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Farooqui Z, Banday AA. Angiotensin 1-7 exerts antioxidant effects, suppresses Mammalian Target of Rapamycin (mTOR) signaling, and inhibits apoptosis in renal proximal tubular cells. Peptides 2024; 172:171136. [PMID: 38104660 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2023.171136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Oxidative stress is one of the crucial pathogenic factors involved in the progression of renal injury. Angiotensin (ANG) 1-7, a bioactive heptapeptide of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system is known to exert antioxidant and nephroprotective effects. However, the cellular mechanism involved in the beneficial effect of ANG 1-7 is not clear. Here, we assessed ANG 1-7's effect on H2O2-mediated oxidative damage in the human proximal tubular (HK2) cells and the underlying mechanisms. HK2 cells were incubated with H2O2 (500 µM, 4 h) pre-treated with and without ANG 1-7 (100 nM, 24 h), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, mitochondrial dysfunction, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, apoptosis and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling were determined H2O2 induced an increase in oxidative and ER stress together with loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, decreased ATP levels, and induced apoptosis in HK2 cells. Moreover, H2O2 treatment resulted in the activation of mTOR complexes (mTORC1 and mTORC2) in these cells. ANG 1-7 significantly attenuated H2O2-induced ROS generation, ER stress and apoptosis, and also improved mitochondrial function. Additionally, pre-treatment of ANG 1-7 inhibited the H2O2-mediated mTOR activation. These effects of ANG 1-7 were blocked by co-treatment with the Mas receptor (MasR) inhibitor, A779. Furthermore, transfection of HK2 cells with Mas receptor siRNA also abolished the inhibitory effect of ANG 1-7 on mTOR activities. In conclusion, ANG 1-7 via MasR mitigates oxidative stress, suppresses mTOR signaling, and protects HK2 cells from ER stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and apoptosis, suggesting ANG 1-7-MasR renoprotective effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeba Farooqui
- Heart and Kidney Institute, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Anees Ahmad Banday
- Heart and Kidney Institute, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA.
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2
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Juan YH, Yu YL, Tsai YP, Lee CC, Chen YS, Ting YH, Tsai JP, Hsieh YH. Alpha-mangostin alleviate renal interstitial fibrosis via suppression of TGF-β1/Smad/ERK signaling axis in vitro and in vivo. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 218:115935. [PMID: 37989414 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
α-mangostin (α-MG), a natural derivative of coumarin, exhibits anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-fibrotic effects. This study aimed to determine the effect of α-MG treatment in mediating the process of renal interstitial fibrosis. We found that α-MG could alleviate tubule-interstitial damage and decrease fibrotic (α-smooth muscle actin [α-SMA], fibronectin, and collagen I), and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) protein (N-cadherin, Snail, Slug, TGF-β1 and vimentin) expression in unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) mice with chronic kidney disease. α-MG significantly decreased motility as well as inhibited expression of fibrotic- and EMT-related proteins in TGF-β1-induced HK2 cells. To clarify the molecular mechanisms of α-MG in reducing renal interstitial fibrosis, we used a MEK inhibitor (U0126) or Smad inhibitor (SB431542) cotreatment with α-MG. This is the first study is to demonstrate the antifibrotic effects of α-MG by targeting the TGF-β1/ERK/Smad-mediated EMT signaling pathway, is even more effective against renal interstitial fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Hsu Juan
- Department of Chinese Medicine, Dalin Tzu Chi hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Dalin, Chiayi, Taiwan; School of Post-Baccalaureate Chinese Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien City, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Luen Yu
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan; Ph.D. Program for Translational Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan; Institute of Translational Medicine and New Drug Development, Taichung, Taiwan; Drug Development Center, Research Center for Cancer Biology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan; Center for Molecular Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan; Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yuan-Pei Tsai
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chu-Che Lee
- Department of Medicine Research, Buddhist Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Yong-Syuan Chen
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Hsuan Ting
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jen-Pi Tsai
- School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien City, Taiwan; Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Chiayi, Taiwan.
| | - Yi-Hsien Hsieh
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.
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3
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Caputo I, Bertoldi G, Driussi G, Cacciapuoti M, Calò LA. The RAAS Goodfellas in Cardiovascular System. J Clin Med 2023; 12:6873. [PMID: 37959338 PMCID: PMC10649249 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12216873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last two decades, the study of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) has revealed a counterregulatory protective axis. This protective arm is characterized by ACE2/Ang 1-7/MasR and Ang 1-9 that largely counteracts the classic arm of the RAAS mediated by ACE/Ang II/AT1R/aldosterone and plays an important role in the prevention of inflammation, oxidative stress, hypertension, and cardiovascular remodeling. A growing body of evidence suggests that enhancement of this counterregulatory arm of RAAS represents an important therapeutic approach to facing cardiovascular comorbidities. In this review, we provide an overview of the beneficial effects of ACE2, Ang 1-7/MasR, and Ang 1-9 in the context of oxidative stress, vascular dysfunction, and organ damage.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Lorenzo A. Calò
- Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation Unit, Department of Medicine—DIMED, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128 Padova, Italy; (I.C.); (G.B.); (G.D.); (M.C.)
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4
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Current advances on the therapeutic potential of pinocembrin: An updated review. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 157:114032. [PMID: 36481404 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.114032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pinocembrin (5,7-dihydroxyflavone) is a major flavonoid found in many plants, fungi and hive products, mainly honey and propolis. Several in vitro and preclinical studies revealed numerous pharmacological activities of pinocembrin including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, neuroprotective, cardioprotective and anticancer activities. Here, we comprehensively review and critically analyze the studies carried out on pinocembrin. We also discuss its potential mechanisms of action, bioavailability, toxicity, and clinical investigations. The wide therapeutic window of pinocembrin makes it a promising drug candidate for many clinical applications. We recommend some future perspectives to improve its pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties for better delivery that may also lead to new therapeutic advances.
