Potential therapeutic targets for atherosclerosis in sphingolipid metabolism

Platelet Function is Independent of Sphingolipid Manipulation

INTRODUCTION

Previous literature suggests that sphingolipids may impact systemic coagulation and platelet aggregation, thus modulating the risks of thrombotic events. The goal of this investigation was to evaluate the role of serum sphingolipids on intrinsic platelet function to assess whether pharmacologic manipulation of sphingolipid metabolites would impact platelet aggregability.

METHODS

C57BL/6J mice were injected with either normal saline, 1 mg/kg FTY720 (synthetic sphingosine-1-phosphate [S1P] receptor analog), or 5 mg/kg SLM6031434 (sphingosine kinase two inhibitor). Mice were sacrificed at 6 h and whole blood (WB) was collected for impedance aggregometry assessing platelet responsiveness to arachidonic acid or adenosine diphosphate. Ex vivo studies utilized WB or platelet-rich plasma that was pretreated with S1P, FTY720, amitriptyline, or d-sphingosine then analyzed by aggregability and flow cytometry for platelet and platelet-derived microvesicle characteristics.

RESULTS

FTY720 and SLM6031434 pretreated induced similar arachidonic acid and adenosine diphosphate-mediated platelet aggregation as controls. Ex vivo WB and platelet-rich plasma treatment with S1P, FTY720, amitriptyline and d-sphingosine did not impact platelet aggregation. The percentages of CD41+, CD62P+ and CD41+/ceramide+, CD62P+/ceramide + platelets, and platelet-derived microvesicle were not significantly different between amitriptyline-treated and normal saline-treated cohorts.

CONCLUSIONS

Sphingolipid modulating agents, such as FTY720, SLM6031434, S1P, amitriptyline, ceramide, and d-sphingosine do not appear to independently impact platelet aggregation in murine models.

Sphingomyelinase-responsive nanomicelles for targeting atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis, a leading cause of cardiovascular diseases requires approaches to enhance disease monitoring and treatment. Nanoparticles offer promising potential in this area by being customisable to target components or molecular processes within plaques, while carrying diagnostic and therapeutic agents. However, the number of biomarkers available to target this disease is limited. This study investigated the use of sphingomyelin-based nanomicelles triggered by sphingomyelinase (SMase) in atherosclerotic plaques. Accumulation of iron oxide-based nanomicelles in the plaque was demonstrated by fluorescence, MR imaging and electron microscopy. These findings demonstrate the possibility of utilising SMase as a mechanism to retain nanoprobes within plaques, thus opening up possibilities for future therapeutic interventions.

Ceramides in peripheral arterial plaque lead to endothelial cell dysfunction

Background

Peripheral arterial atheroprogression is increasingly prevalent, and is a risk factor for major limb amputations in individuals with risk factors such as diabetes. We previously demonstrated that bioactive lipids are significantly altered in arterial tissue of individuals with diabetes and advanced peripheral arterial disease.

Methods

Here we evaluated whether sphingolipid ceramide 18:1/16:0 (C16) is a cellular regulator in endothelial cells and peripheral tibial arterial tissue in individuals with diabetes.

Results

We observed that C16 is the single most elevated ceramide in peripheral arterial tissue from below the knee in individuals with diabetes (11% increase, P < .05). C16 content in tibial arterial tissue positively correlates with sphingomyelin (SPM) content in patients with and without diabetes (r2 = 0.5, P < .005; r2 = 0.17, P < .05; respectively). Tibial arteries of individuals with diabetes demonstrated no difference in CERS6 expression (encoding ceramide synthase 6; the predominate ceramide synthesis enzyme), but higher SMPD expression (encoding sphingomyelin phosphodiesterase that catalyzes ceramide synthesis from sphingomyelins; P < .05). SMPD4, but not SMPD2, was particularly elevated in maximally diseased (Max) tibial arterial segments (P < .05). In vitro, exogenous C16 caused endothelial cells (HUVECs) to have decreased proliferation (P < .03), increased apoptosis (P < .003), and decreased autophagy (P < .008). Selective knockdown of SMPD2 and SMPD4 decreased native production of C16 (P < .01 and P < .001, respectively), but only knockdown of SMPD4 rescued cellular proliferation (P < .005) following exogenous supplementation with C16.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that C16 is a tissue biomarker for peripheral arterial disease severity in the setting of diabetes, and can impact endothelial cell viability and function.

