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Bleckwehl T, Babler A, Tebens M, Maryam S, Nyberg M, Bosteen M, Halder M, Shaw I, Fleig S, Pyke C, Hvid H, Voetmann LM, van Buul JD, Sluimer JC, Das V, Baumgart S, Kramann R, Hayat S. Encompassing view of spatial and single-cell RNA sequencing renews the role of the microvasculature in human atherosclerosis. NATURE CARDIOVASCULAR RESEARCH 2024:10.1038/s44161-024-00582-1. [PMID: 39715784 DOI: 10.1038/s44161-024-00582-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2024] [Indexed: 12/25/2024]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a pervasive contributor to ischemic heart disease and stroke. Despite the advance of lipid-lowering therapies and anti-hypertensive agents, the residual risk of an atherosclerotic event remains high, and developing therapeutic strategies has proven challenging. This is due to the complexity of atherosclerosis with a spatial interplay of multiple cell types within the vascular wall. In this study, we generated an integrative high-resolution map of human atherosclerotic plaques combining single-cell RNA sequencing from multiple studies and spatial transcriptomics data from 12 human specimens with different stages of atherosclerosis. Here we show cell-type-specific and atherosclerosis-specific expression changes and spatially constrained alterations in cell-cell communication. We highlight the possible recruitment of lymphocytes via ACKR1 endothelial cells of the vasa vasorum, the migration of vascular smooth muscle cells toward the lumen by transforming into fibromyocytes and cell-cell communication in the plaque region, indicating an intricate cellular interplay within the adventitia and the subendothelial space in human atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tore Bleckwehl
- Department of Medicine 2, RWTH Aachen University, Medical Faculty, Aachen, Germany
| | - Anne Babler
- Department of Medicine 2, RWTH Aachen University, Medical Faculty, Aachen, Germany
| | - Merel Tebens
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Vascular Cell Biology Lab at Amsterdam UMC, location AMC, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory and Leeuwenhoek Centre for Advanced Microscopy at Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences at the University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sidrah Maryam
- Department of Medicine 2, RWTH Aachen University, Medical Faculty, Aachen, Germany
| | | | | | - Maurice Halder
- Department of Medicine 2, RWTH Aachen University, Medical Faculty, Aachen, Germany
| | - Isaac Shaw
- Department of Medicine 2, RWTH Aachen University, Medical Faculty, Aachen, Germany
| | - Susanne Fleig
- Department of Medicine 2, RWTH Aachen University, Medical Faculty, Aachen, Germany
| | - Charles Pyke
- Pathology & Imaging, Global Drug Development, Novo Nordisk A/S, Måløv, Denmark
| | - Henning Hvid
- Pathology & Imaging, Global Drug Development, Novo Nordisk A/S, Måløv, Denmark
| | | | - Jaap D van Buul
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Vascular Cell Biology Lab at Amsterdam UMC, location AMC, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory and Leeuwenhoek Centre for Advanced Microscopy at Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences at the University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Judith C Sluimer
- Department of Pathology, ARIM School for Cardiovascular Sciences, Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC), Maastricht, The Netherlands
- BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Sciences (CVS), University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Vivek Das
- Digital Science and Innovation, Computational Biology - AI & Digital Research, Novo Nordisk A/S, Måløv, Denmark
| | - Simon Baumgart
- Digital Science and Innovation, Computational Biology - AI & Digital Research, Novo Nordisk A/S, Måløv, Denmark
| | - Rafael Kramann
- Department of Medicine 2, RWTH Aachen University, Medical Faculty, Aachen, Germany.
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Transplantation, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Sikander Hayat
- Department of Medicine 2, RWTH Aachen University, Medical Faculty, Aachen, Germany.
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2
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Sun D, Zhang K, Zheng F, Yang G, Yang M, Xu Y, Qin Y, Lin M, Li Y, Tan J, Li Q, Qu X, Li G, Bian L, Zhu C. Matrix Viscoelasticity Controls Differentiation of Human Blood Vessel Organoids into Arterioles and Promotes Neovascularization in Myocardial Infarction. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2410802. [PMID: 39686788 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202410802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2024] [Revised: 12/04/2024] [Indexed: 12/18/2024]
Abstract
Stem cell-derived blood vessel organoids are embedded in extracellular matrices to stimulate vessel sprouting. Although vascular organoids in 3D collagen I-Matrigel gels are currently available, they are primarily capillaries composed of endothelial cells (ECs), pericytes, and mesenchymal stem-like cells, which necessitate mature arteriole differentiation for neovascularization. In this context, the hypothesis that matrix viscoelasticity regulates vascular development is investigated in 3D cultures by encapsulating blood vessel organoids within viscoelastic gelatin/β-CD assembly dynamic hydrogels or methacryloyl gelatin non-dynamic hydrogels. The vascular organoids within the dynamic hydrogel demonstrate enhanced angiogenesis and differentiation into arterioles containing smooth muscle cells. The dynamic hydrogel mechanical microenvironment promotes vascular patterning and arteriolar differentiation by elevating notch receptor 3 signaling in mesenchymal stem cells and downregulating platelet-derived growth factor B expression in ECs. Transplantation of vascular organoids in vivo, along with the dynamic hydrogel, leads to the reassembly of arterioles and restoration of cardiac function in infarcted hearts. These findings indicate that the viscoelastic properties of the matrix play a crucial role in controlling the vascular organization and differentiation processes, suggesting an exciting potential for its application in regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dayu Sun
- Department of Anatomy, Engineering Research Center of the Ministry of Education for Tissue and Organ Regeneration and Manufacturing, Engineering Research Center for Organ Intelligent Biological Manufacturing of Chongqing, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Chongqing, 400038, P. R. China
| | - Kunyu Zhang
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, Guangzhou International Campus, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 511442, P. R. China
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, P. R. China
| | - Feiyang Zheng
- Department of Anatomy, Engineering Research Center of the Ministry of Education for Tissue and Organ Regeneration and Manufacturing, Engineering Research Center for Organ Intelligent Biological Manufacturing of Chongqing, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Chongqing, 400038, P. R. China
| | - Guanyuan Yang
- Department of Anatomy, Engineering Research Center of the Ministry of Education for Tissue and Organ Regeneration and Manufacturing, Engineering Research Center for Organ Intelligent Biological Manufacturing of Chongqing, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Chongqing, 400038, P. R. China
| | - Mingcan Yang
- Department of Anatomy, Engineering Research Center of the Ministry of Education for Tissue and Organ Regeneration and Manufacturing, Engineering Research Center for Organ Intelligent Biological Manufacturing of Chongqing, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Chongqing, 400038, P. R. China
| | - Youqian Xu
- Department of Anatomy, Engineering Research Center of the Ministry of Education for Tissue and Organ Regeneration and Manufacturing, Engineering Research Center for Organ Intelligent Biological Manufacturing of Chongqing, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Chongqing, 400038, P. R. China
| | - Yinhua Qin
- Department of Anatomy, Engineering Research Center of the Ministry of Education for Tissue and Organ Regeneration and Manufacturing, Engineering Research Center for Organ Intelligent Biological Manufacturing of Chongqing, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Chongqing, 400038, P. R. China
| | - Mingxin Lin
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, Guangzhou International Campus, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 511442, P. R. China
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, P. R. China
| | - Yanzhao Li
- Department of Anatomy, Engineering Research Center of the Ministry of Education for Tissue and Organ Regeneration and Manufacturing, Engineering Research Center for Organ Intelligent Biological Manufacturing of Chongqing, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Chongqing, 400038, P. R. China
| | - Ju Tan
- Department of Anatomy, Engineering Research Center of the Ministry of Education for Tissue and Organ Regeneration and Manufacturing, Engineering Research Center for Organ Intelligent Biological Manufacturing of Chongqing, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Chongqing, 400038, P. R. China
| | - Qiyu Li
- Department of Anatomy, Engineering Research Center of the Ministry of Education for Tissue and Organ Regeneration and Manufacturing, Engineering Research Center for Organ Intelligent Biological Manufacturing of Chongqing, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Chongqing, 400038, P. R. China
| | - Xiaohang Qu
- Department of Anatomy, Engineering Research Center of the Ministry of Education for Tissue and Organ Regeneration and Manufacturing, Engineering Research Center for Organ Intelligent Biological Manufacturing of Chongqing, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Chongqing, 400038, P. R. China
| | - Gang Li
- Department of Anatomy, Engineering Research Center of the Ministry of Education for Tissue and Organ Regeneration and Manufacturing, Engineering Research Center for Organ Intelligent Biological Manufacturing of Chongqing, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Chongqing, 400038, P. R. China
| | - Liming Bian
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, Guangzhou International Campus, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 511442, P. R. China
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, P. R. China
| | - Chuhong Zhu
