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Kaissar MS, Yoshida K. Computational model captures cardiac growth in hypertensive pregnancies and in the postpartum period. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2024; 326:H1491-H1497. [PMID: 38668702 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00104.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Heart growth in the pregnant patient helps maintain cardiovascular function while supporting the growing fetus. However, in some cases, the cardiovascular demand of pregnancy can trigger life-threatening conditions, including hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and peripartum cardiomyopathy. The mechanisms that control heart growth throughout pregnancy are unclear, and treating these diseases remains elusive. We previously developed a computational model that accounts for hormonal and hemodynamic interactions throughout pregnancy and demonstrated its ability to capture realistic cardiac growth in normal rat pregnancy. In this study, we evaluated whether this model could capture heart growth beyond normal pregnancy. After further validation of our normal pregnancy predictions, we tested our model predictions of three rat studies of hypertensive pregnancies. We next simulated the postpartum period and examined the impact of lactation on cardiac growth in rats. We demonstrate that our multiscale model can capture cardiac growth associated with new-onset hypertension during pregnancy and lactation status in the postpartum period. We conclude by elaborating on the potential clinical utility of our model in the future.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Our multiscale model predicts appropriate heart growth beyond normal pregnancy, including elevated heart weights in rats with induced hypertension during pregnancy and in lactating mice and decreased heart weight in nonlactating mice. Our model captures distinct mechanisms that result in similar organ-level growth, highlighting its potential to distinguish healthy from diseased pregnancy-induced growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly S Kaissar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States
| | - Kyoko Yoshida
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States
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2
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Tsingotjidou AS. Oxytocin: A Multi-Functional Biomolecule with Potential Actions in Dysfunctional Conditions; From Animal Studies and Beyond. Biomolecules 2022; 12:1603. [PMID: 36358953 PMCID: PMC9687803 DOI: 10.3390/biom12111603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin is a hormone secreted from definite neuroendocrine neurons located in specific nuclei in the hypothalamus (mainly from paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei), and its main known function is the contraction of uterine and/or mammary gland cells responsible for parturition and breastfeeding. Among the actions of the peripherally secreted oxytocin is the prevention of different degenerative disorders. These actions have been proven in cell culture and in animal models or have been tested in humans based on hypotheses from previous studies. This review presents the knowledge gained from the previous studies, displays the results from oxytocin intervention and/or treatment and proposes that the well described actions of oxytocin might be connected to other numerous, diverse actions of the biomolecule.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia S Tsingotjidou
- Laboratory of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54 124 Thessaloniki, Greece
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Yang Y, Wang Z, Yao M, Xiong W, Wang J, Fang Y, Yang W, Jiang H, Song N, Liu L, Qian J. Oxytocin Protects Against Isoproterenol-Induced Cardiac Hypertrophy by Inhibiting PI3K/AKT Pathway via a lncRNA GAS5/miR-375-3p/KLF4-Dependent Mechanism. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:766024. [PMID: 34925023 PMCID: PMC8678504 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.766024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiac hypertrophy is caused by cardiac volume or pressure overload conditions and ultimately leads to contractile dysfunction and heart failure. Oxytocin (OT), an endocrine nonapeptide, has been identified as a cardiovascular homeostatic hormone with anti-hypertrophic effects. However, the underlying mechanism remains elusive. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role and mechanism of OT in cardiac hypertrophy. The rats with cardiac hypertrophy induced by isoproterenol (ISO) were treated with or without oxytocin. Cardiac functional parameters were analyzed by echocardiography. The changes in cell surface area were observed using wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) or immunofluorescence staining. The expressions of cardiac hypertrophy markers (B-Natriuretic Peptide, BNP and β-myosin heavy chain, β-MHC), long non-coding RNA Growth (LcRNA) Arrest-Specific transcript 5 (lncRNA GAS5), miR-375-3p, and Kruppel-like factor 4 (Klf4) were detected by qRT-PCR. KLF4 protein and PI3K/AKT pathway related proteins were detected by Western blot. The interactions among lncRNA GAS5, miR-375-3p, and Klf4 were verified by dual-luciferase reporter assays. The findings showed that OT significantly attenuated cardiac hypertrophy, increased expressions of lncRNA GAS5 and KLF4, and decreased miR-375-3p expression. In vitro studies demonstrated that either knock-down of lncRNA GAS5 or Klf4, or over-expression of miR-375-3p blunted the anti-hypertrophic effects of OT. Moreover, down-regulation of lncRNA GAS5 promoted the expression of miR-375-3p and inhibited KLF4 expression. Similarly, over-expression of miR-375-3p decreased the expression of KLF4. Dual-luciferase reporter assays validated that lncRNA GAS5 could sponge miR-375-3p and Klf4 was a direct target gene of miR-375-3p. In addition, OT could inactivate PI3K/AKT pathway. The functional rescue experiments further identified OT regulated PI3K/AKT pathway through lncRNA GAS5/miR-375-3p/KLF4 axis. In summary, our study demonstrates that OT ameliorates cardiac hypertrophy by inhibiting PI3K/AKT pathway via lncRNA GAS5/miR-375-3p/KLF4 axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqiao Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Zhuoran Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Mengran Yao
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Wei Xiong
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Yu Fang
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Wei Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Haixia Jiang
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Ning Song
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Lan Liu
- Department of Pathology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Jinqiao Qian
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- *Correspondence: Jinqiao Qian,
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Costa DM, Cruz-Filho JD, Vasconcelos ABS, Gomes-Santos JV, Reis LC, de Lucca W, Camargo EA, Lauton-Santos S, Zanon NM, Kettelhut ÍDC, Navegantes LC, Mecawi ADS, Badauê-Passos D, Lustrino D. Oxytocin induces anti-catabolic and anabolic effects on protein metabolism in the female rat oxidative skeletal muscle. Life Sci 2021; 279:119665. [PMID: 34087281 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Although it is well established that skeletal muscle contains oxytocin (OT) receptors and OT-knockout mice show premature development of sarcopenia, the role of OT in controlling skeletal muscle mass is still unknown. Therefore, the present work aimed to determine OT's effects on skeletal muscle protein metabolism. MAIN METHODS Total proteolysis, proteolytic system activities and protein synthesis were assessed in isolated soleus muscle from prepubertal female rats. Through in vivo experiments, rats received 3-day OT treatment (3UI.kg-1.day-1, i.p.) or saline, and muscles were harvested for mass-gain assessment. KEY FINDINGS In vitro OT receptor stimulation reduced total proteolysis, specifically through attenuation of the lysosomal and proteasomal proteolytic systems, and in parallel activated the Akt/FoxO1 signaling and suppressed atrogenes (e.g., MuRF-1 and atrogin-1) expression induced by motor denervation. On the other hand, the protein synthesis was not altered by in vitro treatment with the OT receptor-selective agonist. Although short-term OT treatment did not change the atrogene mRNA levels, the protein synthesis was stimulated, resulting in soleus mass gain, probably through an indirect effect. SIGNIFICANCE Taken together, these data show for the first time that OT directly inhibits the proteolytic activities of the lysosomal and proteasomal systems in rat oxidative skeletal muscle by suppressing atrogene expression via stimulation of Akt/FoxO signaling. Moreover, the data obtained from in vivo experiments suggest OT's ability to control rat oxidative skeletal muscle mass.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniely Messias Costa
- Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil; Department of Physiology, Center for Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil
| | - João da Cruz-Filho
- Department of Physiology, Center for Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil
| | - Alan Bruno Silva Vasconcelos
- Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil; Department of Physiology, Center for Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil
| | - João Victor Gomes-Santos
- Department of Physiology, Center for Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil
| | - Luis Carlos Reis
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Center for Biological and Health Sciences, Rural Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil
| | - Waldecy de Lucca
- Department of Morphology, Center for Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil
| | - Enilton Aparecido Camargo
- Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil; Department of Physiology, Center for Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil
| | - Sandra Lauton-Santos
- Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil; Department of Physiology, Center for Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil
| | - Neusa Maria Zanon
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry & Immunology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, São Paulo University, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Ísis do Carmo Kettelhut
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry & Immunology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, São Paulo University, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Luiz Carlos Navegantes
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry & Immunology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, São Paulo University, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - André de Souza Mecawi
- Department of Biophysics, São Paulo Medical School, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Daniel Badauê-Passos
- Department of Physiology, Center for Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil
| | - Danilo Lustrino
- Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil; Department of Physiology, Center for Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil.