Clinical relevance

Peripheral arterial disease and its end-stage manifestation known as chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) represent ongoing prevalent and intricate medical challenges. Individuals with diabetes have a heightened risk of developing CLTI and experiencing its complications, including wounds, ulcers, and major amputations. In the present study, we conducted a comprehensive examination of the molecular lipid composition within arterial segments from individuals with CLTI, and with and without diabetes. Our investigations unveiled a striking revelation: the sphingolipid ceramide 18:1/16:0 emerged as the predominant ceramide species that was significantly elevated in the peripheral arterial intima below the knee in patients with diabetes. Moreover, this heightened ceramide presence is associated with a marked impairment of endothelial cell function and viability. Additionally, our study revealed a concurrent elevation in the expression of sphingomyelin phosphodiesterases, enzymes responsible for catalyzing ceramide synthesis from sphingomyelins, within maximally diseased arterial segments. These findings underscore the pivotal role of ceramides and their biosynthesis enzymes in the context of CLTI, offering new insights into potential therapeutic avenues for managing this challenging disease process.

The Sphingolipid-Signaling Pathway as a Modulator of Infection by SARS-CoV-2

Ceramides and other related sphingolipids, important cellular components linked to metabolic homeostasis and cardiometabolic diseases, have been found to be involved in different steps of the SARS-CoV-2 life cycle. Hence, changes in their physiological levels are identified as predictors of COVID-19 severity and prognosis, as well as potential therapeutic targets. In this review, an overview of the SARS-CoV-2 life cycle is given, followed by a description of the sphingolipid metabolism and its role in viral infection, with a particular focus on those steps required to finalize the viral life cycle. Furthermore, the use and development of pharmaceutical strategies to target sphingolipids to prevent and treat severe and long-term symptoms of infectious diseases, particularly COVID-19, are reviewed herein. Finally, research perspectives and current challenges in this research field are highlighted. Although many aspects of sphingolipid metabolism are not fully known, this review aims to highlight how the discovery and use of molecules targeting sphingolipids with reliable and selective properties may offer new therapeutic alternatives to infectious and other diseases, including COVID-19.

The therapeutic potential of sphingolipids for cardiovascular diseases

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide and Inflammation plays a critical role in the development of CVD. Despite considerable progress in understanding the underlying mechanisms and various treatment options available, significant gaps in therapy necessitate the identification of novel therapeutic targets. Sphingolipids are a family of lipids that have gained attention in recent years as important players in CVDs and the inflammatory processes that underlie their development. As preclinical studies have shown that targeting sphingolipids can modulate inflammation and ameliorate CVDs, targeting sphingolipids has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy. This review discusses the current understanding of sphingolipids' involvement in inflammation and cardiovascular diseases, the existing therapeutic approaches and gaps in therapy, and explores the potential of sphingolipids-based drugs as a future avenue for CVD treatment.

Plasma Lipidomics Profiles Highlight the Associations of the Dual Antioxidant/Pro-oxidant Molecules Sphingomyelin and Phosphatidylcholine with Subclinical Atherosclerosis in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes

Here, we report on our study of plasma lipidomics profiles of patients with type 1 diabetes (T1DM) and explore potential associations. One hundred and seven patients with T1DM were consecutively recruited. Ultrasound imaging of peripheral arteries was performed using a high image resolution B-mode ultrasound system. Untargeted lipidomics analysis was performed using UHPLC coupled to qTOF/MS. The associations were evaluated using machine learning algorithms. SM(32:2) and ether lipid species (PC(O-30:1)/PC(P-30:0)) were significantly and positively associated with subclinical atherosclerosis (SA). This association was further confirmed in patients with overweight/obesity (specifically with SM(40:2)). A negative association between SA and lysophosphatidylcholine species was found among lean subjects. Phosphatidylcholines (PC(40:6) and PC(36:6)) and cholesterol esters (ChoE(20:5)) were associated positively with intima-media thickness both in subjects with and without overweight/obesity. In summary, the plasma antioxidant molecules SM and PC differed according to the presence of SA and/or overweight status in patients with T1DM. This is the first study showing the associations in T1DM, and the findings may be useful in the targeting of a personalized approach aimed at preventing cardiovascular disease in these patients.

