A central role of EGF receptor transactivation in angiotensin II -induced cardiac hypertrophy

ESCRT-III Component CHMP4C Attenuates Cardiac Hypertrophy by Targeting the Endo-Lysosomal Degradation of EGFR

BACKGROUND

Cardiac hypertrophy and subsequent heart failure impose a considerable burden on public health worldwide. Impaired protein degradation, especially endo-lysosome-mediated degradation of membrane proteins, is associated with cardiac hypertrophy progression. CHMP4C (charged multivesicular body protein 4C), a critical constituent of multivesicular bodies, is involved in cellular trafficking and signaling. However, the specific role of CHMP4C in the progression of cardiac hypertrophy remains largely unknown.

METHODS

Mouse models with CHMP4C knockout or cardiadc-specific overexpression were subjected to transverse aortic constriction surgery for 4 weeks. Cardiac morphology and function were assessed through histological staining and echocardiography. Confocal imaging and coimmunoprecipitation assays were performed to identify the direct target of CHMP4C. An EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) inhibitor was administrated to determine whether effects of CHMP4C on cardiac hypertrophy were EGFR dependent.

RESULTS

CHMP4C was significantly upregulated in both pressure-overloaded mice and spontaneously hypertensive rats. Compared with wild-type mice, CHMP4C deficiency exacerbated transverse aortic constriction-induced cardiac hypertrophy, whereas CHMP4C overexpression in cardiomyocytes attenuated cardiac dysfunction. Mechanistically, the effect of CHMP4C on cardiac hypertrophy relied on the EGFR signaling pathway. Fluorescent staining and coimmunoprecipitation assays confirmed that CHMP4C interacts directly with EGFR and promotes lysosome-mediated degradation of activated EGFR, thus attenuating cardiac hypertrophy. Notably, an EGFR inhibitor canertinib counteracted the exacerbation of cardiac hypertrophy induced by CHMP4C knockdown in vitro and in vivo.

CONCLUSIONS

CHMP4C represses cardiac hypertrophy by modulating lysosomal degradation of EGFR and is a potential therapeutic candidate for cardiac hypertrophy.

The role of EGFR in vascular AT1R signaling: From cellular mechanisms to systemic relevance

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) belongs to the ErbB-family of receptor tyrosine kinases that are of importance in oncology. During the last years, substantial evidence accumulated for a crucial role of EGFR concerning the action of the angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) in blood vessels, resulting form AT1R-induced EGFR transactivation. This transactivation occurs through the release of membrane-anchored EGFR-ligands, cytosolic tyrosine kinases, heterocomplex formation or enhanced ligand expression. AT1R-EGFR crosstalk amplifies the signaling response and enhances the biological effects of angiotensin II. Downstream signaling cascades include ERK1/2 and p38 MAPK, PLCγ and STAT. AT1R-induced EGFR activation contributes to vascular remodeling and hypertrophy via e.g. smooth muscle cell proliferation, migration and extracellular matrix production. EGFR transactivation results in increased vessel wall thickness and reduced vascular compliance. AT1R and EGFR signaling pathways are also implicated the induction of vascular inflammation. Again, EGFR transactivation exacerbates the effects, leading to endothelial dysfunction that contributes to vascular inflammation, dysfunction and remodeling. Dysregulation of the AT1R-EGFR axis has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various cardiovascular diseases and inhibition or prevention of EGFR signaling can attenuate part of the detrimental impact of enhanced renin-angiotensin-system (RAAS) activity, highlighting the importance of EGFR for the adverse consequences of AT1R activation. In summary, EGFR plays a critical role in vascular AT1R action, enhancing signaling, promoting remodeling, contributing to inflammation, and participating in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. Understanding the interplay between AT1R and EGFR will foster the development of effective therapeutic strategies of RAAS-induced disorders.

Receptor Tyrosine Kinase: Still an Interesting Target to Inhibit the Proliferation of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells

Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) proliferation is a critical event that contributes to the pathogenesis of vascular remodeling such as hypertension, restenosis, and pulmonary hypertension. Increasing evidences have revealed that VSMCs proliferation is associated with the activation of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) by their ligands, including the insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGFR), fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR), and platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR). Moreover, some receptor tyrosinase inhibitors (TKIs) have been found and can prevent VSMCs proliferation to attenuate vascular remodeling. Therefore, this review will describe recent research progress on the role of RTKs and their inhibitors in controlling VSMCs proliferation, which helps to better understand the function of VSMCs proliferation in cardiovascular events and is beneficial for the prevention and treatment of vascular disease.

Calcineurin (PPP3CB) regulates angiotensin II-dependent vascular remodelling by potentiating EGFR signalling in mice

AIM

This study investigates the role of calcineurin for angiotensin II (AngII)-induced vascular remodelling with the help of a mouse model lacking the catalytic beta subunit of calcineurin (PPP3CB KO).

METHODS

Wildtype (WT) and PPP3CB KO mice were treated for 4 weeks with AngII followed by assessment of blood pressure, histological evaluation of aortas and mRNA analysis of aortic genes PPP3CB-dependently regulated by AngII. Primary murine vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) were used for qPCR, ELISA and Western Blot experiments as well as wound healing and cell proliferation assays.

RESULTS

Upon AngII treatment, PPP3CB KO mice showed less aortic media thickening, lumen dilation and systolic blood pressure compared to WT mice. Next-generation sequencing data of aortic tissue indicated an increase in extracellular matrix components (EMCs), cell migration and cell proliferation. A PPP3CB-dependent increase in EMC was confirmed by qPCR in aorta and VSMCs. PPP3CB-dependent stimulation of VSMC migration could be verified by wound healing assays but markers of enhanced cell proliferation were only detectable in aortic tissue of WT mice but not in isolated WT or KO VSMCs. We could demonstrate in VSMCs with pharmacological inhibitors that PPP3CB leads to enhanced heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor (HB-EGF) secretion, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) activation and consecutive stimulation of transforming growth factor β(TGFβ) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) signalling that enhances collagen expression.

CONCLUSION

AngII-induced vascular remodelling involves PPP3CB, which leads to enhanced EMC production, VSMC migration and sustained increase in systolic blood pressure via HBEGF/EGFR-TGFβ-CTGF signalling.

The mineralocorticoid receptor leads to increased expression of EGFR and T-type calcium channels that support HL-1 cell hypertrophy

The EGF receptor (EGFR) has been extensively studied in tumor biology and recently a role in cardiovascular pathophysiology was suggested. The mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) is an important effector of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone-system and elicits pathophysiological effects in the cardiovascular system; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms are unclear. Our aim was to investigate the importance of EGFR for MR-mediated cardiovascular pathophysiology because MR is known to induce EGFR expression. We identified a SNP within the EGFR promoter that modulates MR-induced EGFR expression. In RNA-sequencing and qPCR experiments in heart tissue of EGFR KO and WT mice, changes in EGFR abundance led to differential expression of cardiac ion channels, especially of the T-type calcium channel CACNA1H. Accordingly, CACNA1H expression was increased in WT mice after in vivo MR activation by aldosterone but not in respective EGFR KO mice. Aldosterone- and EGF-responsiveness of CACNA1H expression was confirmed in HL-1 cells by Western blot and by measuring peak current density of T-type calcium channels. Aldosterone-induced CACNA1H protein expression could be abrogated by the EGFR inhibitor AG1478. Furthermore, inhibition of T-type calcium channels with mibefradil or ML218 reduced diameter, volume and BNP levels in HL-1 cells. In conclusion the MR regulates EGFR and CACNA1H expression, which has an effect on HL-1 cell diameter, and the extent of this regulation seems to depend on the SNP-216 (G/T) genotype. This suggests that the EGFR may be an intermediate for MR-mediated cardiovascular changes and that SNP analysis can help identify subgroups of patients that will benefit most from MR antagonists.