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Trautwein B, Merz T, Denoix N, Szabo C, Calzia E, Radermacher P, McCook O. ΔMST and the Regulation of Cardiac CSE and OTR Expression in Trauma and Hemorrhage. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:233. [PMID: 33546491 PMCID: PMC7913715 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10020233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic deletion of 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (MST) is known to result in hypertension and cardiac hypertrophy in older mice, and is associated with increased anxiety-like behaviors. Endogenous hydrogen sulfide (H2S) produced by MST in the mitochondria is also known to be involved in physiological and cellular bioenergetics, and its dysfunction associated with depressive behavior and increased cardiovascular morbidity. Interestingly, early life stress has been shown to lead to a significant loss of cystathionine-γ-lyase (CSE) and oxytocin receptor (OTR) expression in the heart. Thus, we were interested in testing the hypothesis of whether genetic MST mutation (ΔMST) would affect cardiac CSE and OTR expression and affect the mitochondrial respiration in a clinically relevant, resuscitated, mouse model of trauma and hemorrhagic shock. In ΔMST mice, we found a reduction of CSE and OTR in both the naive as well as injured state, in contrast to the wild type (wt) controls. Interestingly, the ΔMST showed a different complex IV response to injury than the wt controls, although our claims are based on the non-demonstrated assumption that naive wt and naive ΔMST mice have comparable complex IV activity. Finally, hemorrhagic shock led to a reduction of CSE and OTR, confirming previous results in the injured mouse heart. To date, the exact mechanisms of the cardiac interaction between H2S and OT are not clear, but they point the way to potential cardioprotective therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Britta Trautwein
- Institute for Anesthesiological Pathophysiology and Process Engineering, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Um, Germany; (B.T.); (T.M.); (N.D.); (E.C.); (P.R.)
| | - Tamara Merz
- Institute for Anesthesiological Pathophysiology and Process Engineering, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Um, Germany; (B.T.); (T.M.); (N.D.); (E.C.); (P.R.)
| | - Nicole Denoix
- Institute for Anesthesiological Pathophysiology and Process Engineering, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Um, Germany; (B.T.); (T.M.); (N.D.); (E.C.); (P.R.)
- Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Ulm University Medical Center, 89070 Ulm, Germany
| | - Csaba Szabo
- Department of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, 1700 Fribourg, Switzerland;
| | - Enrico Calzia
- Institute for Anesthesiological Pathophysiology and Process Engineering, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Um, Germany; (B.T.); (T.M.); (N.D.); (E.C.); (P.R.)
| | - Peter Radermacher
- Institute for Anesthesiological Pathophysiology and Process Engineering, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Um, Germany; (B.T.); (T.M.); (N.D.); (E.C.); (P.R.)
| | - Oscar McCook
- Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Ulm University Medical Center, 89070 Ulm, Germany
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Jankowski M, Broderick TL, Gutkowska J. The Role of Oxytocin in Cardiovascular Protection. Front Psychol 2020; 11:2139. [PMID: 32982875 PMCID: PMC7477297 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.02139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The beneficial effects of oxytocin on infarct size and functional recovery of the ischemic reperfused heart are well documented. The mechanisms for this cardioprotection are not well defined. Evidence indicates that oxytocin treatment improves cardiac work, reduces apoptosis and inflammation, and increases scar vascularization. Oxytocin-mediated cytoprotection involves the production of cGMP stimulated by local release of atrial natriuretic peptide and synthesis of nitric oxide. Treatment with oxytocin reduces the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and reduces immune cell infiltration. Oxytocin also stimulates differentiation stem cells to cardiomyocyte lineages as well as generation of endothelial and smooth muscle cells, promoting angiogenesis. The beneficial actions of oxytocin may include the increase in glucose uptake by cardiomyocytes, reduction in cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, decrease in oxidative stress, and mitochondrial protection of several cell types. In cardiac and cellular models of ischemia and reperfusion, acute administration of oxytocin at the onset of reperfusion enhances cardiomyocyte viability and function by activating Pi3K and Akt phosphorylation and downstream cellular signaling. Reperfusion injury salvage kinase and signal transducer and activator of transcription proteins cardioprotective pathways are involved. Oxytocin is cardioprotective by reducing the inflammatory response and improving cardiovascular and metabolic function. Because of its pleiotropic nature, this peptide demonstrates a clear potential for the treatment of cardiovascular pathologies. In this review, we discuss the possible cellular mechanisms of action of oxytocin involved in cardioprotection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marek Jankowski
- Cardiovascular Biochemistry Laboratory, University of Montreal Hospital Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Tom L Broderick
- Laboratory of Diabetes and Exercise Metabolism, Department of Physiology, College of Graduate Studies, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ, United States
| | - Jolanta Gutkowska
- Cardiovascular Biochemistry Laboratory, University of Montreal Hospital Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Abstract
Experimental models of cardiac disease play a key role in understanding the pathophysiology of the disease and developing new therapies. The features of the experimental models should reflect the clinical phenotype, which can have a wide spectrum of underlying mechanisms. We review characteristics of commonly used experimental models of cardiac physiology and pathophysiology in all translational steps including in vitro, small animal, and large animal models. Understanding their characteristics and relevance to clinical disease is the key for successful translation to effective therapies.