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5
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Ticagrelor Protects against Sepsis-Induced Acute Kidney Injury through an Adenosine Receptor-Dependent Pathway. Curr Med Sci 2022; 42:505-512. [DOI: 10.1007/s11596-022-2516-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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6
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Correa BHM, Becari L, Peliky Fontes MA, Simões-e-Silva AC, Kangussu LM. Involvement of the Renin-Angiotensin System in Stress: State of the Art and Research Perspectives. Curr Neuropharmacol 2022; 20:1212-1228. [PMID: 34554902 PMCID: PMC9886820 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x19666210719142300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Along with other canonical systems, the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) has shown important roles in stress. This system is a complex regulatory proteolytic cascade composed of various enzymes, peptides, and receptors. Besides the classical (ACE/Ang II/AT1 receptor) and the counter-regulatory (ACE2/Ang-(1-7)/Mas receptor) RAS axes, evidence indicates that nonclassical components, including Ang III, Ang IV, AT2 and AT4, can also be involved in stress. OBJECTIVE AND METHODS This comprehensive review summarizes the current knowledge on the participation of RAS components in different adverse environmental stimuli stressors, including air jet stress, cage switch stress, restraint stress, chronic unpredictable stress, neonatal isolation stress, and post-traumatic stress disorder. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION In general, activation of the classical RAS axis potentiates stress-related cardiovascular, endocrine, and behavioral responses, while the stimulation of the counter-regulatory axis attenuates these effects. Pharmacological modulation in both axes is optimistic, offering promising perspectives for stress-related disorders treatment. In this regard, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers are potential candidates already available since they block the classical axis, activate the counter-regulatory axis, and are safe and efficient drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernardo H. M. Correa
- Department of Morphology, Biological Sciences Institute, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil;
| | - Luca Becari
- Department of Morphology, Biological Sciences Institute, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil;
| | - Marco Antônio Peliky Fontes
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics - Biological Sciences Institute, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil;
| | - Ana Cristina Simões-e-Silva
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Lucas M. Kangussu
- Department of Morphology, Biological Sciences Institute, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil; ,Address correspondence to this author at the Department of Morphology, Biological Sciences Institute – Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Tel: (+55-31) 3409-2772; E-mail:
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7
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Temiz-Resitoglu M, Guden DS, Senol SP, Vezir O, Sucu N, Kibar D, Yılmaz SN, Tunctan B, Malik KU, Sahan-Firat S. Pharmacological Inhibition of Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Attenuates Deoxycorticosterone Acetate Salt-Induced Hypertension and Related Pathophysiology: Regulation of Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Cardiovascular Hypertrophy in Male Rats. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2022; 79:355-367. [PMID: 34840266 DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0000000000001187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The present study aimed to explore the contribution of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) in deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA) salt-induced hypertension and related pathophysiological changes in cardiovascular and renal tissues. DOCA salt loading resulted in an increase in systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and mean blood pressure along with the activity of ribosomal protein S6, the effector protein of mTOR. Treatment with rapamycin, the selective inhibitor of mTOR, initiated at the fourth week of DOCA- salt administration normalized the systolic blood pressure and attenuated ribosomal protein S6 activity in the heart, aorta, and kidney. Cardiac and vascular hypertrophy, oxidative stress, and infiltration of macrophages (CD68+), the marker of inflammation, were also reduced in rapamycin-treated, DOCA-salt, hypertensive rats. In addition, renal hypertrophy and dysfunction were also reduced with rapamycin-treated hypertensive rats. Moreover, these pathophysiological changes in DOCA-salt hypertensive rats were associated with increased NADPH oxidase (NOX) activity, gp91phox (formerly NOX2) expression, ERK1/2, and p38 MAPK activities in the heart, aorta, and kidney were minimized by rapamycin. These data indicate that mTOR plays an important role in regulating blood pressure and the development of cardiovascular and renal pathophysiological changes, most likely due to increased NOX expression/activity, ERK1/2, and p38 MAPK activity with macrophages infiltration in the heart, kidney, and aorta. Pharmacological inhibition of mTOR and related signaling pathways could serve as a novel target for the treatment of hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Demet S Guden
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Sefika P Senol
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Ozden Vezir
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Mersin State Hospital, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Nehir Sucu
- Departments of Cardiovascular Surgery; and
| | - Deniz Kibar
- Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey ; and
| | - Sakir N Yılmaz
- Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey ; and
| | - Bahar Tunctan
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Kafait U Malik
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee, Center for Health Sciences, Memphis, TN
| | - Seyhan Sahan-Firat
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
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8
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MicroRNA-122-5p promotes renal fibrosis and injury in spontaneously hypertensive rats by targeting FOXO3. Exp Cell Res 2022; 411:113017. [PMID: 34998813 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2022.113017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Hypertensive renal injury is accompanied by tubular interstitial fibrosis leading to increased risk for renal failure. This study aimed to explore the influences of miR-122-5p in hypertension-mediated renal fibrosis and damage. 14-week-old male SHR and WKY rats were randomly assigned to treat with rAAV-miR-122-5p or rAAV-GFP for 8 weeks. There were marked increases in miR-122-5p and Kim-1 levels and decreases in FOXO3 and SIRT6 levels in hypertensive rats. Transfection with rAAV-miR-122-5p triggered exacerbation of renal fibrosis, apoptosis and inflammatory injury in SHR, associated with downregulated levels of FOXO3, SIRT6, ATG5 and BNIP3 as well as upregulated expression of Kim-1, NOX4, CTGF, and TGF-β1. In cultured primary mouse renal tubular interstitial fibroblasts, exposure to angiotensin II resulted in obvious downregulation of FOXO3, SIRT6, ATG5, BNIP3 and nitric oxide levels as well as augmented cellular migration, oxidative stress, and inflammation, which were exacerbated by miR-122-5p mimic while rescued by miR-122-5p inhibitor and rhFOXO3, respectively. Notably, knockdown of FOXO3 strikingly blunted cellular protective effects of miR-122-5p inhibitor. In summary, miR-122-5p augments renal fibrosis, inflammatory and oxidant injury in hypertensive rats by suppressing the expression of FOXO3. Pharmacological inhibition of miR-122-5p has potential therapeutic significance for hypertensive renal injury and fibrosis-related kidney diseases.
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9
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Foe and friend in the COVID-19-associated acute kidney injury: an insight on intrarenal renin-angiotensin system. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2021; 54:1-11. [PMID: 35130610 PMCID: PMC9828085 DOI: 10.3724/abbs.2021002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the first reported case in December of 2019, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has became an international public health emergency. So far, there are more than 228,206,384 confirmed cases including 4,687,066 deaths. Kidney with high expression of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is one of the extrapulmonary target organs affected in patients with COVID-19. Acute kidney injury (AKI) is one of the independent risk factors for the death of COVID-19 patients. The imbalance between ACE2-Ang(1-7)-MasR and ACE-Ang II-AT1R axis in the kidney may contribute to COVID-19-associated AKI. Although series of research have shown the inconsistent effects of multiple common RAS inhibitors on ACE2 expression and enzyme activity, most of the retrospective cohort studies indicated the safety and protective effects of ACEI/ARB in COVID-19 patients. This review article highlights the current knowledge on the possible involvement of intrarenal RAS in COVID-19-associated AKI with a primary focus on the opposing effects of ACE2-Ang(1-7)-MasR and ACE-Ang II-AT1R signaling in the kidney. Human recombinant soluble ACE2 or ACE2 variants with preserved ACE2-enzymatic activity may be the best options to improve COVID-19-associated AKI.
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10
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Chen F, Zhang Y, Li X, Li W, Liu X, Xue X. The Impact of ACE2 Polymorphisms on COVID-19 Disease: Susceptibility, Severity, and Therapy. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:753721. [PMID: 34746028 PMCID: PMC8569405 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.753721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has currently spread worldwide, leading to high morbidity and mortality. As the putative receptor of SARS-CoV-2, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is widely distributed in various tissues and organs of the human body. Simultaneously, ACE2 acts as the physiological counterbalance of ACE providing homeostatic regulation of circulating angiotensin II levels. Given that some ACE2 variants are known to cause an increase in the ligand-receptor affinity, their roles in acquisition, progression and severity of COVID-19 disease have aroused widespread concerns. Therefore, we summarized the latest literature and explored how ACE2 variants and epigenetic factors influence an individual’s susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection and disease outcome in aspects of ethnicity, gender and age. Meanwhile, the possible mechanisms for these phenomena were discussed. Notably, recombinant human ACE2 and ACE2-derived peptides may have special benefits for combating SARS-CoV-2 variants and further studies are warranted to confirm their effects in later stages of the disease process. As the uncertainty regarding the severity and transmissibility of disease rises, a more in-depth understanding of the host genetics and functional characteristics of ACE2 variants will not only help explain individual clinical differences of the disease, but also contribute to providing effective measures to develop solutions and manage future outbreaks of SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Chen
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Yankun Zhang
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Xiaoyun Li
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Wen Li
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Xuan Liu
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Xinyu Xue
- Department of Physiology, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
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11
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Merino JJ, Macho-González A, Benedi J, González MP. Neurological manifestations of COVID-19 in patients: from path physiology to therapy. Neurol Sci 2021; 42:4867-4879. [PMID: 34417704 PMCID: PMC8379040 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-021-05505-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Coronavirus is a family of ARN positive single-stranded belonging to the family of Coronaviridae. There are several families of coronavirus that transmit more or less serious diseases. However, the so-called coronavirus-19 (SARS-CoV2) is the one that is currently causing most of the problems; in fact, biological dysfunctions that this virus causes provoke damage in various organs, from the lung to the heart, the kidney, the circulatory system, and even the brain. The neurological manifestations caused by viral infection, as well as the hypercoagulopathy and systemic inflammation, have been reported in several studies. In this review, we update the neurological mechanisms by which coronavirus-19 causes neurological manifestation in patients such as encephalomyelitis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, lacunars infarcts, neuropsychiatry disorders such as anxiety and depression, and vascular alterations. This review explains (a) the possible pathways by which coronavirus-19 can induce the different neurological manifestations, (b) the strategies used by the virus to cross the barrier system, (c) how the immune system responds to the infection, and (d) the treatment than can be administered to the COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- J J Merino
- Departamento de Farmacología, Farmacognosia y Botánica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Madrid, Spain
| | - A Macho-González
- Departamento de Farmacología, Farmacognosia y Botánica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Madrid, Spain
| | - J Benedi
- Departamento de Farmacología, Farmacognosia y Botánica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Madrid, Spain
| | - M P González
- Departamento de Farmacología, Farmacognosia y Botánica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Madrid, Spain.