Effect of Diets on Plasma and Aorta Lipidome: A Study in the apoE Knockout Mouse Model

SCOPE

Specific lipid molecules circulating in plasma at low concentrations have emerged as biomarkers of atherosclerotic risk. The aim of the present study is that of evaluating, in an athero-prone mouse model, how different diets can affect plasma and aorta lipidome.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Thirty-six apoE knockout mice are divided in three groups and feed 12 weeks with diets differing for cholesterol and fatty acid content. Atherosclerosis is measured at the aortic sinus and aorta. Lipids are quantified in plasma and aorta with mass spectrometry. The cholesterol content of the diets is the main driver of lipid accumulation in plasma and aorta. The fatty acid composition of the diets affects plasma levels both of essential (linoleic acid) and nonessential (myristic and arachidonic acid) ones. Lipidomics show a comparable distribution, in plasma and aorta, of the main lipid components of oxidized LDL, including cholesteryl esters and lysophosphatidylcholines. Interestingly, lactosylceramide, glucosyl/galactosylceramide, and individual ceramide species are found to accumulate in diseased aortic segments.

CONCLUSION

Both the cholesterol and fatty acid content of the diets profoundly affect plasma lipidome. Aorta lipidome is likewise affected with the accumulation of specific lipids known as markers of atherosclerosis.

Circulating circular RNAs as biomarkers for the diagnosis of essential hypertension with carotid plaque

BACKGROUND

At present, no early diagnostic markers for essential hypertension (EH)-induced subclinical target organs damage (such as carotid plaque) are available. This study aimed to identify the circular RNAs (circRNAs) in EH with carotid plaques, and assess their utility as biomarkers.

METHODS

First, circRNAs were identified through microarry analysis and database prediction. Second, a case-control study of EH patients with carotid plaque (n = 100) and healthy controls (n = 100) was performed to evaluate circRNAs expression in peripheral blood. Finally, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was established to evaluate the diagnostic value.

RESULTS

Five circRNAs (hsa_circ_0105130, hsa_circ_0109569, hsa_circ_0072659, hsa_circ_0079586 and hsa_circ_0064684) were identified as the candidate circRNAs. We found that circRNAs were increased in case group compared with controls (P < .05). The results of ROC shown that these five circRNAs, especially hsa_circ_0109569 (AUC = 0.741), all had the moderate predictive value.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study revealed circulating circRNAs may act as promising noninvasive biomarkers for early detection and population screening of EH-induced subclinical target organ injury.

Metabolomics of Arterial Stiffness

Arterial stiffness (AS) is one of the earliest detectable signs of structural and functional alterations of the vessel wall and an independent predictor of cardiovascular events and death. The emerging field of metabolomics can be utilized to detect a wide spectrum of intermediates and products of metabolism in body fluids that can be involved in the pathogenesis of AS. Research over the past decade has reinforced this idea by linking AS to circulating acylcarnitines, glycerophospholipids, sphingolipids, and amino acids, among other metabolite species. Some of these metabolites influence AS through traditional cardiovascular risk factors (e.g., high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, diabetes, smoking), while others seem to act independently through both known and unknown pathophysiological mechanisms. We propose the term 'arteriometabolomics' to indicate the research that applies metabolomics methods to study AS. The 'arteriometabolomics' approach has the potential to allow more personalized cardiovascular risk stratification, disease monitoring, and treatment selection. One of its major goals is to uncover the causal metabolic pathways of AS. Such pathways could represent valuable treatment targets in vascular ageing.

Lipidomics reveals the dysregulated ceramide metabolism in oxidized low-density lipoprotein-induced macrophage-derived foam cell

Atherosclerosis (AS) is associated with increasing lipid peroxidation. Oxidative modification of low-density lipoproteins (ox-LDL) is one most important factors contributing to the pathogenesis and clinical features of AS. The lipid composition influenced by ox-LDL is not known clearly. In this work, a UHPLC/Orbitrap MS-based lipidomics approach integrated pathway analysis was performed to advance understanding of the lipid composition and feature pathway in an ox-LDL-induced foamy macrophage cell. In the lipid metabolic profiling, 196 lipid species from 15 (sub)classes were identified. Lipid profiling indicated that increasing ox-LDL caused lipid metabolic alternations, manifesting as phospholipids being down-regulated and sphingolipids being up-regulated. Pathway analysis explored glycerophospholipid and sphingolipid metabolism, which was involved in atherogenic changes. Notably, dysregulated ceramide metabolism was a typical feature of foamy cell formation. qRT-PCR analysis was conducted to explore the differentially expressed genes. It indicated that ceramide metabolic balance might be disordered, performing higher synthesis and lower hydrolysis, with the ratio of SMPD1/SGMS2 being significantly up-regulated (p < 0.05) in the ox-LDL induced group. Our work offers a comprehensive understanding of macrophage-derived foam cells and screen feature pathways associated with foamy cell formation, which provides a reference for the clinic diagnosis of AS and drug interventions.