- Department of Anatomy, Engineering Research Center of the Ministry of Education for Tissue and Organ Regeneration and Manufacturing, Engineering Research Center for Organ Intelligent Biological Manufacturing of Chongqing, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Chongqing, 400038, P. R. China
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3
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Devraj K, Kulkarni O, Liebner S. Regulation of the blood-brain barrier function by peripheral cues in health and disease. Metab Brain Dis 2024; 40:61. [PMID: 39671124 PMCID: PMC11645320 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-024-01468-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 09/12/2024] [Indexed: 12/14/2024]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is formed by microvascular endothelial cells which are ensembled with pericytes, astrocytes, microglia and neurons in the neurovascular unit (NVU) that is crucial for neuronal function. Given that the NVU and the BBB are highly dynamic and regulated structures, their integrity is continuously challenged by intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Herein, factors from peripheral organs such as gonadal and adrenal hormones may influence vascular function also in CNS endothelial cells in a sex- and age-dependent manner. The communication between the periphery and the CNS likely takes place in specific areas of the brain among which the circumventricular organs have a central position due to their neurosensory or neurosecretory function, owing to physiologically leaky blood vessels. In acute and chronic pathological conditions like liver, kidney, pulmonary disease, toxins and metabolites are generated that reach the brain via the circulation and may directly or indirectly affect BBB functionality via the activation of the immunes system. For example, chronic kidney disease (CKD) currently affects more than 840 million people worldwide and is likely to increase along with western world comorbidities of the cardio-vascular system in continuously ageing societies. Toxins leading to the uremic syndrome, may further lead to neurological complications such as cognitive impairment and uremic encephalopathy. Here we summarize the effects of hormones, toxins and inflammatory reactions on the brain vasculature, highlighting the urgent demand for mechanistically exploring the communication between the periphery and the CNS, focusing on the BBB as a last line of defense for brain protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavi Devraj
- Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology & Science, Pilani, Hyderabad, 500078, Telangana, India.
| | - Onkar Kulkarni
- Metabolic Disorders and Neuroscience Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology & Science, Pilani, Hyderabad, 500078, Telangana, India
| | - Stefan Liebner
- Institute of Neurology (Edinger Institute), University Hospital, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
- Excellence Cluster Cardio-Pulmonary Institute (CPI), Partner Site Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Frankfurt/Mainz, Frankfurt, Germany.
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4
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Huang C, Huang X, Qiu X, Kong X, Wu C, Jiang X, Yao M, Wang M, Su L, Lv C, Wong P. Pericytes Modulate Third-Generation Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor Sensitivity in EGFR-Mutated Lung Cancer Cells Through IL32-β5-Integrin Paracrine Signaling. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2405130. [PMID: 39435643 PMCID: PMC11633494 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202405130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 09/17/2024] [Indexed: 10/23/2024]
Abstract
EGFR-mutated lung cancer patients sometimes display restricted responses to third-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), potentially attributable to undervalued input from stromal cells, notably pericytes (PCs). The study shows that PCs isolated from EGFR-mutated patients have a unique secretome profile, notably secreting IL32 and affecting signaling pathways and biological processes linked to TKI sensitivity. Clinical evidence, supported by single-cell RNA sequencing and multiplex immunostaining of tumor tissues, confirms the presence of IL32-expressing pericytes closely interacting with β5-integrin-expressing cancer cells in EGFR-mutated patients, impacting therapeutic response and prognosis. Co-culture and conditioned medium experiments demonstrate that PCs reduce TKI effectiveness in EGFR-mutated cancer cells, a reversible phenomenon through silencing IL32 expression in PCs or depleting the IL32 receptor β5-integrin on cancer cells, thereby restoring cancer cell sensitivity. Mechanistically, it is shown that YY1 signaling upregulates IL32 secretion in PCs, subsequently activating the β5-integrin-Src-Akt pathway in EGFR-mutated cancer cells, contributing to their TKI sensitivity. In animal studies, co-injection of cancer cells with PCs compromises TKI effectiveness, independently of blood vessel functions, while inhibition of β5-integrin restores tumor cell sensitivity. Overall, the findings highlight direct crosstalk between cancer cells and pericytes, impacting TKI sensitivity via IL32-β5-integrin paracrine signaling, proposing an enhanced therapeutic approach for EGFR-mutated patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
- Medical Research CenterSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Biliary Tract CancerDepartment of Biliary‐Pancreatic SurgerySun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Xi Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
- Medical Research CenterSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Xiaoyi Qiu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
- Medical Research CenterSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Xiangzhan Kong
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
- Medical Research CenterSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Chunmiao Wu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
- Medical Research CenterSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Xue Jiang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
- Medical Research CenterSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Mingkang Yao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
- Medical Research CenterSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
- Department of Respiratory MedicineSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Minghui Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
- Department of Thoracic SurgerySun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Liangping Su
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
- Medical Research CenterSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Urological DiseasesGuangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Cui Lv
- Clinical Biobank CenterZhujiang HospitalSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhou510280China
| | - Ping‐Pui Wong
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationGuangdong‐Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA MedicineSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
- Medical Research CenterSun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Biliary Tract CancerDepartment of Biliary‐Pancreatic SurgerySun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
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5
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Zhao B, Zhao Y, Sun X. Mechanism and therapeutic targets of circulating immune cells in diabetic retinopathy. Pharmacol Res 2024; 210:107505. [PMID: 39547465 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107505] [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: 08/08/2024] [Revised: 11/06/2024] [Accepted: 11/11/2024] [Indexed: 11/17/2024]
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) continues to be the leading cause of preventable vision loss among working-aged adults, marked by immune dysregulation within the retinal microenvironment. Typically, the retina is considered as an immune-privileged organ, where circulating immune cells are restricted from entry under normal conditions. However, during the progression of DR, this immune privilege is compromised as circulating immune cells breach the barrier and infiltrate the retina. Increasing evidence suggests that vascular and neuronal degeneration in DR is largely driven by the infiltration of immune cells, particularly neutrophils, monocyte-derived macrophages, and lymphocytes. This review delves into the mechanisms and therapeutic targets associated with these immune cell populations in DR, offering a promising and innovative approach to managing the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bowen Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Yin Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
| | - Xufang Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
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6
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Armendariz BG, Chakravarthy U. Fibrosis in age-related neovascular macular degeneration in the anti-VEGF era. Eye (Lond) 2024; 38:3243-3251. [PMID: 39198703 PMCID: PMC11584703 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-024-03308-6] [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: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The natural history of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) leads to scarring and loss of vision. Since the advent of anti-VEGF therapies, which are very effective for controlling exudation, large disciform scars are rarely encountered in the clinic. However long term studies show that smaller and less severe fibrotic scars are not uncommon and develop over time despite optimal treatment. This means that additional mechanisms of action may be required to completely address this condition. To permit new treatments, a proper understanding of the clinical impact of fibrosis is required. This review is focused on clinical aspects of fibrosis and summarises recent data on biomarkers, prevalence, causes, consequences, and therapies, highlighting the most important and urgent topics to tackle in order to advance in the treatment of fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz G Armendariz
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, 124 Grenzacherstrasse, 4058, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Usha Chakravarthy
- Honorary and Emerita Professor of Ophthalmology, Queens University of Belfast, Belfast, UK.
