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de Gonzalo-Calvo D, Karaduzovic-Hadziabdic K, Dalgaard LT, Dieterich C, Perez-Pons M, Hatzigeorgiou A, Devaux Y, Kararigas G. Machine learning for catalysing the integration of noncoding RNA in research and clinical practice. EBioMedicine 2024; 106:105247. [PMID: 39029428 PMCID: PMC11314885 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2024.105247] [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: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The human transcriptome predominantly consists of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), transcripts that do not encode proteins. The noncoding transcriptome governs a multitude of pathophysiological processes, offering a rich source of next-generation biomarkers. Toward achieving a holistic view of disease, the integration of these transcripts with clinical records and additional data from omic technologies ("multiomic" strategies) has motivated the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) approaches. Given their intricate biological complexity, machine learning (ML) techniques are becoming a key component of ncRNA-based research. This article presents an overview of the potential and challenges associated with employing AI/ML-driven approaches to identify clinically relevant ncRNA biomarkers and to decipher ncRNA-associated pathogenetic mechanisms. Methodological and conceptual constraints are discussed, along with an exploration of ethical considerations inherent to AI applications for healthcare and research. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive examination of the multifaceted landscape of this innovative field and its clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- David de Gonzalo-Calvo
- Translational Research in Respiratory Medicine, University Hospital Arnau de Vilanova and Santa Maria, IRBLleida, Lleida, Spain; CIBER of Respiratory Diseases (CIBERES), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| | | | | | - Christoph Dieterich
- Klaus Tschira Institute for Integrative Computational Cardiology and Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Heidelberg, Germany; German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK) - Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim, Germany
| | - Manel Perez-Pons
- Translational Research in Respiratory Medicine, University Hospital Arnau de Vilanova and Santa Maria, IRBLleida, Lleida, Spain; CIBER of Respiratory Diseases (CIBERES), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Artemis Hatzigeorgiou
- DIANA-Lab, Department of Computer Science and Biomedical Informatics, University of Thessaly, Lamia, Greece; Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece
| | - Yvan Devaux
- Cardiovascular Research Unit, Department of Precision Health, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Strassen, Luxembourg
| | - Georgios Kararigas
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland.
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2
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Stamatiou R, Kararigas G. Participation of transgender and gender diverse persons in cardiovascular clinical trials. AMERICAN HEART JOURNAL PLUS : CARDIOLOGY RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2024; 44:100420. [PMID: 39070126 PMCID: PMC11282972 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahjo.2024.100420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Study objective Transgender persons face increased risk in developing cardiovascular diseases due to administration of hormonal therapy used for gender expression, or due to the presence of other risk factors, such as minority stress and difficulty to have full access to health care. Even though the need for gender diversity in research has been identified, the number of clinical trials including transgender persons remains low. The aim of this study was to highlight gaps in inclusion of transgender individuals in cardiovascular clinical research. Design setting A search in the pubmed.com database, as well as in the clinicaltrials.gov repository, was performed with search terms regarding transgender persons and cardiovascular diseases. Main outcome measures The inclusion of transgender persons in cardiovascular clinical trials was evaluated. Results and conclusions This study revealed that there is only a small number of cardiovascular clinical trials including or studying transgender persons. This finding demonstrates the overall lack of clinical trials regarding cardiovascular health in transgender individuals and is indicative of their under-representation in clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodopi Stamatiou
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
- School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgios Kararigas
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
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3
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Suvandjieva V, Tsacheva I, Santos M, Kararigas G, Rashkov P. Modelling the Impact of NETosis During the Initial Stage of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Bull Math Biol 2024; 86:66. [PMID: 38678489 PMCID: PMC11056343 DOI: 10.1007/s11538-024-01291-3] [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: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
The development of autoimmune diseases often takes years before clinical symptoms become detectable. We propose a mathematical model for the immune response during the initial stage of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus which models the process of aberrant apoptosis and activation of macrophages and neutrophils. NETosis is a type of cell death characterised by the release of neutrophil extracellular traps, or NETs, containing material from the neutrophil's nucleus, in response to a pathogenic stimulus. This process is hypothesised to contribute to the development of autoimmunogenicity in SLE. The aim of this work is to study how NETosis contributes to the establishment of persistent autoantigen production by analysing the steady states and the asymptotic dynamics of the model by numerical experiment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimira Suvandjieva
- Institute of Mathematics and Informatics, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, ul. Akad. Georgi Bonchev, blok 8, 1113, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Ivanka Tsacheva
- Faculty of Biology, Sofia University "Sveti Kliment Ohridski", bul. Dragan Tsankov 8, 1164, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Marlene Santos
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Escola Superior de Saúde, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 400, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
| | - Georgios Kararigas
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Vatnsmyrarvegur 16, 101, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Peter Rashkov
- Institute of Mathematics and Informatics, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, ul. Akad. Georgi Bonchev, blok 8, 1113, Sofia, Bulgaria.
