Metformin attenuates fluctuating glucose-induced endothelial dysfunction through enhancing GTPCH1-mediated eNOS recoupling and inhibiting NADPH oxidase

Examining the clinical relevance of metformin as an antioxidant intervention

In physiological concentrations, reactive oxygen species play a vital role in regulating cell signaling and gene expression. Nevertheless, oxidative stress is implicated in the pathogenesis of numerous diseases and can inflict damage on diverse cell types and tissues. Thus, understanding the factors that mitigate the deleterious effects of oxidative stress is imperative for identifying new therapeutic targets. In light of the absence of direct treatment recommendations for reducing oxidative stress, there is a continuing need for fundamental research that utilizes innovative therapeutic approaches. Metformin, known for its multifaceted beneficial properties, is acknowledged for its ability to counteract the adverse effects of increased oxidative stress at both molecular and cellular levels. In this review, we delve into recent insights regarding metformin's antioxidant attributes, aiming to expand its clinical applicability. Our review proposes that metformin holds promise as a potential adjunctive therapy for various diseases, given its modulation of oxidative stress characteristics and regulation of diverse metabolic pathways. These pathways include lipid metabolism, hormone synthesis, and immunological responses, all of which may experience dysregulation in disease states, contributing to increased oxidative stress. Furthermore, our review introduces potential novel metformin-based interventions that may merit consideration in future research. Nevertheless, the necessity for clinical trials involving this drug remains imperative, as they are essential for establishing therapeutic dosages and addressing challenges associated with dose-dependent effects.

Metformin: The Winding Path from Understanding Its Molecular Mechanisms to Proving Therapeutic Benefits in Neurodegenerative Disorders

Metformin, a widely prescribed medication for type 2 diabetes, has garnered increasing attention for its potential neuroprotective properties due to the growing demand for treatments for Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and motor neuron diseases. This review synthesizes experimental and clinical studies on metformin's mechanisms of action and potential therapeutic benefits for neurodegenerative disorders. A comprehensive search of electronic databases, including PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane library, focused on key phrases such as "metformin", "neuroprotection", and "neurodegenerative diseases", with data up to September 2023. Recent research on metformin's glucoregulatory mechanisms reveals new molecular targets, including the activation of the LKB1-AMPK signaling pathway, which is crucial for chronic administration of metformin. The pleiotropic impact may involve other stress kinases that are acutely activated. The precise role of respiratory chain complexes (I and IV), of the mitochondrial targets, or of the lysosomes in metformin effects remains to be established by further research. Research on extrahepatic targets like the gut and microbiota, as well as its antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties, is crucial for understanding neurodegenerative disorders. Experimental data on animal models shows promising results, but clinical studies are inconclusive. Understanding the molecular targets and mechanisms of its effects could help design clinical trials to explore and, hopefully, prove its therapeutic effects in neurodegenerative conditions.

Schisanhenol Attenuates OxLDL-Induced Endothelial Dysfunction via an AMPK-Dependent Mechanism

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases, commonly known as the formation of fibrofatty lesions in the artery wall, are the leading causes of death globally. Oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) is one of the major components of atherosclerotic plaques. It is evident that dietary supplementation containing sources of antioxidants can prevent atherogenic diseases. Schisanhenol (SAL), a dibenzocyclooctene lignin, has been shown to attenuate oxLDL-induced apoptosis and the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in endothelial cells. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are still largely unknown. In this study, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were pre-treated with SAL and oxLDL. Our results showed that adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation was enhanced in cells pre-treated with SAL in time-dependent and dose-dependent manners. Subsequently, oxLDL-induced AMPK dephosphorylation and protein kinase C (PKC) phosphorylation were significantly reversed in the presence of SAL. In addition, SAL treatment led to an inhibiting effect on the oxLDL-induced membrane assembly of NADPH oxidase subunits, and a similar effect was observed in ROS generation. This effect was further confirmed using knockdown AMPK with small interfering RNA (siRNA) and pharmaceutical reagents, such as the AMPK activator (AICAR), PKC inhibitor (Gö 6983), and ROS inhibitor (DPI). Furthermore, the oxLDL-induced intracellular calcium rise and the potential collapse of the mitochondrial membrane reduced the Bcl-2/Bax ratio, and released cytochrome c from the mitochondria, leading to the subsequent activation of caspase-3 in HUVECs, which were also markedly suppressed by SAL pretreatment. The results mentioned above may provide additional insights into the possible molecular mechanisms underlying the cardiovascular protective effects of SAL.

Protection of diabetes in aortic abdominal aneurysm: Are antidiabetics the real effectors?

Aortic aneurysms, including abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs), is the second most prevalent aortic disease and represents an important cause of death worldwide. AAA is a permanent dilation of the aorta on its infrarenal portion, pathologically associated with oxidative stress, proteolysis, vascular smooth muscle cell loss, immune-inflammation, and extracellular matrix remodeling and degradation. Most epidemiological studies have shown a potential protective role of diabetes mellitus (DM) on the prevalence and incidence of AAA. The effect of DM on AAA might be explained mainly by two factors: hyperglycemia [or other DM-related factors such as insulin resistance (IR)] and/or by the effect of prescribed DM drugs, which may have a direct or indirect effect on the formation and progression of AAAs. However, recent studies further support that the protective role of DM in AAA may be attributable to antidiabetic therapies (i.e.: metformin or SGLT-2 inhibitors). This review summarizes current literature on the relationship between DM and the incidence, progression, and rupture of AAAs, and discusses the potential cellular and molecular pathways that may be involved in its vascular effects. Besides, we provide a summary of current antidiabetic therapies which use could be beneficial for AAA.

A blast from the past: To tame time with metformin

The strong evidence of metformin use in subjects affected by type 2 diabetes (T2DM) on health outcomes, together with data from pre-clinical studies, has led the gerontological research to study the therapeutic potential of such a drug as a slow-aging strategy. However, despite clinical use for over fifty years as an anti-diabetic drug, the mechanisms of action beyond glycemic control remain unclear. In this review, we have deeply examined the literature, doing a narrative review from the metformin story, through mechanisms of action to slow down aging potential, from lower organisms to humans. Based on the available evidence, we conclude that metformin, as shown in lower organisms and mice, may be effective in humans' longevity. A complete analysis and follow-up of ongoing clinical trials may provide more definitive answers as to whether metformin should be promoted beyond its use to treat T2DM as a drug that enhances both healthspan and lifespan.