The insulin receptor family and protein kinase B (Akt) are activated in the heart by alkaline pH and α1-adrenergic receptors

Insulin and insulin-like growth factor stimulate protein synthesis and cardioprotection in the heart, acting through their receptors (INSRs, IGF1Rs) and signalling via protein kinase B (PKB, also known as Akt). Protein synthesis is increased in hearts perfused at alkaline pH_o to the same extent as with insulin. Moreover, α₁-adrenergic receptor (α₁-AR) agonists (e.g. phenylephrine) increase protein synthesis in cardiomyocytes, activating PKB/Akt. In both cases, the mechanisms are not understood. Our aim was to determine if insulin receptor-related receptors (INSRRs, activated in kidney by alkaline pH) may account for the effects of alkaline pH_o on cardiac protein synthesis, and establish if α₁-ARs signal through the insulin receptor family. Alkaline pH_o activated PKB/Akt signalling to the same degree as insulin in perfused adult male rat hearts. INSRRs were expressed in rat hearts and, by immunoblotting for phosphorylation (activation) of INSRRs/INSRs/IGF1Rs, we established that INSRRs, together with INSRs/IGF1Rs, are activated by alkaline pH_o. The INSRR/INSR/IGF1R kinase inhibitor, linsitinib, prevented PKB/Akt activation by alkaline pH_o, indicating that INSRRs/INSRs/IGF1Rs are required. Activation of PKB/Akt in cardiomyocytes by α₁-AR agonists was also inhibited by linsitinib. Furthermore, linsitinib inhibited cardiomyocyte hypertrophy induced by α₁-ARs in cultured cells, reduced the initial cardiac adaptation (24 h) to phenylephrine in vivo (assessed by echocardiography) and increased cardiac fibrosis over 4 days. We conclude that INSRRs are expressed in the heart and, together with INSRs/IGF1Rs, the insulin receptor family provide a potent system for promoting protein synthesis and cardioprotection. Moreover, this system is required for adaptive hypertrophy induced by α₁-ARs.

GJA1-20k attenuates Ang II-induced pathological cardiac hypertrophy by regulating gap junction formation and mitochondrial function

Cardiac hypertrophy (CH) is characterized by an increase in cardiomyocyte size, and is the most common cause of cardiac-related sudden death. A decrease in gap junction (GJ) coupling and mitochondrial dysfunction are important features of CH, but the mechanisms of decreased coupling and energy impairment are poorly understood. It has been reported that GJA1-20k has a strong tropism for mitochondria and is required for the trafficking of connexin 43 (Cx43) to cell-cell borders. In this study, we investigated the effects of GJA1-20k on Cx43 GJ coupling and mitochondrial function in the pathogenesis of CH. We performed hematoxylin-eosin (HE) and Masson staining, and observed significant CH in 18-week-old male spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) compared to age-matched normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. In cardiomyocytes from SHRs, the levels of Cx43 at the intercalated disc (ID) and the expression of GJA1-20k were significantly reduced, whereas JAK-STAT signaling was activated. Furthermore, the SHR rats displayed suppressed mitochondrial GJA1-20k and mitochondrial biogenesis. Administration of valsartan (10 mg· [Formula: see text] d-1, i.g., for 8 weeks) prevented all of these changes. In neonatal rat cardiomyocytes (NRCMs), overexpression of GJA1-20k attenuated Ang II-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and caused elevated levels of GJ coupling at the cell-cell borders. Pretreatment of NRCMs with the Jak2 inhibitor AG490 (10 µM) blocked Ang II-induced reduction in GJA1-20k expression and Cx43 gap junction formation; knockdown of Jak2 in NRCMs significantly lessened Ang II-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and normalized GJA1-20k expression and Cx43 gap junction formation. Overexpression of GJA1-20k improved mitochondrial membrane potential and respiration and lowered ROS production in Ang II-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. These results demonstrate the importance of GJA1-20k in regulating gap junction formation and mitochondrial function in Ang II-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, thus providing a novel therapeutic strategy for patients with cardiomyocyte hypertrophy.

Multi-layered Spatial Transcriptomics Identify Secretory Factors Promoting Human Hematopoietic Stem Cell Development

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) first emerge in the embryonic aorta-gonad-mesonephros (AGM) region. Studies of model organisms defined intersecting signaling pathways that converge to promote HSC emergence predominantly in the ventral domain of the dorsal aorta. Much less is known about mechanisms driving HSC development in humans. Here, to identify secreted signals underlying human HSC development, we combined spatial transcriptomics analysis of dorsoventral polarized signaling in the aorta with gene expression profiling of sorted cell populations and single cells. Our analysis revealed a subset of aortic endothelial cells with a downregulated arterial signature and a predicted lineage relationship with the emerging HSC/progenitor population. Analysis of the ventrally polarized molecular landscape identified endothelin 1 as an important secreted regulator of human HSC development. The obtained gene expression datasets will inform future studies on mechanisms of HSC development in vivo and on generation of clinically relevant HSCs in vitro.

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Spatial transcriptome profiling of the human HSC developmental niche

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Characterization of an HSC precursor population at single-cell resolution

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Cardiac EGF pathway is ventrally enriched next to developing IAHCs/HSCs

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Ventrally secreted endothelin promotes development of HSCs

Hypertension-induced cardiac impairment is reversed by the inhibition of endoplasmic reticulum stress

OBJECTIVES

Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) has been shown to play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of hypertension. However, the role and mechanisms of ERS on hypertension-induced cardiac functional and morphological changes remain unclear. In this study, the effect of ERS inhibition with tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) on hypertension-induced cardiac remodelling was examined.

METHODS

Hypertension was induced by deoxycorticosterone-acetate (DOCA) and salt administration in uni-nephrectomized rats for 12 weeks. TUDCA was administered for the last four weeks. Rhythmic activity and contractions of the right atrium and left papillary muscle (LPM) were recorded. In the left ventricle, the expression of various proteins was examined and histopathological evaluation was performed.

KEY FINDINGS

Hypertension-induced increments in systolic blood pressure and ventricular contractions were reversed by TUDCA. In the hypertensive heart, while expressions of glucose-regulated protein-78 (GRP78), phospho-dsRNA-activated protein kinase-like ER kinase (p-PERK), sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca-ATPase-2 (SERCA2), matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and nuclear NF-κB p65 increased; Bcl-2 (B-cell lymphoma-2) expression decreased and the altered levels of all these markers were restored by TUDCA. In the microscopic examination, TUDCA treatment attenuated hypertension-stimulated cardiac inflammation and fibrosis.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that ERS inhibition may ameliorate cardiac contractility through improving ERS-associated calcium mishandling, apoptosis, inflammation and fibrosis, thereby offering therapeutic potential in hypertension-induced cardiac dysfunction.

Epidermal growth factor receptor/extracellular signal-regulated kinase pathway enhances mineralocorticoid receptor transcriptional activity through protein stabilization

Activation of mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) is evoked by aldosterone, and it induces hypertension and cardiovascular disease when it's concomitant with excessive salt loading. We have proposed the notion of "MR-associated hypertension", in which add-on therapy of MR blockers is effective even though serum aldosterone level is within normal range. To elucidate its underlying molecular mechanism, we focused on the effect of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activation on MR activity. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) administration increased MR transcriptional activity through EGFR/ERK pathway and increased protein level by counteracting MR ubiquitylation in vitro. EGF administration in vivo also increased MR protein level and target gene expression in kidney, which were decreased by EGFR inhibitor. In addition, the administration of EGFR inhibitor lowered systolic blood pressure and MR activity in DOCA/salt-treated mice. In conclusion, EGFR/ERK pathway activation is considered as one of the underlying mechanisms of aberrant MR activation and EGFR/ERK pathway blockade could be an alternative approach for the prevention of MR-related cardiovascular events.

Interplay between estrogen-related receptors and steroidogenesis-controlling molecules in adrenals. In vivo and in vitro study

Estrogen-related receptors (ERRs) α, β and γ appear to be novel molecules implicated in estrogen signaling. We blocked and activated ERRs in mouse (C57BL/6) adrenals and adrenocortical cells (H295R) using pharmacological agents XCT 790 (ERRα antagonist) and DY131 (ERRβ/γ agonist), respectively. Mice were injected with XCT 790 or DY131 (5 μg/kg bw) while cells were exposed to XCT 790 or DY131 (0.5 μg/L). Irrespectively of the agent used, changes in adrenocortical cell morphology along with changes in lutropin, cholesterol levels and estrogen production were found. Diverse and complex ERRs regulation of multilevel-acting steroidogenic proteins (perilipin; PLIN, cytochrome P450 side-chain cleavage; P450scc, translocator protein; TSPO, steroidogenic acute regulatory protein; StAR, hormone sensitive lipase; HSL and HMG-CoA reductase; HMGCR) was revealed. Blockage of ERRα decreased P450scc, StAR and TSPO expressions. Activation of ERRβ/γ increased P450scc, StAR and HMGCR while decreased HSL expressions. PLIN expression increased either after XCT 790 or DY131 treatment. Additionally, treatment with both XCT 790 or DY131 decreased activity of Ras/Raf, Erk and Akt indicating their involvement in control of morphology and steroidogenic function of cortex cells. ERRs are important in maintaining morpho-function of cortex cells through action in specific, opposite, or common manner on steroidogenic molecules.