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12
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Dhangadamajhi G, Mishra S, Mukherjee P. Association of ApoE isoforms with COVID-19 outcomes: a world-wide epidemiological study. Hum Cell 2021; 34:1932-1933. [PMID: 34406629 PMCID: PMC8371422 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-021-00596-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gunanidhi Dhangadamajhi
- Department of Biotechnology, Maharaja Sriram Chandra Bhanja Deo University (Erstwhile North Orissa University), Mayurbhanj, Baripada, Odisha, 757003, India.
| | - Swayamparna Mishra
- Department of Biotechnology, Maharaja Sriram Chandra Bhanja Deo University (Erstwhile North Orissa University), Mayurbhanj, Baripada, Odisha, 757003, India
| | - Payal Mukherjee
- Department of Biotechnology, Maharaja Sriram Chandra Bhanja Deo University (Erstwhile North Orissa University), Mayurbhanj, Baripada, Odisha, 757003, India
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13
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Cong C, Yuan X, Hu Y, Chen W, Wang Y, Tao L. Sinigrin attenuates angiotensin II‑induced kidney injury by inactivating nuclear factor‑κB and extracellular signal‑regulated kinase signaling in vivo and in vitro. Int J Mol Med 2021; 48:161. [PMID: 34278443 PMCID: PMC8262655 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2021.4994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study investigated the function of sinigrin in angiotensin II (Ang II)‑induced renal damage. The results demonstrated that systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were increased in Ang II‑challenged rats, and sinigrin treatment inhibited their increase. The levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine (SCR) were increased by Ang II in the rats, and these were reversed by sinigrin in a dose‑dependent manner. In addition, the Ang II‑induced elevation of urinary protein levels was inhibited by sinigrin treatment. Glomerular basement membrane thickness and ECM degradation markers, such as collagen I, collagen IV and fibronectin, were suppressed by sinigrin in the Ang II‑challenged rats. Moreover, the levels of inflammatory regulators, including tumor necrosis factor‑α (TNF‑α), interleukin‑6 (IL‑6) and monocyte chemoattractant protein‑1 (MCP‑1), were reduced following sinigrin treatment of the Ang II‑challenged rats and in Ang II‑exposed proximal tubule epithelial cells. Furthermore, the superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) levels were downregulated, whereas the malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were upregulated by Ang II; these effects were reversed by sinigrin treatment in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistically, sinigrin inhibited the Ang II‑induced phosphorylation of ERK, p65 and IκBα. Thus, sinigrin attenuated Ang II‑induced renal injury by inactivating ERK and NF‑κB signaling. Sinigrin may thus prove to be a potential candidate for the treatment of hypertension‑induced kidney damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Cong
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250014, P.R. China
| | - Xiaohong Yuan
- Department of Traumatic Orthopaedics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University (Affiliated Hospital of Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences), Jinan, Shandong 250031, P.R. China
| | - Ying Hu
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250014, P.R. China
| | - Wenjing Chen
- Department of Science and Technology, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250014, P.R. China
| | - Yong Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250014, P.R. China
| | - Lei Tao
- Department of Nephrology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University (Affiliated Hospital of Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences), Jinan, Shandong 250031, P.R. China
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14
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Suh SH, Ma SK, Kim SW, Bae EH. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 and kidney diseases in the era of coronavirus disease 2019. Korean J Intern Med 2021; 36:247-262. [PMID: 33617712 PMCID: PMC7969072 DOI: 10.3904/kjim.2020.355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In the decades since the discovery of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), its protective role in terms of antagonizing activation of the classical renin-angiotensin system (RAS) axis has been recognized in clinical and experimental studies on kidney and cardiovascular diseases. The effects of ACE inhibitor/angiotensin type 1 receptor blockers (ACEi/ARBs) on ACE2-angiotensin-(1-7) (Ang- (1-7))-Mas receptor (MasR) axis activation has encouraged the use of such blockers in patients with kidney and cardiovascular diseases, until the emergence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The previously unchallenged functions of the ACE2-Ang-(1-7)-MasR axis and ACEi/ARBs are being re-evaluated in the era of COVID-19; the hypothesis is that ACEi/ARBs may increase the risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection by upregulating the human ACE2 receptor expression level. In this review, we examine ACE2 molecular structure, function (as an enzyme of the RAS), and distribution. We explore the roles played by ACE2 in kidney, cardiovascular, and pulmonary diseases, highlighting studies that defined the benefits imparted when ACEi/ARBs activated the local ACE2- Ang-(1-7)-MasR axis. Finally, the question of whether ACEi/ARBs therapies should be stopped in COVID-19-infected patients will be reviewed by reference to the available evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang Heon Suh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Seong Kwon Ma
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Soo Wan Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Eun Hui Bae
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
- Correspondence to Eun Hui Bae, M.D. Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, 42 Jebong-ro, Dong-gu, Gwangju 61469, Korea Tel: +82-62-220-6503 Fax: +82-62-225-8578 E-mail:
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15
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Triposkiadis F, Starling RC, Xanthopoulos A, Butler J, Boudoulas H. The Counter Regulatory Axis of the Lung Renin-Angiotensin System in Severe COVID-19: Pathophysiology and Clinical Implications. Heart Lung Circ 2020; 30:786-794. [PMID: 33454213 PMCID: PMC7831862 DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2020.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Revised: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV)-2, which is responsible for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), uses angiotensin (ANG)-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) as the entrance receptor. Although most COVID-19 cases are mild, some are severe or critical, predominantly due to acute lung injury. It has been widely accepted that a counter regulatory renin-angiotensin system (RAS) axis including the ACE2/ANG [1-7]/Mas protects the lungs from acute lung injury. However, recent evidence suggests that the generation of protective ANG [1-7] in the lungs is predominantly mediated by proinflammatory prolyl oligopeptidase (POP), which has been repeatedly demonstrated to be involved in lung pathology. This review contends that acute lung injury in severe COVID-19 is characterised by a) ACE2 downregulation and malfunction (inflammatory signalling) due to viral occupation, and b) dysregulation of the protective RAS axis, predominantly due to increased activity of proinflammatory POP. It follows that a reasonable treatment strategy in COVID-19-related acute lung injury would be delivering functional recombinant (r) ACE2 forms to trap the virus. Additionally, or alternatively to rACE2 delivery, the potential benefits resulting from lowering POP activity should also be explored. These treatment strategies deserve further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Randall C Starling
- Kaufman Center for Heart Failure and Recovery, Heart, Vascular, and Thoracic Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Andrew Xanthopoulos
- Department of Cardiology, Larissa University General Hospital, Larissa, Greece
| | - Javed Butler
- Department of Medicine, University of Mississippi, Jackson, MS, USA
| | - Harisios Boudoulas
- Department of Medicine/Cardiovascular Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
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16