Metformin's Impact on the Microvascular Response to Insulin

Metformin improves insulin's action on whole-body glucose metabolism in various insulin-resistant populations. The detailed cellular mechanism(s) for its metabolic actions are multiple and still incompletely understood. Beyond metabolic actions, metformin also impacts microvascular function. However, the effects of metformin on microvascular function and microvascular insulin action specifically are poorly defined. In this mini-review, we summarize what is currently known about metformin's beneficial impact on both microvascular function and the microvascular response to insulin while highlighting methodologic issues in the literature that limit straightforward mechanistic understanding of these effects. We examine potential mechanisms for these effects based on pharmacologically dosed studies and propose that metformin may improve human microvascular insulin resistance by attenuating oxidative stress, inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction. Finally, we explore several important evidence gaps and discuss avenues for future investigation that may clarify whether metformin's ability to improve microvascular insulin sensitivity is linked to its positive impact on vascular outcomes.

Antiglycation potential of plant based TiO2 nanoparticle in D-ribose glycated BSA in vitro

Biosynthetic procedure is one of the best alternatives, inexpensive and ecologically sound for the synthesis of titanium dioxide (TiO₂ ) nanoparticles using a methanolic extract of medicinal plant. The main prospect of this study was to investigate the antiglycation activity of the TiO₂ nanoparticles (TNP) prepared by ethanolic leaf extract of the Coleus scutellarioides. In this study, biosynthesized TNP characterized with UV-Visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscope. These TNP were further investigated with respect to their antiglycation property and it was checked in the mixture of d-ribose glycated bovine serum albumin (BSA) by measuring ketoamine, carbonyl content, Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and aggregation of protein instigated by glycation process. The inhibitory effect of TNP to restore the structure of BSA in presence of d-ribose were also characterize by biophysical techniques mentioned above. Therefore, the findings of this study suggest repurposing of TNP for its antiglycation property that could be helpful in prevention of glycation instigated AGEs formation and structural loss of proteins.

Exploring the Pharmacological Potential of Metformin for Neurodegenerative Diseases

Metformin, one of the first-line of hypoglycemic drugs, has cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities, in addition to its proven hypoglycemic effects. Furthermore, the preventive and therapeutic potential of metformin for neurodegenerative diseases has become a topic of concern. Increasing research suggests that metformin can prevent the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. In recent years, many studies have investigated the neuroprotective effect of metformin in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. It has been revealed that metformin can play a neuroprotective role by regulating energy metabolism, oxidative stress, inflammatory response and protein deposition of cells, and avoiding neuronal dysfunction and neuronal death. On the contrary, some have hypothesized that metformin has a two-sided effect which may accelerate the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, the results of animal experiments and clinical studies are reviewed to discuss the application prospects of metformin in neurodegenerative diseases.

A Clinical Perspective of the Multifaceted Mechanism of Metformin in Diabetes, Infections, Cognitive Dysfunction, and Cancer

In type 2 diabetes, ecological and lifecourse factors may interact with the host microbiota to influence expression of his/her genomes causing perturbation of interconnecting biological pathways with diverse clinical course. Metformin is a plant-based or plant-derived medicinal product used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes for over 60 years and is an essential drug listed by the World Health Organization. By reducing mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, metformin increased AMP (adenosine monophosphate)-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activity and altered cellular redox state with reduced glucagon activity, endogenous glucose production, lipogenesis, and protein synthesis. Metformin modulated immune response by directly reducing neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio and improving the phagocytic function of immune cells. By increasing the relative abundance of mucin-producing and short-chain-fatty-acid-producing gut microbes, metformin further improved the host inflammatory and metabolic milieu. Experimentally, metformin promoted apoptosis and reduced proliferation of cancer cells by reducing their oxygen consumption and modulating the microenvironment. Both clinical and mechanistic studies support the pluripotent effects of metformin on reducing cardiovascular–renal events, infection, cancer, cognitive dysfunction, and all-cause death in type 2 diabetes, making this low-cost medication a fundamental therapy for individualization of other glucose-lowering drugs in type 2 diabetes. Further research into the effects of metformin on cognitive function, infection and cancer, especially in people without diabetes, will provide new insights into the therapeutic value of metformin in our pursuit of prevention and treatment of ageing-related as well as acute and chronic diseases beyond diabetes.

Potential Role of Mitochondria as Modulators of Blood Platelet Activation and Reactivity in Diabetes and Effect of Metformin on Blood Platelet Bioenergetics and Platelet Activation

Blood platelet dysfunctions are strongly involved in the development of the micro- and macrovascular complications in diabetes mellitus (DM). However, the molecular causes of abnormal platelet activation in DM remain unclear. Experimental data suggests that platelet mitochondria can regulate the prothrombotic phenotype of platelets, and changes in these organelles may influence platelet activation and modify platelet responses to stimulation. The present study evaluates the impact of DM on mitochondrial respiratory parameters and blood platelet activation/reactivity in a rat model of experimental diabetes following 1, 2.5 and 5 months of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes. Moreover, a mild inhibition of the mitochondrial respiratory chain with the use of metformin under in vitro and in vivo conditions was tested as a method to reduce platelet activation and reactivity. The platelets were studied with a combination of flow cytometry and advanced respirometry. Our results indicate that prolonged exposure of blood platelets to high concentrations of glucose, as in diabetes, can result in elevated blood platelet mitochondrial respiration; this may be an effect of cell adaptation to the high availability of energy substrates. However, as these alterations occur later than the changes in platelet activation/reactivity, they may not constitute the major reason for abnormal platelet functioning in DM. Moreover, metformin was not able to inhibit platelet activation and reactivity under in vitro conditions despite causing a decrease in mitochondrial respiration. This indicates that the beneficial effect of metformin on the coagulation system observed in vivo can be related to other mechanisms than via the inhibition of platelet activation.

Redox Homeostasis Involvement in the Pharmacological Effects of Metformin in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Significance: Metformin has been proposed as a treatment for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The primary target of metformin, the electron transport chain complex I in the mitochondria, is associated with redox homeostasis in immune cells, which plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. This review addresses the evidence and knowledge gaps on whether a beneficial effect of metformin in lupus may be due to a restoration of a balanced redox state. Recent Advances: Clinical trials in SLE patients with mild-to-moderate disease activity and preclinical studies in mice have provided encouraging results for metformin. The mechanism by which this therapeutic effect was achieved is largely unknown. Metformin regulates redox homeostasis in a context-specific manner. Multiple cell types contribute to SLE, with evidence of increased mitochondrial oxidative stress in T cells and neutrophils. Critical Issues: The major knowledge gaps are whether the efficacy of metformin is linked to a restored redox homeostasis in the immune system, and if it does, in which cell types it occurs? We also need to know which patients may have a better response to metformin, and whether it corresponds to a specific mechanism? Finally, the identification of biomarkers to predict treatment outcomes would be of great value. Future Directions: Mechanistic studies must address the context-dependent pharmacological effects of metformin. Multiple cell types as well as a complex disease etiology should be considered. These studies must integrate the rapid advances made in understanding how metabolic programs direct the effector functions of immune cells. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 36, 462-479.