Changes in Circulating Metabolites during Weight Loss and Weight Loss Maintenance in Relation to Cardiometabolic Risk

(1) Background: There is a substantial lack of knowledge of the biochemical mechanisms by which weight loss and weight regain exert their beneficial and adverse effects, respectively, on cardiometabolic outcomes. We examined associations between changes in circulating metabolites and changes in cardiometabolic risk factors during diet-induced weight loss and weight loss maintenance. (2) Methods: This prospective analysis of data from the Satiety Innovation (SATIN) study involved adults living with overweight and obesity (mean age=47.5). One hundred sixty-two subjects achieving ≥8% weight loss during an initial 8-week low-calorie diet (LCD) were included in a 12-week weight loss maintenance period. Circulating metabolites (m=123) were profiled using a targeted multiplatform approach. Data were analyzed using multivariate linear regression models. (3) Results: Decreases in the concentrations of several phosphatidylcholines (PCs), sphingomyelins (SMs), and valine were consistently associated with decreases in total (TChol) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels during the LCD. Increases in PCs and SMs were significantly associated with increases in TChol and LDL-C during the weight loss maintenance period. Decreases and increases in PCs during LCD and maintenance period, respectively, were associated with decreases in the levels of triglycerides. (4) Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that decreases in circulating PCs and SMs during weight loss and the subsequent weight loss maintenance period may decrease the cardiovascular risk through impacting TChol and LDL-C.

Inferring a causal relationship between ceramide levels and COVID-19 respiratory distress

A causal relationship between plasma ceramide concentration and respiratory distress symptoms in COVID-19 patients is inferred. In this study, plasma samples of 52 individuals infected with COVID-19 were utilized in a lipidomic analysis. Lipids belonging to the ceramide class exhibited a 400-fold increase in total plasma concentration in infected patients. Further analysis led to the demonstration of concentration dependency for severe COVID-19 respiratory symptoms in a subclass of ceramides. The subclasses Cer(d18:0/24:1), Cer(d18:1/24:1), and Cer(d18:1/22:0) were shown to be increased by 48-, 40-, and 33-fold, respectively, in infected plasma samples and to 116-, 91- and 50-fold, respectively, in plasma samples with respiratory distress. Hence, monitoring plasma ceramide concentration, can be a valuable tool for measuring effects of therapies on COVID-19 respiratory distress patients.

The Complex Tail of Circulating Sphingolipids in Atherosclerosis and Cardiovascular Disease

Sphingolipids (SLs) are critical players in a number of cellular processes and have recently been implicated in a large number of human diseases, including atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease (CVD). SLs are generated intracellularly in a stepwise manner, starting with the generation of the sphingoid long chain base (LCB), followed by N-acylation of the LCB to form ceramide, which can be subsequently metabolized to sphingomyelin and glycosphingolipids. Fatty acids, which are taken up by cells prior to their activation to fatty acyl-CoAs, are used in 2 of these enzymatic steps, including by ceramide synthases, which use fatty acyl-CoAs of different chain lengths to generate ceramides with different N-acyl chain lengths. Recently, alterations in plasma ceramides with specific N-acyl chain lengths and degrees of saturation have emerged as novel biomarkers for the prediction of atherosclerosis and overall cardiovascular risk in the general population. We briefly review the sources of plasma SLs in atherosclerosis, the roles of SLs in CVD, and the possible use of the "ceramide score" as a prognostic marker for CVD.

Acid sphingomyelinase promotes SGK1-dependent vascular calcification

In chronic kidney disease (CKD), hyperphosphatemia is a key factor promoting medial vascular calcification, a common complication associated with cardiovascular events and high mortality. Vascular calcification involves osteo-/chondrogenic transdifferentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), but the complex signaling events inducing pro-calcific pathways are incompletely understood. The present study investigated the role of acid sphingomyelinase (ASM)/ceramide as regulator of VSMC calcification. In vitro, both, bacterial sphingomyelinase and phosphate increased ceramide levels in VSMCs. Bacterial sphingomyelinase as well as ceramide supplementation stimulated osteo-/chondrogenic transdifferentiation during control and high phosphate conditions and augmented phosphate-induced calcification of VSMCs. Silencing of serum- and glucocorticoid-inducible kinase 1 (SGK1) blunted the pro-calcific effects of bacterial sphingomyelinase or ceramide. Asm deficiency blunted vascular calcification in a cholecalciferol-overload mouse model and ex vivo isolated-perfused arteries. In addition, Asm deficiency suppressed phosphate-induced osteo-/chondrogenic signaling and calcification of cultured VSMCs. Treatment with the functional ASM inhibitors amitriptyline or fendiline strongly blunted pro-calcific signaling pathways in vitro and in vivo. In conclusion, ASM/ceramide is a critical upstream regulator of vascular calcification, at least partly, through SGK1-dependent signaling. Thus, ASM inhibition by repurposing functional ASM inhibitors to reduce the progression of vascular calcification during CKD warrants further study.