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Bitker L, Patel SK, Bittar I, Eastwood GM, Bellomo R, Burrell LM. Reduced urinary levels of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 activity predict acute kidney injury in critically ill patients. CRIT CARE RESUSC 2020; 22:344-354. [PMID: 38046883 PMCID: PMC10692539 DOI: 10.51893/2020.4.oa7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Objective: Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 activity reflects non-classical renin-angiotensin system upregulation. We assessed the association of urinary angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (uACE2) activity with acute kidney injury (AKI). Design, setting and participants: A prospective observational study in which we measured uACE2 activity in 105 critically ill patients at risk of AKI. We report AKI stage 2 or 3 at 12 hours of urine collection (AKI12h) and AKI stage 2 or 3 at any time during intensive care unit stay in patients free from any stage of AKI at inclusion (AKIICU). AKI prediction was assessed using area under the receiver-operating characteristics curve (AUROC) and net reclassification indices (NRIs). Main outcome measure: AKI stage 2 or 3 at 12 hours of urine collection. Results: Within 12 hours of inclusion, 32 of 105 patients (30%) had developed AKI12h. Corrected uACE2 activity was significantly higher in patients without AKI12h compared with those with AKI12h (median [interquartile range], 13 [6-24] v 7 [4-10] pmol/min/mL per mmol/L of urine creatinine; P < 0.01). A 10-unit increase in uACE2 was associated with a 28% decrease in AKI12h risk (odds ratio [95% CI], 0.72 [0.46-0.97]). During intensive care unit admission, 39 of 76 patients (51%) developed AKIICU. uACE2 had an AUROC for the prediction of AKI12h of 0.68 (95% CI, 0.57-0.79), and correctly reclassified 28% of patients (positive NRI) to AKI12h. Patients with uACE2 > 8.7 pmol/min/mL per mmol/L of urine creatinine had a significantly lower risk of AKIICU on log-rank analysis (52% v 84%; P < 0.01). Conclusions: Higher uACE2 activity was associated with a decreased risk of AKI stage 2 or 3. Our findings support future evaluations of the role of the non-classical renin-angiotensin system during AKI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurent Bitker
- Department of Intensive Care, Austin Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Université de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Sheila K. Patel
- Department of Medicine, Austin Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Intissar Bittar
- Department of Pathology, Austin Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Glenn M. Eastwood
- Department of Intensive Care, Austin Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Rinaldo Bellomo
- Department of Intensive Care, Austin Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Integrated Critical Care, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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17
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Miao H, Wu XQ, Zhang DD, Wang YN, Guo Y, Li P, Xiong Q, Zhao YY. Deciphering the cellular mechanisms underlying fibrosis-associated diseases and therapeutic avenues. Pharmacol Res 2020; 163:105316. [PMID: 33248198 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis is the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix components, which results in disruption of tissue architecture and loss of organ function. Fibrosis leads to high morbidity and mortality worldwide, mainly due to the lack of effective therapeutic strategies against fibrosis. It is generally accepted that fibrosis occurs during an aberrant wound healing process and shares a common pathogenesis across different organs such as the heart, liver, kidney, and lung. A better understanding of the fibrosis-related cellular and molecular mechanisms will be helpful for development of targeted drug therapies. Extensive studies revealed that numerous mediators contributed to fibrogenesis, suggesting that targeting these mediators may be an effective therapeutic strategy for antifibrosis. In this review, we describe a number of mediators involved in tissue fibrosis, including aryl hydrocarbon receptor, Yes-associated protein, cannabinoid receptors, angiopoietin-like protein 2, high mobility group box 1, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor-1, SH2 domain-containing phosphatase-2, and long non-coding RNAs, with the goal that drugs targeting these important mediators might exhibit a beneficial effect on antifibrosis. In addition, these mediators show profibrotic effects on multiple tissues, suggesting that targeting these mediators will exert antifibrotic effects on different organs. Furthermore, we present a variety of compounds that exhibit therapeutic effects against fibrosis. This review suggests therapeutic avenues for targeting organ fibrosis and concurrently identifies challenges and opportunities for designing new therapeutic strategies against fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Miao
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Xia-Qing Wu
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Dan-Dan Zhang
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Yan-Ni Wang
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Yan Guo
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, 1700 Lomas Blvd NE, Albuquerque, 87131, USA
| | - Ping Li
- Beijing Key Lab for Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases, Institute of Clinical Medical Science, Department of Nephrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Qingping Xiong
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Regional Resource Exploitation and Medicinal Research, Huaiyin Institute of Technology, Huai'an, 223003, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Ying-Yong Zhao
- Faculty of Life Science & Medicine, Northwest University, No. 229 Taibai North Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China.
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18
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Payandeh Z, Rahbar MR, Jahangiri A, Hashemi ZS, Zakeri A, Jafarisani M, Rasaee MJ, Khalili S. Design of an engineered ACE2 as a novel therapeutics against COVID-19. J Theor Biol 2020; 505:110425. [PMID: 32735992 PMCID: PMC7387268 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtbi.2020.110425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The interaction between the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) plays a pivotal role in virus entry into the host cells. Since recombinant ACE2 protein has been suggested as an anti-SARS-CoV-2 therapeutic agent, this study was conducted to design an ACE2 protein with more desirable properties. In this regard, the amino acids with central roles in enzymatic activity of the ACE2 were substituted. Moreover, saturation mutagenesis at the interaction interface between the ACE2 and RBD was performed to increase their interaction affinity. The best mutations to increase the structural and thermal stability of the ACE2 were also selected based on B factors and mutation effects. The obtained resulted revealed that the Arg273Gln and Thr445Gly mutation have drastically reduced the binding affinity of the angiotensin-II into the active site of ACE2. The Thr27Arg mutation was determined to be the most potent mutation to increase the binding affinity. The Asp427Arg mutation was done to decrease the flexibility of the region with high B factor. The Pro451Met mutation along with the Gly448Trp mutation was predicted to increase the thermodynamic stability and thermostability of the ACE2. The designed therapeutic ACE2 would have no enzymatic activity while it could bear stronger interaction with Spike glycoprotein of the SARS-CoV-2. Moreover, decreased in vivo enzymatic degradation would be anticipated due to increased thermostability. This engineered ACE2 could be exploited as a novel therapeutic agent against COVID-19 after necessary evaluations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Payandeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Rahbar
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Abolfazl Jahangiri
- Applied Microbiology Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Sadat Hashemi
- ATMP Department, Breast Cancer Research Center, Motamed Cancer Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Zakeri
- Department of Biology Sciences, Shahid Rajaee Teacher Training University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Moslem Jafarisani
- Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Mohammad Javad Rasaee
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeed Khalili
- Department of Biology Sciences, Shahid Rajaee Teacher Training University, Tehran, Iran.