Ginsenoside Rb1 Ameliorates Diabetic Arterial Stiffening via AMPK Pathway

Background and Purpose: Macrovascular complication of diabetes mellitus, characterized by increased aortic stiffness, is a major cause leading to many adverse clinical outcomes. It has been reported that ginsenoside Rb1 (Rb1) can improve glucose tolerance, enhance insulin activity, and restore the impaired endothelial functions in animal models. The aim of this study was to explore whether Rb1 could alleviate the pathophysiological process of arterial stiffening in diabetes and its potential mechanisms. Experimental Approach: Diabetes was induced in male C57BL/6 mice by administration of streptozotocin. These mice were randomly selected for treatment with Rb1 (10-60 mg/kg, i. p.) once daily for 8 weeks. Aortic stiffness was assessed using ultrasound and measurement of blood pressure and relaxant responses in the aortic rings. Mechanisms of Rb1 treatment were studied in MOVAS-1 VSMCs cultured in a high-glucose medium. Key Results: Rb1 improved DM-induced arterial stiffening and the impaired aortic compliance and endothelium-dependent vasodilation. Rb1 ameliorated DM-induced aortic remodeling characterized by collagen deposition and elastic fibers disorder. MMP2, MMP9, and TGFβ1/Smad2/3 pathways were involved in this process. In addition, Rb1-mediated improvement of arterial stiffness was partly achieved via inhibiting oxidative stress in DM mice, involving regulating NADPH oxidase. Finally, Rb1 could blunt the inhibition effects of DM on AMPK phosphorylation. Conclusion and Implications: Rb1 may represent a novel prevention strategy to alleviate collagen deposition and degradation to prevent diabetic macroangiopathy and diabetes-related complications.

Metformin in cardiovascular diabetology: a focused review of its impact on endothelial function

As a first-line treatment for diabetes, the insulin-sensitizing biguanide, metformin, regulates glucose levels and positively affects cardiovascular function in patients with diabetes and cardiovascular complications. Endothelial dysfunction (ED) represents the primary pathological change of multiple vascular diseases, because it causes decreased arterial plasticity, increased vascular resistance, reduced tissue perfusion and atherosclerosis. Caused by “biochemical injury”, ED is also an independent predictor of cardiovascular events. Accumulating evidence shows that metformin improves ED through liver kinase B1 (LKB1)/5'-adenosine monophosphat-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and AMPK-independent targets, including nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase-protein kinase B (PI3K-Akt), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), forkhead box O1 (FOXO1), krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) and krüppel-like factor 2 (KLF2). Evaluating the effects of metformin on endothelial cell functions would facilitate our understanding of the therapeutic potential of metformin in cardiovascular diabetology (including diabetes and its cardiovascular complications). This article reviews the physiological and pathological functions of endothelial cells and the intact endothelium, reviews the latest research of metformin in the treatment of diabetes and related cardiovascular complications, and focuses on the mechanism of action of metformin in regulating endothelial cell functions.

PPAR-α Agonist Fenofibrate Prevented Diabetic Nephropathy by Inhibiting M1 Macrophages via Improving Endothelial Cell Function in db/db Mice

Background: Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the major diabetic microvascular complications, and macrophage polarization plays a key role in the development of DN. Endothelial cells regulate macrophage polarization. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-α agonists were demonstrated to prevent DN and improve endothelial function. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether PPAR-α agonists prevented DN through regulating macrophage phenotype via improving endothelial cell function.

Methods: Eight-week-old male C57BLKS/J db/m and db/db mice were given fenofibrate or 1% sodium carboxyl methylcellulose by gavage for 12 weeks.

Results: Db/db mice presented higher urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) than db/m mice, and fenofibrate decreased UACR in db/db mice. Fibrosis and collagen I were elevated in db/db mouse kidneys compared with db/m mouse kidneys; however, they were decreased after fenofibrate treatment in db/db mouse kidneys. Apoptosis and cleaved caspase-3 were enhanced in db/db mouse kidneys compared to db/m mouse kidneys, while fenofibrate decreased them in db/db mouse kidneys. Db/db mice had a suppression of p-endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS)/t-eNOS and nitric oxide (NO), and an increase of angiopoietin-2 and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in kidneys compared with db/m mice, and fenofibrate increased p-eNOS/t-eNOS and NO, and decreased angiopoietin-2 and ROS in db/db mouse kidneys. Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α and Notch1 were promoted in db/db mouse kidneys compared with db/m mouse kidneys, and were reduced after fenofibrate treatment in db/db mouse kidneys. Furthermore, the immunofluorescence staining indicated that M1 macrophage recruitment was enhanced in db/db mouse kidneys compared to db/m mouse kidneys, and this was accompanied by a significant increase of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-1β in kidneys and in serum of db/db mice compared with db/m mice. However, fenofibrate inhibited the renal M1 macrophage recruitment and cytokines associated with M1 macrophages in db/db mice.

Conclusions: Our study indicated that M1 macrophage recruitment due to the upregulated HIF-1α/Notch1 pathway induced by endothelial cell dysfunction involved in type 2 diabetic mouse renal injury, and PPAR-α agonist fenofibrate prevented DN by reducing M1 macrophage recruitment via inhibiting HIF-1α/Notch1 pathway regulated by endothelial cell function in type 2 diabetic mouse kidneys.

Oxidative Stress, GTPCH1, and Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase Uncoupling in Hypertension

Significance: Hypertension has major health consequences, which is associated with endothelial dysfunction. Endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS)-produced nitric oxide (NO) signaling in the vasculature plays an important role in maintaining vascular homeostasis. Considering the importance of NO system, this review aims to provide a brief overview of the biochemistry of members of NO signaling, including GTPCH1 [guanosine 5'-triphosphate (GTP) cyclohydrolase 1], tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), and eNOS. Recent Advances: Being NO signaling activators and regulators of eNOS signaling, BH4 treatment is getting widespread attention either as potential therapeutic agents or as preventive agents. Recent clinical trials also support that BH4 treatment could be considered a promising therapeutic in hypertension. Critical Issues: Under conditions of BH4 depletion, eNOS-generated superoxides trigger pathological events. Abnormalities in NO availability and BH4 deficiency lead to disturbed redox regulation causing pathological events. This disturbed signaling influences the development of systemic hypertension as well as pulmonary hypertension. Future Directions: Considering the importance of BH4 and NO to improve the translational significance, it is essential to continue research on this field to manipulate BH4 to increase the efficacy for treating hypertension. Thus, this review also examines the current state of knowledge on the effects of eNOS activators on preclinical models and humans to utilize this information for potential therapy.