Sphingosine-1-phosphate interactions in the spleen and heart reflect extent of cardiac repair in mice and failing human hearts

Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a bioactive mediator in inflammation. Dysregulated S1P is demonstrated as a cause of heart failure (HF). However, the time-dependent and integrative role of S1P interaction with receptors in HF is unclear after myocardial infarction (MI). In this study, the sphingolipid mediators were quantified in ischemic human hearts. We also measured the time kinetics of these mediators post-MI in murine spleen and heart as an integrative approach to understand the interaction of S1P and respective S1P receptors in the transition of acute (AHF) to chronic HF (CHF). Risk-free 8-12 wk male C57BL/6 mice were subjected to MI surgery, and MI was confirmed by echocardiography and histology. Mass spectrometry was used to quantify sphingolipids in plasma, infarcted heart, spleen of mice, and ischemic and healthy human heart. The physiological cardiac repair was observed in mice with a notable increase of S1P quantity (pmol/g) in the heart and spleen significantly reduced in patients with ischemic HF. The circulating murine S1P levels were increased during AHF and CHF despite lowered substrate in CHF. The S1PR1 receptor expression was observed to coincide with the respective S1P quantity in mice and human hearts. Furthermore, selective S1P1 agonist limited inflammatory markers CCL2 and TNF-α and accelerated reparative markers ARG-1 and YM-1 in macrophages in the presence of Kdo2-Lipid A (KLA; potent inflammatory stimulant). This report demonstrated the importance of S1P/S1PR1 signaling in physiological inflammation during cardiac repair in mice. Alteration in these axes may serve as the signs of pathological remodeling in patients with ischemia.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Previous studies indicate that sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) has some role in cardiovascular disease. This study adds quantitative and integrative systems-based approaches that are necessary for discovery and bedside translation. Here, we quantitated sphinganine, sphingosine, sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) in mice and human cardiac pathobiology. Interorgan S1P quantity and respective systems-based receptor activation suggest cardiac repair after myocardial infarction. Thus, S1P serves as a therapeutic target for cardiac protection in clinical translation.

Serum cardiovascular-related metabolites disturbance exposed to different heavy metal exposure scenarios

Health effects induced by heavy metal components of particulate matter need further research. A total of 32 healthy volunteers were recruited to walk for 4 h in two different exposure scenarios in Wuhan from May 1 to Jun 30, 2019. Metabolomics technology was used to identify serum cardiovascular-related metabolites disturbance, and the health risk assessment model was employed to assess the non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks associated with airborne heavy metals. The results showed that the average mass concentrations of Co, Ni, Cd, Cu, Ag and Ba in PM10 from May 1 to Jun 30, 2019 were 0.22, 0.49, 11.53, 2.23, 34.47 and 4.19 ng/m3, respectively, and were 0.86, 128.47, 291.85, 291.94, 98.55 and 422.62 ng/m3 in PM2.5, respectively. Healthy young adults briefly exposed to heavy metals were associated with serum cardiovascular-related metabolites disturbance, including increased SM(d18:1/17:0) and Sphingomyelin, and decreased GlcCer(d16:1/18:0) and Galabiosylceramide, simultaneously accompanied by activation of the sphingolipid metabolism pathway. Non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks of airborne heavy metals via the inhalation route were observed, Ni and Cd most influenced to potential health risks. Findings indicated exposure to increment of heavy metals may increase health risks by causing cardiovascular-related metabolites disturbance via activating the sphingolipid metabolism pathway.

Aging and β3-adrenergic stimulation alter mitochondrial lipidome of adipose tissue

Mitochondrial abundance and thermogenic capacity are two imperative components that distinguish brown, beige and white adipose tissues. Most importantly, the lipid composition is vital for maintaining the quantity, quality and function of mitochondria. Therefore, we employed quantitative lipidomics to probe the mitochondrial lipidome of adipose tissues. The mitochondrial lipidome reveals β3-adrenergic stimulation and aging drastically altered the levels of phosphatidylcholine (PC)/phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) ratio and acyl chain desaturation. Precisely, PC36:2 and PE38:4 levels correlate with the increased brown and beige fat activity in young mice. While aging increased lysoPC species in white adipose tissue (WAT) mitochondria, CL-316,243 administration reduced lysoPC species and increased lyso-PE18:1 and 18:2 content during WAT browning. Also, non-thermogenic mitochondria accumulate sphingomyelin (SM), phosphatidylserine (PS), phosphatidic acid (PA) and ether-linked PC (ePC). Similarly, enrichment of phosphatidylglycerol (PG) and cardiolipin (CL) levels are associated with thermogenic mitochondria. Also, our in vitro experiment supports that blocking the de novo sphingolipid synthesis pathway by myriocin, SPT1 inhibitor increased the thermogenic capacity and oxygen consumption rate in mature adipocytes. Overall, our study suggests mitochondria of brown, beige and white adipose tissues own a unique pattern of lipid molecular species and their levels are altered by aging and CL-316,243 administration.

