Interleukin-10 facilitates both cholesterol uptake and efflux in macrophages

Macrophages in cardiovascular diseases: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets

The immune response holds a pivotal role in cardiovascular disease development. As multifunctional cells of the innate immune system, macrophages play an essential role in initial inflammatory response that occurs following cardiovascular injury, thereby inducing subsequent damage while also facilitating recovery. Meanwhile, the diverse phenotypes and phenotypic alterations of macrophages strongly associate with distinct types and severity of cardiovascular diseases, including coronary heart disease, valvular disease, myocarditis, cardiomyopathy, heart failure, atherosclerosis and aneurysm, which underscores the importance of investigating macrophage regulatory mechanisms within the context of specific diseases. Besides, recent strides in single-cell sequencing technologies have revealed macrophage heterogeneity, cell-cell interactions, and downstream mechanisms of therapeutic targets at a higher resolution, which brings new perspectives into macrophage-mediated mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets in cardiovascular diseases. Remarkably, myocardial fibrosis, a prevalent characteristic in most cardiac diseases, remains a formidable clinical challenge, necessitating a profound investigation into the impact of macrophages on myocardial fibrosis within the context of cardiac diseases. In this review, we systematically summarize the diverse phenotypic and functional plasticity of macrophages in regulatory mechanisms of cardiovascular diseases and unprecedented insights introduced by single-cell sequencing technologies, with a focus on different causes and characteristics of diseases, especially the relationship between inflammation and fibrosis in cardiac diseases (myocardial infarction, pressure overload, myocarditis, dilated cardiomyopathy, diabetic cardiomyopathy and cardiac aging) and the relationship between inflammation and vascular injury in vascular diseases (atherosclerosis and aneurysm). Finally, we also highlight the preclinical/clinical macrophage targeting strategies and translational implications.

AMPK activators suppress cholesterol accumulation in macrophages via suppression of the mTOR pathway

Atherosclerosis is a persistent inflammatory state that contributes significantly to cardiovascular disease, a primary cause of mortality worldwide. Enhanced lipid uptake by macrophages and their transformation into foam cells play a key role in the development of atherosclerosis. Recent studies using in vivo mouse models indicated that activation of AMPK has anti-atherosclerotic effects by upregulating the expression of cholesterol efflux transporters in foam cells and promoting cholesterol efflux. However, the pathway downstream of AMPK that contributes to elevated expression of cholesterol efflux transporters remains unclear. In this study, we found that activation of AMPK by AICAR and metformin inhibits foam cell formation via suppression of mTOR in macrophages. Specifically, activation of AMPK indirectly reduced the phosphorylation level of mTOR at Ser2448 and promoted the expression of cholesterol efflux transporters and cholesterol efflux. These inhibitory effects on foam cell formation were counteracted by mTOR activators. Metformin, a more nonspecific AMPK activator than AICAR, appears to inhibit foam cell formation via anti-inflammatory effects in addition to suppression of the mTOR pathway. The results of this study suggest that the development of new drugs targeting AMPK activation and mTOR inhibition may lead to beneficial results in the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis.

The Crosstalk between Mesenchymal Stromal/Stem Cells and Hepatocytes in Homeostasis and under Stress

Liver diseases, characterized by high morbidity and mortality, represent a substantial medical problem globally. The current therapeutic approaches are mainly aimed at reducing symptoms and slowing down the progression of the diseases. Organ transplantation remains the only effective treatment method in cases of severe liver pathology. In this regard, the development of new effective approaches aimed at stimulating liver regeneration, both by activation of the organ's own resources or by different therapeutic agents that trigger regeneration, does not cease to be relevant. To date, many systematic reviews and meta-analyses have been published confirming the effectiveness of mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) transplantation in the treatment of liver diseases of various severities and etiologies. However, despite the successful use of MSCs in clinical practice and the promising therapeutic results in animal models of liver diseases, the mechanisms of their protective and regenerative action remain poorly understood. Specifically, data about the molecular agents produced by these cells and mediating their therapeutic action are fragmentary and often contradictory. Since MSCs or MSC-like cells are found in all tissues and organs, it is likely that many key intercellular interactions within the tissue niches are dependent on MSCs. In this context, it is essential to understand the mechanisms underlying communication between MSCs and differentiated parenchymal cells of each particular tissue. This is important both from the perspective of basic science and for the development of therapeutic approaches involving the modulation of the activity of resident MSCs. With regard to the liver, the research is concentrated on the intercommunication between MSCs and hepatocytes under normal conditions and during the development of the pathological process. The goals of this review were to identify the key factors mediating the crosstalk between MSCs and hepatocytes and determine the possible mechanisms of interaction of the two cell types under normal and stressful conditions. The analysis of the hepatocyte-MSC interaction showed that MSCs carry out chaperone-like functions, including the synthesis of the supportive extracellular matrix proteins; prevention of apoptosis, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis; support of regeneration; elimination of lipotoxicity and ER stress; promotion of antioxidant effects; and donation of mitochondria. The underlying mechanisms suggest very close interdependence, including even direct cytoplasm and organelle exchange.