Endothelial Dysfunction in Diabetes Is Aggravated by Glycated Lipoproteins; Novel Molecular Therapies

Diabetes and its vascular complications affect an increasing number of people. This disease of epidemic proportion nowadays involves abnormalities of large and small blood vessels, all commencing with alterations of the endothelial cell (EC) functions. Cardiovascular diseases are a major cause of death and disability among diabetic patients. In diabetes, EC dysfunction (ECD) is induced by the pathological increase of glucose and by the appearance of advanced glycation end products (AGE) attached to the plasma proteins, including lipoproteins. AGE proteins interact with their specific receptors on EC plasma membrane promoting activation of signaling pathways, resulting in decreased nitric oxide bioavailability, increased intracellular oxidative and inflammatory stress, causing dysfunction and finally apoptosis of EC. Irreversibly glycated lipoproteins (AGE-Lp) were proven to have an important role in accelerating atherosclerosis in diabetes. The aim of the present review is to present up-to-date information connecting hyperglycemia, ECD and two classes of glycated Lp, glycated low-density lipoproteins and glycated high-density lipoproteins, which contribute to the aggravation of diabetes complications. We will highlight the role of dyslipidemia, oxidative and inflammatory stress and epigenetic risk factors, along with the specific mechanisms connecting them, as well as the new promising therapies to alleviate ECD in diabetes.

Can Metformin Exert as an Active Drug on Endothelial Dysfunction in Diabetic Subjects?

Cardiovascular mortality is a major cause of death among in type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Endothelial dysfunction (ED) is a well-known important risk factor for the development of diabetes cardiovascular complications. Therefore, the prevention of diabetic macroangiopathies by preserving endothelial function represents a major therapeutic concern for all National Health Systems. Several complex mechanisms support ED in diabetic patients, frequently cross-talking each other: uncoupling of eNOS with impaired endothelium-dependent vascular response, increased ROS production, mitochondrial dysfunction, activation of polyol pathway, generation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), activation of protein kinase C (PKC), endothelial inflammation, endothelial apoptosis and senescence, and dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs). Metformin is a milestone in T2DM treatment. To date, according to most recent EASD/ADA guidelines, it still represents the first-choice drug in these patients. Intriguingly, several extraglycemic effects of metformin have been recently observed, among which large preclinical and clinical evidence support metformin’s efficacy against ED in T2DM. Metformin seems effective thanks to its favorable action on all the aforementioned pathophysiological ED mechanisms. AMPK pharmacological activation plays a key role, with metformin inhibiting inflammation and improving ED. Therefore, aim of this review is to assess metformin’s beneficial effects on endothelial dysfunction in T2DM, which could preempt development of atherosclerosis.

Effects of external counter-pulsation on endothelial function assessed by peripheral artery tonometry, levels of glycaemia and metabolic markers in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

External counter-pulsation (ECP) generates sheer stress thereby improving endothelial function and anginal symptoms in coronary artery disease. Endothelial dysfunction is also involved in the pathogenesis of T2DM. The aim of this pilot study was to investigate the use of ECP at different doses in improving endothelial function and glycaemic markers in T2DM.

METHODS

This prospective study involved 46 subjects with T2DM randomly assigned to receive 35 sessions of ECP at different regimens (0.5 h versus 1 h) and duration (7 versus 12 weeks). Endothelial function was evaluated by reactive hyperaemia index (RHI) via peripheral arterial tonometry at the start, midpoint and end of study. Other secondary outcomes included fasting glucose, HOMA-IR, HbA1c, blood pressure, lipid profile, weight and vibration sense.

RESULTS

There was no change in RHI across all 3 regimens of ECP individually or collectively at the end of the study (ΔRHI +0.01%, p = 0.458). Glycaemic markers also remained unchanged at endpoint. Subgroup analysis showed an improvement in RHI (ΔRHI +20.6%, p = 0.0178) in subjects with more severe endothelial dysfunction at baseline.

CONCLUSION

ECP did not show a beneficial effect on endothelial function or glycemic control in this South-East Asian population with T2DM at any of the three regimens. This may partly be explained by less severe endothelial dysfunction and less insulin resistance in our population at baseline.

Novel Sulfonamide-Based Analogs of Metformin Exert Promising Anti-Coagulant Effects without Compromising Glucose-Lowering Activity

Metformin, one of the most frequently prescribed oral anti-diabetic drugs, is characterized by multidirectional activity, including lipid lowering, cardio-protective and anti-inflammatory properties. This study presents synthesis and stability studies of 10 novel sulfonamide-based derivatives of metformin with alkyl substituents in the aromatic ring. The potential of the synthesized compounds as glucose-lowering agents and their effects on selected parameters of plasma and vascular hemostasis were examined. Compounds with two or three methyl groups in the aromatic ring (6, 7, 9, 10) significantly increased glucose uptake in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), e.g., 15.8 µmol/L for comp. 6 at 0.3 µmol/mL versus 11.4 ± 0.7 µmol/L for control. Basic coagulation studies showed that all examined compounds inhibit intrinsic coagulation pathway and the process of fibrin polymerization stronger than the parent drug, metformin, which give evidence of their greater anti-coagulant properties. Importantly, synthesized compounds decrease the activity of factor X, a first member of common coagulation pathway, while metformin does not affect coagulation factor X (FX) activity. A multiparametric clot formation and lysis test (CL-test) revealed that the examined compounds significantly prolong the onset of clot formation; however, they do not affect the overall potential of clot formation and fibrinolysis. Erythrotoxicity studies confirmed that none of the synthesized compounds exert an adverse effect on erythrocyte integrity, do not contribute to the massive hemolysis and do not interact strongly with the erythrocyte membrane. In summary, chemical modification of metformin scaffold into benzenesulfonamides containing alkyl substituents leads to the formation of potential dual-action agents with comparable glucose-lowering properties and stronger anti-coagulant activity than the parent drug, metformin.