Effects of reduced β2-glycoprotein I on the expression of aortic matrix metalloproteinases and tissue inhibitor matrix metalloproteinases in diabetic mice

Background

Reduced β₂-glycoprotein I (reduced β₂GP I), which has free sulfhydryl groups, is present in plasma and serum; it can protect vascular endothelial cells from damage due to oxidative stress in vitro. We investigated the effects of reduced β₂GP I on the expression of various matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMPs) in the aortas of diabetic mice.

Methods

We provided 120 female 8-week-old Balb/c mice with a high sugar, high fat diet. After 8 weeks they were injected with streptozotocin to induce diabetes. We treated mice in the mono dose groups with β₂GP I, reduced β₂GP I, or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) on day 1 and fed them for 3 weeks. The mice in the complex dose groups were treated with β₂GP I, reduced β₂GP I, or PBS on days 1 and 22 and fed for 6 weeks. Control mice were given a standard chow diet. Blood lipids were measured at the end of 3 or 6 weeks, and aortas removed to observe morphological and molecular biological changes.

Results

The low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in mice of the reduced β₂GP I group were lower than those in the diabetic group. Aortic lipid deposition in the reduced β₂GP I group was significantly less than in the diabetic control group. In the aortas, reduced β₂GP I decreased MMP2/TIMP2 mRNA and protein expression levels, and MMP9/TIMP1 expression levels compared with those in diabetic controls. Reduced β₂GP I down-regulated p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38MAPK) mRNA expression and phosphorylated p38MAPK protein expression compared with those in diabetic controls of the complex dose group.

Conclusions

Reduced β₂GP I plays a role in diabetic mice related to vascular protection, inhibiting vascular lipid deposition, and plaque formation by reducing MMPs/TIMPs expression through down-regulation of the p38MAPK signaling pathway.

Cell competition promotes phenotypically silent cardiomyocyte replacement in the mammalian heart

Heterogeneous anabolic capacity in cell populations can trigger a phenomenon known as cell competition, through which less active cells are eliminated. Cell competition has been induced experimentally in stem/precursor cell populations in insects and mammals and takes place endogenously in early mouse embryonic cells. Here, we show that cell competition can be efficiently induced in mouse cardiomyocytes by mosaic overexpression of Myc during both gestation and adult life. The expansion of the Myc-overexpressing cardiomyocyte population is driven by the elimination of wild-type cardiomyocytes. Importantly, this cardiomyocyte replacement is phenotypically silent and does not affect heart anatomy or function. These results show that the capacity for cell competition in mammals is not restricted to stem cell populations and suggest that stimulated cell competition has potential as a cardiomyocyte-replacement strategy.

Neuregulin-1/erbB activities with focus on the susceptibility of the heart to anthracyclines

Neuregulin-1 (NRG1) signaling through the tyrosine kinase receptors erbB2 and erbB4 is required for cardiac morphogenesis, and it plays an essential role in maintaining the myocardial architecture during adulthood. The tyrosine kinase receptor erbB2 was first linked to the amplification and overexpression of erbb2 gene in a subtype of breast tumor cells, which is indicative of highly proliferative cells and likely a poor prognosis following conventional chemotherapy. The development of targeted therapies to block the survival of erbB2-positive cancer cells revealed that impaired NRG1 signaling through erbB2/erbB4 heterodimers combined with anthracycline chemotherapy may lead to dilated cardiomyopathy in a subpopulation of treated patients. The ventricular-specific deletion of either erbb2 or erbb4 manifested dilated cardiomyopathy, which is aggravated by the administration of doxorubicin. Based on the exacerbated toxicity displayed by the combined treatment, it is expected that the relevant pathways would be affected in a synergistic manner. This review examines the NRG1 activities that were monitored in different model systems, focusing on the emerging pathways and molecular targets, which may aid in understanding the acquired dilated cardiomyopathy that occurs under the conditions of NRG1-deficient signaling.

Predicting kinase activity in angiotensin receptor phosphoproteomes based on sequence-motifs and interactions

Recent progress in the understanding of seven-transmembrane receptor (7TMR) signalling has promoted the development of a new generation of pathway selective ligands. The angiotensin II type I receptor (AT1aR) is one of the most studied 7TMRs with respect to selective activation of the β-arrestin dependent signalling. Two complimentary global phosphoproteomics studies have analyzed the complex signalling induced by the AT1aR. Here we integrate the data sets from these studies and perform a joint analysis using a novel method for prediction of differential kinase activity from phosphoproteomics data. The method builds upon NetworKIN, which applies sophisticated linear motif analysis in combination with contextual network modelling to predict kinase-substrate associations with high accuracy and sensitivity. These predictions form the basis for subsequently nonparametric statistical analysis to identify likely activated kinases. This suggested that AT1aR-dependent signalling activates 48 of the 285 kinases detected in HEK293 cells. Of these, Aurora B, CLK3 and PKG1 have not previously been described in the pathway whereas others, such as PKA, PKB and PKC, are well known. In summary, we have developed a new method for kinase-centric analysis of phosphoproteomes to pinpoint differential kinase activity in large-scale data sets.

Matrix metalloproteinase-9: Many shades of function in cardiovascular disease

Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9, one of the most widely investigated MMPs, regulates pathological remodeling processes that involve inflammation and fibrosis in cardiovascular disease. MMP-9 directly degrades extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins and activates cytokines and chemokines to regulate tissue remodeling. MMP-9 deletion or inhibition has proven overall beneficial in multiple animal models of cardiovascular disease. As such, MMP-9 expression and activity is a common end point measured. MMP-9 cell-specific overexpression, however, has also proven beneficial and highlights the fact that little information is available on the underlying mechanisms of MMP-9 function. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of MMP-9 physiology, including structure, regulation, activation, and downstream effects of increased MMP-9. We discuss MMP-9 roles during inflammation and fibrosis in cardiovascular disease. By concentrating on the substrates of MMP-9 and their roles in cardiovascular disease, we explore the overall function and discuss future directions on the translational potential of MMP-9 based therapies.

Regulation of the cardiac sodium/bicarbonate cotransporter by angiotensin II: potential Contribution to structural, ionic and electrophysiological myocardial remodelling

The sodium/ bicarbonate cotransporter (NBC) is, with the Na⁺/H⁺ exchanger (NHE), an important alkalinizing mechanism that maintains cellular intracellular pH (pHi). In the heart exists at least three isoforms of NBC, one that promotes the co-influx of 1 molecule of Na⁺ per 1molecule of HCO₃^-(electroneutral isoform; nNBC) and two others that generates the co-influx of 1 molecule of Na⁺ per 2 molecules of HCO₃^- (electrogenic isoforms; eNBC). In addition, the eNBC generates an anionic repolarizing current that modulate the cardiac action potential (CAP), adding to such isoforms the relevance to modulate the electrophysiological function of the heart. Angiotensin II (Ang II) is one of the main hormones that regulate cardiac physiology. The alkalinizing mechanisms (NHE and NBC) are stimulated by Ang II, increasing pHi and intracellular Na⁺ concentration, which indirectly, due to the stimulation of the Na⁺/Ca²⁺ exchanger (NCX) operating in the reverse form, leads to an increase in the intracellular Ca²⁺ concentration. Interestingly, it has been shown that Ang II exhibits an opposite effect on NBC isoforms: it activates the nNBC and inhibits the eNBC. This inhibition generates a CAP prolongation, which could directly increase the intracellular Ca²⁺ concentration. The regulation of the intracellular Na⁺ and Ca²⁺ concentrations is crucial for the cardiac cellular physiology, but these ions are also involved in the development of cardiac hypertrophy and the damage produced by ischemia-reperfusion, suggesting a potential role of NBC in cardiac diseases.

Mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) as signaling molecules of intracellular pathways triggered by the cardiac renin-angiotensin II-aldosterone system (RAAS)

Mitochondria represent major sources of basal reactive oxygen species (ROS) production of the cardiomyocyte. The role of ROS as signaling molecules that mediate different intracellular pathways has gained increasing interest among physiologists in the last years. In our lab, we have been studying the participation of mitochondrial ROS in the intracellular pathways triggered by the renin-angiotensin II-aldosterone system (RAAS) in the myocardium during the past few years. We have demonstrated that acute activation of cardiac RAAS induces mitochondrial ATP-dependent potassium channel (mitoK_ATP) opening with the consequent enhanced production of mitochondrial ROS. These oxidant molecules, in turn, activate membrane transporters, as sodium/hydrogen exchanger (NHE-1) and sodium/bicarbonate cotransporter (NBC) via the stimulation of the ROS-sensitive MAPK cascade. The stimulation of such effectors leads to an increase in cardiac contractility. In addition, it is feasible to suggest that a sustained enhanced production of mitochondrial ROS induced by chronic cardiac RAAS, and hence, chronic NHE-1 and NBC stimulation, would also result in the development of cardiac hypertrophy.

Sperm epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mediates α7 acetylcholine receptor (AChR) activation to promote fertilization

To attain fertilization the spermatozoon binds to the egg zona pellucida (ZP) via sperm receptor(s) and undergoes an acrosome reaction (AR). Several sperm receptors have been described in the literature; however, the identity of this receptor is not yet certain. In this study, we suggest that the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) might be a sperm receptor activated by ZP to induce epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mediated AR. We found that isolated ZP or α7 agonists induced the AR in sperm from WT but not α7-null spermatozoa, and the induced AR was inhibited by α7 or EGFR antagonists. Moreover, α7-null sperm showed very little binding to the egg, and microfluidic affinity in vitro assay clearly showed that α7nAChR, as well as EGFR, interacted with ZP3. Induction of EGFR activation and the AR by an α7 agonist was inhibited by a Src family kinase (SFK) inhibitor. In conclusion we suggest that activation of α7 by ZP leads to SFK-dependent EGFR activation, Ca(2+) influx, and the acrosome reaction.

The role of neuregulin/ErbB2/ErbB4 signaling in the heart with special focus on effects on cardiomyocyte proliferation

The signaling complex consisting of the growth factor neuregulin-1 (NRG1) and its tyrosine kinase receptors ErbB2 and ErbB4 has a critical role in cardiac development and homeostasis of the structure and function of the adult heart. Recent research results suggest that targeting this signaling complex may provide a viable strategy for treating heart failure. Clinical trials are currently evaluating the effectiveness and safety of intravenous administration of recombinant NRG1 formulations in heart failure patients. Endogenous as well as administered NRG1 has multiple possible activities in the adult heart, but how these are related is unknown. It has recently been demonstrated that NRG1 administration can stimulate proliferation of cardiomyocytes, which may contribute to repair failing hearts. This review summarizes the current knowledge of how NRG1 and its receptors control cardiac physiology and biology, with special emphasis on its role in cardiomyocyte proliferation during myocardial growth and regeneration.

Angiotensin II induces epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in renal epithelial cells through reactive oxygen species/Src/caveolin-mediated activation of an epidermal growth factor receptor-extracellular signal-regulated kinase signaling pathway

Chronic activation of the renin-angiotensin system plays a deleterious role in progressive kidney damage, and the renal proximal tubule is known to play an important role in tubulointerstitial fibrosis; however, the underlying molecular mechanism is unclear. Here we report that in the proximal tubule-like LLCPKcl4 cells expressing angiotensin II (Ang II) type 1 receptor, Ang II induced changes in cell morphology and expression of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers, which were inhibited by the miotogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)-activating kinase (MEK) inhibitor PD98059 or the Src kinase inhibitor PP2. Ang II-stimulated phosphorylation of caveolin-1 (Cav) at Y14 and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) at Y845 and induced association of these phosphoproteins in caveolin-enriched lipid rafts, thereby leading to prolonged EGFR-ERK signaling that was inhibited by Nox4 small interfering RNA (siRNA) and Src siRNA. Two different antioxidants not only inhibited phosphorylation of Src at Y416 but also blocked the EGFR-ERK signaling. Moreover, erlotinib (the EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor), EGFR siRNA, and Cav siRNA all inhibited both prolonged EGFR-ERK signaling and phenotypic changes induced by Ang II. Thus, this report provides the first evidence that reactive oxygen species (ROS)/Src-dependent activation of persistent Cav-EGFR-ERK signaling mediates renal tubular cell dedifferentiation and identifies a novel molecular mechanism that may be involved in progressive renal injury caused by chronic exposure to Ang II.

Angiotensin II signaling up-regulates the immediate early transcription factor ATF3 in the left but not the right atrium

The atria respond to various pathological stimuli including pressure and volume overload with remodeling and dilatation. Dilatation of the left atrium is associated with atrial fibrillation. The mechanisms involved in chamber-specific hypertrophy are largely unknown. Angiotensin II is hypothesized to take part in mediating this response. ATF3 is an immediate early gene found at the receiving end of multiple stress and growth stimuli. Here we characterize ATF3 as a direct target gene for angiotensin II. ATF3 expression is regulated by angiotensin receptor-mediated signaling in vivo and in vitro at the transcriptional level. ATF3 induction is mediated by cooperation between both the AT(1A) and AT₂ receptor subtypes. While AT₂R blocker (PD123319) efficiently blocks ATF3 induction in response to angiotensin II injection, it results in an increase in blood pressure indicating that the effect of angiotensin II on ATF3 is independent of its effect on blood pressure. In contrast to adrenergic stimulation that induces ATF3 in all heart chambers, ATF3 induction in response to angiotensin II occurs primarily in the left chambers. We hypothesize that the activation of differential signaling pathways accounts for the chamber-specific induction of ATF3 expression in response to angiotensin II stimulation. Angiotensin II injection rapidly activates the EGFR-dependent pathways including ERK and PI3K-AKT in the left but not the right atrium. EGF receptor inhibitor (Gefitinib/Iressa) as well as the AKT inhibitor (Triciribine) significantly abrogates ATF3 induction by angiotensin II in the left chambers. Collectively, our data strongly place ATF3 as a unique nuclear protein target in response to angiotensin II stimulation in the atria. The spatial expression of ATF3 may add to the understanding of the signaling pathways involved in cardiac response to neuro-hormonal stimulation, and in particular to the understanding of left atrial-generated pathology such as atrial fibrillation.

Role and regulation of EGFR in actin remodeling in sperm capacitation and the acrosome reaction

To bind and fertilize the egg, the spermatozoon should undergo few biochemical and motility changes in the female reproductive tract collectively called capacitation. The capacitated spermatozoon binds to the egg zona pellucida, and then undergoes the acrosome reaction (AR), which allows its penetration into the egg. The mechanisms regulating sperm capacitation and the AR are not completely understood. In the present review, we summarize some data regarding the role and regulation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in these processes. In the capacitation process, the EGFR is partially activated by protein kinase A (PKA), resulting in phospholipase D (PLD) activation and actin polymerization. Protein kinase C alpha (PKCα), which is already activated at the beginning of the capacitation, also participates in PLD activation. Further activation of the EGFR at the end of the capacitation enhances intracellular Ca(2+) concentration leading to F-actin breakdown and allows the AR to take place. Under in vivo conditions, the EGFR can be directly activated by its known ligand epidermal growth factor (EGF), and indirectly by activating PKA or by transactivation mediated by G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) activation or by ouabain. Under physiological conditions, sperm PKA is activated mainly by bicarbonate, which activates the soluble adenylyl cyclase to produce cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), the activator of PKA. The GPCR activators angiotensin II or lysophosphatidic acid, as well as ouabain and EGF are physiological components present in the female reproductive tract.

Molecular mechanisms underlying PGF2alpha-induced hypertrophy of vascular smooth muscle cells

The present review focuses primarily on the studies we made in recent years to improve the understanding of the molecular mechanisms of PGF2alpha-induced hypertrophy of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells (VSMC). In this review, we will summarize the recent findings in the context of the PGF2alpha signaling pathway in three parts: PGF2alpha binding to its receptor, transactivation of EGF receptor, two independent signaling transduction pathways increasing the expression of NOX1 gene.

