of Plastic Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, 1500 Duarte Road, Familian Science Building 1018, Duarte, CA 91010, USA.
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37
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Sung DC, Chen X, Chen M, Yang J, Schultz S, Babu A, Xu Y, Gao S, Keller TCS, Mericko-Ishizuka P, Lee M, Yang Y, Scallan JP, Kahn ML. VE-cadherin enables trophoblast endovascular invasion and spiral artery remodeling during placental development. eLife 2022; 11:e77241. [PMID: 35486098 PMCID: PMC9106330 DOI: 10.7554/elife.77241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
During formation of the mammalian placenta, trophoblasts invade the maternal decidua and remodel spiral arteries to bring maternal blood into the placenta. This process, known as endovascular invasion, is thought to involve the adoption of functional characteristics of vascular endothelial cells (ECs) by trophoblasts. The genetic and molecular basis of endovascular invasion remains poorly defined, however, and whether trophoblasts utilize specialized endothelial proteins in an analogous manner to create vascular channels remains untested. Vascular endothelial (VE-)cadherin is a homotypic adhesion protein that is expressed selectively by ECs in which it enables formation of tight vessels and regulation of EC junctions. VE-cadherin is also expressed in invasive trophoblasts and is a prime candidate for a molecular mechanism of endovascular invasion by those cells. Here, we show that VE-cadherin is required for trophoblast migration and endovascular invasion into the maternal decidua in the mouse. VE-cadherin deficiency results in loss of spiral artery remodeling that leads to decreased flow of maternal blood into the placenta, fetal growth restriction, and death. These studies identify a non-endothelial role for VE-cadherin in trophoblasts during placental development and suggest that endothelial proteins may play functionally unique roles in trophoblasts that do not simply mimic those in ECs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek C Sung
- Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Xiaowen Chen
- Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Mei Chen
- Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Jisheng Yang
- Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Susan Schultz
- Department of Radiology, Hospital of the University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Apoorva Babu
- Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Yitian Xu
- Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Siqi Gao
- Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - TC Stevenson Keller
- Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Patricia Mericko-Ishizuka
- Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Michelle Lee
- University Laboratory Animal Resources, University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Ying Yang
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, University of South FloridaTampaUnited States
| | - Joshua P Scallan
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, University of South FloridaTampaUnited States
| | - Mark L Kahn
- Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaUnited States
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38
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Summers BD, Kim K, Clement CC, Khan Z, Thangaswamy S, McCright J, Maisel K, Zamora S, Quintero S, Racanelli AC, Redmond D, D'Armiento J, Yang J, Kuang A, Monticelli L, Kahn ML, Choi AMK, Santambrogio L, Reed HO. Lung lymphatic thrombosis and dysfunction caused by cigarette smoke exposure precedes emphysema in mice. Sci Rep 2022; 12:5012. [PMID: 35322079 PMCID: PMC8943143 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-08617-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The lymphatic vasculature is critical for lung function, but defects in lymphatic function in the pathogenesis of lung disease is understudied. In mice, lymphatic dysfunction alone is sufficient to cause lung injury that resembles human emphysema. Whether lymphatic function is disrupted in cigarette smoke (CS)-induced emphysema is unknown. In this study, we investigated the effect of CS on lung lymphatic function. Analysis of human lung tissue revealed significant lung lymphatic thrombosis in patients with emphysema compared to control smokers that increased with disease severity. In a mouse model, CS exposure led to lung lymphatic thrombosis, decreased lymphatic drainage, and impaired leukocyte trafficking that all preceded the development of emphysema. Proteomic analysis demonstrated an increased abundance of coagulation factors in the lymph draining from the lungs of CS-exposed mice compared to control mice. In addition, in vitro assays demonstrated a direct effect of CS on lymphatic endothelial cell integrity. These data show that CS exposure results in lung lymphatic dysfunction and a shift in thoracic lymph towards a prothrombic state. Furthermore, our data suggest that lymphatic dysfunction is due to effects of CS on the lymphatic vasculature that precede emphysema. These studies demonstrate a novel component of CS-induced lung injury that occurs early in the pathogenesis of emphysema.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kihwan Kim
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Cristina C Clement
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Zohaib Khan