Metformin effect on driving cell survival pathway through inhibition of UVB-induced ROS formation in human keratinocytes

Human skin functions go beyond serving only as a mechanical barrier. As a complex organ, the skin is capable to cope with external stressors cutaneous by neuroendocrine systems to control homeostasis. However, constant skin exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation causes progressive damage to cellular skin constituents, mainly due excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. The present study shows new approaches of metformin (MET) as an antioxidant agent. Currently, MET is the first line treatment of type 2 diabetes and has attracted attention, based on its broad mechanism of action. Therefore, we evaluated MET antioxidant potential in cell-free systems and in UVB irradiated human keratinocyte HaCaT cells. In cell-free system assays MET did not show intrinsic scavenging activity on DPPH radicals or superoxide (O₂^-) xanthine/luminol/xanthine oxidase-generated. Cell-based results demonstrated that MET was able to reduce UVB-induced intracellular ROS and NADPH oxidase-dependent superoxide (O₂^-) production. MET posttreatment of HaCaT cells reduced ERK 1/2 phosphorylation, NADPH oxidase activity, and cell death by apoptosis. These findings suggest that the protection mechanism of MET may be through the inhibition of ROS formation enzyme. These results showed that MET might be a promising antioxidant agent against UV radiation induced skin damage.

Metformin May Contribute to Inter-individual Variability for Glycemic Responses to Exercise

Metformin and exercise independently improve glycemic control. Metformin traditionally is considered to reduce hepatic glucose production, while exercise training is thought to stimulate skeletal muscle glucose disposal. Collectively, combining treatments would lead to the anticipation for additive glucose regulatory effects. Herein, we discuss recent literature suggesting that metformin may inhibit, enhance or have no effect on exercise mediated benefits toward glucose regulation, with particular emphasis on insulin sensitivity. Importantly, we address issues surrounding the impact of metformin on exercise induced glycemic benefit across multiple insulin sensitive tissues (e.g., skeletal muscle, liver, adipose, vasculature, and the brain) in effort to illuminate potential sources of inter-individual glycemic variation. Therefore, the review identifies gaps in knowledge that require attention in order to optimize medical approaches that improve care of people with elevated blood glucose levels and are at risk of cardiovascular disease.

Mechanisms of action of metformin in type 2 diabetes: Effects on mitochondria and leukocyte-endothelium interactions

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a very prevalent, multisystemic, chronic metabolic disorder closely related to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. It is characterised by mitochondrial dysfunction and the presence of oxidative stress. Metformin is one of the safest and most effective anti-hyperglycaemic agents currently employed as first-line oral therapy for T2D. It has demonstrated additional beneficial effects, unrelated to its hypoglycaemic action, on weight loss and several diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular disorders and metabolic diseases, including thyroid diseases. Despite the vast clinical experience gained over several decades of use, the mechanism of action of metformin is still not fully understood. This review provides an overview of the existing literature concerning the beneficial mitochondrial and vascular effects of metformin, which it exerts by diminishing oxidative stress and reducing leukocyte-endothelium interactions. Specifically, we describe the molecular mechanisms involved in metformin's effect on gluconeogenesis, its capacity to interfere with major metabolic pathways (AMPK and mTORC1), its action on mitochondria and its antioxidant effects. We also discuss potential targets for therapeutic intervention based on these molecular actions.

Targeting Redox Imbalance as an Approach for Diabetic Kidney Disease

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a worldwide public health problem. It is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease and is associated with increased mortality from cardiovascular complications. The tight interactions between redox imbalance and the development of DKD are becoming increasingly evident. Numerous cascades, including the polyol and hexosamine pathways have been implicated in the oxidative stress of diabetes patients. However, the precise molecular mechanism by which oxidative stress affects the progression of DKD remains to be elucidated. Given the limited therapeutic options for DKD, it is essential to understand how oxidants and antioxidants are controlled in diabetes and how oxidative stress impacts the progression of renal damage. This review aims to provide an overview of the current status of knowledge regarding the pathological roles of oxidative stress in DKD. Finally, we summarize recent therapeutic approaches to preventing DKD with a focus on the anti-oxidative effects of newly developed anti-hyperglycemic agents.

Liraglutide ameliorates palmitate-induced oxidative injury in islet microvascular endothelial cells through GLP-1 receptor/PKA and GTPCH1/eNOS signaling pathways

In type 2 diabetes, lipotoxicity damages islet microvascular endothelial cells (IMECs), leading to pancreatic islet β cell dysfunction directly or indirectly. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and its analogs have beneficial roles in endothelial cells. However, the protective effects of GLP-1 agents on IMECs and their potential mechanism remained obscure. In this study, exposure of MS-1 (a cell line derived from mouse IMECs) to different concentrations of palmitic acid (PA) was used to establish an injury model. The cells exposed to PA (0.25 mmol/L) were treated with a GLP-1 analog liraglutide (3, 10, 30, and 100 nmol/L). Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, apoptosis-related protein level, and endothelin-1 production were detected. The protein levels of signaling molecules were analyzed and specific inhibitors or blockers were used to identify involvement of signaling pathways in the effects of liraglutide. Results showed that PA significantly increased ROS generation and the levels of pro-apoptotic protein Bax, and decreased the levels of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 and the mRNA expression and secretion of endothelin-1. Meanwhile, PA downregulated the protein levels of GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R), phosphorylated protein kinase A (PKA), guanosine 5'-triphosphate cyclohydrolase 1 (GTPCH1), and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). Furthermore, liraglutide ameliorated all these effects of PA in a dose-dependent manner. Importantly, GLP-1R antagonist exendin (9-39), PKA inhibitor H89, GTPCH1 inhibitor 2,4-diamino-6-hydroxypyrimidine, or NOS inhibitor N-nitro-l-arginine-methyl ester abolished the liraglutide-mediated amelioration in PA-impaired MS-1 cells. In conclusion, liraglutide ameliorates the PA-induced oxidative stress, apoptosis, and endothelin-1 secretion dysfunction in mouse IMECs through GLP-1R/PKA and GTPCH1/eNOS signaling pathways.

Relationship between metformin and abdominal aortic aneurysm

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a life-threatening disease and pharmacologic agents to treat the disease remain lacking for clinical practice. Epidemiologic studies have highlighted a negative association between the use of antidiabetic drugs, including metformin, and AAA. Metformin is well-known for its blood glucose-lowering effect, but its action on both metabolism and inflammatory response has led to propose it as a potential therapeutic target in several cardiovascular diseases. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the link between metformin and AAA. Based on the known effects of the drug on the aortic wall, translational applications and clinical trials investigating the interest of metformin in the management of patients with AAA are discussed.

Endothelial Dysfunction: Is There a Hyperglycemia-Induced Imbalance of NOX and NOS?