Gangliosides as Signaling Regulators in Cancer

At the plasma membrane, gangliosides, a group of glycosphingolipids, are expressed along with glycosphingolipids, phospholipids, and cholesterol in so-called lipid rafts that interact with signaling receptors and related molecules. Most cancers present abnormalities in the intracellular signal transduction system involved in tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis. To date, the roles of gangliosides as regulators of signal transduction have been reported in several cancer types. Gangliosides can be expressed by the exogenous ganglioside addition, with their endogenous expression regulated at the enzymatic level by targeting specific glycosyltransferases. Accordingly, the relationship between changes in the composition of cell surface gangliosides and signal transduction has been investigated by controlling ganglioside expression. In cancer cells, several types of signaling molecules are positively or negatively regulated by ganglioside expression levels, promoting malignant properties. Moreover, antibodies against gangliosides have been shown to possess cytotoxic effects on ganglioside-expressing cancer cells. In the present review, we highlight the involvement of gangliosides in the regulation of cancer cell signaling, and we explore possible therapies targeting ganglioside-expressing cancer.

Identification of miR-17, miR-21, miR-27a, miR-106b and miR-222 as endoplasmic reticulum stress-related potential biomarkers in circulation of patients with atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis and related cardiovascular diseases are among the most common causes of death worldwide. Unfolded protein response, also known as Endoplasmic reticulum stress, has a critical role in many diseases including atherosclerosis. Small non-coding microRNAs (miRNA), which generally suppress gene expression, regulate UPR signalling and they may also be involved in the progression of atherosclerosis. We aim to investigate the expression levels of miR-17, miR-21, miR-27a, miR-106b, miR-222 and CHOP gene in circulation of atherosclerosis patients compared to healthy controls to establish a link between ER stress and atherosclerosis. miRNA containing whole RNA was isolated from blood samples of 25 patients with atherosclerosis and 26 healthy controls. Expression levels of miRNAs and CHOP were measured via Real Time PCR method. miR-17 and miR-106b were significantly increased while miR-21, miR-27a, and miR-222 were significantly decreased in patients compared to controls. CHOP gene was also dramatically and significantly induced in patient samples. miR-17, miR-21, miR-27a, miR-106b, miR-222 and CHOP were significantly differentially expressed in patients with atherosclerosis. Each miRNA and CHOP might regulate atherosclerotic plaque progression and they can be used as a biomarker in the diagnosis and follow-up of atherosclerosis-related cardiovascular diseases.

Lysosome (Dys)function in Atherosclerosis-A Big Weight on the Shoulders of a Small Organelle

Atherosclerosis is a progressive insidious chronic disease that underlies most of the cardiovascular pathologies, including myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke. The malfunctioning of the lysosomal compartment has a central role in the etiology and pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Lysosomes are the degradative organelles of mammalian cells and process endogenous and exogenous substrates in a very efficient manner. Dysfunction of these organelles and consequent inefficient degradation of modified low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and apoptotic cells in atherosclerotic lesions have, therefore, numerous deleterious consequences for cellular homeostasis and disease progression. Lysosome dysfunction has been mostly studied in the context of the inherited lysosomal storage disorders (LSDs). However, over the last years it has become increasingly evident that the consequences of this phenomenon are more far-reaching, also influencing the progression of multiple acquired human pathologies, such as neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). During the formation of atherosclerotic plaques, the lysosomal compartment of the various cells constituting the arterial wall is under severe stress, due to the tremendous amounts of lipoproteins being processed by these cells. The uncontrolled uptake of modified lipoproteins by arterial phagocytic cells, namely macrophages and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), is the initial step that triggers the pathogenic cascade culminating in the formation of atheroma. These cells become pathogenic "foam cells," which are characterized by dysfunctional lipid-laden lysosomes. Here, we summarize the current knowledge regarding the origin and impact of the malfunctioning of the lysosomal compartment in plaque cells. We further analyze how the field of LSD research may contribute with some insights to the study of CVDs, particularly how therapeutic approaches that target the lysosomes in LSDs could be applied to hamper atherosclerosis progression and associated mortality.