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sangeetha Thangaswamy
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jacob McCright
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Katharina Maisel
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Sofia Zamora
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | - David Redmond
- Ansary Stem Cell Institute, Division of Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Jeanine D'Armiento
- Department of Medicine in Anesthesiology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jisheng Yang
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Amy Kuang
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Mark L Kahn
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Laura Santambrogio
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Caryl and Israel Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hasina Outtz Reed
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, 1300 York Ave, Room 323, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
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39
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Weber E, Aglianò M, Bertelli E, Gabriele G, Gennaro P, Barone V. Lymphatic Collecting Vessels in Health and Disease: A Review of Histopathological Modifications in Lymphedema. Lymphat Res Biol 2022; 20:468-477. [PMID: 35041535 PMCID: PMC9603277 DOI: 10.1089/lrb.2021.0090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Secondary lymphedema of the extremities affects millions of people in the world as a common side effect of oncological treatments with heavy impact on every day life of patients and on the health care system. One of the surgical techniques for lymphedema treatment is the creation of a local connection between lymphatic vessels and veins, facilitating drainage of lymphatic fluid into the circulatory system. Successful results, however, rely on using a functional vessel for the anastomosis, and vessel function, in turn, depends on its structure. The structure of lymphatic collecting vessels changes with the progression of lymphedema. They appear initially dilated by excess interstitial fluid entered at capillary level. The number of lymphatic smooth muscle cells in their media then increases in the attempt to overcome the impaired drainage. When lymphatic muscle cells hyperplasia occurs at the expenses of the lumen, vessel patency decreases hampering lymph flow. Finally, collagen fiber accumulation leads to complete occlusion of the lumen rendering the vessel unfit to conduct lymph. Different types of vessels may coexist in the same patient but usually the distal part of the limb contains less affected vessels that are more likely to perform efficient lymphatic–venular anastomosis. Here we review the structure of the lymphatic collecting vessels in health and in lymphedema, focusing on the histopathological changes of the lymphatic vessel wall based on the observations on segments of the vessels used for lymphatic–venular anastomoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Weber
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine and Surgical and Neurological Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Margherita Aglianò
- Department of Clinical, Surgical and Neurological Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Eugenio Bertelli
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine and Surgical and Neurological Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Guido Gabriele
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese AOUS, Siena, Italy
| | - Paolo Gennaro
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese AOUS, Siena, Italy
| | - Virginia Barone
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine and Surgical and Neurological Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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40
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Nakashima BJ, Hong YK. VE-Cadherin: A Critical Sticking Point for Lymphatic System Maintenance: Role of VE-Cadherin in Lymphatic Maintenance. Circ Res 2022; 130:24-26. [PMID: 34995134 PMCID: PMC8979571 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.121.320497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Brandon J Nakashima
- Department of Surgery, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Young-Kwon Hong
- Department of Surgery, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
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41
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Harris NR, Nielsen NR, Pawlak JB, Aghajanian A, Rangarajan K, Serafin DS, Farber G, Dy DM, Nelson-Maney NP, Xu W, Ratra D, Hurr SH, Qian L, Scallan JP, Caron KM. VE-Cadherin Is Required for Cardiac Lymphatic Maintenance and Signaling. Circ Res 2022; 130:5-23. [PMID: 34789016 PMCID: PMC8756423 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.121.318852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The adherens protein VE-cadherin (vascular endothelial cadherin) has diverse roles in organ-specific lymphatic vessels. However, its physiological role in cardiac lymphatics and its interaction with lymphangiogenic factors has not been fully explored. We sought to determine the spatiotemporal functions of VE-cadherin in cardiac lymphatics and mechanistically elucidate how VE-cadherin loss influences prolymphangiogenic signaling pathways, such as