NADPH oxidases (NOX) are enzyme complexes that have received much attention as key molecules in the development of vascular dysfunction. NOX have the primary function of generating reactive oxygen species (ROS), and are considered the main source of ROS production in endothelial cells. The endothelium is a thin monolayer that lines the inner surface of blood vessels, acting as a secretory organ to maintain homeostasis of blood flow. The enzymatic production of nitric oxide (NO) by endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) is critical in mediating endothelial function, and oxidative stress can cause dysregulation of eNOS and endothelial dysfunction. Insulin is a stimulus for increases in blood flow and endothelium-dependent vasodilation. However, cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes are characterized by poor control of the endothelial cell redox environment, with a shift toward overproduction of ROS by NOX. Studies in models of type 2 diabetes demonstrate that aberrant NOX activation contributes to uncoupling of eNOS and endothelial dysfunction. It is well-established that endothelial dysfunction precedes the onset of cardiovascular disease, therefore NOX are important molecular links between type 2 diabetes and vascular complications. The aim of the current review is to describe the normal, healthy physiological mechanisms involved in endothelial function, and highlight the central role of NOX in mediating endothelial dysfunction when glucose homeostasis is impaired.

Reactive Oxygen Comes of Age: Mechanism-Based Therapy of Diabetic End-Organ Damage

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been mainly viewed as unwanted by-products of cellular metabolism, oxidative stress, a sign of a cellular redox imbalance, and potential disease mechanisms, such as in diabetes mellitus (DM). Antioxidant therapies, however, have failed to provide clinical benefit. This paradox can be explained by recent discoveries that ROS have mainly essential signaling and metabolic functions and evolutionally conserved physiological enzymatic sources. Disease can occur when ROS accumulate in nonphysiological concentrations, locations, or forms. By focusing on disease-relevant sources and targets of ROS, and leaving ROS physiology intact, precise therapeutic interventions are now possible and are entering clinical trials. Their outcomes are likely to profoundly change our concepts of ROS in DM and in medicine in general.

Metformin prevents vascular damage in hypertension through the AMPK/ER stress pathway

Metformin is an antidiabetic drug. However, the pleiotropic beneficial effects of metformin in nondiabetic models still need to be defined. The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of metformin on angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. Mice were infused with Ang II (400 ng/kg per min) with or without metformin for 2 weeks. Mice infused with angiotensin II displayed an increase in blood pressure associated with enhanced vascular endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress markers, which were blunted after metformin treatment. Moreover, hypertension-induced reduction in phosphorylated AMPK, endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOs) phosphorylation, and endothelium-dependent relaxation (EDR) in mesenteric resistance arteries (MRA) were rescued after metformin treatment. Infusion of ER stress inducer (tunicamycin, Tun) in control mice induced ER stress in MRA and reduced phosphorylation of AMPK, eNOS synthase phosphorylation, and EDR in MRA without affecting systolic blood pressure (SBP). All these factors were reversed subsequently with metformin treatment. ER stress inhibition by metformin improves vascular function in hypertension. Therefore, metformin could be a potential therapy for cardiovascular diseases in hypertension independent of its effects on diabetes.

Metformin: An Old Drug with New Applications

Metformin is a biguanide drug that has been used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus for more than 60 years. The United Kingdom Prospective Diabetic Study (UKPDS) has shown metformin to improve mortality rates in diabetes patients, and recent studies suggest metformin has additional effects in treating cancer, obesity, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and metabolic syndrome. Metformin has also been shown to alleviate weight gain associated with antipsychotic medication. Metformin has recently been extensively studied and emerging evidence suggests metformin decreases hepatocyte triglyceride accumulation in NAFLD and prevents liver tumorigenesis. Interestingly, studies have also shown metformin reduces visceral fat, suppresses white-adipose-tissue (WAT) extracellular matrix remodeling, and inhibits obesity-induced inflammation. However, clinical evidence for using metformin to treat NAFLD, cancer, metabolic syndrome, or to prevent hepatocellular carcinoma in NAFLD patients is lacking. This review therefore addresses the potential beneficial effects of metformin on NAFLD, its role in protecting against cardiac ischemia–reperfusion (I/R) injury, atherosclerosis, glucotoxicity, and lipotoxicity induced oxidative and ER stress in pancreatic β-cell dysfunction, as well as its underlying molecular mechanisms of action.

Editor's Choice - Metformin Prescription is Associated with a Reduction in the Combined Incidence of Surgical Repair and Rupture Related Mortality in Patients with Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

OBJECTIVES

Currently there is no drug therapy for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) and most previous investigations have focused on imaging rather than clinical outcomes. The aim of this study was to assess whether AAA related clinical events were lower in patients prescribed metformin.

METHODS

This was a prospective cohort observational study performed in three cities in Australia, which was designed to study risk factors for clinical events not simply to focus on metformin. Patients with an asymptomatic unrepaired AAA of any diameter ≥30 mm were recruited from hospital outpatient clinics and surveillance programs run at four centres. The main outcome was the requirement for AAA repair or AAA related mortality (AAA events). The association between metformin prescription and AAA events was assessed using Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazard analysis.

RESULTS

Patients (1,080) with a mean (SD) initial AAA diameter of 46.1 (11.3) mm were followed for a mean (SD) of 2.5 (3.1) years until an AAA event (n = 454), death (n = 176), loss to follow up (n = 128), or completion of current follow up (n = 322). Patients with diabetes who were prescribed metformin (adjusted HR 0.63, 95% CI 0.44-0.93), but not patients with diabetes who were not prescribed metformin (adjusted HR 1.15, 95% CI 0.83-1.59), had a lower incidence of AAA events compared with those without diabetes. Findings were similar in sensitivity analyses restricted to patients with an initial AAA diameter ≤50 mm and patients with a minimum follow up of six months before an AAA event.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that clinically important AAA events may be reduced in patients with diabetes who are prescribed metformin, but not those with diabetes receiving other treatments. A randomised controlled trial is needed to definitively test whether metformin reduces AAA related clinical events in patients with small AAAs who do not have diabetes.

Endothelial function and dysfunction: Impact of metformin

Cardiovascular and metabolic diseases remain the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Endothelial dysfunction is a key player in the initiation and progression of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Current evidence suggests that the anti-diabetic drug metformin improves insulin resistance and protects against endothelial dysfunction in the vasculature. Hereby, we provide a timely review on the protective effects and molecular mechanisms of metformin in preventing endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.