GPCR agonist-induced transactivation of the EGFR upregulates MLC II expression and promotes hypertension in insulin-resistant rats

AIMS

The presence of metabolic abnormalities such as insulin resistance and elevated levels of various vasoconstrictor G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) agonists contributes to the development of hypertension. Recent studies have suggested a link between disease progression and activation of growth factor receptor signalling pathways such as the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). We hypothesized that excessive stimulation of GPCRs such as alpha(1)-adrenergic receptors activates MMP-dependent EGFR transactivation and contributes to the development of hypertension by promoting increased synthesis of contractile proteins in vascular smooth muscle (VSM).

METHODS AND RESULTS

We tested this concept in experiments using insulin-resistant VSM cells (VSMCs) and fructose hypertensive rats (FHRs), a model of acquired systolic hypertension and insulin resistance. We found that insulin resistance and agonist stimulation increased the expression and activity of MMPs (MMP-2 and MMP-7), the EGFR, contractile proteins such as myosin light chain kinase and MLC II, and their transcriptional activators including P90 ribosomal kinase (P90RSK) and serum response factor, possibly via the activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2) in VSMCs. Further, in insulin-resistant VSMCs and arteries from FHRs, disruption of MMP-EGFR signalling either by a pharmacological or small interfering RNA approach normalized the increased expression and activity of contractile proteins and their transcriptional activators and prevented the development of hypertension in FHRs.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that the MMP-EGFR pathway could be a potential target in the treatment of hypertension in insulin resistance and/or hyperglycaemic conditions such as type 2 diabetes.

The vulnerability of the heart as a pluricellular paracrine organ: lessons from unexpected triggers of heart failure in targeted ErbB2 anticancer therapy

In this review, we address clinical aspects and mechanisms of ventricular dysfunction induced by anticancer drugs targeted to the ErbB2 receptor. ErbB2 antagonists prolong survival in cancer, but also interfere with homeostatic processes in the heart. ErbB2 is a coreceptor for ErbB4, which is activated by neuregulin-1. This epidermal growth factor-like growth factor is released from endothelial cells in the endocardium and in the myocardial microcirculation, hence contributing to intercellular crosstalk in the ventricle. We look at the physiological aspects of neuregulin-1/ErbB signaling in the ventricle, and review its (mal)adaptive responses in chronic heart failure. We also compare structural aspects of ErbB receptor activation in cancer and cardiac cells, and analyze the mode of action of current ErbB2 antagonists. This allows us to predict how these drugs interfere with paracrine processes in the ventricle. Differences in the mode of action of individual ErbB2 antagonists affect their impact on the function of the ventricle, considered to be "on-target" or "off-target." Establishing the relation between the cardiac side effects of ErbB2 antagonists and their impact on paracrine ventricular control mechanisms may direct the design of a next generation of ErbB2 inhibitors. For cardiologists, there are lessons to be learned from the unexpected side effects of ErbB2-targeted cancer therapy. The vulnerability of the heart as a pluricellular paracrine system appears greater than anticipated and intercellular crosstalk an essential component of its functional and structural integrity.

Angiotensin II induces cardiomyocyte hypertrophy probably through histone deacetylases

Angiotensin II (Ang II) plays a pathophysiological role in the genesis of cardiac hypertrophy as a hypertrophic stimulus. But little is known about the terminal steps, in which Ang II reprograms cardiac gene expression. Histone deacetyltransferases (HDACs) are considered as the integrators of divergent stress-response pathways during heart remodeling. However, the exact role of HDACs in the hypertrophic process is not clear yet. Therefore, we studied the expression of HDAC2, one of Class I HDACs, and the effect of valproic acid (VPA), a nonspecific HDAC inhibitor, in the Ang II-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. Primary cultures of neonatal rat cardiomyocytes were prepared from 1-day-old Wistar rats and treated with Ang II. The mRNA levels of HDAC2 and beta-myosin heavy chain (beta-MHC), a hypertrophic marker gene, were determined by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The protein expression of HDAC2 and c-fos, an immediate early response gene, was evaluated by immunohistochemistry, and the surface areas of cardiomyocytes were measured using Motic Images software. The expression levels of HDAC2 mRNA and protein were increased in a time-dependent manner during the hypertrophic process, accompanied with the increment of beta-MHC and c-fos proteins. Ang II also increased the surface area of cardiomyocytes by more than twofold. VPA significantly reversed these changes. These results suggest that Ang II may induce cardiomyocyte hypertrophy through HDACs in combination with c-fos and that VPA has the protective effect on cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. Thus, HDAC inhibition is a feasible therapeutic strategy that holds promise in the treatment of cardiac hypertrophy.

Local IGF-1 isoform protects cardiomyocytes from hypertrophic and oxidative stresses via SirT1 activity

Oxidative and hypertrophic stresses contribute to the pathogenesis of heart failure. Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) is a peptide hormone with a complex post-transcriptional regulation, generating distinct isoforms. Locally acting IGF-1 isoform (mIGF-1) helps the heart to recover from toxic injury and from infarct. In the murine heart, moderate overexpression of the NAD⁺-dependent deacetylase SirT1 was reported to mitigate oxidative stress. SirT1 is known to promote lifespan extension and to protect from metabolic challenges. Circulating IGF-1 and SirT1 play antagonizing biological roles and share molecular targets in the heart, in turn affecting cardiomyocyte physiology. However, how different IGF-1 isoforms may impact SirT1 and affect cardiomyocyte function is unknown. Here we show that locally acting mIGF-1 increases SirT1 expression/activity, whereas circulating IGF-1 isoform does not affect it, in cultured HL-1 and neonatal cardiomyocytes. mIGF-1-induced SirT1 activity exerts protection against angiotensin II (Ang II)-triggered hypertrophy and against paraquat (PQ) and Ang II-induced oxidative stress. Conversely, circulating IGF-1 triggered itself oxidative stress and cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. Interestingly, potent cardio-protective genes (adiponectin, UCP-1 and MT-2) were increased specifically in mIGF-1-overexpressing cardiomyocytes, in a SirT1-dependent fashion. Thus, mIGF-1 protects cardiomyocytes from oxidative and hypertrophic stresses via SirT1 activity, and may represent a promising cardiac therapeutic.

Acute and chronic adrenergic stimulation of submandibular salivary glands. Effects on the endocrine function of epidermal growth factor in mice

Submandibular salivary glands are the major source of epidermal growth factor (EGF) in mice. Acute secretion of EGF from these glands protects the heart against catecholamine-induced injury. Little is known about chronic adrenergic stimulation of salivary glands and the contribution of accumulated EGF to the adaptive hypertrophic response of the heart to such chronic adrenergic stimulation. Here we show that the EGF content of submandibular glands did not recover to normal values 24 h after a single phenylephrine injection or an aggressive encounter. Repeated (twice a day for 2 days) adrenergic stimulation resulted in an almost 90% decrease in EGF content in the submandibular glands. In these conditions, new adrenergic stimulation did not result in an increase in plasma EGF concentration, or in the activation of liver ErbB1 (the EGF receptor). Chronic isoproterenol or phenylephrine administration (7 days) induced atrial natriuretic factor expression in the heart and an increase in both ventricular weight and protein. The surgical removal of submandibular glands (sialoadenectomy) did not affect these adaptive responses of the heart. We conclude that EGF from submandibular glands does not contribute to heart hypertrophy, one of the adaptive responses induced by chronic adrenergic stimulation.

Bovine sperm acrosome reaction induced by G-protein-coupled receptor agonists is mediated by epidermal growth factor receptor transactivation

We have previously demonstrated the presence of active epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and its involvement in sperm capacitation and the acrosome reaction; however, the mechanism of EGFR activation was not clear. We show here that the sperm EGFR can be transactivated by angiotensin II or by lysophosphatydic acid, two ligands which activate specific G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCR), or by directly activating protein kinase A using 8Br-cAMP. This transactivation occurs in noncapacitated sperm and is mediated by PKA, SRC and a metalloproteinase. We also show that the EGFR is activated in sperm incubated under in vitro capacitation conditions, without any added ligand, but not in bicarbonate-deficient medium or when PKA is blocked. Despite the fact that EGFR is activated in capacitated sperm, this state is not sufficient to induce the acrosome reaction. We conclude that the EGFR is stimulated during capacitation via PKA activation, while further activation of the EGFR in capacitated sperm is required in order to induce the acrosome reaction. The acrosome reaction can be induced by GPCR via the transactivation of the EGFR by a signaling pathway involving PKA, SRC and metalloproteinase and the EGFR down-stream effectors PI3K, PLC and PKC.