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19
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Luo H, Wu PF, Cao Y, Jin M, Shen TT, Wang J, Huang JG, Han QQ, He JG, Deng SL, Ni L, Hu ZL, Long LH, Wang F, Chen JG. Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitor Rapidly Ameliorates Depressive-Type Behaviors via Bradykinin-Dependent Activation of Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Complex 1. Biol Psychiatry 2020; 88:415-425. [PMID: 32220499 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2020.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2019] [Revised: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) are widely prescribed antihypertensive agents. Intriguingly, case reports and clinical trials have indicated that ACEIs, including captopril and lisinopril, may have a rapid mood-elevating effect in certain patients, but few experimental studies have investigated their value as fast-onset antidepressants. METHODS The present study consisted of a series of experiments using biochemical assays, immunohistochemistry, and behavioral techniques to examine the effect and mechanism of captopril on depressive-like behavior in 2 animal models, the chronic unpredictable stress model and the chronic social defeat stress model. RESULTS Captopril (19.5 or 39 mg/kg, intraperitoneal injection) exerted rapid antidepressant activity in mice treated under the chronic unpredictable stress model and mice treated under the chronic social defeat stress model. Pharmacokinetic analysis revealed that captopril crossed the blood-brain barrier and that lisinopril, another ACEI with better blood-brain barrier permeability, exerted a faster and longer-lasting effect at a same molar equivalent dose. This antidepressant effect seemed to be independent of the renin-angiotensin system, but dependent on the bradykinin (BK) system, since the decreased BK detected in the stressed mice could be reversed by captopril. The hypofunction of the downstream effector of BK, Cdc42 (cell division control protein 42) homolog, contributed to the stress-induced loss of dendritic spines, which was rapidly reversed by captopril via activating the mTORC1 (mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1) pathway. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that the BK-dependent activation of mTORC1 may represent a promising mechanism underlying antidepressant pharmacology. Considering their affordability and availability, ACEIs may emerge as a novel fast-onset antidepressant, especially for patients with comorbid depression and hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Luo
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Peng-Fei Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Key Laboratory of Neurological Diseases (HUST), Ministry of Education of China, Wuhan, Hubei, China; The Key Laboratory for Drug Target Researches and Pharmacodynamic Evaluation of Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, The Institute of Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yu Cao
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Ming Jin
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Tian-Tian Shen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Ji Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jian-Geng Huang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Qian-Qian Han
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jin-Gang He
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Si-Long Deng
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Lan Ni
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Zhuang-Li Hu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Key Laboratory of Neurological Diseases (HUST), Ministry of Education of China, Wuhan, Hubei, China; The Key Laboratory for Drug Target Researches and Pharmacodynamic Evaluation of Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Li-Hong Long
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Key Laboratory of Neurological Diseases (HUST), Ministry of Education of China, Wuhan, Hubei, China; The Key Laboratory for Drug Target Researches and Pharmacodynamic Evaluation of Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, The Institute of Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Key Laboratory of Neurological Diseases (HUST), Ministry of Education of China, Wuhan, Hubei, China; The Key Laboratory for Drug Target Researches and Pharmacodynamic Evaluation of Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, The Institute of Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China; The Collaborative-Innovation Center for Brain Science, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
| | - Jian-Guo Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Key Laboratory of Neurological Diseases (HUST), Ministry of Education of China, Wuhan, Hubei, China; The Key Laboratory for Drug Target Researches and Pharmacodynamic Evaluation of Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, The Institute of Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China; The Collaborative-Innovation Center for Brain Science, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
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20
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Abstract
The outbreak of COVID-19 pneumonia caused by a new coronavirus (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, SARS-CoV-2) is posing a global health emergency and has led to more than 380,000 deaths worldwide. The cell entry of SARS-CoV-2 depends on two host proteins angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2). There is currently no vaccine available and also no effective drug for the treatment of COVID-19. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) as a novel gasotransmitter has been shown to protect against lung damage via its anti-inflammation, antioxidative stress, antiviral, prosurvival, and antiaging effects. In light of the research advances on H2S signaling in biology and medicine, this review proposed H2S as a potential defense against COVID-19. It is suggested that H2S may block SARS-CoV-2 entry into host cells by interfering with ACE2 and TMPRSS2, inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication by attenuating virus assembly/release, and protect SARS-CoV-2-induced lung damage by suppressing immune response and inflammation development. Preclinical studies and clinical trials with slow-releasing H2S donor(s) or the activators of endogenous H2S-generating enzymes should be considered as a preventative treatment or therapy for COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangdong Yang
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research Unit, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada
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21
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Lei C, Qian K, Li T, Zhang S, Fu W, Ding M, Hu S. Neutralization of SARS-CoV-2 spike pseudotyped virus by recombinant ACE2-Ig. Nat Commun 2020; 11:2070. [PMID: 32332765 PMCID: PMC7265355 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-16048-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 298] [Impact Index Per Article: 74.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) emerged in Wuhan, China, at the end of 2019, and there are currently no specific antiviral treatments or vaccines available. SARS-CoV-2 has been shown to use the same cell entry receptor as SARS-CoV, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). In this report, we generate a recombinant protein by connecting the extracellular domain of human ACE2 to the Fc region of the human immunoglobulin IgG1. A fusion protein containing an ACE2 mutant with low catalytic activity is also used in this study. The fusion proteins are then characterized. Both fusion proteins have a high binding affinity for the receptor-binding domains of SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 and exhibit desirable pharmacological properties in mice. Moreover, the fusion proteins neutralize virus pseudotyped with SARS-CoV or SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins in vitro. As these fusion proteins exhibit cross-reactivity against coronaviruses, they have potential applications in the diagnosis, prophylaxis, and treatment of SARS-CoV-2. SARS-CoV-2 uses ACE2 as the entry receptor. Here, the authors show that an ACE2-Ig fusion protein inhibits entry of virus pseudotyped with the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, show differential binding kinetics of SARS-CoV and SARSCoV-2 spike proteins to ACE2, and determine pharmakocinetic parameters of ACE2-Ig in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changhai Lei
- Department of Biophysics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.,Team SMMU-China of the International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) competition, Department of Biophysics, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Kewen Qian
- Department of Biophysics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.,Team SMMU-China of the International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) competition, Department of Biophysics, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Tian Li
- Department of Biophysics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.,Team SMMU-China of the International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) competition, Department of Biophysics, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Sheng Zhang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Wenyan Fu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Min Ding
- Pharchoice Therapeutics, Inc, Shanghai, 201406, China
| | - Shi Hu
- Department of Biophysics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China. .,Team SMMU-China of the International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) competition, Department of Biophysics, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
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22
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Lei C, Qian K, Li T, Zhang S, Fu W, Ding M, Hu S. Neutralization of SARS-CoV-2 spike pseudotyped virus by recombinant ACE2-Ig. Nat Commun 2020. [PMID: 32332765 DOI: 10.1038/.s41467-020-16048-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) emerged in Wuhan, China, at the end of 2019, and there are currently no specific antiviral treatments or vaccines available. SARS-CoV-2 has been shown to use the same cell entry receptor as SARS-CoV, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). In this report, we generate a recombinant protein by connecting the extracellular domain of human ACE2 to the Fc region of the human immunoglobulin IgG1. A fusion protein containing an ACE2 mutant with low catalytic activity is also used in this study. The fusion proteins are then characterized. Both fusion proteins have a high binding affinity for the receptor-binding domains of SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 and exhibit desirable pharmacological properties in mice. Moreover, the fusion proteins neutralize virus pseudotyped with SARS-CoV or SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins in vitro. As these fusion proteins exhibit cross-reactivity against coronaviruses, they have potential applications in the diagnosis, prophylaxis, and treatment of SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changhai Lei
- Department of Biophysics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
- Team SMMU-China of the International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) competition, Department of Biophysics, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Kewen Qian
- Department of Biophysics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