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8
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Szczepanska-Sadowska E, Cudnoch-Jedrzejewska A, Wsol A. The role of oxytocin and vasopressin in the pathophysiology of heart failure in pregnancy and in fetal and neonatal life. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2020; 318:H639-H651. [PMID: 32056469 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00484.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Pregnancy and early life create specific psychosomatic challenges for the mother and child, such as changes in hemodynamics, resetting of the water-electrolyte balance, hypoxia, pain, and stress, that all play an important role in the regulation of the release of oxytocin and vasopressin. Both of these hormones regulate the water-electrolyte balance and cardiovascular functions, maturation of the cardiovascular system, and cardiovascular responses to stress. These aspects may be of particular importance in a state of emergency, such as hypertension in the mother or severe heart failure in the child. In this review, we draw attention to a broad spectrum of actions exerted by oxytocin and vasopressin in the pregnant mother and the offspring during early life. To this end, we discuss the following topics: 1) regulation of the secretion of oxytocin and vasopressin and expression of their receptors in the pregnant mother and child, 2) direct and indirect effects of oxytocin and vasopressin on the cardiovascular system in the healthy mother and fetus, and 3) positive and negative consequences of altered secretion of oxytocin and vasopressin in the mother with cardiovascular pathology and in the progeny with heart failure. The present survey provides evidence that moderate stimulation of the oxytocin and vasopressin receptors plays a beneficial role in the healthy pregnant mother and fetus; however, under pathophysiological conditions the inappropriate action of these hormones exerts several negative effects on the cardiovascular system of the mother and progeny and may potentially contribute to the pathophysiology of heart failure in early life.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Szczepanska-Sadowska
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Laboratory of Center for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - A Cudnoch-Jedrzejewska
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Laboratory of Center for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - A Wsol
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Laboratory of Center for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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9
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Maternal Separation Induces Long-Term Alterations in the Cardiac Oxytocin Receptor and Cystathionine γ-Lyase Expression in Mice. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2020; 2020:4309605. [PMID: 32082478 PMCID: PMC7007946 DOI: 10.1155/2020/4309605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
We recently showed that blunt chest trauma reduced the expression of the myocardial oxytocin receptor (Oxtr), which was further aggravated by genetic deletion of the H2S-producing enzyme cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE). Exogenous H2S supplementation restored myocardial Oxtr expression under these conditions. Early life stress (ELS) is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease by affecting vascular and heart structures. Therefore, we tested the hypotheses that (i) ELS affects cardiac Oxtr and CSE expressions and (ii) Oxtr and CSE expression patterns depend on the duration of stress exposure. Thus, two stress paradigms were compared: long- and short-term separation stress (LTSS and STSS, respectively). Cardiac Oxtr expression was differentially affected by the two stress paradigms with a significant reduction after LTSS and a significant increase after STSS. CSE expression, which was significantly reduced in Oxtr−/− knockout hearts, was downregulated and directly related to Oxtr expression in LTSS hearts (r = 0.657, p = 0.012). In contrast, CSE expression was not related to Oxtr upregulation in STSS. Plasma Oxt levels were not affected by either ELS paradigm. The coincidence of LTSS-induced reduction of cardiac Oxtr and reduced CSE expression may suggest a novel pathophysiological link between early life adversities and increased risk for the development of cardiovascular disorders in adulthood.
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Dissociation of natriuresis and diuresis by oxytocin molecular forms in rats. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0219205. [PMID: 31269062 PMCID: PMC6608960 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0219205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In the rat, oxytocin (OT) produces dose-dependent diuretic and natriuretic responses. Post-translational enzymatic conversion of the OT biosynthetic precursor forms both mature and C-terminally extended peptides. The plasma concentrations of these C-terminally extended peptides (OT-G; OT-GK and OT-GKR) are elevated in newborns and pregnant rats. Intravenous injection of OT-GKR to rats inhibits diuresis, whereas injection of amidated OT stimulates diuresis. Since OT and OT-GKR show different effects on the urine flow, we investigated whether OT-GKR modulates renal action by inhibition of the arginine-vasopressin (AVP) receptor V2 (V2R), the receptor involved in renal water reabsorption. Experiments were carried out in the 8-week-old Wistar rats receiving intravenous (iv) injections of vehicle, OT, OT-GKR or OT+OT-GKR combination. OT (10 μmol/kg) increased urine outflow by 40% (P<0.01) and sodium excretion by 47% (P<0.01). Treatment with OT-GKR (10 μmol/kg) decreased diuresis by 50% (P<0.001), decreased sodium excretion by 50% (P<0.05) and lowered potassium by 42% (P<0.05). OT antagonist (OTA) reduced diuresis and natriuresis exerted by OT, whereas the anti-diuretic effect of OT-GKR was unaffected by OTA. The treatment with V2R antagonist (V2A) in the presence and absence of OT induced diuresis, sodium and potassium outflow. V2A in the presence of OT-GKR only partially increased diuresis and natriuresis. Autoradiography and molecular docking analysis showed potent binding of OT-GKR to V2R. Finally, the release of cAMP from CHO cells overexpressing V2 receptor was induced by low concentration of AVP (EC50:4.2e-011), at higher concentrations of OT (EC50:3.2e-010) and by the highest concentrations of OT-GKR (EC50:1.1e-006). OT-GKR potentiated cAMP release when combined with AVP, but blocked cAMP release when combined with OT. These results suggest that OT-GKR by competing for the OT renal receptor (OTR) and binding to V2R in the kidney, induces anti-diuretic, anti-natriuretic, and anti-kaliuretic effects.