ErbB receptors protect the perfused heart against injury induced by epinephrine combined with low-flow ischemia

ErbB receptor tyrosine kinases are important in maintaining the long-term structural integrity of the heart and in the induction of hypertrophy. In addition, in vivo activation of ErbB1 by epidermal growth factor (EGF) protects the heart against acute stress-induced damage. We examined here whether the ErbB sytem acutely protects the isolated heart in which stress was induced in vitro by ischemia combined with epinephrine infusion (EPI). In perfused mouse hearts, EGF induced Tyr-phosphorylation of ErbB1 but not ErbB2. Neuregulin-1beta (NRG-1beta) induced Tyr-phosphorylation of both ErbB4 and ErbB2. We also found differences in the signaling cascades activated by each growth factor. To stress the perfused mouse heart, we combined EPI with low-flow ischemia. This resulted in (i) loss of left ventricle contraction force ( + dP/dt(max)) and developed pressure (LVDP) after a short period of hypercontractility, (ii) enhanced anaerobic metabolism (lactate production), and (iii) myocyte injury (lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release). EGF and NRG-1beta had different effects on stressed-heart contractility. EGF reduced to a half the loss of both + dP/dt(max) and LVDP. In contrast, NRG-1beta exacerbated the hypercontractility soon after reperfusion. This is coincident with a transient increase in coronary flow after reperfusion. In spite of these differences in contraction, both EGF and NRG-1beta induced similar early protection as shown by the reduction of LDH release. Our results show that the ErbB system protects the perfused heart against damage induced by acute stress. They reinforce the relevance of ErbB receptors and ligands in cardiac physiology.

Maintenance of adrenergic vascular tone by MMP transactivation of the EGFR requires PI3K and mitochondrial ATP synthesis

AIMS

G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) modulate vascular tone, at least in part, via matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) transactivation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). We previously have identified novel signalling pathways downstream of the EGFR suggestive of mitogen-activated protein kinase and mitochondrial redox control of vascular tone. In the present study, we examined whether MMP modulation of vascular tone involves phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) and mitochondrial ATP synthesis.

METHODS AND RESULTS

To determine whether PI3K is required for the maintenance of adrenergic vascular tone, we first constricted rat small mesenteric arteries with phenylephrine (PE) and then perfused with PI3K inhibitors, LY294002 and wortmannin, both of which produced a dose-dependent vasodilatation. Next, to investigate whether MMPs modulate PI3K activity, we cultured rat aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and stimulated them with GPCR agonists such as PE and angiotensin II. Inhibition of MMPs (by GM6001) or EGFR (by AG1478) or suppressing the expression of MMP-2 or MMP-7 or the EGFR by small interfering RNA blunted the PI3K phosphorylation of Akt induced by PE. Further, in VSMCs, PI3K inhibitors reduced the PE-induced increase in ATP synthesis and glucose transporter-4 translocation, an effect that was also observed with MMP and the EGFR inhibitors. Further, the PE-induced increase in ATP synthesis activated MMP-7 by mechanisms involving purinergic (P2X) receptors and calcium.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest that the maintenance of adrenergic vascular tone by the MMP-EGFR pathway requires PI3K activation and ATP synthesis. Further, our data support the view that elevated levels of GPCR agonists exaggerate the MMP transactivation of EGFR response and contribute to enhanced vascular tone and development of cardiovascular disease such as hypertension.

Adenosine A(1) receptor-mediated transactivation of the EGF receptor produces a neuroprotective effect on cortical neurons in vitro

AIM

To understand the mechanism of the transactivation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mediated by the adenosine A(1) receptor (A(1)R).

METHODS

Primary cultured rat cortical neurons subjected to oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) and HEK293/A(1)R cells were treated with the A(1)R-specific agonist N(6)-cyclopentyladenosine (CPA). Phospho-EGFR, Akt, and ERK1/2 were observed by Western blot. An interaction between EGFR and A(1)R was detected using immunoprecipitation and immunocytochemistry.

RESULTS

The A(1)R agonist CPA causes protein kinase B (Akt) activation and protects primary cortical neurons from oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) insult. A(1)R and EGFR co-localize in the membranes of neurons and form an immunocomplex. A(1)R stimulation induces significant EGFR phosphorylation via a PI3K and Src kinase signaling pathway; this stimulation provides a neuroprotective effect in cortical neurons. CPA leads to sustained phosphorylation of extracellularly regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) in cortical neurons, but only to transient phosphorylation in HEK 293/A(1)R cells. The response to the A(1)R agonist is mediated primarily through EGFR transactivation that is dependent on pertussis toxin (PTX)-sensitive G(i) protein and metalloproteases in HEK 293/A(1)R.

CONCLUSION

A(1)R-mediated EGFR transactivation confers a neuroprotective effect in primary cortical neurons. PI3 kinase and Src kinase play pivotal roles in this response.Acta Pharmacologica Sinica (2009) 30: 889-898; doi: 10.1038/aps.2009.80.

Urotensin II induces transactivation of the epidermal growth factor receptor via transient oxidation of SHP-2 in the rat renal tubular cell line NRK-52E

Urotensin-II (UII) is a potent vasoactive peptide that has been implicated in cardiac fibrosis and renal diseases. However, the role played by UII in renal tissues is largely unknown. In this study, we investigated the effects of human UII (hUII) on rat renal proximal tubular cells of the NRK-52E line and the role of Src homology 2-containing phosphotyrosine phosphatase (SHP-2) in the hUII-induced transactivation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Exposure to hUII at low concentrations significantly induced proliferation in NRK-52E cells; this effect was inhibited by treatment with an ERK1/2 inhibitor (PD98059). UII treatment increased the phosphorylation of EGFR and induced the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Treatment of the ROS scavenger N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) inhibited EGFR transactivation and ERK phosphorylation induced by hUII. SHP-2 was found to interact with EGFR and be transiently oxidized following the hUII treatment. In SHP-2 knockdown cells, UII-induced phosphorylation of EGFR was less influenced by NAC, and significantly suppressed by heparin binding (HB)-EGF neutralizing antibody. Our data suggest that the ROS-mediated oxidation of SHP-2 is essential for the hUII-induced mitogenic pathway in NRK-52E cells.

Targeted expression of receptor-associated late transducer inhibits maladaptive hypertrophy via blocking epidermal growth factor receptor signaling

Receptor-associated late transducer (RALT) is a feedback inhibitor of epidermal growth factor receptor signaling. RALT has been shown previously to be induced in the ischemic heart and to promote cardiomyocyte apoptosis in vitro. However, the role of RALT in cardiac hypertrophy remains unclear. We hypothesized that forced expression of RALT in the murine heart would protect the heart against cardiac hypertrophy in vivo. We investigated the effect of cardiac overexpression of rat RALT on cardiac hypertrophy induced by angiotensin II and isoproterenol in RALT transgenic mice and wild-type littermates. The extent of cardiac hypertrophy was assessed by 2D and M-mode echocardiography as well as by molecular and pathological analyses of cardiac samples. Constitutive expression of rat RALT in cardiac myocytes of murine heart attenuated both hypertrophic and inflammatory responses and preserved cardiac function. These beneficial effects were associated with the attenuation of the epidermal growth factor receptor-dependent cascade that was triggered by angiotensin II and isoproterenol stimulation. Additional evidence demonstrated that RALT expression blocked fibrosis in vivo and collagen synthesis in vitro. Therefore, cardiac overexpression of RALT improves cardiac function and inhibits maladaptive hypertrophy, inflammation, and fibrosis through attenuating epidermal growth factor receptor-dependent signaling.