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Spinetti G, Mutoli M, Greco S, Riccio F, Ben-Aicha S, Kenneweg F, Jusic A, de Gonzalo-Calvo D, Nossent AY, Novella S, Kararigas G, Thum T, Emanueli C, Devaux Y, Martelli F. Cardiovascular complications of diabetes: role of non-coding RNAs in the crosstalk between immune and cardiovascular systems. Cardiovasc Diabetol 2023; 22:122. [PMID: 37226245 PMCID: PMC10206598 DOI: 10.1186/s12933-023-01842-3] [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: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus, a group of metabolic disorders characterized by high levels of blood glucose caused by insulin defect or impairment, is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and related mortality. Patients with diabetes experience a state of chronic or intermittent hyperglycemia resulting in damage to the vasculature, leading to micro- and macro-vascular diseases. These conditions are associated with low-grade chronic inflammation and accelerated atherosclerosis. Several classes of leukocytes have been implicated in diabetic cardiovascular impairment. Although the molecular pathways through which diabetes elicits an inflammatory response have attracted significant attention, how they contribute to altering cardiovascular homeostasis is still incompletely understood. In this respect, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are a still largely under-investigated class of transcripts that may play a fundamental role. This review article gathers the current knowledge on the function of ncRNAs in the crosstalk between immune and cardiovascular cells in the context of diabetic complications, highlighting the influence of biological sex in such mechanisms and exploring the potential role of ncRNAs as biomarkers and targets for treatments. The discussion closes by offering an overview of the ncRNAs involved in the increased cardiovascular risk suffered by patients with diabetes facing Sars-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaia Spinetti
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Pathophysiology and Regenerative Medicine, IRCCS MultiMedica, Milan, Italy.
| | - Martina Mutoli
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Pathophysiology and Regenerative Medicine, IRCCS MultiMedica, Milan, Italy
| | - Simona Greco
- Molecular Cardiology Laboratory, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Riccio
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Pathophysiology and Regenerative Medicine, IRCCS MultiMedica, Milan, Italy
| | - Soumaya Ben-Aicha
- National Heart & Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Franziska Kenneweg
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Therapeutic Strategies (IMTTS), Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - David de Gonzalo-Calvo
- Translational Research in Respiratory Medicine, University Hospital Arnau de Vilanova and Santa Maria, IRBLleida, Lleida, Spain
- CIBER of Respiratory Diseases (CIBERES), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Anne Yaël Nossent
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Susana Novella
- Department of Physiology, University of Valencia - INCLIVA Biomedical Research Institute, Valencia, Spain
| | - Georgios Kararigas
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavík, Iceland
| | - Thomas Thum
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Therapeutic Strategies (IMTTS), Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Costanza Emanueli
- National Heart & Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Yvan Devaux
- Cardiovascular Research Unit, Department of Precision Health, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Strassen, Luxembourg
| | - Fabio Martelli
- Molecular Cardiology Laboratory, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Milan, Italy.
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Kume M, Ahmad A, Shiers S, Burton MD, DeFea KA, Vagner J, Dussor G, Boitano S, Price TJ. C781, a β-Arrestin Biased Antagonist at Protease-Activated Receptor-2 (PAR2), Displays in vivo Efficacy Against Protease-Induced Pain in Mice. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2023; 24:605-616. [PMID: 36417966 PMCID: PMC10079573 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2022.11.006] [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: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Given the limited options and often harmful side effects of current analgesics and the suffering caused by the opioid crisis, new classes of pain therapeutics are needed. Protease-activated receptors (PARs), particularly PAR2, are implicated in a variety of pathologies, including pain. Since the discovery of the role of PAR2 in pain, development of potent and specific antagonists has been slow. In this study, we describe the in vivo characterization of a novel small molecule/peptidomimetic hybrid compound, C781, as a β-arrestin-biased PAR2 antagonist. In vivo behavioral studies were done in mice using von Frey filaments and the Mouse Grimace Scale. Pharmacokinetic studies were done to assess pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic relationship in vivo. We used both prevention and reversal paradigms with protease treatment to determine whether C781 could attenuate protease-evoked pain. C781 effectively prevented and reversed mechanical and spontaneous nociceptive behaviors in response to small molecule PAR2 agonists, mast cell activators, and neutrophil elastase. The ED50 of C781 (intraperitoneal dosing) for inhibition of PAR2 agonist (20.9 ng 2-AT)-evoked nociception was 6.3 mg/kg. C781 was not efficacious in the carrageenan inflammation model. Pharmacokinetic studies indicated limited long-term systemic bioavailability for C781 suggesting that optimizing pharmacokinetic properties could improve in vivo efficacy. Our work demonstrates in vivo efficacy of a biased PAR2 antagonist that selectively inhibits β-arrestin/MAPK signaling downstream of PAR2. Given the importance of this signaling pathway in PAR2-evoked nociception, C781 exemplifies a key pharmacophore for PAR2 that can be optimized for clinical development. PERSPECTIVE: Our work provides evidence that PAR2 antagonists that only block certain aspects of signaling by the receptor can be effective for blocking protease-evoked pain in mice. This is important because it creates a rationale for developing safer PAR2-targeting approaches for pain treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moeno Kume
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, Texas
| | - Ayesha Ahmad
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, Texas
| | - Stephanie Shiers
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, Texas
| | - Michael D Burton
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, Texas
| | | | - Josef Vagner
- University of Arizona Bio5 Institute, Tucson, Arizona
| | - Gregory Dussor
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, Texas
| | - Scott Boitano
- University of Arizona Bio5 Institute, Tucson, Arizona; Asthma and Airway Disease Research Center, University of Arizona Heath Sciences, Tucson, Arizona; Department of Physiology, University of Arizona Heath Sciences, Tucson, Arizona
| | - Theodore J Price
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, Texas.