- Team SMMU-China of the International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) competition, Department of Biophysics, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Tian Li
- Department of Biophysics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
- Team SMMU-China of the International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) competition, Department of Biophysics, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Sheng Zhang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Wenyan Fu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Min Ding
- Pharchoice Therapeutics, Inc, Shanghai, 201406, China
| | - Shi Hu
- Department of Biophysics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
- Team SMMU-China of the International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) competition, Department of Biophysics, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
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23
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Chin DD, Poon C, Trac N, Wang J, Cook J, Joo J, Jiang Z, Maria NSS, Jacobs RE, Chung EJ. Collagenase-Cleavable Peptide Amphiphile Micelles as a Novel Theranostic Strategy in Atherosclerosis. ADVANCED THERAPEUTICS 2020; 3:1900196. [PMID: 34295964 PMCID: PMC8294202 DOI: 10.1002/adtp.201900196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease characterized by plaques that can cause sudden myocardial infarction upon rupture. Such rupture-prone plaques have thin fibrous caps due to collagenase degradation, and a noninvasive diagnostic tool and targeted therapy that can identify and treat vulnerable plaques and may inhibit the onset of acute cardiac events. Toward this goal, monocyte-binding, collagenase-inhibiting, and gadolinium-modified peptide amphiphile micelles (MCG PAMs) are developed. Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) binds to C-C chemokine receptor-2 expressed on pathological cell types present within plaques. Through the peptide binding motif of MCP-1, MCG PAMs bind to monocytes and vascular smooth muscle cells in vitro. Moreover, using magnetic resonance imaging, MCG PAMs show enhanced targeting and successful detection of plaques in diseased mice in vivo and act as contrast agents for molecular imaging. Through the collagenase-cleaving peptide sequence of collagen [VPMS-MRGG], MCG PAMs can compete for collagenases that degrade the fibrous cap of plaques, providing therapy. MCG PAM-treated mice show increased fibrous cap thickness by 61% and 113% histologically compared to nontargeting micelle- or PBS-treated mice (p = 0.0075 and 0.001, respectively). Overall, this novel multimodal nanoparticle offers new theranostic opportunities for noninvasive diagnosis and treatment of atherosclerotic plaques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah D Chin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles USC 90089 CA, USA
| | - Christopher Poon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles USC 90089 CA, USA
| | - Noah Trac
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles USC 90089 CA, USA
| | - Jonathan Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles USC 90089 CA, USA
| | - Jackson Cook
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles USC 90089 CA, USA
| | - Johan Joo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles USC 90089 CA, USA
| | - Zhangjingyi Jiang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles USC 90089 CA, USA
| | - Naomi Sulit Sta Maria
- Department of Physiology and Neuroscience, Zilkha Neurogenetic, Institute and Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles 90033 CA, USA
| | - Russell E Jacobs
- Department of Physiology and Neuroscience, Zilkha Neurogenetic, Institute and Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles 90033 CA, USA
| | - Eun Ji Chung
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles USC 90089 CA, USA
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24
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Liang D, Song Z, Liang W, Li Y, Liu S. Metformin inhibits TGF-beta 1-induced MCP-1 expression through BAMBI-mediated suppression of MEK/ERK1/2 signalling. Nephrology (Carlton) 2019; 24:481-488. [PMID: 29934960 DOI: 10.1111/nep.13430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Metformin is a biguanide derivative widely used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Recent evidence demonstrates that this anti-hyperglycaemic drug exerts renal protective effects, yet the mechanisms remain poorly understood. monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1) has been recognized as a key mediator of renal fibrosis in chronic kidney diseases, including diabetic nephropathy. This study aimed to investigate the effects of metformin on transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1)-induced MCP-1 expression and the underlying mechanisms in rat renal tubular epithelial cells. METHODS Rat renal tubular epithelial cell line NRK-52E cells were stimulated with TGF-β1 and/or metformin. The messenger RNA (mRNA) of MCP-1 and bone morphogenetic protein and activin membrane-bound inhibitor (BAMBI) was evaluated by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. MCP-1 protein was measured by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Total and phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2) was evaluated by western blot. Down- and upregulation of BAMBI were achieved by RNA interference targeting BAMBI and lentiviral vector-mediated overexpression of the BAMBI gene, respectively. Cell viability was analysed using Cell Counting Kit 8 (CCK-8) reagents. RESULTS Stimulation with TGF-β1 resulted in the increased expression of MCP-1 and decreased expression of BAMBI in NRK-52E cells. Metformin inhibited the expression of MCP-1 in NRK-52E cells. Pretreatment with metformin suppressed upregulation of MCP-1 and downregulation of BAMBI, as well as phosphorylation of ERK1/2 induced by TGF-β1. U0126, a specific inhibitor for mitogen-activated and extracellular signal-regulated kinase kinases 1/2 (MEK-1/2), completely blocked TGF-β1-induced MCP-1 expression. Knockdown of the BAMBI gene promoted phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and TGF-β1-induced expression of MCP-1. Overexpression of BAMBI inhibited phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and TGF-β1-induced upregulation of MCP-1. CONCLUSION In rat renal tubular epithelial cells, metformin prevents TGF-β1-induced MCP-1 expression, in which BAMBI-mediated inhibition of MEK/ERK1/2 might be involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diefei Liang
- Research Center of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Endocrinology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zijiao Song
- Research Center of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Endocrinology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weiwen Liang
- Research Center of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Endocrinology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shanying Liu
- Research Center of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
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25
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Evidence for a role of angiotensin converting enzyme 2 in proteinuria of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome. Biosci Rep 2019; 39:BSR20181361. [PMID: 30514826 PMCID: PMC6328887 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20181361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2018] [Revised: 11/02/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Renin angiotensin system (RAS) plays a role in idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS). Most studies investigated only the classical RAS axis. Therefore, the aims of the present study were to evaluate urinary levels of RAS molecules related to classical and to counter-regulatory axes in pediatric patients with INS, to compare the measurements with levels in healthy controls and to search for associations with inflammatory molecules, proteinuria and disease treatment. Subjects and methods: This cross-sectional study included 31 patients with INS and 19 healthy controls, matched for age and sex. Patients and controls were submitted to urine collection for measurement of RAS molecules [Ang II, Ang-(1-7), ACE and ACE2] by enzyme immunoassay and cytokines by Cytometric Bead Array. Findings in INS patients were compared according to proteinuria: absent (<150 mg/dl, n = 15) and present (≥150 mg/dl, n = 16). Results: In comparison to controls, INS patients had increased Ang II, Ang-(1-7) and ACE, levels while ACE2 was reduced. INS patients with proteinuria had lower levels of ACE2 than those without proteinuria. ACE2 levels were negatively correlated with 24-h-proteinuria. Urinary concentrations of MCP-1/CCL2 were significantly higher in INS patients, positively correlated with Ang II and negatively with Ang-(1-7). ACE2 concentrations were negatively correlated with IP-10/CXCL-10 levels, which, in turn, were positively correlated with 24-h-proteinuria. Conclusion: INS patients exhibited changes in RAS molecules and in chemokines. Proteinuria was associated with low levels of ACE2 and high levels of inflammatory molecules.
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26
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Sahan-Firat S, Temiz-Resitoglu M, Guden DS, Kucukkavruk SP, Tunctan B, Sari AN, Kocak Z, Malik KU. Protection by mTOR Inhibition on Zymosan-Induced Systemic Inflammatory Response and Oxidative/Nitrosative Stress: Contribution of mTOR/MEK1/ERK1/2/IKKβ/IκB-α/NF-κB Signalling Pathway. Inflammation 2018; 41:276-298. [PMID: 29110153 DOI: 10.1007/s10753-017-0686-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), a serine/threonine kinase regulate variety of cellular functions including cell growth, differentiation, cell survival, metabolism, and stress response, is now appreciated to be a central regulator of immune responses. Because mTOR inhibitors enhanced the anti-inflammatory activities of regulatory T cells and decreased the production of proinflammatory cytokines by macrophages, mTOR has been a pharmacological target for inflammatory diseases. In this study, we examined the role of mTOR in the production of proinflammatory and vasodilator mediators in zymosan-induced non-septic shock model in rats. To elucidate the mechanism by which mTOR contributes to non-septic shock, we have examined the activity of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase system caused by mTOR/mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK1)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2)/inhibitor κB kinase (IKKβ)/inhibitor of κB (IκB-α)/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signalling pathway activation. After 1 h of zymosan (500 mg/kg, i.p.) administration to rats, mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) was decreased and heart rate (HR) was increased. These changes were associated with increased expression and/or activities of ribosomal protein S6, MEK1, ERK1/2, IKKβ, IκB-α and NF-κB p65, and NADPH oxidase system activity in cardiovascular and renal tissues. Rapamycin (1 mg/kg, i.p.), a selective mTOR inhibitor, reversed these zymosan-induced changes in these tissues. These observations suggest that activation of mTOR/MEK1/ERK1/2/IKKβ/IκB-α/NF-κB signalling pathway with proinflammatory and vasodilator mediator formation and NADPH oxidase system activity contributes to systemic inflammation in zymosan-induced non-septic shock. Thus, mTOR may be an optimal target for the treatment of the diseases characterized by the severe systemic inflammatory response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyhan Sahan-Firat
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mersin University, Yenisehir Campus, 33169, Mersin, Turkey.