Inflammation Resolution: Implications for Atherosclerosis

Resolution is an active and highly coordinated process that occurs in response to inflammation to limit tissue damage and promote repair. When the resolution program fails, inflammation persists. It is now understood that failed resolution is a major underlying cause of many chronic inflammatory diseases. Here, we will review the major failures of resolution in atherosclerosis, including the imbalance of proinflammatory to pro-resolving mediator production, impaired clearance of dead cells, and functional changes in immune cells that favor ongoing inflammation. In addition, we will briefly discuss new concepts that are emerging as possible regulators of resolution and highlight the translational significance for the field.

Nicotinamide Prevents Apolipoprotein B-Containing Lipoprotein Oxidation, Inflammation and Atherosclerosis in Apolipoprotein E-Deficient Mice

The potential of nicotinamide (NAM) to prevent atherosclerosis has not yet been examined. This study investigated the effect of NAM supplementation on the development of atherosclerosis in a mouse model of the disease. The development of aortic atherosclerosis was significantly reduced (NAM low dose: 45%; NAM high dose: 55%) in NAM-treated, apolipoprotein (Apo)E-deficient mice challenged with a Western diet for 4 weeks. NAM administration significantly increased (1.8-fold) the plasma concentration of proatherogenic ApoB-containing lipoproteins in NAM high-dose (HD)-treated mice compared with untreated mice. However, isolated ApoB-containing lipoproteins from NAM HD mice were less prone to oxidation than those of untreated mice. This result was consistent with the decreased (1.5-fold) concentration of oxidized low-density lipoproteins in this group. Immunohistochemical staining of aortas from NAM-treated mice showed significantly increased levels of IL-10 (NAM low-dose (LD): 1.3-fold; NAM HD: 1.2-fold), concomitant with a significant decrease in the relative expression of TNFα (NAM LD: −44%; NAM HD: −57%). An improved anti-inflammatory pattern was reproduced in macrophages cultured in the presence of NAM. Thus, dietary NAM supplementation in ApoE-deficient mice prevented the development of atherosclerosis and improved protection against ApoB-containing lipoprotein oxidation and aortic inflammation.

The crosstalk of ABCA1 and ANXA1: a potential mechanism for protection against atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis, characterized by the formation of fat-laden plaques, is a chronic inflammatory disease. ABCA1 promotes cholesterol efflux, reduces cellular cholesterol accumulation, and regulates anti-inflammatory activities in an apoA-I- or ANXA1-dependent manner. The latter activity occurs by mediating the efflux of ANXA1, which plays a critical role in anti-inflammatory effects, cholesterol transport, exosome and microparticle secretion, and apoptotic cell clearance. ApoA-I increases ANXA1 expression via the ERK, p38MAPK, AKT, and PKC pathways. ApoA-I regulates the signaling pathways by binding to ABCA1, suggesting that apoA-I increases ANXA1 expression by binding to ABCA1. Furthermore, ANXA1 may increase ABCA1 expression. ANXA1 increases PPARγ expression by modulating STAT6 phosphorylation. PPARγ also increases ANXA1 expression by binding to the promoter of ANXA1. Therefore, ABCA1, PPARγ, and ANXA1 may form a feedback loop and regulate each other. Interestingly, the ANXA1 needs to be externalized to the cell membrane or secreted into the extracellular fluids to exert its anti-inflammatory properties. ABCA1 transports ANXA1 from the cytoplasm to the cell membrane by regulating lipidization and serine phosphorylation, thereby mediating ANXA1 efflux, likely by promoting microparticle and exosome release. The direct role of ABCA1 expression and ANXA1 release in atherosclerosis has been unclear. In this review, we focus on the role of ANXA1 in atheroprogression and its novel interaction with ABCA1, which may be useful for providing basic knowledge for the development of novel therapeutic targets for atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.