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11
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Snider B, Geiser A, Yu XP, Beebe EC, Willency JA, Qing K, Guo L, Lu J, Wang X, Yang Q, Efanov A, Adams AC, Coskun T, Emmerson PJ, Alsina-Fernandez J, Ai M. Long-Acting and Selective Oxytocin Peptide Analogs Show Antidiabetic and Antiobesity Effects in Male Mice. J Endocr Soc 2019; 3:1423-1444. [PMID: 31286109 PMCID: PMC6608564 DOI: 10.1210/js.2019-00004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin (OXT) has been shown to suppress appetite, induce weight loss, and improve glycemic control and lipid metabolism in several species, including humans, monkeys, and rodents. However, OXT's short half-life in circulation and lack of receptor selectivity limit its application and efficacy. In this study, we report an OXT peptide analog (OXTGly) that is potent and selective for the OXT receptor (OXTR). OXT, but not OXTGly, activated vasopressin receptors in vitro and acutely increased blood pressure in vivo when administered IP. OXT suppressed food intake in mice, whereas OXTGly had a moderate effect on food intake when administered IP or intracerebroventricularly. Both OXT (IP) and OXTGly (IP) improved glycemic control in glucose tolerance tests. Additionally, both OXT (IP) and OXTGly (IP) stimulated insulin, glucagon-like peptide 1, and glucagon secretion in mice. We generated lipid-conjugated OXT (acylated-OXT) and OXTGly (acylated-OXTGly) and demonstrated that these molecules have significantly extended half-lives in vivo. Compared with OXT, 2-week treatment of diet-induced obese mice with acylated-OXT [subcutaneous(ly) (SC)] resulted in enhanced body weight reduction, an improved lipid profile, and gene expression changes consistent with increased lipolysis and decreased gluconeogenesis. Treatment with acylated-OXTGly (SC) also resulted in a statistically significant weight loss, albeit to a lesser degree compared with acylated-OXT treatment. In conclusion, we demonstrate that selective activation of the OXTR pathway results in both acute and chronic metabolic benefits, whereas potential activation of vasopressin receptors by nonselective OXT analogs causes physiological stress that contributes to additional weight loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandy Snider
- Diabetes and Complications, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Andrea Geiser
- Biotechnology Peptide Group, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Xiao-peng Yu
- Diabetes and Complications, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Emily Cathleen Beebe
- Diabetes and Complications, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Jill Amanda Willency
- Diabetes and Complications, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Keyun Qing
- Diabetes and Complications, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Lili Guo
- Biotechnology Peptide Group, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Jianliang Lu
- Medicinal Chemistry, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Xiaojun Wang
- Diabetes and Complications, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Qian Yang
- Diabetes and Complications, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Alexander Efanov
- Diabetes and Complications, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Andrew Charles Adams
- Diabetes and Complications, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Tamer Coskun
- Diabetes and Complications, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Paul Joseph Emmerson
- Diabetes and Complications, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Jorge Alsina-Fernandez
- Biotechnology Peptide Group, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Minrong Ai
- Diabetes and Complications, Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
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Wang P, Wang SC, Yang H, Lv C, Jia S, Liu X, Wang X, Meng D, Qin D, Zhu H, Wang YF. Therapeutic Potential of Oxytocin in Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease: Mechanisms and Signaling Pathways. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:454. [PMID: 31178679 PMCID: PMC6537480 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a major cardiovascular disease responsible for high morbidity and mortality worldwide. The major pathophysiological basis of CAD is atherosclerosis in association with varieties of immunometabolic disorders that can suppress oxytocin (OT) receptor (OTR) signaling in the cardiovascular system (CVS). By contrast, OT not only maintains cardiovascular integrity but also has the potential to suppress and even reverse atherosclerotic alterations and CAD. These protective effects of OT are associated with its protection of the heart and blood vessels from immunometabolic injuries and the resultant inflammation and apoptosis through both peripheral and central approaches. As a result, OT can decelerate the progression of atherosclerosis and facilitate the recovery of CVS from these injuries. At the cellular level, the protective effect of OT on CVS involves a broad array of OTR signaling events. These signals mainly belong to the reperfusion injury salvage kinase pathway that is composed of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-Akt-endothelial nitric oxide synthase cascades and extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase 1/2. Additionally, AMP-activated protein kinase, Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase signaling and many others are also implicated in OTR signaling in the CVS protection. These signaling events interact coordinately at many levels to suppress the production of inflammatory cytokines and the activation of apoptotic pathways. A particular target of these signaling events is endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and mitochondrial oxidative stress that interact through mitochondria-associated ER membrane. In contrast to these protective effects and machineries, rare but serious cardiovascular disturbances were also reported in labor induction and animal studies including hypotension, reflexive tachycardia, coronary spasm or thrombosis and allergy. Here, we review our current understanding of the protective effect of OT against varieties of atherosclerotic etiologies as well as the approaches and underlying mechanisms of these effects. Moreover, potential cardiovascular disturbances following OT application are also discussed to avoid unwanted effects in clinical trials of OT usages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Wang
- Department of Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Stephani C Wang
- Department of Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY, United States
| | - Haipeng Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, The Forth Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Chunmei Lv
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Shuwei Jia
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Xiaoyu Liu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Xiaoran Wang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Dexin Meng
- Department of Physiology, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, China
| | - Danian Qin
- Department of Physiology, Shantou University of Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Hui Zhu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yu-Feng Wang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
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Loonat AA, Curtis MK, Richards MA, Nunez-Alonso G, Michl J, Swietach P. A high-throughput ratiometric method for imaging hypertrophic growth in cultured primary cardiac myocytes. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2019; 130:184-196. [PMID: 30986378 PMCID: PMC6520438 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2019.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2018] [Revised: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Maladaptive hypertrophy of cardiac myocytes increases the risk of heart failure. The underlying signaling can be triggered and interrogated in cultured neonatal ventricular myocytes (NRVMs) using sophisticated pharmacological and genetic techniques. However, the methods for quantifying cell growth are, by comparison, inadequate. The lack of quantitative, calibratable and computationally-inexpensive high-throughput technology has limited the scope for using cultured myocytes in large-scale analyses. We present a ratiometric method for quantifying the hypertrophic growth of cultured myocytes, compatible with high-throughput imaging platforms. Protein biomass was assayed from sulforhodamine B (SRB) fluorescence, and image analysis calculated the quotient of signal from extra-nuclear and nuclear regions. The former readout relates to hypertrophic growth, whereas the latter is a reference for correcting protein-independent (e.g. equipment-related) variables. This ratiometric measure, when normalized to the number of cells, provides a robust quantification of cellular hypertrophy. The method was tested by comparing the efficacy of various chemical agonists to evoke hypertrophy, and verified using independent assays (myocyte area, transcripts of markers). The method's high resolving power and wide dynamic range were confirmed by the ability to generate concentration-response curves, track the time-course of hypertrophic responses with fine temporal resolution, describe drug/agonist interactions, and screen for novel anti-hypertrophic agents. The method can be implemented as an end-point in protocols investigating hypertrophy, and is compatible with automated plate-reader platforms for generating high-throughput data, thereby reducing investigator-bias. Finally, the computationally-minimal workflow required for obtaining measurements makes the method simple to implement in most laboratories. Maladaptive hypertrophy of myocytes can lead to heart failure. Common methods for tracking growth in cultured myocytes are inadequate. We design and test a method for tracking myocyte hypertrophy in vitro. The method provides a ratiometric index of growth for high throughput analyses. Using the method, we characterize further details of (anti)hypertrophic responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aminah A Loonat
- University of Oxford, Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Genetics, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PT, United Kingdom
| | - M Kate Curtis
- University of Oxford, Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Genetics, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PT, United Kingdom
| | - Mark A Richards
- University of Oxford, Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Genetics, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PT, United Kingdom
| | - Graciela Nunez-Alonso
- University of Oxford, Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Genetics, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PT, United Kingdom
| | - Johanna Michl
- University of Oxford, Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Genetics, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PT, United Kingdom
| | - Pawel Swietach
- University of Oxford, Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Genetics, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PT, United Kingdom.