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Sex-biased and sex hormone-dependent regulation of apolipoprotein A1. CURRENT OPINION IN PHYSIOLOGY 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cophys.2023.100654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
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7
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García-Llorca A, Kararigas G. Sex-Related Effects of Gut Microbiota in Metabolic Syndrome-Related Diabetic Retinopathy. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11020447. [PMID: 36838411 PMCID: PMC9967826 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11020447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a complex disease of metabolic abnormalities, including obesity, insulin resistance, hypertension and dyslipidaemia, and it is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the leading cause of vision loss among working-aged adults around the world and is the most frequent complication in type 2 diabetic (T2D) patients. The gut microbiota are a complex ecosystem made up of more than 100 trillion of microbial cells and their composition and diversity have been identified as potential risk factors for the development of several metabolic disorders, including MetS, T2D, DR and CVD. Biomarkers are used to monitor or analyse biological processes, therapeutic responses, as well as for the early detection of pathogenic disorders. Here, we discuss molecular mechanisms underlying MetS, the effects of biological sex in MetS-related DR and gut microbiota, as well as the latest advances in biomarker research in the field. We conclude that sex may play an important role in gut microbiota influencing MetS-related DR.
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8
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Horvath C, Kararigas G. Sex-Dependent Mechanisms of Cell Death Modalities in Cardiovascular Disease. Can J Cardiol 2022; 38:1844-1853. [PMID: 36152770 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2022.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite currently available therapies, cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are among the leading causes of death globally. Biological sex is a critical determinant of the occurrence, progression and overall outcome of CVD. However, the underlying mechanisms are incompletely understood. A hallmark of CVD is cell death. Based on the inability of the human heart to regenerate, loss of functional cardiac tissue can lead to irreversible detrimental effects. Here, we summarize current knowledge on how biological sex affects cell death-related mechanisms in CVD. Initially, we discuss apoptosis and necrosis, but we specifically focus on the relatively newly recognized programmed necrosis-like processes: pyroptosis and necroptosis. We also discuss the role of 17β-estradiol (E2) in these processes, particularly in terms of inhibiting pyroptotic and necroptotic signaling. We put forward that a better understanding of the effects of biological sex and E2 might lead to the identification of novel targets with therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Csaba Horvath
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Georgios Kararigas
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavík, Iceland.
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9
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Kaur A, Dreyer RP, Marsh TW, Thanassoulis G, Raparelli V, D’Onofrio G, Engert JC, Pilote L. Sex Differences in Clopidogrel Effects Among Young Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Role for Genetics? CJC Open 2022; 4:970-978. [PMID: 36444366 PMCID: PMC9700217 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjco.2022.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Poorer health outcomes experienced by young women with acute coronary syndrome may be related to sex differences in the safety and efficacy of antiplatelet agents, such as clopidogrel. Polymorphisms in drug metabolism enzyme (cytochrome P450 [CYP] family) genes are independent factors for the variability in response to clopidogrel. However, a sex-specific impact of genetics to explain worse clinical outcomes in women has not been explored extensively. Therefore, our objective was to determine whether an interaction of sex with CYP variants occurs among users of clopidogrel, and if so, its impact on 1-year adverse clinical outcomes. Methods We used data from a combined cohort of 2272 patients (median age 49 years; 56% female) hospitalized for acute coronary syndrome. We examined interactions between sex and CYP variants among clopidogrel users at admission and discharge to assess associations with 1-year readmission due to cardiac events. Results The case-only analysis of 177 participants on clopidogrel at the time of presentation showed that the risk of an atherothrombotic event was greater in female carriers of the CYP2C9∗3 loss-of-function allele (odds ratio = 3.77, 95% confidence interval = 1.54-9.24). The results of the multivariable logistic regression model for users of clopidogrel at discharge (n = 1733) indicated that women had significantly higher risk of atherothrombotic readmissions at 1 year (odds ratio = 1.55, 95% confidence interval = 1.16-2.07), compared to the risk for men, but the loss-of-function alleles, either individually or through a genetic risk score, were not associated with 1-year readmissions. Conclusion This study highlights the need for an improved understanding of the role of sex-by-gene interactions in causing sex differences in drug metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanpreet Kaur
- Centre for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Research Institute, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Rachel P. Dreyer
- Centre for Outcomes Research and Evaluation (CORE), Yale-New Haven Hospital, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Thomas W. Marsh
- Preventive and Genomic Cardiology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - George Thanassoulis
- Centre for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Research Institute, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Preventive and Genomic Cardiology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Valeria Raparelli
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Gail D’Onofrio
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - James C. Engert
- Preventive and Genomic Cardiology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Louise Pilote
- Centre for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Research Institute, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Corresponding author: Dr Louise Pilote, Centre for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, McGill University Health Centre, 5252 de Maisonneuve West, 2B.39, Montréal, Quebec H4A 3S5, Canada. Tel.: +1-514 934-1934 x44722; fax: +1-514 843-1676.