Metformin and Risk of Hypertension in Taiwanese Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Background

Whether metformin use may reduce hypertension risk has not been studied. This study investigated such possibility in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods and Results

Newly diagnosed patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus during 1999–2005 were enrolled from the reimbursement database of the Taiwan's National Health Insurance and followed to December 31, 2011. Hypertension was defined either by a diagnosis or by a diagnosis plus the use of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers and/or calcium channel blockers. Analyses were conducted in a propensity score matched‐pair cohort of 4810 ever users and 4810 never users. Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to estimate the hazard ratios. Results showed that when hypertension was defined by a diagnosis, 2261 never users and 1908 ever users developed hypertension. The overall hazard ratio was 0.724 (0.681–0.769) and the hazard ratios for the first (<2.0 months), second (2.0–13.0 months) and third (>13.0 months) tertiles of cumulative duration were 0.820 (0.745–0.903), 0.692 (0.634–0.756), and 0.687 (0.630–0.749), respectively. When cumulative duration of metformin therapy was treated as a continuous variable, the hazard ratio was 0.991 (0.989–0.994) for every 1‐month increment of metformin use. When hypertension was defined by a diagnosis plus the use of antihypertensive drugs, the overall hazard ratio was 0.831 (0.771–0.895), the hazard ratios for the respective tertiles were 0.868 (0.769–0.980), 0.852 (0.767–0.946), and 0.787 (0.709–0.874), and the hazard ratio was 0.994 (0.991–0.997) for every 1‐month increment of metformin use.

Conclusions

A reduced risk of hypertension is observed in metformin users in a dose‐response pattern.

Metformin does not reduce inflammation in diabetics with abdominal aortic aneurysm or at high risk of abdominal aortic aneurysm formation

INTRODUCTION

The protective effect of diabetes mellitus on abdominal aortic aneurysm formation and growth has been repeatedly observed in population studies but continues to be poorly understood. However, recent investigations have suggested that metformin, a staple antihyperglycemic medication, may be independently protective against abdominal aortic aneurysm formation and growth. Therefore, we describe the effect of metformin in abdominal aortic aneurysm and at-risk patients on markers of inflammation, the driver of early abdominal aortic aneurysm formation and growth.

METHODS

Peripheral blood was collected from patients previously diagnosed with abdominal aortic aneurysm or presenting for their U.S. Preventive Task Force-recommended abdominal aortic aneurysm screening. Plasma and circulating peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated using Ficoll density centrifugation. Circulating plasma inflammatory and regulatory cytokines were assessed with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. CD4⁺ cell phenotyping was performed using flow cytometric analysis and expressed as a proportion of total CD4⁺ cells. To determine the circulating antibody to self-antigen response, a modified enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was performed against antibodies to collagen type V and elastin fragments.

RESULTS

Peripheral blood was isolated from 266 patients without diabetes mellitus ( n=182), with diabetes mellitus not treated with metformin ( n=34), and with diabetes mellitus actively taking metformin ( n=50) from 2015 to 2017. We found no differences in the expression of Tr1, Th17, and Treg CD4⁺ fractions within diabetics ± metformin. When comparing inflammatory cytokines, we detected no differences in IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17, IL-23, IFN-γ, and TNF-α. Conversely, no differences were observed pertaining to the expression to regulatory cytokines IL-4, IL-10, IL-13, TSG-6, or TGF-β. Lastly, no differences in expression of collagen type V and elastin fragment antigen and/or antibodies were detected with metformin use in diabetics.

CONCLUSION

Metformin in diabetics at-risk for abdominal aortic aneurysm or diagnosed with abdominal aortic aneurysm does not seem to alter the peripheral inflammatory environment.

The Effects of Exenatide and Metformin on Endothelial Function in Newly Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients: A Case-Control Study

INTRODUCTION

Exenatide is a new antidiabetic glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist. In addition to its hypoglycemic effect, exenatide may have a potential protective benefit on vascular endothelial function. This study attempted to compare the effects of exenatide and traditional antidiabetic drug metformin treatment on endothelial function in overweight patients with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

Ninety overweight patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes were recruited; 45 patients received exenatide (Exe) treatment and 45 patients received metformin (Met) treatment for 12 weeks. The control groups included 37 overweight and 24 non-overweight individuals. The parameters of glucose and lipid metabolism and endothelial function were measured before and after treatment. Vascular endothelial dysfunction was measured by reactive hyperemia index.

RESULTS

Newly diagnosed patients with type 2 diabetes had more serious vascular endothelial dysfunction than both overweight and normal-weight control groups. The levels of body mass index, glucose, HbA1c, homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance, and homeostasis model assessment β-cell function were improved significantly by both exenatide and metformin treatment. Both exenatide and metformin treatment can improve vascular endothelial function (Exe group: 1.67 ± 0.52 vs 1.98 ± 0.67, P < 0.05; Met group: 1.68 ± 0.29 vs 1.82 ± 0.24, P < 0.05). Exenatide treatment was no less effective than metformin in improving endothelial function (0.31 ± 0.70 vs 0.13 ± 0.24, P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Newly diagnosed patients with type 2 diabetes may have vascular endothelial dysfunction. Both exenatide and metformin treatment can improve vascular endothelial dysfunction, and exenatide was no less effective than metformin treatment.

Metformin treatment decreases nitroxidative stress, restores nitric oxide bioavailability and endothelial function beyond glucose control

Reduction of nitric oxide (NO), a potent vasodilator, and an increase in cytotoxic peroxynitrite (ONOO^-) may be associated with the uncoupling of NO synthase (eNOS) and endothelial cell (EC) dysfunction. In addition to its effect on glucose control, metformin, may also directly benefit in the restoration of the function of eNOS and EC. Obese Zucker rats were administered vehicle or 300 mg/kg/day metformin for 4 weeks. NO concentration [NO] and ONOO^- concentration [ONOO^-] were measured in aortic and glomerular endothelial cells from Zucker rats in vitro. Compared with controls, aortic and glomerular endothelial [NO] was reduced by 32% and 41%, while [ONOO^-] release increased 79% and 69%, respectively. Metformin treatment increased aortic and glomerular endothelial [NO] by 37% and 57%, respectively, while decreasing [ONOO^-] by 32% and 34%, compared with vehicle-treated animals. Treatment with metformin significantly restored the balance in the [NO]/[ONOO^-] ratio with 101% and 138% increase for aortic and glomerular endothelial cells, respectively. Fasting glucose levels were not significantly changed. These findings indicate that metformin therapy has a direct and beneficial effect on arterial and renal EC function in obese rats, including enhanced NO release and reduced nitroxidative stress, beyond any effects on fasting glucose levels.