adrenomedullin and VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor)-C/VEGFR3 (vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 3) signaling. METHODS Cdh5flox/flox;Prox1CreERT2 mice were used to delete VE-cadherin in lymphatic endothelial cells across life stages, including embryonic, postnatal, and adult. Lymphatic architecture and function was characterized using immunostaining and functional lymphangiography. To evaluate the impact of temporal and functional regression of cardiac lymphatics in Cdh5flox/flox;Prox1CreERT2 mice, left anterior descending artery ligation was performed and cardiac function and repair after myocardial infarction was evaluated by echocardiography and histology. Cellular effects of VE-cadherin deletion on lymphatic signaling pathways were assessed by knockdown of VE-cadherin in cultured lymphatic endothelial cells. RESULTS Embryonic deletion of VE-cadherin produced edematous embryos with dilated cardiac lymphatics with significantly altered vessel tip morphology. Postnatal deletion of VE-cadherin caused complete disassembly of cardiac lymphatics. Adult deletion caused a temporal regression of the quiescent epicardial lymphatic network which correlated with significant dermal and cardiac lymphatic dysfunction, as measured by fluorescent and quantum dot lymphangiography, respectively. Surprisingly, despite regression of cardiac lymphatics, Cdh5flox/flox;Prox1CreERT2 mice exhibited preserved cardiac function, both at baseline and following myocardial infarction, compared with control mice. Mechanistically, loss of VE-cadherin leads to aberrant cellular internalization of VEGFR3, precluding the ability of VEGFR3 to be either canonically activated by VEGF-C or noncanonically transactivated by adrenomedullin signaling, impairing downstream processes such as cellular proliferation. CONCLUSIONS VE-cadherin is an essential scaffolding protein to maintain prolymphangiogenic signaling nodes at the plasma membrane, which are required for the development and adult maintenance of cardiac lymphatics, but not for cardiac function basally or after injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie R. Harris
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of
North Carolina at Chapel Hill; 111 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
27599
| | - Natalie R. Nielsen
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of
North Carolina at Chapel Hill; 111 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
27599
| | - John B. Pawlak
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of
North Carolina at Chapel Hill; 111 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
27599
| | - Amir Aghajanian
- Department of Medicine Division of Cardiology, University
of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; 160 Dental Circle, Chapel Hill, North Carolina,
USA 27599
| | - Krsna Rangarajan
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of
North Carolina at Chapel Hill; 111 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
27599
| | - D. Stephen Serafin
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of
North Carolina at Chapel Hill; 111 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
27599
| | - Gregory Farber
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University
of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; 111 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, North Carolina,
USA 27599,McAllister Heart Institute, University of North Carolina,
Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA 27599
| | - Danielle M. Dy
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of
North Carolina at Chapel Hill; 111 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
27599
| | - Nathan P. Nelson-Maney
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of
North Carolina at Chapel Hill; 111 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
27599
| | - Wenjing Xu
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of
North Carolina at Chapel Hill; 111 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
27599
| | - Disha Ratra
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of
North Carolina at Chapel Hill; 111 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
27599
| | - Sophia H. Hurr
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of
North Carolina at Chapel Hill; 111 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
27599
| | - Li Qian
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University
of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; 111 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, North Carolina,
USA 27599
| | - Joshua P. Scallan
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology,
University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA 33612
| | - Kathleen M. Caron
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of
North Carolina at Chapel Hill; 111 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
27599
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42
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Selahi A, Fernando T, Chakraborty S, Muthuchamy M, Zawieja DC, Jain A. Lymphangion-chip: a microphysiological system which supports co-culture and bidirectional signaling of lymphatic endothelial and muscle cells. LAB ON A CHIP 2021; 22:121-135. [PMID: 34850797 PMCID: PMC9761984 DOI: 10.1039/d1lc00720c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