| | - Meryem Temiz-Resitoglu
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mersin University, Yenisehir Campus, 33169, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Demet Sinem Guden
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mersin University, Yenisehir Campus, 33169, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Sefika Pinar Kucukkavruk
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mersin University, Yenisehir Campus, 33169, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Bahar Tunctan
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mersin University, Yenisehir Campus, 33169, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Ayse Nihal Sari
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mersin University, Yenisehir Campus, 33169, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Zumrut Kocak
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mersin University, Yenisehir Campus, 33169, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Kafait U Malik
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee, Center for Health Sciences, Memphis, TN, USA
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Klein JD, Wang XH. Electrically stimulated acupuncture increases renal blood flow through exosome-carried miR-181. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2018; 315:F1542-F1549. [PMID: 30132347 DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00259.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Acupuncture with low-frequency electrical stimulation (Acu/LFES) can prevent muscle atrophy by increasing muscle protein anabolism in mouse models of chronic kidney disease. During the treatment of muscle wasting, we found that Acu/LFES on the gastrocnemius muscle of the leg enhances renal blood flow. We also found that Acu/LFES increases exosome abundance and alters exosome-associated microRNA expression in the circulation. When exosome secretion was blocked using GW4869, the Acu/LFES-induced increase in renal blood flow was limited. This provided evidence that the increased renal blood flow is exosome mediated. To identify how exosomes regulate renal blood flow, we performed microRNA deep sequencing in exosomes isolated from treated and untreated mouse serum and found that the 34 microRNAs are altered by Acu/LFES. In particular, miR-181d-5p is increased in the serum exosome of Acu/LFES-treated mice. In silico searching suggested that miR-181d-5p could target angiotensinogen. Using a luciferase reporter assay, we demonstrated that miR-181 directly inhibits angiotensinogen. When Acu/LFES-treated muscle was excised and incubated in culture medium, we found that the amount of exosomes and miR-181d-5p was increased in the medium providing evidence that Acu/LFES can increase miR-181 secretion. We conclude that Acu/LFES on leg hindlimb increases miR-181 in serum exosome leading to increased renal blood flow. This study provides important new insights about the mechanism(s) by which acupuncture may regulation of muscle-organ cross talk through exosome-derived microRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet D Klein
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Emory University , Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Xiaonan H Wang
- Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Emory University , Atlanta, Georgia
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28
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is a pivotal player in the physiology and pathophysiology of cardiovascular and renal systems. Discovery of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), capable of cleaving RAS effector peptide angiotensin (Ang) II into biologically active Ang-(1-7), has increased the complexity of our knowledge of the RAS. ACE2 expression is abundant in the kidney and is thought to provide protection against injury. This review emphasizes current experimental and clinical findings that examine ACE2 in the context of kidney injury and its potential therapeutic impact for treatment of kidney disease. RECENT FINDINGS Clinical studies have reported upregulation of ACE2 in urine from diabetic patients, which may be reflective of pathological shedding of renal ACE2 as suggested by mechanistic experiments. Studies in experimental models have investigated the feasibility of pharmacological induction of ACE2 for improvement of renal function, inflammation, and fibrosis. SUMMARY Emerging concepts about the RAS indicate that ACE2 is a critical regulator of angiotensin peptide metabolism and the pathogenesis of renal disease. Human recombinant ACE2 is available and may be a practical clinical approach to enzyme replacement. Elucidating precise roles of ACE2 throughout disease progression will enrich our view of the RAS and help identify novel targets and appropriate strategies for intervention.
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Liu P, Wysocki J, Souma T, Ye M, Ramirez V, Zhou B, Wilsbacher LD, Quaggin SE, Batlle D, Jin J. Novel ACE2-Fc chimeric fusion provides long-lasting hypertension control and organ protection in mouse models of systemic renin angiotensin system activation. Kidney Int 2018; 94:114-125. [PMID: 29691064 DOI: 10.1016/j.kint.2018.01.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2017] [Revised: 12/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is a carboxypeptidase that potently degrades angiotensin II to angiotensin 1-7. Previous studies showed that injection of the enzymatic ectodomain of recombinant ACE2 (rACE2) markedly increases circulatory levels of ACE2 activity, and effectively lowered blood pressure in angiotensin II-induced hypertension. However, due to the short plasma half-life of rACE2, its therapeutic potential for chronic use is limited. To circumvent this, we generated a chimeric fusion of rACE2 and the immunoglobulin fragment Fc segment to increase its plasma stability. This rACE2-Fc fusion protein retained full peptidase activity and exhibited greatly extended plasma half-life in mice, from less than two hours of the original rACE2, to over a week. A single 2.5 mg/kg injection of rACE2-Fc increased the overall angiotensin II-conversion activities in blood by up to 100-fold and enhanced blood pressure recovery from acute angiotensin II induced hypertension seven days after administration. To assess rACE2-Fc given weekly on cardiac protection, we performed studies in mice continuously infused with angiotensin II for 28 days and in a Renin transgenic mouse model of hypertension. The angiotensin II infused mice achieved sustained blood pressure control and reduced cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis. In chronic hypertensive transgenic mice, weekly injections of rACE2-Fc effectively lowered plasma angiotensin II and blood pressure. Additionally, rACE2-Fc ameliorated albuminuria, and reduced kidney and cardiac fibrosis. Thus, our chimeric fusion strategy for rACE2-Fc is suitable for future development of new renin angiotensin system-based inhibition therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pan Liu
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Feinberg Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Jan Wysocki
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Feinberg Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Tomokazu Souma
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Feinberg Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Minghao Ye
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Feinberg Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Veronica Ramirez
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Feinberg Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Bisheng Zhou
- Feinberg Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Lisa D Wilsbacher
- Feinberg Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Susan E Quaggin
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Feinberg Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Daniel Batlle
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Feinberg Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Jing Jin
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Feinberg Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
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30
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Lu CC, Ma KL, Ruan XZ, Liu BC. Intestinal dysbiosis activates renal renin-angiotensin system contributing to incipient diabetic nephropathy. Int J Med Sci 2018; 15:816-822. [PMID: 30008592 PMCID: PMC6036087 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.25543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2018] [Accepted: 04/14/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Considerable interest nowadays has focused on gut microbiota owing to their pleiotropic roles in human health and diseases. This intestinal community can arouse a variety of activities in the host and function as "a microbial organ" by generating bioactive metabolites and participating in a series of metabolism-dependent pathways. Alternations in the composition of gut microbiota, referred to as intestinal dysbiosis, are reportedly associated with several diseases, especially diabetes mellitus and its complications. Here we focus on the relationship between gut microbiota and diabetic nephropathy (DN), as the latter is one of the major causes of chronic kidney diseases. The activation of renin angiotensin system (RAS) is a critical factor to the onset of DN, and emerging data has demonstrated a provoking and mediating role of gut microbiota for this system in the context of metabolic diseases. The purpose of the current review is to highlight some research updates about the underlying interplay between gut microbiota, their metabolites, and the development and progression of DN, along with exploring innovative approaches to targeting this intestinal community as a therapeutic perspective in clinical management of DN patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Chen Lu
- Institute of Nephrology, Zhong Da Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing City, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Kun Ling Ma
- Institute of Nephrology, Zhong Da Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing City, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiong Zhong Ruan
- Centre for Nephrology, University College London (UCL) Medical School, Royal Free Campus, UK
| | - Bi Cheng Liu
- Institute of Nephrology, Zhong Da Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing City, Jiangsu Province, China
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The intrarenal renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAS) is an independent paracrine hormonal system with an increasingly prominent role in hypertension and renal disease. Two enzyme components of this system are angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and more recently discovered ACE2. The purpose of this review is to describe recent discoveries regarding the roles of intrarenal ACE and ACE2 and their interaction. RECENT FINDINGS Renal tubular ACE contributes to salt-sensitive hypertension. Additionally, the relative expression and activity of intrarenal ACE and ACE2 are central to promoting or inhibiting different renal pathologies including renovascular hypertension, diabetic nephropathy, and renal fibrosis. Renal ACE and ACE2 represent two opposing axes within the intrarenal RAS system whose interaction determines the progression of several common disease processes. While this relationship remains complex and incompletely understood, further investigations hold the potential for creating novel approaches to treating hypertension and kidney disease.