Computational analysis of interactions of oxidative stress and tetrahydrobiopterin reveals instability in eNOS coupling

In cardiovascular and neurovascular diseases, an increase in oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction has been reported. There is a reduction in tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), which is a cofactor for the endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), resulting in eNOS uncoupling. Studies of the enhancement of BH4 availability have reported mixed results for improvement in endothelial dysfunction. Our understanding of the complex interactions of eNOS uncoupling, oxidative stress and BH4 availability is not complete and a quantitative understanding of these interactions is required. In the present study, we developed a computational model for eNOS uncoupling that considers the temporal changes in biopterin ratio in the oxidative stress conditions. Using the model, we studied the effects of cellular oxidative stress (Qsupcell) representing the non-eNOS based oxidative stress sources and BH4 synthesis (QBH4) on eNOS NO production and biopterin ratio (BH4/total biopterins (TBP)). Model results showed that oxidative stress levels from 0.01 to 1nM·s-1 did not affect eNOS NO production and eNOS remained in coupled state. When the Qsupcell increased above 1nM·s-1, the eNOS coupling and NO production transitioned to an oscillatory state. Oxidative stress levels dynamically changed the biopterin ratio. When Qsupcell increased from 1 to 100nM·s-1, the endothelial cell NO production, TBP levels and biopterin ratio reduced significantly from 26.5 to 2nM·s-1, 3.75 to 0.002μM and 0.99 to 0.25, respectively. For an increase in BH4 synthesis, the improvement in NO production rate and BH4 levels were dependent on the extent of cellular oxidative stress. However, a 10-fold increase in QBH4 at higher oxidative stresses did not restore the NO-production rate and the biopterin ratio. Our mechanistic analysis reveals that a combination of enhancing tetrahydrobiopterin level with a reduction in cellular oxidative stress may result in significant improvement in endothelial dysfunction.

Redox regulation of gasotransmission in the vascular system: A focus on angiogenesis

Reactive oxygen species have emerged as key participants in a broad range of physiological and pathophysiological processes, not least within the vascular system. Diverse cellular functions which have been attributed to some of these pro-oxidants within the vasculature include the regulation of blood pressure, neovascularisation and vascular inflammation. We here highlight the emerging roles of the enzymatically-generated reaction oxygen species, O₂^- and H₂O₂, in the regulation of the functions of the gaseous signalling molecules: nitric oxide (NO), carbon monoxide (CO), and hydrogen sulphide (H₂S). These gasotransmitters are produced on demand from distinct enzymatic sources and in recent years it has become apparent that they are capable of mediating a number of homeostatic processes within the cardiovascular system including enhanced vasodilation, angiogenesis, wound healing and improved cardiac function following myocardial infarction. In common with O₂^- and/or H₂O₂ they signal by altering the functions of target proteins, either by the covalent modification of thiol groups or by direct binding to metal centres within metalloproteins, most notably haem proteins. The regulation of the enzymes which generate NO, CO and H₂S have been shown to be influenced at both the transcriptional and post-translational levels by redox-dependent mechanisms, while the activity and bioavailability of the gasotransmitters themselves are also subject to oxidative modification. Within vascular cells, the family of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidases (NAPDH oxidases/Noxs) have emerged as functionally significant sources of regulated O₂^- and H₂O₂ production and accordingly, direct associations between Nox-generated oxidants and the functions of specific gasotransmitters are beginning to be identified. This review focuses on the current knowledge of the redox-dependent mechanisms which regulate the generation and activity of these gases, with particular reference to their roles in angiogenesis.

Association between metformin prescription and growth rates of abdominal aortic aneurysms

Background

It has been suggested that diabetes medications, such as metformin, may have effects that inhibit abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) growth. The aim of this study was to examine the association of diabetes treatments with AAA growth in three patient cohorts.

Methods

AAA growth was studied using ultrasound surveillance in cohort 1, repeated CT in cohort 2 and more detailed repeat CT in cohort 3. Growth was estimated by the mean annual increase in maximum AAA diameter.

Results

A total of 1697 patients with an AAA were studied, of whom 118, 39 and 16 patients were prescribed metformin for the treatment of diabetes in cohorts 1, 2 and 3 respectively. Prescription of metformin was associated with a reduced likelihood of median or greater AAA growth in all three cohorts (cohort 1: adjusted odds ratio (OR) 0·59, 95 per cent c.i. 0·39 to 0·87, P = 0·008; cohort 2: adjusted OR 0·38, 0·18 to 0·80, P = 0·011; cohort 3: adjusted OR 0·13, 0·03 to 0·61, P = 0·010). No other diabetes treatment was significantly associated with AAA growth in any cohort.

Conclusion

These findings suggest a potential role for metformin in limiting AAA growth.

Activation of AMP-activated protein kinase by metformin ablates angiotensin II-induced endoplasmic reticulum stress and hypertension in mice in vivo

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Metformin, one of the most frequently prescribed medications for type 2 diabetes, reportedly exerts BP-lowering effects in patients with diabetes. However, the effects and underlying mechanisms of metformin on BP in non-diabetic conditions remain to be determined. The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of metformin on angiotensin II (Ang II) infusion-induced hypertension in vivo.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

The effects of metformin on BP were investigated in wild-type (WT) C57BL/6J mice and in mice lacking AMP-activated protein kinase α2 (AMPKα2) mice with or without Ang II infusion. Also, the effect of metformin on Ang II-induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress was explored in cultured human vascular smooth muscle cells (hVSMCs).

KEY RESULTS

Metformin markedly reduced BP in Ang II-infused WT mice but not in AMPKα2-deficient mice. In cultured hVSMCs, Ang II treatment resulted in inactivation of AMPK, as well as the subsequent induction of spliced X-box binding protein-1, phosphorylation of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2α and expression of glucose-regulated protein 78 kDa, representing three well-characterized ER stress biomarkers. Moreover, AMPK activation by metformin ablated Ang II-induced ER stress in hVSMCs. Mechanistically, metformin-activated AMPKα2 suppressed ER stress by increasing phospholamban phosphorylation.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

Metformin alleviates Ang II-triggered hypertension in mice by activating AMPKα2, which mediates phospholamban phosphorylation and inhibits Ang II-induced ER stress in vascular smooth muscle cells.

Macro- and microvascular endothelial dysfunction in diabetes

Endothelial cells, as well as their major products nitric oxide (NO) and prostacyclin, play a key role in the regulation of vascular homeostasis. Diabetes mellitus is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Diabetes-induced endothelial dysfunction is a critical and initiating factor in the genesis of diabetic vascular complications. The present review focuses on both large blood vessels and the microvasculature. The endothelial dysfunction in diabetic macrovascular complications is characterized by reduced NO bioavailability, poorly compensated for by increased production of prostacyclin and/or endothelium-dependent hyperpolarizations, and increased production or action of endothelium-derived vasoconstrictors. The endothelial dysfunction of microvascular complications is primarily characterized by decreased release of NO, enhanced oxidative stress, increased production of inflammatory factors, abnormal angiogenesis, and impaired endothelial repair. In addition, non-coding RNAs (microRNAs) have emerged as participating in numerous cellular processes. Thus, this reviews pays special attention to microRNAs and their modulatory role in diabetes-induced vascular dysfunction. Some therapeutic strategies for preventing and restoring diabetic endothelial dysfunction are also highlighted.