The pathophysiology of several lymphatic diseases, such as lymphedema, depends on the function of lymphangions that drive lymph flow. Even though the signaling between the two main cellular components of a lymphangion, endothelial cells (LECs) and muscle cells (LMCs), is responsible for crucial lymphatic functions, there are no in vitro models that have included both cell types. Here, a fabrication technique (gravitational lumen patterning or GLP) is developed to create a lymphangion-chip. This organ-on-chip consists of co-culture of a monolayer of endothelial lumen surrounded by multiple and uniformly thick layers of muscle cells. The platform allows construction of a wide range of luminal diameters and muscular layer thicknesses, thus providing a toolbox to create variable anatomy. In this device, lymphatic muscle cells align circumferentially while endothelial cells aligned axially under flow, as only observed in vivo in the past. This system successfully characterizes the dynamics of cell size, density, growth, alignment, and intercellular gap due to co-culture and shear. Finally, exposure to pro-inflammatory cytokines reveals that the device could facilitate the regulation of endothelial barrier function through the lymphatic muscle cells. Therefore, this bioengineered platform is suitable for use in preclinical research of lymphatic and blood mechanobiology, inflammation, and translational outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirali Selahi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Texas A&M University, 101 Bizzell Street College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
| | - Teshan Fernando
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Texas A&M University, 101 Bizzell Street College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
| | - Sanjukta Chakraborty
- Department of Medical Physiology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Bryan, TX, USA
| | - Mariappan Muthuchamy
- Department of Medical Physiology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Bryan, TX, USA
| | - David C Zawieja
- Department of Medical Physiology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Bryan, TX, USA
| | - Abhishek Jain
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Texas A&M University, 101 Bizzell Street College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
- Department of Medical Physiology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Bryan, TX, USA
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Houston Methodist Academic Institute, Houston, TX, USA
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43
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Czepielewski RS, Erlich EC, Onufer EJ, Young S, Saunders BT, Han YH, Wohltmann M, Wang PL, Kim KW, Kumar S, Hsieh CS, Scallan JP, Yang Y, Zinselmeyer BH, Davis MJ, Randolph GJ. Ileitis-associated tertiary lymphoid organs arise at lymphatic valves and impede mesenteric lymph flow in response to tumor necrosis factor. Immunity 2021; 54:2795-2811.e9. [PMID: 34788601 PMCID: PMC8678349 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2021.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Lymphangitis and the formation of tertiary lymphoid organs (TLOs) in the mesentery are features of Crohn's disease. Here, we examined the genesis of these TLOs and their impact on disease progression. Whole-mount and intravital imaging of the ileum and ileum-draining collecting lymphatic vessels (CLVs) draining to mesenteric lymph nodes from TNFΔARE mice, a model of ileitis, revealed TLO formation at valves of CLVs. TLOs obstructed cellular and molecular outflow from the gut and were sites of lymph leakage and backflow. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) neutralization begun at early stages of TLO formation restored lymph transport. However, robustly developed, chronic TLOs resisted regression and restoration of flow after TNF neutralization. TNF stimulation of cultured lymphatic endothelial cells reprogrammed responses to oscillatory shear stress, preventing the induction of valve-associated genes. Disrupted transport of immune cells, driven by loss of valve integrity and TLO formation, may contribute to the pathology of Crohn's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael S Czepielewski
- Department of Pathology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Emma C Erlich
- Department of Pathology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Emily J Onufer
- Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Shannon Young
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Brian T Saunders
- Department of Pathology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Yong-Hyun Han
- Department of Pathology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Mary Wohltmann
- Department of Pathology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Peter L Wang
- Department of Pathology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Ki-Wook Kim
- Department of Pathology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Shashi Kumar
- Department of Pathology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Chyi-Song Hsieh
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Joshua P Scallan
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Ying Yang
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Bernd H Zinselmeyer
- Department of Pathology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Michael J Davis