Macrophage polarisation associated with atherosclerosis differentially affects their capacity to handle lipids

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Lipid-rich foam cell macrophages drive atherosclerosis via several mechanisms, including inflammation, lipid uptake, lipid deposition and plaque vulnerability. The atheroma environment shapes macrophage function and phenotype; anti-inflammatory macrophages improve plaque stability while pro-inflammatory macrophages promote rupture. Current evidence suggests a variety of macrophage phenotypes occur in atherosclerotic plaques with local lipids, cytokines, oxidised phospholipids and pathogenic stimuli altering their phenotype. In this study, we addressed differential functioning of macrophage phenotypes via a systematic analysis of in vitro polarised, human monocyte-derived macrophage phenotypes, focussing on molecular events that regulate foam-cell formation.

METHODS

We examined transcriptomes, protein levels and functionally determined lipid handling and foam cell formation capacity in macrophages polarised with IFNγ+LPS, IL-4, IL-10, oxPAPC and CXCL4.

RESULTS

RNA sequencing of differentially polarised macrophages revealed distinct gene expression changes, with enrichment in atherosclerosis and lipid-associated pathways. Analysis of lipid processing activity showed IL-4 and IL-10 macrophages have higher lipid uptake and foam cell formation activities, while inflammatory and oxPAPC macrophages displayed lower foam cell formation. Inflammatory macrophages showed low lipid uptake, while higher lipid uptake in oxPAPC macrophages was matched by increased lipid efflux capacity.

CONCLUSIONS

Atherosclerosis-associated macrophage polarisation dramatically affects lipid handling capacity underpinned by major transcriptomic changes and altered protein levels in lipid-handling gene expression. This leads to phenotype-specific differences in LDL uptake, cellular cholesterol levels and cholesterol efflux, informing how the plaque environment influences atherosclerosis progression by influencing macrophage phenotypes.

Anti-Inflammatory Interleukin 10 Inversely Relates to Coronary Atherosclerosis in Persons With Human Immunodeficiency Virus

Interleukin 10 (IL-10) is an anti-inflammatory cytokine that may be protective against coronary atherosclerosis. In an observational study of persons with human immunodeficiency virus (PWH) and uninfected controls, IL-10 was measured in serum samples by means of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and coronary atherosclerosis was assessed using computed tomographic angiography. Among PWH, a 10-fold decrease in IL-10 was associated with a 2.6-fold increase in the odds of coronary plaque (P = .01), after controlling for traditional and nontraditional cardiovascular risk factors. IL-10 was also inversely associated with total coronary plaque (ρ = -0.19; P = .02) and noncalcified coronary plaque (ρ = -0.24; P = .004). Our findings suggest a role for IL-10 in mitigating atherosclerosis in PWH. Clinical Trials Registration. NCT00455793.

Interleukin 10 promotes macrophage uptake of HDL and LDL by stimulating fluid-phase endocytosis