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10
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Sex-Related Effects on Cardiac Development and Disease. J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2022; 9:jcdd9030090. [PMID: 35323638 PMCID: PMC8949052 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd9030090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Interestingly, male and female patients with CVD exhibit distinct epidemiological and pathophysiological characteristics, implying a potentially important role for primary and secondary sex determination factors in heart development, aging, disease and therapeutic responses. Here, we provide a concise review of the field and discuss current gaps in knowledge as a step towards elucidating the “sex determination–heart axis”. We specifically focus on cardiovascular manifestations of abnormal sex determination in humans, such as in Turner and Klinefelter syndromes, as well as on the differences in cardiac regenerative potential between species with plastic and non-plastic sexual phenotypes. Sex-biased cardiac repair mechanisms are also discussed with a focus on the role of the steroid hormone 17β-estradiol. Understanding the “sex determination–heart axis” may offer new therapeutic possibilities for enhanced cardiac regeneration and/or repair post-injury.
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Li S, Kararigas G. Role of Biological Sex in the Cardiovascular-Gut Microbiome Axis. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 8:759735. [PMID: 35083297 PMCID: PMC8785253 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.759735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
There has been a recent, unprecedented interest in the role of gut microbiota in host health and disease. Technological advances have dramatically expanded our knowledge of the gut microbiome. Increasing evidence has indicated a strong link between gut microbiota and the development of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). In the present article, we discuss the contribution of gut microbiota in the development and progression of CVD. We further discuss how the gut microbiome may differ between the sexes and how it may be influenced by sex hormones. We put forward that regulation of microbial composition and function by sex might lead to sex-biased disease susceptibility, thereby offering a mechanistic insight into sex differences in CVD. A better understanding of this could identify novel targets, ultimately contributing to the development of innovative preventive, diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for men and women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangyue Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Diseases, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Georgios Kararigas
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavík, Iceland
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12
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Beikoghli Kalkhoran S, Kararigas G. Oestrogenic Regulation of Mitochondrial Dynamics. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031118. [PMID: 35163044 PMCID: PMC8834780 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Biological sex influences disease development and progression. The steroid hormone 17β-oestradiol (E2), along with its receptors, is expected to play a major role in the manifestation of sex differences. E2 exerts pleiotropic effects in a system-specific manner. Mitochondria are one of the central targets of E2, and their biogenesis and respiration are known to be modulated by E2. More recently, it has become apparent that E2 also regulates mitochondrial fusion–fission dynamics, thereby affecting cellular metabolism. The aim of this article is to discuss the regulatory pathways by which E2 orchestrates the activity of several components of mitochondrial dynamics in the cardiovascular and nervous systems in health and disease. We conclude that E2 regulates mitochondrial dynamics to maintain the mitochondrial network promoting mitochondrial fusion and attenuating mitochondrial fission in both the cardiovascular and nervous systems.
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13
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Oestrogenic contribution to sex-biased left ventricular remodelling: The male implication. Int J Cardiol 2021; 343:83-84. [PMID: 34537308 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2021.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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14
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Ritter O, Kararigas G. Sex-Biased Vulnerability of the Heart to COVID-19. Mayo Clin Proc 2020; 95:2332-2335. [PMID: 33153623 PMCID: PMC7500880 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2020.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Ritter
- Department of Cardiology, Nephrology and Pulmonology, Campus Clinic Brandenburg, Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany
| | - Georgios Kararigas
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland.
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15
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Sabbatini AR, Kararigas G. Estrogen-related mechanisms in sex differences of hypertension and target organ damage. Biol Sex Differ 2020; 11:31. [PMID: 32487164 PMCID: PMC7268741 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-020-00306-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypertension (HTN) is a primary risk factor for cardiovascular (CV) events, target organ damage (TOD), premature death and disability worldwide. The pathophysiology of HTN is complex and influenced by many factors including biological sex. Studies show that the prevalence of HTN is higher among adults aged 60 and over, highlighting the increase of HTN after menopause in women. Estrogen (E2) plays an important role in the development of systemic HTN and TOD, exerting several modulatory effects. The influence of E2 leads to alterations in mechanisms regulating the sympathetic nervous system, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, body mass, oxidative stress, endothelial function and salt sensitivity; all associated with a crucial inflammatory state and influenced by genetic factors, ultimately resulting in cardiac, vascular and renal damage in HTN. In the present article, we discuss the role of E2 in mechanisms accounting for the development of HTN and TOD in a sex-specific manner. The identification of targets with therapeutic potential would contribute to the development of more efficient treatments according to individual needs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Georgios Kararigas
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
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16
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Gaignebet L, Kańduła MM, Lehmann D, Knosalla C, Kreil DP, Kararigas G. Sex-Specific Human Cardiomyocyte Gene Regulation in Left Ventricular Pressure Overload. Mayo Clin Proc 2020; 95:688-697. [PMID: 31954524 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2019.11.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess gene expression in cardiomyocytes isolated from patients with aortic stenosis, hypothesizing that maladaptive remodeling and inflammation-related genes are higher in male vs female patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS In this study, 34 patients with aortic stenosis undergoing aortic valve replacement from March 20, 2016, through May 24, 2017, at the German Heart Centre in Berlin, Germany, were included. Isolated cardiomyocytes from interventricular septum samples were used for gene expression analysis. Clinical and echocardiographic data were collected preoperatively. RESULTS Age, body mass index, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, comorbidities, and medication were similar between the 17 male and 17 female patients. The mean ± SD left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (52±9 vs 45±4 mm; P=.007) and posterior wall thickness (14.2±2.5 vs 12.1±1.6 mm; P=.03) were higher in male vs female patients, while ejection fraction was lower in male patients (49%±14% vs 59%±5%; P=.01). Focusing on structural genes involved in the development of cardiac hypertrophy and remodeling, we found that most were expressed higher in male vs female patients. Our modeling analysis revealed that 2 inflammation-related genes, CCN2 and NFKB1, were negatively related to ejection fraction, with this effect being male specific (P=.03 and P=.02, respectively). CONCLUSION These findings provide novel insight into cardiomyocyte-specific molecular changes related to sex differences in pressure overload and a significant male-specific association between cardiac function and inflammation-related genes. Considering these sex differences may contribute toward a more accurate design of research and the development of more appropriate therapeutic approaches for both male and female patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Gaignebet
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Germany
| | | | - Daniel Lehmann
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Germany; DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Germany
| | - Christoph Knosalla
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Germany; German Heart Centre, Berlin, Germany
| | - David P Kreil
- Department of Biotechnology, BOKU University, Vienna, Austria
| | - Georgios Kararigas
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Germany; DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Germany.