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Jovanovic P, Spasojevic N, Puskas N, Stefanovic B, Dronjak S. Oxytocin modulates the expression of norepinephrine transporter, β 3-adrenoceptors and muscarinic M 2 receptors in the hearts of socially isolated rats. Peptides 2019; 111:132-141. [PMID: 29969648 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2018.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Revised: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Social stress produces behavioral alterations, and autonomic and cardiac dysfunction in animals. In addition to the well-known roles of oxytocin on birth and maternal bonding, recent evidence shows that this neuropeptide possesses cardio-protective properties. However less is known about its role in the regulation of the autonomic nervous system. The direct influence of oxytocin on the cardiac catecholamine synthesizing enzyme, transport beta-adrenoceptors and muscarinic receptors in animals exposed to chronic social isolation stress has not yet been studied. In this study, we examined the influence of peripheral chronic oxytocin treatment on anxiety-related behavior, the morphology and content of epinephrine and norepinephrine, mRNA and protein levels of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), norepinephrine transporter (NET) and receptors <beta> 3 (β3-AR) and muscarinic 2 (M2 MR) in the right and left cardiac atrium and ventricle of chronically socially isolated male rats. Our results show that oxytocin treatment exhibits an anxiolytic effect, decreases the heart/body weight ratio and prevents the hypertrophy of cardiomyocytes in the wall of the left ventricle of stressed rats. Epinephrine and TH protein levels were unchanged after prolonged oxytocin treatment. Peripheral oxytocin administration led to the enhancement of gene expression of β3-AR in both atria, NET protein in the left ventricle and gene expression of M2 MR in the right atrium and the left ventricle of chronically socially isolated rats. The study provides evidence that oxytocin treatment in chronically socially isolated animals enhances norepinephrine uptake and expression of cardio-inhibitory receptors in cardiac tissues, which could have a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system under the increased activity of the sympathoneural system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Predrag Jovanovic
- Department of Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, Institute of Nuclear Sciences "Vinca", University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Natasa Spasojevic
- Department of Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, Institute of Nuclear Sciences "Vinca", University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Nela Puskas
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Histology and Embryology "Aleksandar Đ. Kostić", University of Belgrade, Višegradska, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Bojana Stefanovic
- Department of Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, Institute of Nuclear Sciences "Vinca", University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Sladjana Dronjak
- Department of Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, Institute of Nuclear Sciences "Vinca", University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia.
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Jurek B, Neumann ID. The Oxytocin Receptor: From Intracellular Signaling to Behavior. Physiol Rev 2018; 98:1805-1908. [DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00031.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 408] [Impact Index Per Article: 68.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The many facets of the oxytocin (OXT) system of the brain and periphery elicited nearly 25,000 publications since 1930 (see FIGURE 1 , as listed in PubMed), which revealed central roles for OXT and its receptor (OXTR) in reproduction, and social and emotional behaviors in animal and human studies focusing on mental and physical health and disease. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms of OXT expression and release, expression and binding of the OXTR in brain and periphery, OXTR-coupled signaling cascades, and their involvement in behavioral outcomes to assemble a comprehensive picture of the central and peripheral OXT system. Traditionally known for its role in milk let-down and uterine contraction during labor, OXT also has implications in physiological, and also behavioral, aspects of reproduction, such as sexual and maternal behaviors and pair bonding, but also anxiety, trust, sociability, food intake, or even drug abuse. The many facets of OXT are, on a molecular basis, brought about by a single receptor. The OXTR, a 7-transmembrane G protein-coupled receptor capable of binding to either Gαior Gαqproteins, activates a set of signaling cascades, such as the MAPK, PKC, PLC, or CaMK pathways, which converge on transcription factors like CREB or MEF-2. The cellular response to OXT includes regulation of neurite outgrowth, cellular viability, and increased survival. OXTergic projections in the brain represent anxiety and stress-regulating circuits connecting the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus, amygdala, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, or the medial prefrontal cortex. Which OXT-induced patterns finally alter the behavior of an animal or a human being is still poorly understood, and studying those OXTR-coupled signaling cascades is one initial step toward a better understanding of the molecular background of those behavioral effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Jurek
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Institute of Zoology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Inga D. Neumann
- Department of Behavioural and Molecular Neurobiology, Institute of Zoology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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Jung C, Wernly B, Bjursell M, Wiseman J, Admyre T, Wikström J, Palmér M, Seeliger F, Lichtenauer M, Franz M, Frick C, Andersson AK, Elg M, Pernow J, Sjöquist PO, Bohlooly-Y M, Wang QD. Cardiac-Specific Overexpression of Oxytocin Receptor Leads to Cardiomyopathy in Mice. J Card Fail 2018; 24:470-478. [PMID: 29802896 DOI: 10.1016/j.cardfail.2018.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2017] [Revised: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oxytocin (Oxt) and its receptor (Oxtr) gene system has been implicated in cardiomyogenesis and cardioprotection; however, effects of chronic activation of Oxtr are not known. We generated and investigated transgenic (TG) mice that overexpress Oxtr specifically in the heart. METHODS AND RESULTS Cardiac-specific overexpression of Oxtr was obtained by having the α-major histocompatibility complex promoter drive the mouse Oxtr gene (α-Mhc-Oxtr). Left ventricular (LV) function and remodeling were assessed by magnetic resonance imaging and echocardiography. In α-Mhc-Oxtr TG mice, LV ejection fraction was severely compromised at 14 weeks of age compared with wild-type (WT) littermates (25 ± 6% vs 63 ± 3%; P < .001). LV end-diastolic volume was larger in the TG mice (103 ± 6 µL vs 67 ± 5 µL; P < .001). α-Mhc-Oxtr TG animals displayed cardiac fibrosis, atrial thrombus, and increased expression of pro-fibrogenic genes. Mortality of α-Mhc-Oxtr TG animals was 45% compared with 0% (P < .0001) of WT littermates by 20 weeks of age. Most cardiomyocytes of α-Mhc-Oxtr TG animals but not WT littermates (68.0 ± 12.1% vs 5.6 ± 2.4%; P = .008) were positive in staining for nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT). To study if thrombin inhibitor prevents thrombus formation, a cohort of 7-week-old α-Mhc-Oxtr TG mice were treated for 12 weeks with AZD0837, a potent thrombin inhibitor. Treatment with AZD0837 reduced thrombus formation (P < .05) and tended to attenuate fibrosis and increase survival. CONCLUSIONS Cardiac-specific overexpression of Oxtr had negative consequences on LV function and survival in mice. The present findings necessitate further studies to investigate potential adverse effects of chronic Oxt administration. We provide a possible mechanism of Oxtr overexpression leading to heart failure by nuclear factor of activated T cell signaling. The recapitulation of human heart failure and the beneficial effects of the antithrombin inhibitor render the α-Mhc-Oxtr TG mice a promising tool in drug discovery for heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Jung
- Division of Cardiology, Pulmonology, and Vascular Medicine, Medical Faculty, University Duesseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany.