OBJECTIVE

Highly elevated plasma levels of interleukin-10 (IL-10) are causally associated with "Disappearing HDL Syndrome" and low plasma LDL-cholesterol, but the underlying mechanism is poorly understood. Fluid-phase endocytosis, a process highly dependent on actin dynamics, enables cells to internalize relatively high amounts of extracellular fluids and solutes. We sought to investigate whether IL-10 induces lipoprotein uptake by fluid-phase endocytosis in macrophages.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Macrophages (RAW264.7, Kupffer and human) were incubated with vehicle (PBS) or IL-10 (20 ng/ml) for 7 days. Uptake of HDL, LDL, and/or fluid-phase endocytosis probes (albumin-Alexa680®, 70 kDa FITC-Dextran and Lucifer Yellow, LY) was evaluated by FACS. Intracellular cofilin and phosphorylated cofilin (p-cofilin) levels were determined by immunoblotting. Macrophage uptake of lipoproteins and probes was non-saturable and increased after IL-10 incubation (p < 0.0001). Furthermore, pre-incubation with fluid-phase endocytosis inhibitors (LY294002, Latrunculin A, and Amiloride) significantly reduced uptake (p < 0.05). IL-10 increased the cofilin/p-cofilin ratio (p = 0.021), signifying increased cofilin activation and hence filamentous actin. Consistently, phalloidin staining revealed increased filamentous actin in macrophages after IL-10 treatment (p = 0.0018). Finally, RNA-seq analysis demonstrated enrichment of gene sets related to actin filament dynamics, membrane ruffle formation and endocytosis in IL-10-treated macrophages (p < 0.05). IL-10 did not alter mRNA levels of Ldlr, Vldlr, Scarb1, Cd36 or Lrp1. In primary human monocyte-derived macrophages and murine Kupffer cells, IL-10 incubation also increased uptake of lipoproteins, albumin and LY (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Interleukin-10 induces the uptake of HDL and LDL by fluid-phase endocytosis by increasing actin-filament rearrangement in macrophages, thus providing a plausible mechanism contributing to "Disappearing HDL Syndrome".

Obesity and dyslipidemia

Obesity, a pandemic of the modern world, is intimately associated with dyslipidemia, which is mainly driven by the effects of insulin resistance and pro-inflammatory adipokines. However, recent evidence suggests that obesity-induced dyslipidemia is not a unique pathophysiological entity, but rather has distinct characteristics depending on many individual factors. In line with that, in a subgroup of metabolically healthy obese (MHO) individuals, dyslipidemia is less prominent or even absent. In this review, we will address the main characteristics of dyslipidemia and mechanisms that induce its development in obesity. The fields, which should be further investigated to expand our knowledge on obesity-related dyslipidemia and potentially yield new strategies for prevention and management of cardiometabolic risk, will be highlighted. Also, we will discuss recent findings on novel lipid biomarkers in obesity, in particular proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), as the key molecule that regulates metabolism of low-density lipoproteins (LDL), and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), as one of the most important mediators of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) particles function. Special attention will be given to microRNAs and their potential use as biomarkers of obesity-associated dyslipidemia.

Metformin ameliorates Ox-LDL-induced foam cell formation in raw264.7 cells by promoting ABCG-1 mediated cholesterol efflux

AIMS

The accumulation of lipids in macrophages contributes to the development of atherosclerosis. Cholesterol efflux of lipid-loaded macrophages mediated by ATP binding cassette (ABC) cholesterol transporters, on the other hand, has been shown to attenuate atherosclerosis progression in patients with unknown mechanism. We therefore sought to test the effect of metformin that reduced cardiovascular risk in diabetic patients independent of its hypoglycemia effect on cholesterol transport in murine raw264.7 macrophages.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Mouse raw264.7 macrophages were loaded with Ox-LDL (50 μg/ml) for 24 h before incubated with metformin (15 μM) for 24 h. Foam cell formation was assessed by Oil red staining and BIODIPY fluorescent staining as well as cholesterol-ester quantification by commercial kit. Cholesterol uptake and expression of scavenger receptors were detected by flow-cytometry. Cholesterol efflux capacity was measured by fluorescent plate-reader and ABC transporters were detected by Western Blots. Cytokines were detected by ELISA in supernatants and normalized by cellular lysates.

KEY FINDINGS

Our results showed that metformin decreased oxidized low-density lipoprotein (Ox-LDL)-induced cholesterol accumulation and foam cell formation by increasing cholesterol efflux to HDL, which was associated with an upregulation of ABC transporter ABCG-1. Moreover, metformin increased Ox-LDL-impaired IL-10 secretion, an important anti-foam cell cytokine in atherosclerosis.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our data highlighted the therapeutic potential of targeting macrophage cholesterol efflux with new or existing drugs for the possible reduction of foam cell formation in the prevention and treatment of diabetes-accelerated atherosclerosis.