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17
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Lowe DA, Kararigas G. Editorial: New Insights into Estrogen/Estrogen Receptor Effects in the Cardiac and Skeletal Muscle. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:141. [PMID: 32265837 PMCID: PMC7096469 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Dawn A. Lowe
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Georgios Kararigas
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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18
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Menopause-Related Estrogen Decrease and the Pathogenesis of HFpEF. J Am Coll Cardiol 2020; 75:1074-1082. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2019.12.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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19
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Ruiz-Meana M, Boengler K, Garcia-Dorado D, Hausenloy DJ, Kaambre T, Kararigas G, Perrino C, Schulz R, Ytrehus K. Ageing, sex, and cardioprotection. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 177:5270-5286. [PMID: 31863453 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Translation of cardioprotective interventions aimed at reducing myocardial injury during ischaemia-reperfusion from experimental studies to clinical practice is an important yet unmet need in cardiovascular medicine. One particular challenge facing translation is the existence of demographic and clinical factors that influence the pathophysiology of ischaemia-reperfusion injury of the heart and the effects of treatments aimed at preventing it. Among these factors, age and sex are prominent and have a recognised role in the susceptibility and outcome of ischaemic heart disease. Remarkably, some of the most powerful cardioprotective strategies proven to be effective in young animals become ineffective during ageing. This article reviews the mechanisms and implications of the modulatory effects of ageing and sex on myocardial ischaemia-reperfusion injury and their potential effects on cardioprotective interventions. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on Risk factors, comorbidities, and comedications in cardioprotection. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v177.23/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisol Ruiz-Meana
- Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Department of Cardiology, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red-CV (CIBER-CV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Kerstin Boengler
- Institute of Physiology, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - David Garcia-Dorado
- Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Department of Cardiology, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red-CV (CIBER-CV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Derek J Hausenloy
- Cardiovascular & Metabolic Disorders Program, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore.,National Heart Research Institute Singapore, National Heart Centre, Singapore.,Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore.,The Hatter Cardiovascular Institute, University College London, London, UK.,The National Institute of Health Research, University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, Research & Development, London, UK.,Tecnologico de Monterrey, Centro de Biotecnologia-FEMSA, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
| | - Tuuli Kaambre
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, National Institute of Chemical Physics and Biophysics, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Georgios Kararigas
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlinand Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Cinzia Perrino
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Rainer Schulz
- Institute of Physiology, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Kirsti Ytrehus
- Cardiovascular Research Group, Institute of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
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20
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Hein S, Hassel D, Kararigas G. The Zebrafish ( Danio rerio) Is a Relevant Model for Studying Sex-Specific Effects of 17β-Estradiol in the Adult Heart. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20246287. [PMID: 31847081 PMCID: PMC6940842 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20246287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Revised: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases are a major cause of morbidity and mortality, and there are significant sex differences therein. However, the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. The steroid hormone 17β-estradiol (E2) is thought to play a major role in cardiovascular sex differences and to be protective, but this may not hold true for males. We aimed at assessing whether the zebrafish is an appropriate model for the study of E2 effects in the heart. We hypothesized that E2 regulates the cardiac contractility of adult zebrafish in a sex-specific manner. Male and female zebrafish were treated with vehicle (control) or E2 and the cardiac contractility was measured 0, 4, 7 and 14 days after treatment initiation using echocardiography. There was no significant effect on the heart rate by E2. Notably, there was a significant decrease in the ejection fraction of male zebrafish treated with E2 compared with controls. By contrast, there was no major difference in the ejection fraction between the two female groups. The dramatic effect in male zebrafish occurred as early as 4 days post treatment initiation. Although there was no significant difference in stroke volume and cardiac output between the two male groups, these were significantly higher in female zebrafish treated with E2 compared with controls. Gene expression analysis revealed that the levels of estrogen receptors were comparable among all groups. In conclusion, our data demonstrate that the adult zebrafish heart robustly responds to E2 and this occurs in a sex-specific manner. Given the benefits of using zebrafish as a model, new targets may be identified for the development of novel cardiovascular therapies for male and female patients. This would contribute towards the realization of personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selina Hein
- Department of Cardiology, Angiology and Pneumology, University Hospital Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, Germany
| | - David Hassel
- Department of Cardiology, Angiology and Pneumology, University Hospital Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, Germany
| | - Georgios Kararigas
- Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-30-450-525355
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21