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7
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McErlain T, McCulla EC, Glass MJ, Ziemer LE, Branco CM, Murgai M. Pericytes require physiological oxygen tension to maintain phenotypic fidelity. Sci Rep 2024; 14:29581. [PMID: 39609469 PMCID: PMC11604658 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-80682-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2024] [Accepted: 11/21/2024] [Indexed: 11/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Pericytes function to maintain tissue homeostasis by regulating capillary blood flow and maintaining endothelial barrier function. Pericyte dysfunction is associated with various pathologies and has recently been found to aid cancer progression. Despite having critical functions in health and disease, pericytes remain an understudied population due to a lack of model systems which accurately reflect in vivo biology. In this study we developed a protocol to isolate and culture murine lung, brain, bone, and liver pericytes, that maintains their known phenotypes and functions. We demonstrate that pericytes, being inherently plastic, benefit from controlled oxygen tension culture conditions, aiding their expansion ex vivo. Primary pericytes grown in physiologically relevant oxygen tensions (10% O2 for lung; 5% O2 for brain, bone, and liver) also better retain pericyte phenotypes indicated by stable expression of characteristic transcriptional and protein markers. In functional tube formation assays, pericytes were observed to significantly associate with endothelial junctions. Importantly, we identified growth conditions that limit expression of the plasticity factor Klf4 to prevent spontaneous phenotypic switching in vitro. Additionally, we were able to induce pathological pericyte phenotypic switching in response to metastatic stimuli to accurately recapitulate in vivo biology. Here, we present a robust method for studying pericyte biology in both physiology and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara McErlain
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, UK
- Patrick G. Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Elizabeth C McCulla
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, UK
| | - Morgan J Glass
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, UK
| | - Lauren E Ziemer
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, UK
| | - Cristina M Branco
- Patrick G. Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Meera Murgai
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, UK.
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8
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Lei Y, Wang Y, Tang S, Yang J, Lai D, Qiu Q. The adaptive immune system in the retina of diabetics. Surv Ophthalmol 2024:S0039-6257(24)00137-1. [PMID: 39566563 DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2024.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2024] [Revised: 11/07/2024] [Accepted: 11/13/2024] [Indexed: 11/22/2024]
Abstract
As the prevalence of diabetes mellitus increases each year, its most common microvascular complication, diabetic retinopathy (DR), is also on the rise. DR is now regarded as an inflammatory disease in which innate immunity plays a crucial role, and a large number of innate immune cells with associated cytokines are involved in the pathologic process of DR. The role of adaptive immunity in DR is seldom mentioned, probably due to the general perception of the immune privileged environment of the retina; however, in recent years there has been a gradual increase in research on the role of adaptive immunity in DR, and with the discovery of the retinal lymphatic system, it seems that the role of adaptive immunity can no longer be ignored. Here, we discuss the immunosuppressive environment of the retina, the phenomenon and potential mechanisms of lymphocyte infiltration in DR, and the role of the adaptive immune system in the diabetic retina, which may point the way for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiou Lei
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, PR China; Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yani Wang
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, PR China; Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Siao Tang
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, PR China; Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Jiaqi Yang
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, PR China; Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Dongwei Lai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China; National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Diseases, Shanghai, PR China.
| | - Qinghua Qiu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tong Ren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China.
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9
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Erreni M, Fumagalli MR, D’Anna R, Sollai M, Bozzarelli S, Nappo G, Zanini D, Parente R, Garlanda C, Rimassa L, Terracciano LM, Biswas SK, Zerbi A, Mantovani A, Doni A. Depicting the cellular complexity of pancreatic adenocarcinoma by Imaging Mass Cytometry: focus on cancer-associated fibroblasts. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1472433. [PMID: 39575252 PMCID: PMC11578750 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1472433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 10/08/2024] [Indexed: 11/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) represents the complexity of interaction between cancer and cells of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Immune cells affect tumor cell behavior, thus driving cancer progression. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are responsible of the desmoplastic and fibrotic reaction by regulating deposition and remodeling of extracellular matrix (ECM). As tumor-promoting cells abundant in PDAC ECM, CAFs represent promising targets for novel anticancer interventions. However, relevant clinical trials are hampered by the lack of specific markers and elusive differences among CAF subtypes. Indeed, while single-cell transcriptomic analyses have provided important information on the cellular constituents of PDACs and related molecular pathways, studies based on the identification of protein markers in tissues aimed at identifying CAF subtypes and new molecular targets result incomplete. Methods Herein, we applied multiplexed Imaging Mass Cytometry (IMC) at single-cell resolution on 8 human PDAC tissues to depict the PDAC composing cells, and profiling immune cells, endothelial cells (ECs), as well as endocrine cells and tumor cells. Results We focused on CAFs by characterizing up to 19 clusters distinguished by phenotype, spatiality, and interaction with immune and tumor cells. We report evidence that specific subtypes of CAFs (CAFs 10 and 11) predominantly are enriched at the tumor-stroma interface and closely associated with tumor cells. CAFs expressing different combinations of FAP, podoplanin and cadherin-11, were associated with a higher level of CA19-9. Moreover, we identified specific subsets of FAP+ and podoplanin+/cadherin-11+ CAFs enriched in patients with negative prognosis. Discussion The present study provides new general insights into the complexity of the PDAC microenvironment by defining phenotypic heterogeneities and spatial distributions of CAFs, thus suggesting different functions of their subtypes in the PDAC microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Erreni
- Unit of Multiscale and Nanostructural Imaging, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Rita Fumagalli
- Unit of Multiscale and Nanostructural Imaging, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaella D’Anna
- Unit of Multiscale and Nanostructural Imaging, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Mauro Sollai
- Pathology Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Bozzarelli
- Medical Oncology and Hematology Unit, Humanitas Cancer Center, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Gennaro Nappo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
- Pancreatic Surgery Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Damiano Zanini
- Unit of Multiscale and Nanostructural Imaging, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaella Parente
- Unit of Multiscale and Nanostructural Imaging, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Cecilia Garlanda
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Lorenza Rimassa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
- Medical Oncology and Hematology Unit, Humanitas Cancer Center, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Luigi Maria Terracciano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
- Pathology Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Subhra K. Biswas
- Singapore Immunology Network (SIgN), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Alessandro Zerbi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
- Pancreatic Surgery Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Alberto Mantovani
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
- William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andrea Doni
- Unit of Multiscale and Nanostructural Imaging, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
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10
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Kurmann L, Azzarito G, Leeners B, Rosselli M, Dubey RK. 17β-Estradiol Abrogates TNF-α-Induced Human Brain Vascular Pericyte Migration by Downregulating miR-638 via ER-β. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:11416. [PMID: 39518968 PMCID: PMC11547073 DOI: 10.3390/ijms252111416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2024] [Revised: 10/16/2024] [Accepted: 10/17/2024] [Indexed: 11/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Pericytes (PCs) contribute to brain capillary/BBB integrity and PC migration is a hallmark for brain capillary leakage following pro-inflammatory insults. Estradiol promotes endothelial barrier integrity by inhibiting tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)-induced PC migration. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Since micro-RNAs (miRs) regulate BBB integrity and increases in miR638 and TNF-α occur in pathological events associated with capillary leakage, we hypothesize that TNF-α mediates its capillary disruptive actions via miR638 and that estradiol blocks these actions. Using quantitative reverse transcription PCR, we first assessed the modulatory effects of TNF-α on miR638. The treatment of PCs with TNF-α significantly induced miR638. Moreover, transfection with miR638 mimic induced PC migration, whereas inhibitory miR638 (anti-miR) abrogated the pro-migratory actions of TNF-α, suggesting that TNF-α stimulates PC migration via miR638. At a molecular level, the pro-migratory effects of miR638 involved the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 but not Akt. Interestingly, estradiol downregulated the constitutive and TNF-α-stimulated expression of miR638 and inhibited the TNF-α-induced migration of PCs. In PCs treated with estrogen receptor (ER) ER-α, ER-β, and GPR30 agonists, a significant downregulation in miR638 expression was solely observed in response to DPN, an ER-β agonist. DPN inhibited the pro-migratory effects of TNF-α but not miR638. Additionally, the ectopic expression of miR638 prevented the inhibitory effects of DPN on TNF-α-induced PC migration, suggesting that interference in miR638 formation plays a key role in mediating the inhibitory actions of estradiol/DPN. In conclusion, these findings provide the first evidence that estradiol inhibits TNF-α-induced PC migration by specifically downregulating miR638 via ER-β and may protect the neurovascular unit during injury/stroke via this mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Kurmann
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, 8952 Schlieren, Switzerland; (L.K.); (G.A.); (B.L.); (M.R.)