Helminth infection protects against high fat diet-induced obesity via induction of alternatively activated macrophages

Epidemiological studies indicate an inverse correlation between the prevalence of the so-called western diseases, such as obesity and metabolic syndrome, and the exposure to helminths. Obesity, a key risk factor for many chronic health problems, is rising globally and is accompanied by low-grade inflammation in adipose tissues. The precise mechanism by which helminths modulate metabolic syndrome and obesity is not fully understood. We infected high fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mice with the intestinal nematode parasite Heligmosomoides polygyrus and observed that helminth infection resulted in significantly attenuated obesity. Attenuated obesity corresponded with marked upregulation of uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1), a key protein involved in energy expenditure, in adipose tissue, suppression of glucose and triglyceride levels, and alteration in the expression of key genes involved in lipid metabolism. Moreover, the attenuated obesity in infected mice was associated with enhanced helminth-induced Th2/Treg responses and M2 macrophage polarization. Adoptive transfer of helminth-stimulated M2 cells to mice that were not infected with H. polygyrus resulted in a significant amelioration of HFD-induced obesity and increased adipose tissue browning. Thus, our results provide evidence that the helminth-dependent protection against obesity involves the induction of M2 macrophages.

Formation of Foamy Macrophages by Tuberculous Pleural Effusions Is Triggered by the Interleukin-10/Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 Axis through ACAT Upregulation

The ability of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) to persist in its human host relies on numerous immune evasion strategies, such as the deregulation of the lipid metabolism leading to the formation of foamy macrophages (FM). Yet, the specific host factors leading to the foamy phenotype of Mtb-infected macrophages remain unknown. Herein, we aimed to address whether host cytokines contribute to FM formation in the context of Mtb infection. Our approach is based on the use of an acellular fraction of tuberculous pleural effusions (TB-PE) as a physiological source of local factors released during Mtb infection. We found that TB-PE induced FM differentiation as observed by the increase in lipid bodies, intracellular cholesterol, and expression of the scavenger receptor CD36, as well as the enzyme acyl CoA:cholesterol acyl transferase (ACAT). Importantly, interleukin-10 (IL-10) depletion from TB-PE prevented the augmentation of all these parameters. Moreover, we observed a positive correlation between the levels of IL-10 and the number of lipid-laden CD14⁺ cells among the pleural cells in TB patients, demonstrating that FM differentiation occurs within the pleural environment. Downstream of IL-10 signaling, we noticed that the transcription factor signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 was activated by TB-PE, and its chemical inhibition prevented the accumulation of lipid bodies and ACAT expression in macrophages. In terms of the host immune response, TB-PE-treated macrophages displayed immunosuppressive properties and bore higher bacillary loads. Finally, we confirmed our results using bone marrow-derived macrophage from IL-10^-/- mice demonstrating that IL-10 deficiency partially prevented foamy phenotype induction after Mtb lipids exposure. In conclusion, our results evidence a role of IL-10 in promoting the differentiation of FM in the context of Mtb infection, contributing to our understanding of how alterations of the host metabolic factors may favor pathogen persistence.

New Insights into the Immunobiology of Mononuclear Phagocytic Cells and Their Relevance to the Pathogenesis of Cardiovascular Diseases

Macrophages are the primary immune cells that reside within the myocardium, suggesting that these mononuclear phagocytes are essential in the orchestration of cardiac immunity and homeostasis. Independent of the nature of the injury, the heart triggers leukocyte activation and recruitment. However, inflammation is harmful to this vital terminally differentiated organ with extremely poor regenerative capacity. As such, cardiac tissue has evolved particular strategies to increase the stress tolerance and minimize the impact of inflammation. In this sense, growing evidences show that mononuclear phagocytic cells are particularly dynamic during cardiac inflammation or infection and would actively participate in tissue repair and functional recovery. They respond to soluble mediators such as metabolites or cytokines, which play central roles in the timing of the intrinsic cardiac stress response. During myocardial infarction two distinct phases of monocyte influx have been identified. Upon infarction, the heart modulates its chemokine expression profile that sequentially and actively recruits inflammatory monocytes, first, and healing monocytes, later. In the same way, a sudden switch from inflammatory macrophages (with microbicidal effectors) toward anti-inflammatory macrophages occurs within the myocardium very shortly after infection with Trypanosoma cruzi, the causal agent of Chagas cardiomyopathy. While in sterile injury, healing response is necessary to stop tissue damage; during an intracellular infection, the anti-inflammatory milieu in infected hearts would promote microbial persistence. The balance of mononuclear phagocytic cells seems to be also dynamic in atherosclerosis influencing plaque initiation and fate. This review summarizes the participation of mononuclear phagocyte system in cardiovascular diseases, keeping in mind that the immune system evolved to promote the reestablishment of tissue homeostasis following infection/injury, and that the effects of different mediators could modulate the magnitude and quality of the immune response. The knowledge of the effects triggered by diverse mediators would serve to identify new therapeutic targets in different cardiovascular pathologies.