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Altinbas L, Bormann N, Lehmann D, Jeuthe S, Wulsten D, Kornak U, Robinson PN, Wildemann B, Kararigas G. Assessment of Bones Deficient in Fibrillin-1 Microfibrils Reveals Pronounced Sex Differences. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20236059. [PMID: 31805661 PMCID: PMC6928642 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20236059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Defects in the extracellular matrix protein fibrillin-1 that perturb transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) bioavailability lead to Marfan syndrome (MFS). MFS is an autosomal-dominant disorder, which is associated with connective tissue and skeletal defects, among others. To date, it is unclear how biological sex impacts the structural and functional properties of bone in MFS. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of sex on bone microarchitecture and mechanical properties in mice with deficient fibrillin-1, a model of human MFS. Bones of 11-week-old male and female Fbn1mgR/mgR mice were investigated. Three-dimensional micro-computed tomography of femora and vertebrae revealed a lower ratio of trabecular bone volume to tissue volume, reduced trabecular number and thickness, and greater trabecular separation in females vs. males. Three-point bending of femora revealed significantly lower post-yield displacement and work-to-fracture in females vs. males. Mechanistically, we found higher Smad2 and ERK1/2 phosphorylation in females vs. males, demonstrating a greater activation of TGFβ signaling in females. In summary, the present findings show pronounced sex differences in the matrix and function of bones deficient in fibrillin-1 microfibrils. Consequently, sex-specific analysis of bone characteristics in patients with MFS may prove useful in improving the clinical management and life quality of these patients, through the development of sex-specific therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Altinbas
- BIH Center for Regenerative Therapies, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Nicole Bormann
- BIH Center for Regenerative Therapies, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 13353 Berlin, Germany
- Julius Wolff Institute for Biomechanics and Musculoskeletal Regeneration, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Daniel Lehmann
- BIH Center for Regenerative Therapies, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Sarah Jeuthe
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Dag Wulsten
- BIH Center for Regenerative Therapies, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 13353 Berlin, Germany
- Julius Wolff Institute for Biomechanics and Musculoskeletal Regeneration, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Uwe Kornak
- BIH Center for Regenerative Therapies, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 13353 Berlin, Germany
- Institute for Medical Genetics and Human Genetics, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Peter N. Robinson
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT 06032, USA
| | - Britt Wildemann
- BIH Center for Regenerative Therapies, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 13353 Berlin, Germany
- Julius Wolff Institute for Biomechanics and Musculoskeletal Regeneration, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 13353 Berlin, Germany
- Experimental Trauma Surgery, University Hospital Jena, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Georgios Kararigas
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-30-450-525355
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22
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Matarrese P, Tieri P, Anticoli S, Ascione B, Conte M, Franceschi C, Malorni W, Salvioli S, Ruggieri A. X-chromosome-linked miR548am-5p is a key regulator of sex disparity in the susceptibility to mitochondria-mediated apoptosis. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:673. [PMID: 31511496 PMCID: PMC6739406 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-019-1888-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Revised: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Sex dimorphism in cell response to stress has previously been investigated by different research groups. This dimorphism could be at least in part accounted for by sex-biased expression of regulatory elements such as microRNAs (miRs). In order to spot previously unknown miR expression differences we took advantage of prior knowledge on specialized databases to identify X chromosome-encoded miRs potentially escaping X chromosome inactivation (XCI). MiR-548am-5p emerged as potentially XCI escaper and was experimentally verified to be significantly up-regulated in human XX primary dermal fibroblasts (DFs) compared to XY ones. Accordingly, miR-548am-5p target mRNAs, e.g. the transcript for Bax, was differently modulated in XX and XY DFs. Functional analyses indicated that XY DFs were more prone to mitochondria-mediated apoptosis than XX ones. Experimentally induced overexpression of miR548am-5p in XY cells by lentivirus vector transduction decreased apoptosis susceptibility, whereas its down-regulation in XX cells enhanced apoptosis susceptibility. These data indicate that this approach could be used to identify previously unreported sex-biased differences in miR expression and that a miR identified with this approach, miR548am-5p, can account for sex-dependent differences observed in the susceptibility to mitochondrial apoptosis of human DFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Matarrese
- Center for Gender Specific Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Tieri
- CNR National Research Council, IAC Institute for Applied Computing, Via dei Taurini 19, Rome, Italy.,Data Science Program, La Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Anticoli
- Center for Gender Specific Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Ascione
- Center for Gender Specific Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Conte
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Interdepartmental Centre "L. Galvani" (CIG), University of Bologna, via San Giacomo 12, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Claudio Franceschi
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Via Altura 3, 40139, Bologna, Italy.,Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Walter Malorni
- Center for Gender Specific Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy.,School of Mathematical, Physical and Natural Sciences and Faculty of Medicine, University of Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Salvioli
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy. .,Interdepartmental Centre "L. Galvani" (CIG), University of Bologna, via San Giacomo 12, 40126, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Anna Ruggieri
- Center for Gender Specific Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy.