Glycemic control prevents microvascular remodeling and increased tone in type 2 diabetes: link to endothelin-1

Medial thickening and vascular hypertrophy of resistance arteries can lead to cardiovascular complications associated with diabetes. While previous studies have established a role of type 1 diabetes in vascular remodeling, we recently extended these observations to type 2 diabetes and reported increased collagen deposition due to alterations in matrix metalloproteinase expression and activity in mesenteric resistance arteries. These studies also showed that remodeling response was mediated by endothelin-1 (ET-1) via activation of ET(A) receptors, whereas blockade of ET(B) receptors exacerbated the remodeling. However, the effectiveness of glycemic control strategies in preventing these vascular changes, including activation of the ET system still remained unclear. Also, very little is known about whether and to what extent reorganization of the extracellular matrix (ECM) affects vascular compliance and vasomotor tone. Accordingly, this study assessed structural remodeling of mesenteric microvessels, vascular compliance, and myogenic tone, as well as the role of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) in mediating these processes. Spontaneously diabetic, non-obese Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rats, a model for type 2 diabetes, and normoglycemic Wistar rats were used for the studies. A subset of GK rats were administered metformin to achieve euglycemia. Glycemic control normalized the increased media-to-lumen ratios (M/L) and myogenic tone seen in diabetes, as well as normalizing plasma ET-1 levels and mesenteric ET(A) receptor expression. There was increased collagen synthesis in diabetes paralleled by decreased collagenase MMP-13 activity, while glycemic control attenuated the process. These findings and our previous study taken together suggest that hyperglycemia-mediated activation of ET-1 and ET(A) receptors alter vascular structure and mechanics in type 2 diabetes.

Oleic acid induces ERK1/2 activation and AP-1 DNA binding activity through a mechanism involving Src kinase and EGFR transactivation in breast cancer cells

GPR40 and GPR120 are G-protein-coupled receptors that can be activated by medium- and long-chain fatty acids. GPR40 is expressed in several breast cancer cell lines and its stimulation with oleic acid (OA) induces cell proliferation. However, the signal transduction pathways activated by OA have not been studied in detail. Our results demonstrate that both GPR40 and GPR120 are expressed in MCF-7 cells. Stimulation of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells with OA promoted the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 at Thr-202 and Tyr-204 and the formation of AP-1-DNA complex in a fashion dependent of Src kinase activity and EGFR transactivation. Furthermore, proliferation induced by OA is restricted to breast cancer cells in a fashion dependent of ERK1/2 activation and matrix metalloproteinases. In summary, our data indicate that proliferation induced by OA is restricted to breast cancer cells, and that ERK1/2 activation and AP-1-DNA complex formation are mediated by Src family kinases and transactivation of EGFR.

Differential effects of diet-induced dyslipidemia and hyperglycemia on mesenteric resistance artery structure and function in type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes and dyslipidemia oftentimes present in combination. However, the relative roles of diabetes and diet-induced dyslipidemia in mediating changes in vascular structure, mechanics, and function are poorly understood. Our hypothesis was that addition of a high-fat diet would exacerbate small artery remodeling, compliance, and vascular dysfunction in type 2 diabetes. Vascular remodeling indices [media/lumen (M/L) ratio, collagen abundance and turnover, and matrix metalloproteinase dynamics], mechanical properties (vessel stiffness), and reactivity to pressure and vasoactive factors were measured in third-order mesenteric arteries in control Wistar and type 2 diabetic Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rats fed either a regular or high-fat diet. M/L ratios, total collagen, and myogenic tone were increased in diabetes. Addition of the high-fat diet altered collagen patterns (mature versus new collagen) in favor of matrix accumulation. Addition of a high-fat diet caused increased constriction to endothelin-1 (0.1-100 nM), showed impaired vasorelaxation to both acetylcholine (0.1 nM-1 microM) and sodium nitroprusside (0.1 nM-1 microM), and increased cardiovascular risk factors in diabetes. These results suggest that moderate elevations in blood glucose, as seen in our lean GK model of type 2 diabetes, promote resistance artery remodeling resulting in increased medial thickness, whereas addition of a high-fat diet contributes to diabetic vascular disease predominantly by impairing vascular reactivity in the time frame used for this study. Although differential in their vascular effects, both hyperglycemia and diet-induced dyslipidemia need to be targeted for effective prevention and treatment of diabetic vascular disease.

Effect of Dominant-Negative Epidermal Growth Factor Receptors on Cardiomyocyte Hypertrophy

Angiotensin II (AngII) induces heart growth via cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, and central to this is the capacity of the type 1 AngII receptor (AT1R) to "transactivate" epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFRs)--a family with four main subtypes (HER1-4)--although the exact molecular mechanism remains unresolved. In this study, the pharmacological inhibition of AngII-stimulated ERK1/2 activation and cardiomyocyte hypertrophy by increasing concentrations of an EGFR inhibitor, AG1478, indicated that other EGFR subtypes, in addition to HER1, may be involved. We constructed expression vectors and adenoviruses expressing truncated mutant versions of HER1, HER2, and HER4 and determined their capacity to act as dominant-negative inhibitors when co-transfected with full-length EGFRs. It is surprising that adenoviral-mediated expression of these truncated EGFRs in cardiomyocytes led to paradoxical, ligand-independent increases in cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and unusual morphological changes. These results challenge our perception of AT1R-mediated EGFR transactivation and imply that truncated EGFRs may affect cell function through unconventional mechanisms.

Green tea attenuates angiotensin II-induced cardiac hypertrophy in rats by modulating reactive oxygen species production and the Src/epidermal growth factor receptor/Akt signaling pathway

We previously documented a clear-cut antihypertensive effect of green teat extract (GTE), which was associated with correction of endothelial dysfunction and prevention of left ventricular hypertrophy in an angiotensin II (Ang II)-dependent model of hypertension, but the molecular mechanisms remain to be defined. As several effects of Ang II involve production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and activation of 2nd messengers, such as mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and Akt, we investigated the effect of GTE on these signal transduction pathways in Ang II-treated rats. Rats were treated for 2 wk with Ang II infusion (700 mug.kg(-1).d(-1); n = 6, via osmotic minipumps), Ang II plus GTE (6 g/L) dissolved in the drinking water; n = 6), or vehicle (n = 6) to serve as controls. Blood pressure was monitored by telemetry throughout the study. The activation and expression of NAD(P)H oxidase subunits, protein kinase C isoforms, Src, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), Akt, and MAPK were determined in the heart in vitro through immunoprecipitation and western blot analysis with specific antibodies. NAD(P)H oxidase enzymatic activity was measured by cytochrome c reduction assay. GTE blunted Ang II-induced blood pressure increase and cardiac hypertrophy. In Ang II-treated rats, GTE decreased the expression of the NAD(P)H oxidase subunit gp91(phox) and the translocation of Rac-1, as well as NAD(P)H oxidase enzymatic activity. Furthermore, it specifically reduced Ang II-induced Src, EGFR, and Akt phosphorylation. These results show that GTE blunts Ang II-induced cardiac hypertrophy specifically by regulating ROS production and the Src/EGFR/Akt signaling pathway activated by Ang II.

Epinephrine increases DNA synthesis via ERK1/2s through cAMP, Ca(2+)/PKC, and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways in mouse embryonic stem cells

Epinephrine is a catecholamine that plays important roles in regulating a wide variety of physiological systems by acting through the adrenergic receptors (ARs). The cellular responses to AR stimulation are mediated through various signaling pathways. Therefore, this study examined the effects of epinephrine on DNA synthesis and related signaling molecules in mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs). Epinephrine increased DNA synthesis in a dose- and time-dependent manner, as determined by the level of [(3)H]-thymidine incorporation. AR subtypes (alpha1(A), alpha2(A), beta1, beta2, and beta3) were expressed in mouse ESCs and their expression levels were increased by epinephrine. In this experiment, epinephrine increased cAMP levels, intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)), and translocation of protein kinase C (PKC) from the cytosol to the membrane compartment. In addition, we observed Akt phosphorylation in response to epinephrine; this was stimulated by phosphorylation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Epinephrine also induced phosphorylation of ERK1/2 (p44/42 MAPKs), while inhibition of PKC or Akt blocked this phosphorylation. Epinephrine increased the mRNA levels of proto-oncogenes (c-fos, c-jun, c-myc), while inhibition of ERK1/2 decreased these mRNA levels. In experiments aimed at examining the involvement of cell cycle regulatory proteins, epinephrine increased the levels of cyclin E/cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) and cyclin D1/cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4). In conclusion, epinephrine stimulates DNA synthesis via ERK1/2 through cAMP, Ca(2+)/PKC, and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways in mouse ESCs.