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Gwendalyn J Randolph
- Department of Pathology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
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44
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Michelini S, Ricci M, Amato B, Gentileschi S, Veselenyiova D, Kenanoglu S, Fiorentino A, Kurti D, Baglivo M, Manara E, Basha SH, Priya S, Krajcovic J, Dundar M, Belgrado JP, Dautaj A, Bertelli M. CDH5, a Possible New Candidate Gene for Genetic Testing of Lymphedema. Lymphat Res Biol 2021; 20:496-506. [PMID: 34882481 DOI: 10.1089/lrb.2020.0089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Expressed by endothelial cells, CDH5 is a cadherin involved in vascular morphogenesis and in the maintenance of vascular integrity and lymphatic function. The main purpose of our study was to identify distinct variants of the CDH5 gene that could be associated with lymphatic malformations and predisposition for lymphedema. Methods and Results: We performed Next Generation Sequencing of the CDH5 gene in 235 Italian patients diagnosed with lymphedema but who tested negative for variants in known lymphedema genes. We detected six different variants in CDH5 five missense and one nonsense. We also tested available family members of the probands. For family members who carried the same variant as the proband, we performed lymphoscintigraphy to detect any lymphatic system abnormalities. Variants were modeled in silico. The results showed that CDH5 variants may contribute to the onset of lymphedema, although further in vitro studies are needed to confirm this hypothesis. Conclusions: Based on our findings, we propose CDH5 as a new gene that could be screened in patients with lymphedema to gather additional evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandro Michelini
- Department of Vascular Rehabilitation, San Giovanni Battista Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Ricci
- Division of Rehabilitation Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Ancona, Italy
| | - Bruno Amato
- Department of General and Geriatric Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Stefano Gentileschi
- Plastic Surgery Department, Centre for Surgical Treatment of Lymphedema, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Dominika Veselenyiova
- MAGI Euregio, Bolzano, Italy.,Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Ss. Cyril and Methodius in Trnava, Trnava, Slovakia
| | - Sercan Kenanoglu
- MAGI Euregio, Bolzano, Italy.,Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | | | - Danjela Kurti
- MAGI Euregio, Bolzano, Italy.,MAGI-Balkan, Tirana, Albania
| | | | | | | | - Sasi Priya
- Innovative Informatica Technologies, Hyderabad, India
| | - Juraj Krajcovic
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Ss. Cyril and Methodius in Trnava, Trnava, Slovakia
| | - Munis Dundar
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Jean Paul Belgrado
- Faculty of Exercise Sciences, Free University of Bruxelles, Bruxelles, Belgium
| | | | - Matteo Bertelli
- MAGI Euregio, Bolzano, Italy.,EBTNA-Lab, Rovereto, Italy.,MAGI's Lab, Rovereto, Italy
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45
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Niimi K, Nakae J, Inagaki S, Furuyama T. FOXO1 represses lymphatic valve formation and maintenance via PRDM1. Cell Rep 2021; 37:110048. [PMID: 34852224 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.110048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Intraluminal lymphatic valves (LVs) contribute to the prevention of lymph backflow and maintain circulatory homeostasis. Several reports have investigated the molecular mechanisms which promote LV formation; however, the way in which they are suppressed is not completely clear. We show that the forkhead transcription factor FOXO1 is a suppressor of LV formation and maintenance in lymphatic endothelial cells. Oscillatory shear stress by bidirectional flow inactivates FOXO1 via Akt phosphorylation, resulting in the upregulation of a subset of LV-specific genes mediated by downregulation of a transcriptional repressor, PRDM1. Mice with an endothelial-specific Foxo1 deletion have an increase in LVs, and overexpression of Foxo1 in mice produces a decrease in LVs. Genetic reduction of PRDM1 rescues the decrease in LV by Foxo1 overexpression. In conclusion, FOXO1 plays a critical role in lymph flow homeostasis by preventing excess LV formation. This gene might be a therapeutic target for lymphatic circulatory abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenta Niimi
- Department of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Kagawa Prefectural University of Health Sciences, Hara 281-1, Mure, Takamatsu, Kagawa 761-0123, Japan
| | - Jun Nakae
- Department of Physiology, International University of Health and Welfare School of Medicine, 4-3 Kozu-no-Mori, Narita 286-8686, Japan
| | - Shinobu Inagaki
- United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Yamadaoka 2-2, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan; Department of Physical Therapy, Osaka Yukioka College of Health Science, Sojiji 1-1-41, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0801, Japan
| | - Tatsuo Furuyama
- Department of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Kagawa Prefectural University of Health Sciences, Hara 281-1, Mure, Takamatsu, Kagawa 761-0123, Japan.