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23
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Sanchez-Ruderisch H, Queirós AM, Fliegner D, Eschen C, Kararigas G, Regitz-Zagrosek V. Sex-specific regulation of cardiac microRNAs targeting mitochondrial proteins in pressure overload. Biol Sex Differ 2019; 10:8. [PMID: 30728084 PMCID: PMC6366038 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-019-0222-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Maladaptive remodeling in pressure overload (PO)-induced left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) may lead to heart failure. Major sex differences have been reported in this process. The steroid hormone 17β-estradiol, along with its receptors ERα and ERβ, is thought to be crucial for sex differences and is expected to be protective, but this may not hold true for males. Increasing evidence demonstrates a major role for microRNAs (miRNAs) in PO-induced LVH. However, little is known about the effects of biological sex and ERβ on cardiac miRNA regulation and downstream mitochondrial targets. We aimed at the analysis of proteins involved in mitochondrial metabolism testing the hypothesis that they are the target of sex-specific miRNA regulation. Methods We employed the transverse aortic constriction model in mice and assessed the levels of five mitochondrial proteins, i.e., Auh, Crat, Decr1, Hadha, and Ndufs4. Results We found a significant decrease of the mitochondrial proteins primarily in the male overloaded heart compared with the corresponding control group. Following computational analysis to identify miRNAs putatively targeting these proteins, our in vitro experiments employing miRNA mimics demonstrated the presence of functional target sites for miRNAs in the 3′-untranslated region of the messenger RNAs coding for these proteins. Next, we assessed the levels of the functionally validated miRNAs under PO and found that their expression was induced only in the male overloaded heart. In contrast, there was no significant effect on miRNA expression in male mice with deficient ERβ. Conclusion We put forward that the male-specific induction of miRNAs and corresponding downregulation of downstream protein targets involved in mitochondrial metabolism may contribute to sex-specific remodeling in PO-induced LVH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Sanchez-Ruderisch
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Gender in Medicine and Center for Cardiovascular Research, and DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Germany
| | - Ana Maria Queirós
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Gender in Medicine and Center for Cardiovascular Research, and DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Germany
| | - Daniela Fliegner
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Gender in Medicine and Center for Cardiovascular Research, and DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Germany
| | - Claudia Eschen
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Gender in Medicine and Center for Cardiovascular Research, and DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Germany
| | - Georgios Kararigas
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Gender in Medicine and Center for Cardiovascular Research, and DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Germany.
| | - Vera Regitz-Zagrosek
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Gender in Medicine and Center for Cardiovascular Research, and DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Germany
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24
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Cui C, Huang C, Liu K, Xu G, Yang J, Zhou Y, Feng Y, Kararigas G, Geng B, Cui Q. Large-scale in silico identification of drugs exerting sex-specific effects in the heart. J Transl Med 2018; 16:236. [PMID: 30157868 PMCID: PMC6116388 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-018-1612-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Major differences exist between men and women in both physiology and pathophysiology. Dissecting the underlying processes and contributing mechanisms of sex differences in health and disease represents a crucial step towards precision medicine. Considering the significant differences between men and women in the response to pharmacotherapies, our aim was to develop an in silico model able to predict sex-specific drug responses in a large-scale. Methods For this purpose, we focused on cardiovascular effects because of their high morbidity and mortality. Our model predicted several drugs (including acebutolol and tacrine) with significant differences in the heart between men and women. To validate the sex-specific drug responses identified by our model, acebutolol was selected to lower blood pressure in spontaneous hypertensive rats (SHR), tacrine was used to assess cardiac injury in mice and metformin as control for a non-sex-specific response. Results As our model predicted, acebutolol exhibited a stronger decrease in heart rate and blood pressure in female than male SHRs. Tacrine lowered heart rate in male but not in female mice, induced higher plasma cTNI level and increased cardiac superoxide (DHE staining) generation in female than male mice, indicating stronger cardiac toxicity in female than male mice. To validate our model in humans, we employed two Chinese cohorts, which showed that among patients taking a beta-receptor blocker (metoprolol), women reached significantly lower diastolic blood pressure than men. Conclusions We conclude that our in silico model could be translated into clinical practice to predict sex-specific drug responses, thereby contributing towards a more appropriate medical care for both men and women. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12967-018-1612-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changting Cui
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, MOE Key Lab of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, 38 Xueyuan Rd, Beijing, 100191, China.,Department of Biomedical Informatics, MOE Key Lab of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, 38 Xueyuan Rd, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Chuanbo Huang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, MOE Key Lab of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, 38 Xueyuan Rd, Beijing, 100191, China.,Department of Biomedical Informatics, MOE Key Lab of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, 38 Xueyuan Rd, Beijing, 100191, China.,School of Mathematics Sciences, Huaqiao University, 269 Chenghua North Rd, Quanzhou, 362021, China
| | - Kejia Liu
- Ruike-Donghua Translational Medicine Research Center, Beijing, 100176, China
| | - Guoheng Xu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, MOE Key Lab of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, 38 Xueyuan Rd, Beijing, 100191, China.,Department of Biomedical Informatics, MOE Key Lab of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, 38 Xueyuan Rd, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Jichun Yang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, MOE Key Lab of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, 38 Xueyuan Rd, Beijing, 100191, China.,Department of Biomedical Informatics, MOE Key Lab of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, 38 Xueyuan Rd, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yong Zhou
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Institute of Heart, Lung and Blood Vascular Diseases, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Yingmei Feng
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Diabetes Prevention and Research, Luhe Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 101149, China.,Department of Endocrinology, Luhe Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 101149, China
| | - Georgios Kararigas
- Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Gender in Medicine and Center for Cardiovascular Research, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Bin Geng
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, MOE Key Lab of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, 38 Xueyuan Rd, Beijing, 100191, China. .,Department of Biomedical Informatics, MOE Key Lab of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, 38 Xueyuan Rd, Beijing, 100191, China. .,Hypertension Center, Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Beijing, 100037, China.