IL-33 promotes IL-10 production in macrophages: a role for IL-33 in macrophage foam cell formation

We evaluated the role of IL-10- in IL-33-mediated cholesterol reduction in macrophage-derived foam cells (MFCs) and the mechanism by which IL-33 upregulates IL-10. Serum IL-33 and IL-10 levels in coronary artery disease patients were measured. The effects of IL-33 on intra-MFC cholesterol level, IL-10, ABCA1 and CD36 expression, ERK 1/2, Sp1, STAT3 and STAT4 activation, and IL-10 promoter activity were determined. Core sequences were identified using bioinformatic analysis and site-specific mutagenesis. The serum IL-33 levels positively correlated with those of IL-10. IL-33 decreased cellular cholesterol level and upregulated IL-10 and ABCA1 but had no effect on CD36 expression. siRNA-IL-10 partially abolished cellular cholesterol reduction and ABCA1 elevation by IL-33 but did not reverse the decreased CD36 levels. IL-33 increased IL-10 mRNA production but had little effect on its stability. IL-33 induced ERK 1/2 phosphorylation and increased the luciferase expression driven by the IL-10 promoter, with the highest extent within the −2000 to −1752 bp segment of the 5′-flank of the transcription start site; these effects were counteracted by U0126. IL-33 activated Sp1, STAT3 and STAT4, but only the STAT3 binding site was predicted in the above segment. Site-directed mutagenesis of the predicted STAT3-binding sites (CTGCTTCCTGGCAGCAGAA→CTGCCTGGCAGCAGAA) reduced luciferase activity, and a STAT3 inhibitor blocked the regulatory effects of IL-33 on IL-10 expression. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (CHIP) confirmed the STAT3-binding sequences within the −1997 to −1700 and −1091 to −811 bp locus regions. IL-33 increased IL-10 expression in MFCs via activating ERK 1/2 and STAT3, which subsequently promoted IL-10 transcription and thus contributed to the beneficial effects of IL-33 on MFCs.

Association of IL-10 gene (-1082A>G, -819C>T and -592C>A) polymorphism and its serum level with metabolic syndrome of north Indian subjects

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is an inflammatory disorder, in which various cytokines play important role in tilting balance towards disease state. Interleukin-10 (IL-10) is an important antiinflammatory cytokine, but its genetic polymorphisms and serum levels in Indian MetS subjects are unknown. Three IL-10 gene polymorphisms (-1082A>G (rs1800896), -819C>T (rs1800872) and -592C>A (rs1800871)) were genotyped with PCR-RFLP in MetS subjects (n = 384) and age/sex matched control subjects (n = 386). Serum IL-10 was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Serum IL-10 level was significantly low in MetS subject and significantly correlated with clinicobiochemical parameters of MetS. Of three investigated promoter polymorphisms, IL-10 -819C> T and -592C>A were significantly associated with risk of MetS. The mutant alleles -819T and -592A of IL-10 gene polymorphism were significantly higher in MetS subjects compared to controls. Of the four different haplotypes obtained, common ACC haplotype and rare GTA haplotype of IL-10 polymorphisms were associated with MetS. The mean of fasting insulin and HOMA-IR were significantly different between the genotypes of both -819 C>T and -592C>A polymorphisms of IL-10 in MetS subjects. These results suggested that polymorphisms in IL-10 gene (-819C>T and -592C>A), haplotypes (ACC and GTA) and serum level are significantly associated with risk of MetS. IL- 10 -819C>T and -592C>A polymorphic variants are also significantly associated with insulin level and homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance in north Indian MetS subjects.