| | - Bernhard Wernly
- Clinic of Internal Medicine II, Department of Cardiology, Paracelsus Medical University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Mikael Bjursell
- Discovery Sciences, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - John Wiseman
- Discovery Sciences, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Therese Admyre
- Discovery Sciences, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Johannes Wikström
- Bioscience Heart Failure, Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Malin Palmér
- Bioscience Heart Failure, Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Frank Seeliger
- Drug safety and Metabolism, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Michael Lichtenauer
- Clinic of Internal Medicine II, Department of Cardiology, Paracelsus Medical University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | | | - Charlotte Frick
- Bioscience Heart Failure, Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ann-Katrin Andersson
- Bioscience Heart Failure, Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Margareta Elg
- Bioscience Heart Failure, Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - John Pernow
- Department of Cardiology, Karolinska Institute, Solna, Sweden
| | - Per-Ove Sjöquist
- Bioscience Heart Failure, Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | - Qing-Dong Wang
- Bioscience Heart Failure, Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden.
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17
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Peter AK, Bjerke MA, Leinwand LA. Biology of the cardiac myocyte in heart disease. Mol Biol Cell 2017; 27:2149-60. [PMID: 27418636 PMCID: PMC4945135 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e16-01-0038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2016] [Accepted: 05/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiac hypertrophy is a major risk factor for heart failure, and it has been shown that this increase in size occurs at the level of the cardiac myocyte. Cardiac myocyte model systems have been developed to study this process. Here we focus on cell culture tools, including primary cells, immortalized cell lines, human stem cells, and their morphological and molecular responses to pathological stimuli. For each cell type, we discuss commonly used methods for inducing hypertrophy, markers of pathological hypertrophy, advantages for each model, and disadvantages to using a particular cell type over other in vitro model systems. Where applicable, we discuss how each system is used to model human disease and how these models may be applicable to current drug therapeutic strategies. Finally, we discuss the increasing use of biomaterials to mimic healthy and diseased hearts and how these matrices can contribute to in vitro model systems of cardiac cell biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela K Peter
- Biofrontiers Institute, Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309
| | - Maureen A Bjerke
- Biofrontiers Institute, Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309
| | - Leslie A Leinwand
- Biofrontiers Institute, Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309
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Yunzhi C, Jiaxu C, Jie G, Yihui C, Wen L, Zhong Q. EFFECT OF ASTRAGALOSIDE ON VITAMIN D-RECEPTOR EXPRESSION AFTER ENDOTHELIN-1-INDUCED CARDIOMYOCYTE INJURY. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF TRADITIONAL, COMPLEMENTARY, AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINES 2017. [PMID: 28638891 PMCID: PMC5471476 DOI: 10.21010/ajtcam.v14i4.31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Astragaloside, which is one of the main components of Astragalus membranaceus, has been widely used in the treatment of congestive heart failure in China, and it can protect cardiomyocytes. Its mechanism of action remains unclear. Therefore, the present study was carried out to investigate the influence of astragaloside on rat cardiomyocytes stimulated with endothelin-1 (ET-1), and explored the underlying mechanism. MATERIALS AND METHODS ET-1 was used to stimulate primary rat cardiomyocytes and establish a cardiomyocyte hypertrophy model. Different astragaloside doses were administered in combination with ET-1. Cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and apoptosis were examined using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and flow cytometry, respectively. The molecular mechanism was explored by analyzing the mRNA of the vitamin D receptor (VDR), cytochrome P450 family 27 subfamily B member 1(CYP27B), cytochrome P450 family 24 subfamily A member 1(CYP24A) and renin mRNA levels by quantificational real-time polymerase chain reaction(qRT-PCR). RESULTS Rat cardiomyocyte hypertrophy model was established successfully. Astragaloside administration significantly affected cell apoptosis and significantly inhibited ET-1-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy in a dose-dependent manner. Astragaloside treatment affected the expression of signaling molecules in the vitamin D axis. CONCLUSION Astragaloside inhibits ET-1-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. This effect can be reversed by regulating the levels of the relevant factors in the vitamin D axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Yunzhi
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, No. 11, Beisanhuan Donglu, Chaoyang, Beijing, China 100029.,School of Preclinical Medicine, Guiyang University of Chinese Medicine, No.50, Shidonglu, Guiyang, Guizhou, China 55000
| | - Chen Jiaxu
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, No. 11, Beisanhuan Donglu, Chaoyang, Beijing, China 100029
| | - Gao Jie
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Guiyang University of Chinese Medicine, No.50, Shidonglu, Guiyang, Guizhou, China 55000
| | - Chai Yihui
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Guiyang University of Chinese Medicine, No.50, Shidonglu, Guiyang, Guizhou, China 55000
| | - Li Wen
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Guiyang University of Chinese Medicine, No.50, Shidonglu, Guiyang, Guizhou, China 55000
| | - Qin Zhong
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Guiyang University of Chinese Medicine, No.50, Shidonglu, Guiyang, Guizhou, China 55000
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Nessren MAER, Omyma GA, Ebtihal AAEA, Ayman MO, Amel T. Oxytocin ameliorates the deleterious effect of pain in adult male rats. JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY AND PATHOPHYSIOLOGY 2017; 8:1-6. [DOI: 10.5897/jpap2016.0107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
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Ozer OF, Kacar O, Demirci O, Eren YS, Bilsel AS. PLASMA CONCENTRATIONS AND CORRELATIONS OF NATRIURETIC PEPTIDES AND OXYTOCIN DURING LABOR AND EARLY POSTPARTUM PERIOD. ACTA ENDOCRINOLOGICA-BUCHAREST 2017; 13:65-71. [PMID: 31149150 DOI: 10.4183/aeb.2017.65] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Context Natriuretic peptides (NP) and oxytocin (OT) play an important role in cardiovascular and hydro-electrolytic homeostasis. Changes in NP levels and their roles in cardiovascular adaptations in pregnancy and labor have not been clear. Objective The present study aimed to investigate the changes and correlations in plasma levels of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP), B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and OT during labor and the postpartum period. Study design Blood samples were collected from 29 healthy pregnant women in the active phase of spontaneous labor, 15 minutes after delivery and 3 hours postpartum. Plasma levels of OT and the stable N-terminal fragments of NPs (NT-proANP, NT-proCNP, NT-proBNP) were measured using enzyme or electrochemiluminescence immunoassays. Results The plasma levels of NT-proANP and NT-proCNP significantly decrease 3 hours postpartum compared to the active phase of labor and to 15 minutes after delivery. The plasma NT-proBNP levels significantly higher after delivery and 3 hours postpartum compared to the active phase of labor. A significant correlation exists between OT and NT-proANP levels during the active phase of labor and 15 minutes after delivery. Conclusions The data show that during labor and postpartum, the plasma concentrations of the NPs change differently. Elevations in NT- proBNP after delivery suggest that BNP may be involved in postpartum adaptations. The correlations between OT and ANP levels indicate that OT may be partly responsible for the increased levels of ANP and may have a role in the modification of the cardiovascular system.