| | - Qinghua Cui
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, MOE Key Lab of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, 38 Xueyuan Rd, Beijing, 100191, China. .,Department of Biomedical Informatics, MOE Key Lab of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, 38 Xueyuan Rd, Beijing, 100191, China. .,Center of Bioinformatics, Key Laboratory for Neuro-Information of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Chengdu, 610054, China.
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25
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Xie Y, Li YJ, Lei B, Kernagis D, Liu WW, Bennett ER, Venkatraman T, Lascola CD, Laskowitz DT, Warner DS, James ML. Sex Differences in Gene and Protein Expression After Intracerebral Hemorrhage in Mice. Transl Stroke Res 2018; 10:231-239. [DOI: 10.1007/s12975-018-0633-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Revised: 04/26/2018] [Accepted: 04/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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26
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Abstract
Microfluidic organ-on-a-chip models of human intestine have been developed and used to study intestinal physiology and pathophysiology. In this article, we review this field and describe how microfluidic Intestine Chips offer new capabilities not possible with conventional culture systems or organoid cultures, including the ability to analyze contributions of individual cellular, chemical, and physical control parameters one-at-a-time; to coculture human intestinal cells with commensal microbiome for extended times; and to create human-relevant disease models. We also discuss potential future applications of human Intestine Chips, including how they might be used for drug development and personalized medicine.
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Currie G, Delles C. Precision Medicine and Personalized Medicine in Cardiovascular Disease. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2018; 1065:589-605. [PMID: 30051409 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-77932-4_36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Precision medicine aims to offer "the right treatment to the right patient at the right time." In cardiovascular medicine the potential of precision medicine applies to all stages of the disease development and includes risk prediction, preventative measures, and targeted therapeutic approaches. Precision medicine will benefit from new developments in the area of genomics and other omics but equally heavily depends on established biomarkers, functional tests, and imaging. Cardiovascular medicine often relies on noninvasive diagnostic procedures and symptom-based disease management. In contrast, other clinical disciplines including oncology and immunology have already moved to molecular diagnostics that lend themselves to precision medicine approaches. There are opportunities to implement precision medicine approaches by focusing on common diseases such as hypertension, conditions with diagnostic and prognostic uncertainty such as angina, and conditions that are associated with high mortality and involve costly and potentially harmful interventions such as dilated cardiomyopathy and cardiac resynchronization therapy. Sex and gender issues have not yet been fully explored in precision medicine although the opportunity to use molecular data to more accurately manage men and women with cardiovascular disease has been acknowledged. A mindshift is required in order to fully exploit the potential of precision medicine to tackle the global burden of cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Currie
- Institute of Cardiovascular & Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, BHF Glasgow Cardiovascular Research Centre, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Christian Delles
- Institute of Cardiovascular & Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, BHF Glasgow Cardiovascular Research Centre, Glasgow, Scotland, UK.
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Dubois A, Dubé MP, Tardif JC. Precision medicine to change the landscape of cardiovascular drug development. EXPERT REVIEW OF PRECISION MEDICINE AND DRUG DEVELOPMENT 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/23808993.2017.1392826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anick Dubois
- Montreal Heart Institute, Montreal, Canada
- Université de Montréal Beaulieu-Saucier Pharmacogenomics Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - Marie-Pierre Dubé
- Montreal Heart Institute, Montreal, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
- Université de Montréal Beaulieu-Saucier Pharmacogenomics Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - Jean-Claude Tardif
- Montreal Heart Institute, Montreal, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
- Université de Montréal Beaulieu-Saucier Pharmacogenomics Centre, Montreal, Canada
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Tannenbaum C, Day D. Age and sex in drug development and testing for adults. Pharmacol Res 2017; 121:83-93. [PMID: 28455265 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2017.04.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2017] [Revised: 03/24/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Individualization of drug therapy requires that the right drug be administered at the correct dose to patients who are likely to achieve the highest benefit and lowest risk. Female sex and age comprise two important risk factors for altered drug exposure and response. This review summarizes the current state of science for considering age and sex-related factors along the drug development pipeline, from cell culture and animal research through all phases of clinical trials in humans. A set of recommendations is provided to improve standards for integrating age and sex into the study design, analysis, and reporting of pre-clinical and clinical assessment of new molecular entities and biologics in adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cara Tannenbaum
- Institute of Gender and Health, Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Canada; Medicine and Pharmacy, Université de Montreal, Centre de recherche, Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal (CRIUGM), 4565 Chemin Queen-Mary, Montréal, Québec H3W 1W5, Canada.
| | - Danielle Day
- Fractyl Laboratories, 17 Hartwell Ave, Lexington, MA 02421, USA
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