| | - Giovanna Azzarito
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, 8952 Schlieren, Switzerland; (L.K.); (G.A.); (B.L.); (M.R.)
| | - Brigitte Leeners
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, 8952 Schlieren, Switzerland; (L.K.); (G.A.); (B.L.); (M.R.)
| | - Marinella Rosselli
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, 8952 Schlieren, Switzerland; (L.K.); (G.A.); (B.L.); (M.R.)
| | - Raghvendra K. Dubey
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, 8952 Schlieren, Switzerland; (L.K.); (G.A.); (B.L.); (M.R.)
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, USA
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11
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Raj S, Sarangi P, Goyal D, Kumar H. The Hidden Hand in White Matter: Pericytes and the Puzzle of Demyelination. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2024; 7:2912-2923. [PMID: 39421660 PMCID: PMC11480894 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.4c00192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 10/19/2024]
Abstract
Disruption of myelin, the fatty sheath-insulating nerve fibers in the white matter, blocks or slows the rapid transmission of electrical signals along nerve cells and contributes to several neurodegenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis. Traditionally, research has focused on neuronal dysfunction as the primary factor, including autoimmunity, infections, inflammation, and genetic disorders causing demyelination. However, recent insights emphasize the critical role of pericytes, non-neuronal cells that regulate blood flow and maintain the health of blood vessels within white matter. This Perspective explores the principal mechanisms through which pericyte dysfunction contributes to damage and demyelination, including impaired communication with neurons (neurovascular uncoupling), excessive formation of scar tissue (fibrosis), and the infiltration of detrimental substances from the bloodstream. Understanding these mechanisms of pericyte-driven demyelination may lead to the creation of new therapeutic strategies for tackling a range of neurodegenerative conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siddharth Raj
- Department of Pharmacology
and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical
Education and Research (NIPER)-Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India, 382355
| | - Priyabrata Sarangi
- Department of Pharmacology
and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical
Education and Research (NIPER)-Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India, 382355
| | - Divya Goyal
- Department of Pharmacology
and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical
Education and Research (NIPER)-Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India, 382355
| | - Hemant Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology
and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical
Education and Research (NIPER)-Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India, 382355
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12
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Guelfi S, Hodivala-Dilke K, Bergers G. Targeting the tumour vasculature: from vessel destruction to promotion. Nat Rev Cancer 2024; 24:655-675. [PMID: 39210063 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-024-00736-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
As angiogenesis was recognized as a core hallmark of cancer growth and survival, several strategies have been implemented to target the tumour vasculature. Yet to date, attempts have rarely been so diverse, ranging from vessel growth inhibition and destruction to vessel normalization, reprogramming and vessel growth promotion. Some of these strategies, combined with standard of care, have translated into improved cancer therapies, but their successes are constrained to certain cancer types. This Review provides an overview of these vascular targeting approaches and puts them into context based on our subsequent improved understanding of the tumour vasculature as an integral part of the tumour microenvironment with which it is functionally interlinked. This new knowledge has already led to dual targeting of the vascular and immune cell compartments and sets the scene for future investigations of possible alternative approaches that consider the vascular link with other tumour microenvironment components for improved cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Guelfi
- Department of Oncology, VIB-KU Leuven Center for Cancer Biology and KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kairbaan Hodivala-Dilke
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Centre, London, UK.
| | - Gabriele Bergers
- Department of Oncology, VIB-KU Leuven Center for Cancer Biology and KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
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13
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Tang Y, Frisendahl C, Piltonen TT, Arffman RK, Lalitkumar PG, Gemzell-Danielsson K. Human Endometrial Pericytes: A Comprehensive Overview of Their Physiological Functions and Implications in Uterine Disorders. Cells 2024; 13:1510. [PMID: 39273080 PMCID: PMC11394273 DOI: 10.3390/cells13171510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2024] [Revised: 09/02/2024] [Accepted: 09/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Pericytes are versatile cells integral to the blood vessel walls of the microcirculation, where they exhibit specific stem cell traits. They are essential in modulating blood flow, ensuring vascular permeability, and maintaining homeostasis and are involved in the tissue repair process. The human endometrium is a unique and complex tissue that serves as a natural scar-free healing model with its cyclical repair and regeneration process every month. The regulation of pericytes has gained increasing attention due to their involvement in various physiological and pathological processes. However, endometrial pericytes are less well studied compared to the pericytes in other organs. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of endometrial pericytes, with a focus on elucidating their physiological function and potential implications in uterine disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqun Tang
- WHO Collaborating Centre, Division of Neonatology, Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Health, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, SE 17176 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Research Unit of Clinical Medicine, Medical Research Centre, Oulu University Hospital, University of Oulu, 90220 Oulu, Finland
| | - Caroline Frisendahl
- WHO Collaborating Centre, Division of Neonatology, Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Health, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, SE 17176 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Terhi T Piltonen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Research Unit of Clinical Medicine, Medical Research Centre, Oulu University Hospital, University of Oulu, 90220 Oulu, Finland
| | - Riikka K Arffman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Research Unit of Clinical Medicine, Medical Research Centre, Oulu University Hospital, University of Oulu, 90220 Oulu, Finland
| | - Parameswaran Grace Lalitkumar
- WHO Collaborating Centre, Division of Neonatology, Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Health, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, SE 17176 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kristina Gemzell-Danielsson
- WHO Collaborating Centre, Division of Neonatology, Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Health, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, SE 17176 Stockholm, Sweden
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14
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Kong X, Zhuo X, Huang X, Shang L, Lan T, Qin H, Chen X, Lv C, Xu Q, Wong PP. Multi-omics analysis reveals a pericyte-associated gene expression signature for predicting prognosis and therapeutic responses in solid cancers. Genomics 2024; 116:110942. [PMID: 39326641 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2024.110942] [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: 08/02/2024] [Revised: 09/09/2024] [Accepted: 09/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024]
Abstract
The influence of the stroma on cancer progression has been underestimated, particularly the role of vascular pericytes in the tumor microenvironment. Herein, we identified 51 differentially expressed genes in tumor-derived pericytes (TPCs) by analyzing transcriptomic data from TCGA alongside our proteomic data. Using five key TPC-related genes, we constructed a prognostic risk model that accurately predicts prognosis and treatment responses in liver and lung cancers. Enrichment analyses linked these genes to blood vessel remodeling, function, and immune-related pathways. Single-cell RNA sequencing data from the GEO database validated these findings, showing significant upregulation of AKAP12 and RRAS in TPCs. Immunostaining confirmed increased expression of these genes in liver and lung tumors. Depletion of RRAS or AKAP12 in TPCs restored their blood vessel-supporting role. Overall, our findings suggest that TPC-related gene profiles can predict patient outcomes and therapeutic responses in solid cancers, and targeting these profiles could be an improved treatment strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangzhan Kong
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China; Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Xianhua Zhuo
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China; Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Xi Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China; Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Lihuan Shang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China; Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Tianjun Lan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China; Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510010, China
| | - Hongquan Qin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China; Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Xiaochun Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China; Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Cui Lv
- Clinical Biobank Center, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, China.
| | - Qiuping Xu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China; Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China.
| | - Ping-Pui Wong
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China; Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China.