Novel Approaches to Fine-Tune Therapeutic Targeting of Platelets in Atherosclerosis: A Critical Appraisal

The pathogenesis of atherosclerotic vascular disease is driven by a multitude of risk factors intertwining metabolic and inflammatory pathways. Increasing knowledge about platelet biology sheds light on how platelets take part in these processes from early to later stages of plaque development. Recent insights from experimental studies and mouse models substantiate platelets as initiators and amplifiers in atherogenic leukocyte recruitment. These studies are complemented by results from genetics studies shedding light on novel molecular mechanisms which provide an interesting prospect as novel targets. For instance, experimental studies provide further details how platelet-decorated von Willebrand factor tethered to activated endothelial cells plays a role in atherogenic monocyte recruitment. Novel aspects of platelets as atherogenic inductors of neutrophil extracellular traps and particularities in signaling pathways such as cyclic guanosine monophosphate and the inhibitory adaptor molecule SHB23/LNK associating platelets with atherogenesis are shared. In summary, it was our intention to balance insights from recent experimental data that support a plausible role for platelets in atherogenesis against a paucity of clinical evidence needed to validate this concept in humans.

Myriocin and d-PDMP ameliorate atherosclerosis in ApoE-/- mice via reducing lipid uptake and vascular inflammation

Sphingolipids have been implicated in the etiology of atherosclerosis. The commonly used sphingolipid inhibitors, myriocin (a ceramide inhibitor) and d-PDMP (d-threo-1-phenyl-2-decanoylamino-3-morpholino-1-propanol, a glycosphingolipid inhibitor), have shown therapeutic potential but their efficacy and their underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here, apolipoprotein E-deficient (apoE-/-) mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) and treated with a control, myriocin, d-PDMP, or atorvastatin for 12 weeks. We analyzed the effects of these drugs on the size and detailed composition of atherosclerotic plaques. Molecular biological approaches were used to explore how the inhibitors affect lipid metabolism and foam-cell formation. Treatment with myriocin or d-PDMP led to smaller and less vulnerable atherosclerotic lesions and was almost as effective as atorvastatin. Sphingolipid inhibitors down-regulated the expression of monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP-1) and its receptor chemoattractant cytokine receptor 2 (CCR2), which play a key role in monocyte recruitment. They also decreased pro-inflammatory Ly-6chigh monocytes and influenced the uptake of modified LDL by down-regulating the expression of cluster of differentiation 36 (CD36) and lectin-like oxidized LDL (ox-LDL) receptor-1 (LOX-1). The inhibitors exhibited the advantage of maintaining normal glucose homeostasis compared with atorvastatin. These findings reveal for the first time that the modulation of sphingolipid synthesis can effectively alleviate atherosclerosis progression by preventing lipid uptake and reducing inflammatory responses in the arterial walls.

Population-based case-control study revealed metabolomic biomarkers of suboptimal health status in Chinese population-potential utility for innovative approach by predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine

Background

Suboptimal health status (SHS) is a subclinical stage of chronic diseases, and the identification of SHS provides an opportunity for the predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine (PPPM) of chronic diseases. Previous studies have reported the associations between metabolic signatures and early signs of chronic diseases.

Methods

This study aimed to detect the metabolic biomarkers for the identification of SHS in a case-control study. SHS questionnaire-25 (SHSQ-25) was used in a population-based health survey to measure the SHS levels of participants. The liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry-based untargeted metabolomics analysis was conducted on plasma samples collected from 50 SHS participants and 50 age- and sex-matched healthy controls.

Results

After adjusting for the confounders, 24 significantly differential metabolites, such as sphingomyelin, sphingosine, sphinganine, progesterone, pregnanolone, and bilirubin, were identified as the candidate biomarkers for SHS. Pathway analysis revealed that sphingolipid metabolism, taurine metabolism, and steroid hormone biosynthesis are the disturbed metabolic pathways related to SHS. A combination of four metabolic biomarkers (sphingosine, pregnanolone, taurolithocholate sulfate, cervonyl carnitine) can distinguish SHS individuals from the controls with a sensitivity of 94.0%, a specificity of 90.0%, and an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.977.

Conclusion

Plasma metabolites are valuable biomarkers for SHS identification, and meanwhile, SHSQ-25 can be used as an alternative health screening tool in the population-based health survey. SHS-related metabolic disturbances could be detected at the early onset of SHS, and SHS-related metabolites could create a window opportunity for PPPM of chronic diseases.