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46
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Shin M, Lawson ND. Back and forth: History of and new insights on the vertebrate lymphatic valve. Dev Growth Differ 2021; 63:523-535. [PMID: 34716915 PMCID: PMC9299638 DOI: 10.1111/dgd.12757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Lymphatic valves develop from pre‐existing endothelial cells through a step‐wise process involving complex changes in cell shape and orientation, along with extracellular matrix interactions, to form two intraluminal leaflets. Once formed, valves prevent back‐flow within the lymphatic system to ensure drainage of interstitial fluid back into the circulatory system, thereby serving a critical role in maintaining fluid homeostasis. Despite the extensive anatomical characterization of lymphatic systems across numerous genus and species dating back several hundred years, valves were largely thought to be phylogenetically restricted to mammals. Accordingly, most insights into molecular and genetic mechanisms involved in lymphatic valve development have derived from mouse knockouts, as well as rare diseases in humans. However, we have recently used a combination of imaging and genetic analysis in the zebrafish to demonstrate that valves are a conserved feature of the teleost lymphatic system. Here, we provide a historical overview of comparative lymphatic valve anatomy together with recent efforts to define molecular pathways that contribute to lymphatic valve morphogenesis. Finally, we integrate our findings in zebrafish with previous work and highlight the benefits that this model provides for investigating lymphatic valve development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Shin
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nathan D Lawson
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
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47
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Molecular mechanisms of cyclic phosphatidic acid-induced lymphangiogenic actions in vitro. Microvasc Res 2021; 139:104273. [PMID: 34699844 DOI: 10.1016/j.mvr.2021.104273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The lymphatic system plays important roles in various physiological and pathological phenomena. As a bioactive phospholipid, lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) has been reported to function as a lymphangiogenic factor as well as some growth factors, yet the involvement of phospholipids including LPA and its derivatives in lymphangiogenesis is not fully understood. In the present study, we have developed an in-vitro lymphangiogenesis model (termed a collagen sandwich model) by utilizing type-I collagen, which exists around the lymphatic endothelial cells of lymphatic capillaries in vivo. The collagen sandwich model has revealed that cyclic phosphatidic acid (cPA), and not LPA, augmented the tube formation of human dermal lymphatic endothelial cells (HDLECs). Both cPA and LPA increased the migration of HDLECs cultured on the collagen. As the gene expression of LPA receptor 6 (LPA6) was predominantly expressed in HDLECs, a siRNA experiment against LPA6 attenuated the cPA-mediated tube formation. A synthetic LPA1/3 inhibitor, Ki16425, suppressed the cPA-augmented tube formation and migration of the HDLECs, and the LPA-induced migration. The activity of Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) located at the downstream of the LPA receptors was augmented in both the cPA- and LPA-treated cells. A potent ROCK inhibitor, Y-27632, suppressed the cPA-dependent tube formation but not the migration of the HDLECs. Furthermore, cPA, but not LPA, augmented the gene expression of VE-cadherin and β-catenin in the HDLECs. These results provide novel evidence that cPA facilitates the capillary-like morphogenesis and the migration of HDLECs through LPA6/ROCK and LPA1/3 signaling pathways in concomitance with the augmentation of VE-cadherin and β-catenin expression. Thus, cPA is likely to be a potent lymphangiogenic factor for the initial lymphatics adjacent to type I collagen under physiological conditions.