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15
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Larionov A, Hammer CM, Fiedler K, Filgueira L. Dynamics of Endothelial Cell Diversity and Plasticity in Health and Disease. Cells 2024; 13:1276. [PMID: 39120307 PMCID: PMC11312403 DOI: 10.3390/cells13151276] [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: 06/27/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Endothelial cells (ECs) are vital structural units of the cardiovascular system possessing two principal distinctive properties: heterogeneity and plasticity. Endothelial heterogeneity is defined by differences in tissue-specific endothelial phenotypes and their high predisposition to modification along the length of the vascular bed. This aspect of heterogeneity is closely associated with plasticity, the ability of ECs to adapt to environmental cues through the mobilization of genetic, molecular, and structural alterations. The specific endothelial cytoarchitectonics facilitate a quick structural cell reorganization and, furthermore, easy adaptation to the extrinsic and intrinsic environmental stimuli, known as the epigenetic landscape. ECs, as universally distributed and ubiquitous cells of the human body, play a role that extends far beyond their structural function in the cardiovascular system. They play a crucial role in terms of barrier function, cell-to-cell communication, and a myriad of physiological and pathologic processes. These include development, ontogenesis, disease initiation, and progression, as well as growth, regeneration, and repair. Despite substantial progress in the understanding of endothelial cell biology, the role of ECs in healthy conditions and pathologies remains a fascinating area of exploration. This review aims to summarize knowledge and concepts in endothelial biology. It focuses on the development and functional characteristics of endothelial cells in health and pathological conditions, with a particular emphasis on endothelial phenotypic and functional heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexey Larionov
- Faculty of Science and Medicine, Anatomy, University of Fribourg, Route Albert-Gockel 1, CH-1700 Fribourg, Switzerland; (C.M.H.); (L.F.)
| | - Christian Manfred Hammer
- Faculty of Science and Medicine, Anatomy, University of Fribourg, Route Albert-Gockel 1, CH-1700 Fribourg, Switzerland; (C.M.H.); (L.F.)
| | - Klaus Fiedler
- Independent Researcher, CH-1700 Fribourg, Switzerland;
| | - Luis Filgueira
- Faculty of Science and Medicine, Anatomy, University of Fribourg, Route Albert-Gockel 1, CH-1700 Fribourg, Switzerland; (C.M.H.); (L.F.)
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16
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Moro M, Balestrero FC, Grolla AA. Pericytes: jack-of-all-trades in cancer-related inflammation. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1426033. [PMID: 39086395 PMCID: PMC11288921 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1426033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Pericytes, recognized as mural cells, have long been described as components involved in blood vessel formation, playing a mere supporting role for endothelial cells (ECs). Emerging evidence strongly suggests their multifaceted roles in tissues and organs. Indeed, pericytes exhibit a remarkable ability to anticipate endothelial cell behavior and adapt their functions based on the specific cells they interact with. Pericytes can be activated by pro-inflammatory stimuli and crosstalk with immune cells, actively participating in their transmigration into blood vessels. Moreover, they can influence the immune response, often sustaining an immunosuppressive phenotype in most of the cancer types studied. In this review, we concentrate on the intricate crosstalk between pericytes and immune cells in cancer, highlighting the primary evidence regarding pericyte involvement in primary tumor mass dynamics, their contributions to tumor reprogramming for invasion and migration of malignant cells, and their role in the formation of pre-metastatic niches. Finally, we explored recent and emerging pharmacological approaches aimed at vascular normalization, including novel strategies to enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy through combined use with anti-angiogenic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ambra A. Grolla
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
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17
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Zhang X, Zhang F, Xu X. Single-cell RNA sequencing in exploring the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy. Clin Transl Med 2024; 14:e1751. [PMID: 38946005 PMCID: PMC11214886 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of irreversible blindness in the working-age populations. Despite decades of research on the pathogenesis of DR for clinical care, a comprehensive understanding of the condition is still lacking due to the intricate cellular diversity and molecular heterogeneity involved. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) has made the high-throughput molecular profiling of cells across modalities possible which has provided valuable insights into complex biological systems. In this review, we summarise the application of scRNA-seq in investigating the pathogenesis of DR, focusing on four aspects. These include the identification of differentially expressed genes, characterisation of key cell subpopulations and reconstruction of developmental 'trajectories' to unveil their state transition, exploration of complex cell‒cell communication in DR and integration of scRNA-seq with genome-wide association studies to identify cell types that are most closely related to DR risk genetic loci. Finally, we discuss the future challenges and expectations associated with studying DR using scRNA-seq. We anticipate that scRNA-seq will facilitate the discovery of mechanisms and new treatment targets in the clinical care landscape for patients with DR. KEY POINTS: Progress in scRNA-seq for diabetic retinopathy (DR) research includes studies on DR patients, non-human primates, and the prevalent mouse models. scRNA-seq facilitates the identification of differentially expressed genes, pivotal cell subpopulations, and complex cell-cell interactions in DR at single-cell level. Future scRNA-seq applications in DR should target specific patient subsets and integrate with single-cell and spatial multi-omics approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinzi Zhang
- National Clinical Research Center for Eye DiseasesDepartment of OphthalmologyShanghai General HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
- Eye Institute of Shanghai Jiao Tong University SchoolShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus DiseasesShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye DiseasesShanghaiChina
| | - Fang Zhang
- National Clinical Research Center for Eye DiseasesDepartment of OphthalmologyShanghai General HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
- Eye Institute of Shanghai Jiao Tong University SchoolShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus DiseasesShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye DiseasesShanghaiChina
| | - Xun Xu
- National Clinical Research Center for Eye DiseasesDepartment of OphthalmologyShanghai General HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
- Eye Institute of Shanghai Jiao Tong University SchoolShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus DiseasesShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Engineering Center for Precise Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye DiseasesShanghaiChina
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18
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Zhang S, Chen Y, Chen Q, Chen H, Wei L, Wang S. Assessment of cerebrovascular alterations induced by inflammatory response and oxidative-nitrative stress after traumatic intracranial hypertension and a potential mitigation strategy. Sci Rep 2024; 14:14535. [PMID: 38914585 PMCID: PMC11196732 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-64940-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The rapid perfusion of cerebral arteries leads to a significant increase in intracranial blood volume, exposing patients with traumatic brain injury to the risk of diffuse brain swelling or malignant brain herniation during decompressive craniectomy. The microcirculation and venous system are also involved in this process, but the precise mechanisms remain unclear. A physiological model of extremely high intracranial pressure was created in rats. This development triggered the TNF-α/NF-κB/iNOS axis in microglia, and released many inflammatory factors and reactive oxygen species/reactive nitrogen species, generating an excessive amount of peroxynitrite. Subsequently, the capillary wall cells especially pericytes exhibited severe degeneration and injury, the blood-brain barrier was disrupted, and a large number of blood cells were deposited within the microcirculation, resulting in a significant delay in the recovery of the microcirculation and venous blood flow compared to arterial flow, and this still persisted after decompressive craniectomy. Infliximab is a monoclonal antibody bound to TNF-α that effectively reduces the activity of TNF-α/NF-κB/iNOS axis. Treatment with Infliximab resulted in downregulation of inflammatory and oxidative-nitrative stress related factors, attenuation of capillary wall cells injury, and relative reduction of capillary hemostasis. These improved the delay in recovery of microcirculation and venous blood flow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shangming Zhang
- Fuzong Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350025, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, 900th Hospital, Fujian Provincial Clinical Medical Research Center for Minimally Invasive Diagnosis and Treatment of Neurovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, 350025, China
| | - Yehuang Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, 900th Hospital, Fujian Provincial Clinical Medical Research Center for Minimally Invasive Diagnosis and Treatment of Neurovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, 350025, China
| | - Qizuan Chen
- Fuzong Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350025, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, 900th Hospital, Fujian Provincial Clinical Medical Research Center for Minimally Invasive Diagnosis and Treatment of Neurovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, 350025, China
| | - Hongjie Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, 900th Hospital, Fujian Provincial Clinical Medical Research Center for Minimally Invasive Diagnosis and Treatment of Neurovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, 350025, China
| | - Liangfeng Wei
- Fuzong Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350025, China.