Stable In Vivo Transgene Expression in Endothelial Cells with Helper-Dependent Adenovirus: Roles of Promoter and Interleukin-10

Our long-term goal is to prevent or reverse atherosclerosis by delivering gene therapy from stably transduced endothelial cells (EC). We previously reported that EC-directed gene therapy with a helper-dependent adenovirus (HDAd) expressing apolipoprotein A-I (apo A-I) retarded development of atherosclerosis in rabbit carotid arteries over a 1-month interval. However, a 70% decline in apo A-I expression during this time raised concerns about long-term efficacy of this approach. Here we report use of several approaches aimed either at preventing this decline or at increasing apo A-I expression from HDAd at all time points: codon optimization, deletion of 3' untranslated sequences, substitution of a synthetic mammalian-based promoter (4XETE) for the cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter, and co-transduction with an HDAd expressing interleukin-10. We tested these approaches using plasmid transfection of cultured EC and in vivo transduction of rabbit carotid artery EC. Codon optimization did not increase apo A-I expression. Deletion of 3' untranslated sequences extinguished apo A-I expression. Both substitution of 4XETE for the CMV promoter and expression of interleukin-10 stabilized apo A-I expression in vivo, although at the cost of lower early (3-day) expression levels. Surprisingly, both interventions stabilized apo A-I expression without altering the rate at which HDAd genomes were lost. These data establish that transgene expression from HDAd in EC is inherently stable in vivo and suggest that the early decline of CMV promoter-driven expression from HDAd-transduced EC is due neither to active downregulation of transcription nor to loss of HDAd genomes. Instead, apparent loss of expression from the CMV promoter appears to be a consequence of early (3-day) upregulation of CMV promoter activity via inflammatory pathways. Our results yield new paradigms to explain the early loss of genomes and transgene expression after in vivo gene transfer. These new paradigms will redirect strategies for achieving high-level, stable expression of transgenes in EC.

Inflammation-modulating cytokine profile and lipid interaction in HIV-related risk factors for cardiovascular diseases

HIV infection and antiretroviral therapy (ART) are associated with changes in plasma levels of lipoproteins, thus posing the risk of cardiovascular complications in infected individuals. The alteration in plasma lipoprotein levels results from dysregulation of inflammation-modulating cytokines that control lipid metabolism. Little is understood regarding the relationship between the cytokines and serum lipid levels, which have been reported to be altered in adults receiving ART. The objective of this study was to describe the profiles of inflammation-modulating cytokines and their relationship to lipids as cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors in HIV infection. This observational cross-sectional study measured plasma levels of interleukin (IL)-10, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF)-α, IL-4, total cholesterol (TC), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) in HIV-infected and uninfected adults. A total of 219 HIV-infected participants were enrolled from an HIV treatment center; of them, 187 were receiving ART and 32 were ART naïve, while 65 were HIV-uninfected blood donors. HIV-infected individuals had higher levels of IL-10 (HIV-infected ART-naïve [P=0.0024] and ART-receiving [P=0.033]) than their uninfected counterparts. ART-naïve subjects had significantly higher plasma levels of IL-10 than ART-receiving subjects (P=0.0014). No significant difference was observed in plasma levels of IL-4 and TNF-α across the three groups. Regarding plasma lipoproteins, HDL-c levels were reduced in HIV ART-naïve (P=0.002) and ART-receiving (P=0.015) subjects compared to HIV-uninfected subjects. Similarly, TC levels were lower in the HIV-infected than in the HIV-uninfected group regardless of whether the patients were undergoing ART or not (P<0.001). IL-10 levels correlated with TC levels in the HIV-uninfected group but not in the HIV-infected groups. Levels of HDL-c were reduced, while IL-10 plasma concentrations were elevated in HIV-infected individuals. A correlation observed in HIV-uninfected individuals between anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 and TC was lost in HIV-infected individuals. Clinical significance of these differences needs to be ascertained with respect to HIV-related CVD risk.