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48
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Jannaway M, Scallan JP. VE-Cadherin and Vesicles Differentially Regulate Lymphatic Vascular Permeability to Solutes of Various Sizes. Front Physiol 2021; 12:687563. [PMID: 34621180 PMCID: PMC8491776 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.687563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Lymphatic vascular permeability prevents lymph leakage that is associated with lymphedema, lymphatic malformations, obesity, and inflammation. However, the molecular control of lymphatic permeability remains poorly understood. Recent studies have suggested that adherens junctions and vesicle transport may be involved in regulating lymphatic vessel permeability. To determine the contribution of each transport pathway, we utilized an ex vivo permeability assay to directly measure the solute flux of various molecular weight solutes across a range of pressures in intact murine collecting lymphatic vessels. Pharmacological and biological tools were used to probe the relative contributions of vesicles and junction proteins in the lymphatic vasculature. We show that the permeability of collecting lymphatic vessels is inversely related to the solute molecular weight. Further, our data reveal that vesicles selectively transport BSA, as an inhibitor of vesicle formation significantly decreased the permeability to BSA (∼60% decrease, n = 8, P = 0.02), but not to 3 kDa dextran (n = 7, P = 0.41), α-lactalbumin (n = 5, P = 0.26) or 70 kDa dextran (n = 8, P = 0.13). In contrast, disruption of VE-cadherin binding with a function blocking antibody significantly increased lymphatic vessel permeability to both 3 kDa dextran (5.7-fold increase, n = 5, P < 0.0001) and BSA (5.8-fold increase, n = 5, P < 0.0001). Thus, in the lymphatic vasculature, adherens junctions did not exhibit selectivity for any of the solutes tested here, whereas vesicles specifically transport BSA. Overall, the findings suggest that disease states that disrupt VE-cadherin localization or expression will cause significant leakage of solutes and fluid from the lymphatic vasculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Jannaway
- Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
| | - Joshua P Scallan
- Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
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49
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Li J, Fang Y, Wu D. Mechanical forces and metabolic changes cooperate to drive cellular memory and endothelial phenotypes. CURRENT TOPICS IN MEMBRANES 2021; 87:199-253. [PMID: 34696886 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctm.2021.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Endothelial cells line the innermost layer of arterial, venous, and lymphatic vascular tree and accordingly are subject to hemodynamic, stretch, and stiffness mechanical forces. Normally quiescent, endothelial cells have a hemodynamic set point and become "activated" in response to disturbed hemodynamics, which may signal impending nutrient or gas depletion. Endothelial cells in the majority of tissue beds are normally inactivated and maintain vessel barrier functions, are anti-inflammatory, anti-coagulant, and anti-thrombotic. However, under aberrant mechanical forces, endothelial signaling transforms in response, resulting cellular changes that herald pathological diseases. Endothelial cell metabolism is now recognized as the primary intermediate pathway that undergirds cellular transformation. In this review, we discuss the various mechanical forces endothelial cells sense in the large vessels, microvasculature, and lymphatics, and how changes in environmental mechanical forces result in changes in metabolism, which ultimately influence cell physiology, cellular memory, and ultimately disease initiation and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Li
- Committee on Molecular Metabolism and Nutrition, Biological Sciences Division, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States; Department of Medicine, Biological Sciences Division, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Yun Fang
- Committee on Molecular Metabolism and Nutrition, Biological Sciences Division, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States; Department of Medicine, Biological Sciences Division, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - David Wu
- Committee on Molecular Metabolism and Nutrition, Biological Sciences Division, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States; Department of Medicine, Biological Sciences Division, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States.
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50
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Moller-Hansen A, Huynh S, Boerkoel CF, Chin HL. Mesenteric cysts, lymphatic leak, and cerebral cavernous malformation in a proband with KRIT1-related disease. Am J Med Genet A 2021; 188:332-335. [PMID: 34558799 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.62510] [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: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) of the central nervous system arise sporadically or secondary to genomic variation. Established genetic etiologies include deleterious variants in KRIT1 (CCM1), malcavernin (CCM2), and PDCD10 (CCM3). KRIT1-related disease has not been described in conjunction with lymphatic defects, although lymphatic defects with abnormal endothelial cell junctions have been observed in mice deficient in HEG1-KRIT1 signaling. We report a proband with CCMs, multiple chylous mesenteric cysts, and chylous ascites with leaky lymphatic vasculature. Clinical short-read exome sequencing detected a disease-associated KRIT1 variant (NM_194456.1:c.[1927C>T];[=], p.(Gln643*)). We postulate an expansion of KRIT1-related disease to include lymphatic malformations and lymphatic endothelial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Moller-Hansen
- Department of Medical Genetics and Provincial Medical Genetics Program, University of British Columbia and Women's Hospital of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Stephanie Huynh
- Department of Medical Genetics and Provincial Medical Genetics Program, University of British Columbia and Women's Hospital of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Cornelius F Boerkoel
- Department of Medical Genetics and Provincial Medical Genetics Program, University of British Columbia and Women's Hospital of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Hui-Lin Chin
- Department of Medical Genetics and Provincial Medical Genetics Program, University of British Columbia and Women's Hospital of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Khoo Teck Puat-National University Children's Medical Institute, National University Hospital, Singapore
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