- Department of Neurosurgery, 900th Hospital, Fujian Provincial Clinical Medical Research Center for Minimally Invasive Diagnosis and Treatment of Neurovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, 350025, China.
| | - Shousen Wang
- Fuzong Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350025, China.
- Department of Neurosurgery, 900th Hospital, Fujian Provincial Clinical Medical Research Center for Minimally Invasive Diagnosis and Treatment of Neurovascular Diseases, Fuzhou, 350025, China.
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19
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Fazio A, Neri I, Koufi FD, Marvi MV, Galvani A, Evangelisti C, McCubrey JA, Cocco L, Manzoli L, Ratti S. Signaling Role of Pericytes in Vascular Health and Tissue Homeostasis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6592. [PMID: 38928298 PMCID: PMC11203602 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Pericytes are multipotent cells embedded within the vascular system, primarily surrounding capillaries and microvessels where they closely interact with endothelial cells. These cells are known for their intriguing properties due to their heterogeneity in tissue distribution, origin, and multifunctional capabilities. Specifically, pericytes are essential in regulating blood flow, promoting angiogenesis, and supporting tissue homeostasis and regeneration. These multifaceted roles draw on pericytes' remarkable ability to respond to biochemical cues, interact with neighboring cells, and adapt to changing environmental conditions. This review aims to summarize existing knowledge on pericytes, emphasizing their versatility and involvement in vascular integrity and tissue health. In particular, a comprehensive view of the major signaling pathways, such as PDGFβ/ PDGFRβ, TGF-β, FOXO and VEGF, along with their downstream targets, which coordinate the behavior of pericytes in preserving vascular integrity and promoting tissue regeneration, will be discussed. In this light, a deeper understanding of the complex signaling networks defining the phenotype of pericytes in healthy tissues is crucial for the development of targeted therapies in vascular and degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonietta Fazio
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.F.); (I.N.); (F.-D.K.); (M.V.M.); (A.G.); (C.E.); (L.C.); (L.M.)
| | - Irene Neri
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.F.); (I.N.); (F.-D.K.); (M.V.M.); (A.G.); (C.E.); (L.C.); (L.M.)
| | - Foteini-Dionysia Koufi
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.F.); (I.N.); (F.-D.K.); (M.V.M.); (A.G.); (C.E.); (L.C.); (L.M.)
| | - Maria Vittoria Marvi
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.F.); (I.N.); (F.-D.K.); (M.V.M.); (A.G.); (C.E.); (L.C.); (L.M.)
| | - Andrea Galvani
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.F.); (I.N.); (F.-D.K.); (M.V.M.); (A.G.); (C.E.); (L.C.); (L.M.)
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino “Carlo Bo”, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Camilla Evangelisti
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.F.); (I.N.); (F.-D.K.); (M.V.M.); (A.G.); (C.E.); (L.C.); (L.M.)
| | - James A. McCubrey
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA;
| | - Lucio Cocco
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.F.); (I.N.); (F.-D.K.); (M.V.M.); (A.G.); (C.E.); (L.C.); (L.M.)
| | - Lucia Manzoli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.F.); (I.N.); (F.-D.K.); (M.V.M.); (A.G.); (C.E.); (L.C.); (L.M.)
| | - Stefano Ratti
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.F.); (I.N.); (F.-D.K.); (M.V.M.); (A.G.); (C.E.); (L.C.); (L.M.)
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20
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Wellman S, Forrest AM, Douglas MM, Subbaraman A, Zhang G, Kozai TDY. Dynamic changes in structure and function of brain mural cells around chronically implanted microelectrodes. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.11.598494. [PMID: 38915601 PMCID: PMC11195141 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.11.598494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Integration of neural interfaces with minimal tissue disruption in the brain is ideal to develop robust tools that can address essential neuroscience questions and combat neurological disorders. However, implantation of intracortical devices provokes severe tissue inflammation within the brain, which requires a high metabolic demand to support a complex series of cellular events mediating tissue degeneration and wound healing. Pericytes, peri-vascular cells involved in blood-brain barrier maintenance, vascular permeability, waste clearance, and angiogenesis, have recently been implicated as potential perpetuators of neurodegeneration in brain injury and disease. While the intimate relationship between pericytes and the cortical microvasculature have been explored in other disease states, their behavior following microelectrode implantation, which is responsible for direct blood vessel disruption and dysfunction, is currently unknown. Using two-photon microscopy we observed dynamic changes in the structure and function of pericytes during implantation of a microelectrode array over a 4-week implantation period. Pericytes respond to electrode insertion through transient increases in intracellular calcium and underlying constriction of capillary vessels. Within days following the initial insertion, we observed an influx of new, proliferating pericytes which contribute to new blood vessel formation. Additionally, we discovered a potentially novel population of reactive immune cells in close proximity to the electrode-tissue interface actively engaging in encapsulation of the microelectrode array. Finally, we determined that intracellular pericyte calcium can be modulated by intracortical microstimulation in an amplitude- and frequency-dependent manner. This study provides a new perspective on the complex biological sequelae occurring the electrode-tissue interface and will foster new avenues of potential research consideration and lead to development of more advanced therapeutic interventions towards improving the biocompatibility of neural electrode technology.