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Affiliation(s)
- O F Ozer
- Marmara Universty, Faculty of Medicine, Dept of Biochemistry, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - O Kacar
- TUBITAK Marmara Research Center, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Institute, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - O Demirci
- Zeynep Kamil Women and Children's Diseases Education and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Y S Eren
- Zeynep Kamil Women and Children's Diseases Education and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - A S Bilsel
- Marmara Universty, Faculty of Medicine, Dept of Biochemistry, Istanbul, Turkey
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Jankowski M, Broderick TL, Gutkowska J. Oxytocin and cardioprotection in diabetes and obesity. BMC Endocr Disord 2016; 16:34. [PMID: 27268060 PMCID: PMC4895973 DOI: 10.1186/s12902-016-0110-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2016] [Accepted: 05/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT) emerges as a drug for the treatment of diabetes and obesity. The entire OT system is synthesized in the rat and human heart. The direct myocardial infusion with OT into an ischemic or failing heart has the potential to elicit a variety of cardioprotective effects. OT treatment attenuates cardiomyocyte (CMs) death induced by ischemia-reperfusion by activating pro-survival pathways within injured CMs in vivo and in isolated cells. OT treatment reduces cardiac apoptosis, fibrosis, and hypertrophy. The OT/OT receptor (OTR) system is downregulated in the db/db mouse model of type 2 diabetes which develops genetic diabetic cardiomyopathy (DC) similar to human disease. We have shown that chronic OT treatment prevents the development of DC in the db/db mouse. In addition, OT stimulates glucose uptake in both cardiac stem cells and CMs, and increases cell resistance to diabetic conditions. OT may help replace lost CMs by stimulating the in situ differentiation of cardiac stem cells into functional mature CMs. Lastly, adult stem cells amenable for transplantation such as MSCs could be preconditioned with OT ex vivo and implanted into the injured heart to aid in tissue regeneration through direct differentiation, secretion of protective and cardiomyogenic factors and/or their fusion with injured CMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marek Jankowski
- Cardiovascular Biochemistry Laboratory, CRCHUM (7-134), Tour Viger, 900 St-Denis St., Montreal, Quebec, H2X 0A9, Canada.
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada.
| | - Tom L Broderick
- Department of Physiology, Laboratory of Diabetes and Exercise Metabolism, Midwestern University, Agave Hall, office 217-B, 19555 North 59th Avenue, Glendale, AZ, 85308, USA.
| | - Jolanta Gutkowska
- Cardiovascular Biochemistry Laboratory, CRCHUM (7-134), Tour Viger, 900 St-Denis St., Montreal, Quebec, H2X 0A9, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada
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Prolonged Subcutaneous Administration of Oxytocin Accelerates Angiotensin II-Induced Hypertension and Renal Damage in Male Rats. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0138048. [PMID: 26393919 PMCID: PMC4579129 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0138048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2015] [Accepted: 08/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin and its receptor are synthesised in the heart and blood vessels but effects of chronic activation of this peripheral oxytocinergic system on cardiovascular function are not known. In acute studies, systemic administration of low dose oxytocin exerted a protective, preconditioning effect in experimental models of myocardial ischemia and infarction. In this study, we investigated the effects of chronic administration of low dose oxytocin following angiotensin II-induced hypertension, cardiac hypertrophy and renal damage. Angiotensin II (40 μg/Kg/h) only, oxytocin only (20 or 100 ng/Kg/h), or angiotensin II combined with oxytocin (20 or 100 ng/Kg/h) were infused subcutaneously in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats for 28 days. At day 7, oxytocin or angiotensin-II only did not change hemodynamic parameters, but animals that received a combination of oxytocin and angiotensin-II had significantly elevated systolic, diastolic and mean arterial pressure compared to controls (P < 0.01). Hemodynamic changes were accompanied by significant left ventricular cardiac hypertrophy and renal damage at day 28 in animals treated with angiotensin II (P < 0.05) or both oxytocin and angiotensin II, compared to controls (P < 0.01). Prolonged oxytocin administration did not affect plasma concentrations of renin and atrial natriuretic peptide, but was associated with the activation of calcium-dependent protein phosphatase calcineurin, a canonical signalling mechanism in pressure overload-induced cardiovascular disease. These data demonstrate that oxytocin accelerated angiotensin-II induced hypertension and end-organ renal damage, suggesting caution should be exercised in the chronic use of oxytocin in individuals with hypertension.