Establishment of a Measurement System for Sphingolipids in the Cerebrospinal Fluid Based on Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry, and Its Application in the Diagnosis of Carcinomatous Meningitis

Objectives

Sphingolipids have been demonstrated to be involved in many human diseases. However, measurement of sphingolipids, especially of sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) and dihydro-sphingosine 1-phosphate (dhS1P), in blood samples requires strict sampling, since blood cells easily secrete these substances during sampling and storage, making it difficult to introduce measurement of sphingolipids in clinical laboratory medicine. On the other hand, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) contains few blood cells. Therefore, we attempted to establish a system based on liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for the measurement of sphingolipids in the CSF, and applied it for the diagnosis of carcinomatous meningitis.

Methods

We developed and validated a LC-MS/MS-based measurement system for S1P and dhS1P and for ceramides and sphingosines, used this system to measure the levels of these sphingolipids in the CSF collected from the subjects with cancerous meningitis, and compared the levels with those in normal routine CSF samples.

Results

Both the measurement systems for S1P/dhS1P and for ceramides/sphingosines provided precision with the coefficient of variation below 20% for sphingolipids in the CSF samples. We also confirmed that the levels of S1P, as well as ceramides/sphingosines, in the CSF samples did not increase after the sampling. In the CSF samples collected from patients with cancerous meningitis, we observed that the ratio of S1P to ceramides/sphingosine and that of dhS1P to dihydro-sphingosine were higher than those in control samples.

Conclusions

We established and validated a measurement system for sphingolipids in the CSF. The system offers promise for being introduced into clinical laboratory testing.

Acid sphingomyelinase/ceramide mediates structural remodeling of cerebral artery and small mesenteric artery in simulated weightless rats

AIMS

Weightlessness exposure conduces to substantial vascular remodeling, mechanisms behind which remain unclear. Acid sphingomyelinase (ASM) catalyzed ceramide (Cer) generation accounts for multiple vascular disorders, so the role of it in adjustment of cerebral artery (CA) and small mesenteric artery (MA) was investigated in simulated weightless rats.

MAIN METHODS

Rats were hindlimb unloaded tail suspended (HU) to simulate the effect of weightlessness. Arterial morphology was examined by hematoxylin-eosin staining. Cer abundance was measured by immunohistochemistry. Western blotting was used to detect protein content. Apoptosis was detected by transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling.

KEY FINDINGS

During 4 weeks of tail suspension, intima-media thickness (IMT) and media cross section area (CSA) were increased gradually in CA but decreased gradually in MA (P < 0.05). Correspondingly, the apoptosis and proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells were reduced and enhanced respectively in CA (P < 0.05), while promoted and restrained in MA (P < 0.05). As compared to control, both ASM protein expression and Cer content were lowered in CA and elevated in MA of HU rats (P < 0.05). Permeable Cer incubation reversed the change of apoptosis and proliferation in CA of HU rats, while ASM inhibition recapitulated it in control rats. On the contrary, ASM inhibitors restored the alteration of apoptosis and proliferation in MA of HU.

SIGNIFICANCE

The results suggest that by controlling the balance between apoptosis and proliferation, ASM/Cer exerts an important role in structural adaptation of CA and MA to simulated weightlessness.

Metabolic GWAS of elite athletes reveals novel genetically-influenced metabolites associated with athletic performance

Genetic research of elite athletic performance has been hindered by the complex phenotype and the relatively small effect size of the identified genetic variants. The aims of this study were to identify genetic predisposition to elite athletic performance by investigating genetically-influenced metabolites that discriminate elite athletes from non-elite athletes and to identify those associated with endurance sports. By conducting a genome wide association study with high-resolution metabolomics profiling in 490 elite athletes, common variant metabolic quantitative trait loci (mQTLs) were identified and compared with previously identified mQTLs in non-elite athletes. Among the identified mQTLs, those associated with endurance metabolites were determined. Two novel genetic loci in FOLH1 and VNN1 are reported in association with N-acetyl-aspartyl-glutamate and Linoleoyl ethanolamide, respectively. When focusing on endurance metabolites, one novel mQTL linking androstenediol (3alpha, 17alpha) monosulfate and SULT2A1 was identified. Potential interactions between the novel identified mQTLs and exercise are highlighted. This is the first report of common variant mQTLs linked to elite athletic performance and endurance sports with potential applications in biomarker discovery in elite athletic candidates, non-conventional anti-doping analytical approaches and therapeutic strategies.