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21
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Kazakova AN, Lukina MM, Anufrieva KS, Bekbaeva IV, Ivanova OM, Shnaider PV, Slonov A, Arapidi GP, Shender VO. Exploring the diversity of cancer-associated fibroblasts: insights into mechanisms of drug resistance. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1403122. [PMID: 38818409 PMCID: PMC11137237 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1403122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Among the various stromal cell types within the tumor microenvironment, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) emerge as the predominant constituent, exhibiting a diverse array of oncogenic functions not intrinsic to normal fibroblasts. Their involvement spans across all stages of tumorigenesis, encompassing initiation, progression, and metastasis. Current understanding posits the coexistence of distinct subpopulations of CAFs within the tumor microenvironment across a spectrum of solid tumors, showcasing both pro- and antitumor activities. Recent advancements in single-cell transcriptomics have revolutionized our ability to meticulously dissect the heterogeneity inherent to CAF populations. Furthermore, accumulating evidence underscores the pivotal role of CAFs in conferring therapeutic resistance to tumors against various drug modalities. Consequently, efforts are underway to develop pharmacological agents specifically targeting CAFs. Methods: This review embarks on a comprehensive analysis, consolidating data from 36 independent single-cell RNA sequencing investigations spanning 17 distinct human malignant tumor types. Results: Our exploration centers on elucidating CAF population markers, discerning their prognostic relevance, delineating their functional contributions, and elucidating the underlying mechanisms orchestrating chemoresistance. Discussion: Finally, we deliberate on the therapeutic potential of harnessing CAFs as promising targets for intervention strategies in clinical oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia N. Kazakova
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (National Research University), Dolgoprudny, Russia
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
| | - Maria M. Lukina
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
- Institute of Experimental Oncology and Biomedical Technologies, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Ksenia S. Anufrieva
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
| | - Irina V. Bekbaeva
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (National Research University), Dolgoprudny, Russia
| | - Olga M. Ivanova
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Polina V. Shnaider
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
- Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Andrey Slonov
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
| | - Georgij P. Arapidi
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (National Research University), Dolgoprudny, Russia
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
- Shemyakin–Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Victoria O. Shender
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
- Shemyakin–Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
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22
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He C, Yuan Y, Gong C, Wang X, Lyu G. Applications of Tissue Clearing in Central and Peripheral Nerves. Neuroscience 2024; 546:104-117. [PMID: 38570062 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2024.03.030] [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: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
The techniques of tissue clearing have been proposed and applied in anatomical and biomedical research since the 19th century. As we all know, the original study of the nervous system relied on serial ultrathin sections and stereoscopic techniques. The 3D visualization of the nervous system was established by software splicing and reconstruction. With the development of science and technology, microscope equipment had constantly been upgraded. Despite the great progress that has been made in this field, the workload is too complex, and it needs high technical requirements. Abundant mistakes due to manual sections were inescapable and structural integrity remained questionable. According to the classification of tissue transparency methods, we introduced the latest application of transparency methods in central and peripheral nerve research from optical imaging, molecular markers and data analysis. This review summarizes the application of transparent technology in neural pathways. We hope to provide some inspiration for the continuous optimization of tissue clearing methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng He
- Department of Anatomy, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Ye Yuan
- Department of Anatomy, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Chuanhui Gong
- Department of Anatomy, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Xueying Wang
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Guangming Lyu
- Department of Anatomy, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China; Department of Anatomy, Institute of Neurobiology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China.
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23
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Lin Y, Gahn J, Banerjee K, Dobreva G, Singhal M, Dubrac A, Ola R. Role of endothelial PDGFB in arterio-venous malformations pathogenesis. Angiogenesis 2024; 27:193-209. [PMID: 38070064 PMCID: PMC11021264 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-023-09900-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Arterial-venous malformations (AVMs) are direct connections between arteries and veins without an intervening capillary bed. Either familial inherited or sporadically occurring, localized pericytes (PCs) drop is among the AVMs' hallmarks. Whether impaired PC coverage triggers AVMs or it is a secondary event is unclear. Here we evaluated the role of the master regulator of PC recruitment, Platelet derived growth factor B (PDGFB) in AVM pathogenesis. Using tamoxifen-inducible deletion of Pdgfb in endothelial cells (ECs), we show that disruption of EC Pdgfb-mediated PC recruitment and maintenance leads to capillary enlargement and organotypic AVM-like structures. These vascular lesions contain non-proliferative hyperplastic, hypertrophic and miss-oriented capillary ECs with an altered capillary EC fate identity. Mechanistically, we propose that PDGFB maintains capillary EC size and caliber to limit hemodynamic changes, thus restricting expression of Krüppel like factor 4 and activation of Bone morphogenic protein, Transforming growth factor β and NOTCH signaling in ECs. Furthermore, our study emphasizes that inducing or activating PDGFB signaling may be a viable therapeutic approach for treating vascular malformations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanzhu Lin
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim (EPM), European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Johannes Gahn
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim (EPM), European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Kuheli Banerjee
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim (EPM), European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Gergana Dobreva
- Department of Cardiovascular Genomics and Epigenomics, European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mahak Singhal
- Laboratory of AngioRhythms, European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Alexandre Dubrac
- Centre de Recherche, CHU St. Justine, Montreal, QC, H3T 1C5, Canada
- Département de Pathologie et Biologie Cellulaire, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Roxana Ola
- Experimental Pharmacology Mannheim (EPM), European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany.
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24
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Prasad AS, Shanbhogue KP, Ramani NS, Balasubramanya R, Surabhi VR. Non-gastrointestinal stromal tumor, mesenchymal neoplasms of the gastrointestinal tract: a review of tumor genetics, pathology, and cross-sectional imaging findings. Abdom Radiol (NY) 2024; 49:1716-1733. [PMID: 38691132 DOI: 10.1007/s00261-024-04329-1] [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: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
There is a diverse group of non-gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST), mesenchymal neoplasms of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract that demonstrate characteristic pathology and histogenesis as well as variable imaging findings and biological behavior. Recent advancements in tumor genetics have unveiled specific abnormalities associated with certain tumors, influencing their molecular pathogenesis, biology, response to treatment, and prognosis. Notably, giant fibrovascular polyps of the esophagus, identified through MDM2 gene amplifications, are now classified as liposarcomas. Some tumors exhibit distinctive patterns of disease distribution. Glomus tumors and plexiform fibromyxomas exhibit a pronounced affinity for the gastric antrum. In contrast, smooth muscle tumors within the GI tract are predominantly found in the esophagus and colorectum, surpassing the incidence of GISTs in these locations. Surgical resection suffices for symptomatic benign tumors; multimodality treatment may be necessary for frank sarcomas. This article aims to elucidate the cross-sectional imaging findings associated with a wide spectrum of these tumors, providing insights that align with their histopathological features.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nisha S Ramani
- Department of Pathology, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, USA
| | | | - Venkateswar R Surabhi
- Department of Abdominal Imaging, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Unit 1473, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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25
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Dritsoula A, Camilli C, Moss SE, Greenwood J. The disruptive role of LRG1 on the vasculature and perivascular microenvironment. Front Cardiovasc Med 2024; 11:1386177. [PMID: 38745756 PMCID: PMC11091338 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2024.1386177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The establishment of new blood vessels, and their subsequent stabilization, is a critical process that facilitates tissue growth and organ development. Once established, vessels need to diversify to meet the specific needs of the local tissue and to maintain homeostasis. These processes are tightly regulated and fundamental to normal vessel and tissue function. The mechanisms that orchestrate angiogenesis and vessel maturation have been widely studied, with signaling crosstalk between endothelium and perivascular cells being identified as an essential component. In disease, however, new vessels develop abnormally, and existing vessels lose their specialization and function, which invariably contributes to disease progression. Despite considerable research into the vasculopathic mechanisms in disease, our knowledge remains incomplete. Accordingly, the identification of angiocrine and angiopathic molecules secreted by cells within the vascular microenvironment, and their effect on vessel behaviour, remains a major research objective. Over the last decade the secreted glycoprotein leucine-rich α-2 glycoprotein 1 (LRG1), has emerged as a significant vasculopathic molecule, stimulating defective angiogenesis, and destabilizing the existing vasculature mainly, but not uniquely, by altering both canonical and non-canonical TGF-β signaling in a highly cell and context dependent manner. Whilst LRG1 does not possess any overt homeostatic role in vessel development and maintenance, growing evidence provides a compelling case for LRG1 playing a pleiotropic role in disrupting the vasculature in many disease settings. Thus, LRG1 has now been reported to damage vessels in various disorders including cancer, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, ocular disease, and lung disease and the signaling processes that drive this dysfunction are being defined. Moreover, therapeutic targeting of LRG1 has been widely proposed to re-establish a quiescent endothelium and normalized vasculature. In this review, we consider the current status of our understanding of the role of LRG1 in vascular pathology, and its potential as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athina Dritsoula
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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26
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Zhou P, Meng X, Nie Z, Wang H, Wang K, Du A, Lei Y. PTEN: an emerging target in rheumatoid arthritis? Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:246. [PMID: 38671436 PMCID: PMC11046879 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01618-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) is a critical tumor suppressor protein that regulates various biological processes such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, and inflammatory responses by controlling the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) signaling pathway. PTEN plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Loss of PTEN may contribute to survival, proliferation, and pro-inflammatory cytokine release of fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS). Also, persistent PI3K signaling increases myeloid cells' osteoclastic potential, enhancing localized bone destruction. Recent studies have shown that the expression of PTEN protein in the synovial lining of RA patients with aggressive FLS is minimal. Experimental upregulation of PTEN protein expression could reduce the damage caused by RA. Nonetheless, a complete comprehension of aberrant PTEN drives RA progression and its interactions with other crucial molecules remains elusive. This review is dedicated to promoting a thorough understanding of the signaling mechanisms of aberrant PTEN in RA and aims to furnish pertinent theoretical support for forthcoming endeavors in both basic and clinical research within this domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pan Zhou
- Chengdu Rheumatology Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Xingwen Meng
- Chengdu Rheumatology Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Zhimin Nie
- Chengdu Rheumatology Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Hua Wang
- Chengdu Rheumatology Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Kaijun Wang
- Nanjing Tongshifeng Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Aihua Du
- Zhengzhou Gout and Rheumatology Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Yu Lei
- Chengdu Rheumatology Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China.