Differential signaling pathways in angiotensin II- and epidermal growth factor-stimulated hepatic C9 cells

Caveolin1 (Cav1) is an important component of the plasmamembrane microdomains, such as caveolae/lipid rafts, that are associated with angiotensin II type 1 (AT(1)) and epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptors in certain cell types. The interactions of Cav1 with other signaling molecules that mediate AT(1) receptor function were analyzed in angiotensin II (Ang II)- and EGF-stimulated hepatic C9 cells. This study demonstrated that cholesterol-rich domains mediate the actions of early upstream signaling molecules such as Src and intracellular Ca(2+) in cells stimulated by Ang II, but not by EGF, and that Cav1 has a scaffolding role in the process of mitogen-activated protein kinase activation. Furthermore, Cav1 phosphorylation by Ang II and EGF was regulated by intracellular Ca(2+) and Src, further indicating reciprocal interactions among Cav1, Src, and intracellular Ca(2+) through the AT(1) receptor. Phosphorylation of Cav1 and the EGF receptor by Ang II, but not of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2, was dependent on intracellular Ca(2+). The phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase inhibitors, 2-(4-morpholinyl)-8-phenyl-1(4H)-benzopyran-4-one hydrochloride (LY294002) and wortmannin, differentially modulated both Cav1 and EGF receptor activation by Ang II through intracellular Ca(2+). These findings further demonstrate the importance of Cav1 in conjunction with the receptor-mediated signaling pathways involved in cell proliferation and survival. It is clear that differential signaling pathways are operative in Ang II- and EGF-stimulated C9 cells and that cholesterol-enriched microdomains are essential components in cellular signaling processes that are dependent on specific agonists and/or cell types.

Role of advanced glycation end products with oxidative stress in resistance artery dysfunction in type 2 diabetic mice

OBJECTIVE

Type 2 diabetes is associated with increased advanced glycation end product (AGE) formation and vasculopathy. We hypothesized that AGEs contribute to resistance artery dysfunction.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Type 2 diabetic db(-)/db(-) (diabetic) and nondiabetic db(-)/db(+) (control) mice were treated with the AGE inhibitor (aminoguanidine: 50 mg/Kg/d) for 3 months. Isolated mesenteric resistance arteries (MRAs) were mounted in an arteriograph. Pressure-induced myogenic tone (MT) was increased in diabetic mice but was unaffected by aminoguanidine treatment. Phenylephrine-induced contraction and nitric oxide donor-induced endothelium-independent relaxation were similar in all groups. In diabetic mice, endothelium-dependent relaxation in response to shear-stress or acetylcholine was altered and was associated with reduced eNOS protein and mRNA expression. Aminoguanidine treatment improved endothelial function and restored eNOS expression. AGE formation and hypoxia markers (plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 and Bnip3) were increased in MRA from diabetic mice and normalized with Aminoguanidine. Primary cultured endothelial cells (ECs) isolated from resistance arteries subjected to high glucose for 48 hours showed decreased eNOS expression and phosphorylation in response to calcium ionophore. High glucose decreased antioxidant protein (MnSOD) and increased prooxidant proteins (gp91phox) expression leading to increased oxidative stress generation, as assessed by DHE staining and endothelial NADH/NADPH oxidase activity. The preincubation of ECs with aminoguanidine restored eNOS-phosphorylation and expression as well as the balance between pro- and antioxidant factors induced by high glucose.

CONCLUSIONS

We provide evidence of a link between AGEs, oxidative stress, and resistance artery EC dysfunction in type 2 diabetic mice. Thus, AGEs and oxidative stress may be a potential target for overcoming diabetic microvessels complications.

ErbB receptors, their ligands, and the consequences of their activation and inhibition in the myocardium

The epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor (or ErbB1) and the related ErbB4 are transmembrane receptor protein tyrosine kinases which bind extracellular ligands of the EGF family. ErbB2 and ErbB3 are "co-receptors" structurally related to ErbB1/ErbB4, but ErbB2 is an "orphan" receptor and ErbB3 lacks tyrosine kinase activity. However, both are important in transmembrane signalling. All ErbB receptors/ligands are intimately involved in the regulation of cell growth, differentiation and survival, and their dysregulation contributes to some human malignancies. After extracellular ligand binding, receptor dimerisation and transautophosphorylation of intracellular C-terminal tyrosine residues, they bind signalling proteins which recognise specific tyrosine-phosphorylated motifs. This leads to activation of multiple signalling pathways, notably the extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) cascade and the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B [PKB/(Akt)] pathway. In heart, targeted deletion of ErbB2, ErbB3, ErbB4 and some ErbB receptor extracellular ligands leads to embryonic lethality resulting from cardiovascular defects. ErbB receptor ligands improve cardiac myocyte viability and are hypertrophic, partly because of activation of ERK1/2 and/or PI3K/PKB(Akt). Furthermore, ErbB transactivation by Gq protein-coupled receptor (GqPCR) signalling may mediate the hypertrophic effects of GqPCR agonists. The utility of anthracyclines in cancer chemotherapy can be limited by their cardiotoxic side effects and these may be counteracted by ErbB receptor ligands. ErbB2 is the target of anti-cancer monoclonal antibody trastuzumab (Herceptin), and its myocardial downregulation may account for the occasional cardiotoxicity of this therapy. Here, we review the basic biochemistry of ErbB receptors/ligands, and emphasise their particular roles in the myocardium.

Evidence for vasculoprotective effects of ETB receptors in resistance artery remodeling in diabetes

OBJECTIVE

Vascular remodeling, characterized by extracellular matrix deposition and increased media-to-lumen (M/l) ratio, contributes to the development of microvascular complications in diabetes. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play an important role in the regulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) turnover and vascular remodeling. Vasoactive factor endothelin (ET)-1 not only causes potent vasoconstriction but also exerts profibrotic and proliferative effects that change vessel architecture, which makes it a likely candidate for a key role in vascular complications of diabetes. Thus, this study investigated the regulation of MMP activity of resistance arteries under mild-to-moderate diabetes conditions, as seen in type 2 diabetes, and the relative role of ET receptors in this process.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Vessel structure, MMP activity, and ECM proteins were assessed in control Wistar and diabetic Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rats treated with vehicle, ET(A) receptor antagonist atrasentan (5 mg x kg(-1) x day(-1)), or ET(B) receptor antagonist A-192621 (15 mg x kg(-1) x day(-1)) for 4 weeks.

RESULTS

M/l ratio was increased in diabetes. Atrasentan prevented this increase, whereas A-192621 caused further thickening of the medial layer. Increased MMP-2 activity in diabetes was prevented by atrasentan treatment. Collagenase activity was significantly decreased in diabetes, and while ET(A) antagonism improved enzyme activity, ET(B) blockade further reduced collagenase levels. Accordingly, collagen deposition was augmented in GK rats, which was reversed by atrasentan but exacerbated with A-192621.

CONCLUSIONS

ET-1 contributes to the remodeling of mesenteric resistance arteries in diabetes via activation of ET(A) receptors, and ET(B) receptors provide vasculoprotective effects.

Non-classical actions of the mineralocorticoid receptor: misuse of EGF receptors?

The mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) plays a key role in cardiovascular and renal injury. The underlying mechanisms seem to involve the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) for the development of fibrosis and vascular dysfunction. Both enhanced EGFR transactivation by activated MR as well as upregulation of EGFR expression by aldosterone-bound MR have been described. While the former seems to be mediated by the tyrosine kinase cSrc, reporter gene assays and chromatin immunoprecipitation data indicate that the latter is caused by an interaction between MR and the EGFR promoter. Pharmacological inhibition of EGFR function prevents some of MR's pathological actions in cell culture systems, like vascular smooth muscle cells. Thus, transactivation as well as enhanced expression of EGFR may be an important switch for the pathophysiological actions in the reno-cardiovascular continuum. Furthermore, EGFR signaling may serve as a negative feedback loop to limit sodium retention. Overall, MR's "misuse" of the EGFR is one possible explanation for the pathophysiological effects of aldosterone, making the EGFR a potential target for therapeutical interventions against reno-cardiovascular remodelling.