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32
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The sirtuin 6 prevents angiotensin II-mediated myocardial fibrosis and injury by targeting AMPK-ACE2 signaling. Oncotarget 2017; 8:72302-72314. [PMID: 29069788 PMCID: PMC5641131 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.20305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2017] [Accepted: 07/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Sirtuin 6 (SIRT6) is an important modulator of cardiovascular functions in health and diseases. However, the exact role of SIRT6 in heart disease is poorly defined. We hypothesized that SIRT6 is a negative regulator of angiotensin II (Ang II)-mediated myocardial remodeling, fibrosis and injury. The male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized to Ang II (200 ng/kg/min) infusion with an osmotic minipump and pretreated with recombinant plasmids adeno-associated viral vector (AAV)-SIRT6 (pAAV-SIRT6) or pAAV-GFP for 4 weeks. Ang II triggered downregulated levels of SIRT6 and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and upregulated expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and proinflammatory chemokine fractalkine (FKN), contributing to enhanced cardiac fibrosis and ultrastructural injury. Reduced levels of phosphorylated pAMPK-α, increased myocardial hypertrophy and impaired heart dysfunction were observed in both Ang II-induced hypertensive rats and ACE2 knockout rats, characterized with increases in heart weight and left ventricular (LV) posterior wall thickness and decreases in LV ejection fraction and LV fractional shortening. More importantly, pAAV-SIRT6 treatment strikingly potentiated cardiac levels of pAMPKα and ACE2 as well as decreased levels of CTGF, FKN, TGFβ1, collagen I and collagen III, resulting in alleviation of Ang II-induced pathological hypertrophy, myocardial fibrosis, cardiac dysfunction and ultrastructural injury in hypertensive rats. In conclusion, our findings confirmed cardioprotective effects of SIRT6 on pathological remodeling, fibrosis and myocardial injury through activation of AMPK-ACE2 signaling and suppression of CTGF-FKN pathway, indicating that SIRT6 functions as a partial agonist of ACE2 and targeting SIRT6 has potential therapeutic importance for cardiac fibrosis and heart disease.
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Xu R, Zhang ZZ, Chen LJ, Yu HM, Guo SJ, Xu YL, Oudit GY, Zhang Y, Chang Q, Song B, Chen DR, Zhu DL, Zhong JC. Ascending aortic adventitial remodeling and fibrosis are ameliorated with Apelin-13 in rats after TAC via suppression of the miRNA-122 and LGR4-β-catenin signaling. Peptides 2016; 86:85-94. [PMID: 27773659 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2016.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2016] [Revised: 10/10/2016] [Accepted: 10/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Apelin has been proved to be a critical mediator of vascular function and homeostasis. Here, we investigated roles of Apelin in aortic remodeling and fibrosis in rats with transverse aortic constriction (TAC). Male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to TAC and then randomized to daily deliver Apelin-13 (50μg/kg) or angiotensin type 1 receptor (AT1) blocker Irbesartan (50mg/kg) for 4 weeks. Pressure overload resulted in myocardial hypertrophy, systolic dysfunction, aortic remodeling and adventitial fibrosis with reduced levels of Apelin in ascending aortas of rat after TAC compared with sham-operated group. These changes were associated with marked increases in levels of miRNA-122, TGFβ1, CTGF, NFAT5, LGR4, and β-catenin. More importantly, Apelin and Irbesartan treatment strikingly prevented TAC-mediated aortic remodeling and adventitial fibrosis in pressure overloaded rats by blocking AT1 receptor and miRNA-122 levels and repressing activation of the CTGF-NFAT5 and LGR4-β-catenin signaling. In cultured primary rat adventitial fibroblasts, exposure to angiotensin II (100nmolL-1) led to significant increases in cellular migration and levels of TGFβ1, CTGF, NFAT5, LGR4 and β-catenin, which were effectively reversed by pre-treatment with Apelin (100nmolL-1) and miRNA-122 inhibitor (50nmolL-1). In conclusion, Apelin counterregulated against TAC-mediated ascending aortic remodeling and angiotensin II-induced promotion of cellular migration by blocking AT1 receptor and miRNA-122 levels and preventing activation of the TGFβ1-CTGF-NFAT5 and LGR4-β-catenin signaling, ultimately contributing to attenuation of aortic adventitial fibrosis. Our data point to Apelin as an important regulator of aortic remodeling and adventitial fibrosis and a promising target for vasoprotective therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China; Institute of Health Sciences, Shanghai Institute for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Zhen-Zhou Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China; Institute of Health Sciences, Shanghai Institute for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Lai-Jiang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China; Institute of Health Sciences, Shanghai Institute for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Hui-Min Yu
- Department of Cardiology, Guangdong General Hospital and Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Shu-Jie Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Ying-Le Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Gavin Y Oudit
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute, Edmonton T6G 2S2, Canada
| | - Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Qing Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Bei Song
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Dong-Rui Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Ding-Liang Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China; Institute of Health Sciences, Shanghai Institute for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Jiu-Chang Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Pôle Sino-Français de Recherches en Science du Vivant et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Shanghai Institute of Hypertension, Shanghai 200025, China; Institute of Health Sciences, Shanghai Institute for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200025, China.
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Mariana CP, Ramona PA, Ioana BC, Diana M, Claudia RC, Stefan VD, Maria KI. Urinary angiotensin converting enzyme 2 is strongly related to urinary nephrin in type 2 diabetes patients. Int Urol Nephrol 2016; 48:1491-7. [PMID: 27312782 DOI: 10.1007/s11255-016-1334-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2016] [Accepted: 05/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Podocyte lesion is recently recognized as an early event in diabetic kidney disease (DKD) and is reflected by urinary (u) nephrin (Neph) shedding. Angiotensin II plays an important role in podocyte dysfunction of diabetes. Angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is the main ACE variant in podocytes and counteracts deleterious angiotensin II effects. We assessed for the first time the relation of uACE2 and uNeph in type 2 diabetes subjects. MATERIAL AND METHOD Seventy-five type 2 diabetes patients were included in a transversal study. History, clinical and laboratory data, urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR), and ELISA determination of uNeph and uACE2 were obtained. RESULTS uNeph was 349.00 ± 133.42 pg/ml, and uACE2 was 45.50 (36.35-62.60) pg/ml. uNeph correlated to uACE2 (r = 0.44, p < 0.001) and to uACR (r = 0.25, p = 0.032). In multivariate regression, introducing parameters that are known to be related to DKD, uACE2 (p < 0.0001), LDL cholesterol (p = 0.02) and glycated hemoglobin (p = 0.03) remained significant predictors of uNeph. Normoalbuminuric patients had lower uNeph than patients with uACR > 30 mg/g (325.50 ± 135.45 vs 391.03 ± 121.40 pg/ml, p = 0.04); they also had a tendency versus lower uACE2 [41.40 (34.30-60.65) vs 52.57 (37.95-69.85) pg/ml, p = 0.06]. A cutoff for uNeph of 451.6 pg/ml was derived from the ROC curve analysis; uACE2 was the main determinant for uNeph being above or below this cutoff-OR = 1.09; 95 %CI (1.04-1.15), p = 0.001. Patients taking blockers of the renin angiotensin system had similar uNeph and uACE2. uNeph and uACE2 were not influenced by renal function. CONCLUSION uNeph is significantly correlated to uACE2 and uACR in type 2 diabetes patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciorba Pop Mariana
- Department of Nephrology, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj, 3-5 Clinicilor Street, 400006, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Potra Alina Ramona
- Department of Nephrology, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj, 3-5 Clinicilor Street, 400006, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Bondor Cosmina Ioana
- Department of Informatics and Biostatistics, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj, 6 Pasteur Street, 400349, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Moldovan Diana
- Department of Nephrology, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj, 3-5 Clinicilor Street, 400006, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Rusu Crina Claudia
- Department of Nephrology, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj, 3-5 Clinicilor Street, 400006, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Vladutiu Dan Stefan
- Department of Nephrology, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj, 3-5 Clinicilor Street, 400006, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Kacso Ina Maria
- Department of Nephrology, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj, 3-5 Clinicilor Street, 400006, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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