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27
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Shi L, Ge H, Ye F, Li X, Jiang Q. The role of pericyte in ocular vascular diseases. J Biomed Res 2024; 38:1-10. [PMID: 38808554 PMCID: PMC11629158 DOI: 10.7555/jbr.37.20230314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Pericytes are located in the stromal membrane of the capillary outer wall and contain endothelial cells (ECs). They are pivotal in regulating blood flow, enhancing vascular stability, and maintaining the integrity of the blood-retina barrier (BRB)/blood-brain barrier (BBB). The pluripotency of pericytes allows them to differentiate into various cell types, highlighting their significance in vascular disease pathogenesis, as demonstrated by previous studies. This potential enables pericytes to be a potential biomarker for the diagnosis and a target for treatment of vascular disorders. The retina, an essential part of the eyeball, is an extension of cerebral tissue with a transparent refractive medium. It offers a unique window for assessing systemic microvascular lesions. Routine fundus examination is necessary for patients with diabetes and hypertension. Manifestations, such as retinal artery tortuosity, dilation, stenosis, and abnormal arteriovenous anastomosis, serve as typical hallmarks of retinal vasculopathy. Therefore, studies of ocular vascular diseases significantly facilitate the exploration of systemic vascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lianjun Shi
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
- The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Huimin Ge
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
- The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Fan Ye
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
- The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Xiumiao Li
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
- The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Qin Jiang
- The Affiliated Eye Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
- The Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
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28
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Bertolotto C. Mechanisms of melanoma aggressiveness with age. NATURE AGING 2024; 4:287-288. [PMID: 38472453 DOI: 10.1038/s43587-024-00574-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Corine Bertolotto
- University Côte d'Azur, Nice, France.
- Inserm, Biology and Pathologies of Melanocytes, team1, Equipe Labellisée Ligue 2020, Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire, Nice, France.
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29
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Milani SZ, Rezabakhsh A, Karimipour M, Salimi L, Mardi N, Narmi MT, Sadeghsoltani F, Valioglu F, Rahbarghazi R. Role of autophagy in angiogenic potential of vascular pericytes. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1347857. [PMID: 38380339 PMCID: PMC10877016 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1347857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The vasculature system is composed of a multiplicity of juxtaposed cells to generate a functional biological barrier between the blood and tissues. On the luminal surface of blood vessels, endothelial cells (ECs) are in close contact with circulating cells while supporting basal lamina and pericytes wrap the abluminal surface. Thus, the reciprocal interaction of pericytes with ECs is a vital element in the physiological activity of the vascular system. Several reports have indicated that the occurrence of pericyte dysfunction under ischemic and degenerative conditions results in varied micro and macro-vascular complications. Emerging evidence points to the fact that autophagy, a conserved self-digestive cell machinery, can regulate the activity of several cells like pericytes in response to various stresses and pathological conditions. Here, we aim to highlight the role of autophagic response in pericyte activity and angiogenesis potential following different pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soheil Zamen Milani
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Aysa Rezabakhsh
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Karimipour
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Leila Salimi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Narges Mardi
- Biotechnology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | | | - Ferzane Valioglu
- Technology Development Zones Management CO., Sakarya University, Sakarya, Türkiye
| | - Reza Rahbarghazi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Applied Cellular Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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30
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González LDM, Romero-Orjuela SP, Rabeya FJ, del Castillo V, Echeverri D. Age and vascular aging: an unexplored frontier. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1278795. [PMID: 38028481 PMCID: PMC10665864 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1278795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular age is an emerging field in cardiovascular risk assessment. This concept includes multifactorial changes in the arterial wall, with arterial stiffness as its most relevant manifestation, leading to increased arterial pressure and pulsatile flow in the organs. Today, the approved test for measuring vascular age is pulse wave velocity, which has been proven to predict cardiovascular events. Furthermore, vascular phenotypes, such as early vascular aging and "SUPERNOVA," representing phenotypic extremes of vascular aging, have been found. The identification of these phenotypes opens a new field of study in cardiovascular physiology. Lifestyle interventions and pharmacological therapy have positively affected vascular health, reducing arterial stiffness. This review aims to define the concepts related to vascular age, pathophysiology, measurement methods, clinical signs and symptoms, and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura del Mar González
- Department of Cardiology, Fundación Cardioinfantil–Instituto de Cardiología, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | - Fernando J. Rabeya
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Valeria del Castillo
- Department of Cardiology, Fundación Cardioinfantil–Instituto de Cardiología, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Darío Echeverri
- Department of Cardiology, Fundación Cardioinfantil–Instituto de Cardiología, Bogotá, Colombia
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Ricciardelli AR, Robledo A, Fish JE, Kan PT, Harris TH, Wythe JD. The Role and Therapeutic Implications of Inflammation in the Pathogenesis of Brain Arteriovenous Malformations. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2876. [PMID: 38001877 PMCID: PMC10669898 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11112876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain arteriovenous malformations (bAVMs) are focal vascular lesions composed of abnormal vascular channels without an intervening capillary network. As a result, high-pressure arterial blood shunts directly into the venous outflow system. These high-flow, low-resistance shunts are composed of dilated, tortuous, and fragile vessels, which are prone to rupture. BAVMs are a leading cause of hemorrhagic stroke in children and young adults. Current treatments for bAVMs are limited to surgery, embolization, and radiosurgery, although even these options are not viable for ~20% of AVM patients due to excessive risk. Critically, inflammation has been suggested to contribute to lesion progression. Here we summarize the current literature discussing the role of the immune system in bAVM pathogenesis and lesion progression, as well as the potential for targeting inflammation to prevent bAVM rupture and intracranial hemorrhage. We conclude by proposing that a dysfunctional endothelium, which harbors the somatic mutations that have been shown to give rise to sporadic bAVMs, may drive disease development and progression by altering the immune status of the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley R. Ricciardelli
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ariadna Robledo
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; (A.R.)
| | - Jason E. Fish
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada;
- Laboratory Medicine & Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Peter Munk Cardiac Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2N2, Canada
| | - Peter T. Kan
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; (A.R.)
| | - Tajie H. Harris
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA;
- Brain, Immunology, and Glia (BIG) Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - Joshua D. Wythe
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA;
- Brain, Immunology, and Glia (BIG) Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
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