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Gonzalez-Reyes A, Menaouar A, Yip D, Danalache B, Plante E, Noiseux N, Gutkowska J, Jankowski M. Molecular mechanisms underlying oxytocin-induced cardiomyocyte protection from simulated ischemia-reperfusion. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2015; 412:170-81. [PMID: 25963797 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2015.04.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2014] [Revised: 04/29/2015] [Accepted: 04/29/2015] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT) stimulates cardioprotection. Here we investigated heart-derived H9c2 cells in simulated ischemia-reperfusion (I-R) experiments in order to examine the mechanism of OT protection. I-R was induced in an anoxic chamber for 2 hours and followed by 2 h of reperfusion. In comparison to normoxia, I-R resulted in decrease of formazan production by H9c2 cells to 63.5 ± 1.7% (MTT assay) and in enhanced apoptosis from 1.7 ± 0.3% to 2.8 ± 0.4% (Tunel test). Using these assays it was observed that treatment with OT (1-500 nM) exerted significant protection during I-R, especially when OT was added at the time of ischemia or reperfusion. Using the CM-H2DCFDA probe we found that OT triggers a short-lived burst in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in cells but reduces ROS production evoked by I-R. In cells treated with OT, Western-blot revealed the phosphorylation of Akt (Thr 308, p-Akt), eNOS and ERK 1/2. Microscopy showed translocation of p-Akt and eNOS into the nuclear and perinuclear area and NO production in cells treated with OT. The OT-induced protection against I-R was abrogated by an OT antagonist, the Pi3K inhibitor Wortmannin, the cGMP-dependent protein kinase (PKG) inhibitor, KT5823, as well as soluble guanylate cyclase (GC) inhibitor, ODQ, and particulate GC antagonist, A71915. In conditions of I-R, the cells with siRNA-mediated reduction in OT receptor (OTR) expression responded to OT treatment by enhanced apoptosis. In conclusion, the OTR protected H9c2 cells against I-R, especially if activated at the onset of ischemia or reperfusion. The OTR-transduced signals include pro-survival kinases, such as Akt and PKG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Araceli Gonzalez-Reyes
- Cardiovascular Biochemistry Laboratory, CRCHUM, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Department of Experimental Medicine, McGill University
| | - Ahmed Menaouar
- Cardiovascular Biochemistry Laboratory, CRCHUM, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Denis Yip
- Cardiovascular Biochemistry Laboratory, CRCHUM, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Department of Experimental Medicine, McGill University
| | - Bogdan Danalache
- Cardiovascular Biochemistry Laboratory, CRCHUM, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Eric Plante
- Cardiovascular Biochemistry Laboratory, CRCHUM, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Nicolas Noiseux
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal
| | - Jolanta Gutkowska
- Cardiovascular Biochemistry Laboratory, CRCHUM, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Department of Experimental Medicine, McGill University; Department of Medicine, University of Montreal
| | - Marek Jankowski
- Cardiovascular Biochemistry Laboratory, CRCHUM, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of Montreal.
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24
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Bartekova M, Barancik M, Pokusa M, Prokopova B, Radosinska J, Rusnak A, Breier A, Jezova D. Molecular changes induced by repeated restraint stress in the heart: the effect of oxytocin receptor antagonist atosiban. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2015; 93:827-34. [DOI: 10.1139/cjpp-2015-0096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Even though stress belongs to the most common lifestyle risk factors of cardiovascular diseases, there are only limited data on direct influence of stressors on the heart. The aim of the present study was to explore selected protein signaling pathways in response to repeated immobilization stress in the heart tissue. Effects of simultaneous treatment with atosiban, an oxytocin receptor antagonist, on stress-induced changes in the heart were also investigated. Male Wistar rats were exposed to repeated immobilization (2 h daily, lasting 2 weeks). The results showed increased phosphorylation of Akt kinase, enhanced levels of Bcl-2, and decreased levels of cleaved caspase-3 in the left ventricle in response to chronic stress independently of the treatment. Exposure to restraint led to the rise of HSP-90 and p53 in vehicle-treated rats only. Stress failed to modify MMP-2 activity and ultrastructure of the heart tissue. Treatment with the oxytocin/vasopressin receptor antagonist atosiban reversed stress-induced rise in HSP-90 and p53 proteins. In conclusion, our data demonstrate that repeated restraint stress induces Akt kinase activation and this is associated with elevation of anti-apoptotic proteins (Bcl-2) and down-regulation of pro-apoptotic proteins (cleaved caspase-3). These findings suggest that activation of pro-survival anti-apoptotic Akt kinase pathway plays an important role in molecular mechanisms underlying responses and adaptation of the rat heart to repeated stress exposure. The results further indicate a regulatory role of oxytocin/vasopressin in the control of stress-induced activation in HSP-90 and related proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Bartekova
- Institute for Heart Research, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
- Institute of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Miroslav Barancik
- Institute for Heart Research, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Michal Pokusa
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Barbora Prokopova
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Comenius University in Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Jana Radosinska
- Institute for Heart Research, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
- Institute of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Andrej Rusnak
- Institute of Molecular Physiology and Genetics, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Albert Breier
- Institute of Molecular Physiology and Genetics, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
- Institute of Biochemistry, Nutrition and Health Protection, Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology, Slovak University of Technology, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Daniela Jezova
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
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25
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Liou SF, Hsu JH, Chen YT, Chen IJ, Yeh JL. KMUP-1 Attenuates Endothelin-1-Induced Cardiomyocyte Hypertrophy through Activation of Heme Oxygenase-1 and Suppression of the Akt/GSK-3β, Calcineurin/NFATc4 and RhoA/ROCK Pathways. Molecules 2015; 20:10435-49. [PMID: 26056815 PMCID: PMC6272697 DOI: 10.3390/molecules200610435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2015] [Revised: 06/02/2015] [Accepted: 06/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The signaling cascades of the mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) family, calcineurin/NFATc4, and PI3K/Akt/GSK3, are believed to participate in endothelin-1 (ET-1)-induced cardiac hypertrophy. The aim of this study was to investigate whether KMUP-1, a synthetic xanthine-based derivative, prevents cardiomyocyte hypertrophy induced by ET-1 and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. We found that in H9c2 cardiomyocytes, stimulation with ET-1 (100 nM) for 4 days induced cell hypertrophy and enhanced expressions of hypertrophic markers, including atrial natriuretic peptide and brain natriuretic peptide, which were all inhibited by KMUP-1 in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, KMUP-1 prevented ET-1-induced intracellular reactive oxygen species generation determined by the DCFH-DA assay in cardiomyocytes. KMUP-1 also attenuated phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and Akt/GSK-3β, and activation of calcineurin/NFATc4 and RhoA/ROCK pathways induced by ET-1. Furthermore, we found that the expression of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), a stress-response enzyme implicated in cardio-protection, was up-regulated by KMUP-1. Finally, KMUP-1 attenuated ET-1-stimulated activator protein-1 DNA binding activity. In conclusion, KMUP-1 attenuates cardiomyocyte hypertrophy induced by ET-1 through inhibiting ERK1/2, calcineurin/NFATc4 and RhoA/ROCK pathways, with associated cardioprotective effects via HO-1 activation. Therefore, KMUP-1 may have a role in pharmacological therapy of cardiac hypertrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Fen Liou
- Department of Pharmacy, Chia-Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Tainan 717, Taiwan
| | - Jong-Hau Hsu
- Department of Paediatrics, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - You-Ting Chen
- Department and Graduate Institute of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Ing-Jun Chen
- Department and Graduate Institute of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Jwu-Lai Yeh
- Department and Graduate Institute of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan.
- Department of Marine Biotechnology and Resources, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung 804, Taiwan.
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