Deleting myeloid IL-10 receptor signalling attenuates atherosclerosis in LDLR-/- mice by altering intestinal cholesterol fluxes

Inflammatory responses and cholesterol homeostasis are interconnected in atherogenesis. Interleukin (IL)-10 is an important anti-inflammatory cytokine, known to suppress atherosclerosis development. However, the specific cell types responsible for the atheroprotective effects of IL-10 remain to be defined and knowledge on the actions of IL-10 in cholesterol homeostasis is scarce. Here we investigated the functional involvement of myeloid IL-10-mediated atheroprotection. To do so, bone marrow from IL-10 receptor 1 (IL-10R1) wild-type and myeloid IL-10R1-deficient mice was transplanted to lethally irradiated female LDLR-/- mice. Hereafter, mice were given a high cholesterol diet for 10 weeks after which atherosclerosis development and cholesterol metabolism were investigated. In vitro, myeloid IL-10R1 deficiency resulted in a pro-inflammatory macrophage phenotype. However, in vivo significantly reduced lesion size and severity was observed. This phenotype was associated with lower myeloid cell accumulation and more apoptosis in the lesions. Additionally, a profound reduction in plasma and liver cholesterol was observed upon myeloid IL-10R1 deficiency, which was reflected in plaque lipid content. This decreased hypercholesterolaemia was associated with lowered very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels, likely as a response to decreased intestinal cholesterol absorption. In addition, IL-10R1 deficient mice demonstrated substantially higher faecal sterol loss caused by increased non-biliary cholesterol efflux. The induction of this process was linked to impaired ACAT2-mediated esterification of liver and plasma cholesterol. Overall, myeloid cells do not contribute to IL-10-mediated atheroprotection. In addition, this study demonstrates a novel connection between IL-10-mediated inflammation and cholesterol homeostasis in atherosclerosis. These findings make us reconsider IL-10 as a beneficial influence on atherosclerosis.

PEGylated IL-10 Activates Kupffer Cells to Control Hypercholesterolemia

Interleukin-10 (IL-10) is a multifunctional cytokine that exerts potent context specific immunostimulatory and immunosuppressive effects. We have investigated the mechanism by which PEGylated rIL-10 regulates plasma cholesterol in mice and humans. In agreement with previous work on rIL-10, we report that PEGylated rIL-10 harnesses the myeloid immune system to control total plasma cholesterol levels. We have discovered that PEG-rMuIL-10’s dramatic lowering of plasma cholesterol is dependent on phagocytotic cells. In particular, PEG-rHuIL-10 enhances cholesterol uptake by Kupffer cells. In addition, removal of phagocytotic cells dramatically increases plasma cholesterol levels, suggesting for the first time that immunological cells are implicitly involved in regulating total cholesterol levels. These data suggest that treatment with PEG-rIL-10 potentiates endogenous cholesterol regulating cell populations not currently targeted by standard of care therapeutics. Furthermore, we show that IL-10’s increase of Kupffer cell cholesterol phagocytosis is concomitant with decreases in liver cholesterol and triglycerides. This leads to the reversal of early periportal liver fibrosis and facilitates the restoration of liver health. These data recommend PEG-rIL-10 for evaluation in the treatment of fatty liver disease and preventing its progression to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. In direct confirmation of our in vivo findings in the treatment of hypercholesterolemic mice with PEG-rMuIL-10, we report that treatment of hypercholesterolemic cancer patients with PEG-rHuIL-10 lowers total plasma cholesterol by up to 50%. Taken together these data suggest that PEG-rIL-10’s cholesterol regulating biology is consistent between mice and humans.

IL-19 Halts Progression of Atherosclerotic Plaque, Polarizes, and Increases Cholesterol Uptake and Efflux in Macrophages

Atherosclerosis regression is an important clinical goal, and treatments that can reverse atherosclerotic plaque formation are actively being sought. Our aim was to determine whether administration of exogenous IL-19, a Th2 cytokine, could attenuate progression of preformed atherosclerotic plaque and to identify molecular mechanisms. LDLR(-/-) mice were fed a Western diet for 12 weeks, then administered rIL-19 or phosphate-buffered saline concomitant with Western diet for an additional 8 weeks. Analysis of atherosclerosis burden showed that IL-19-treated mice were similar to baseline, in contrast to control mice which showed a 54% increase in plaque, suggesting that IL-19 halted the progression of atherosclerosis. Plaque characterization showed that IL-19-treated mice had key features of atherosclerosis regression, including a reduction in macrophage content and an enrichment in markers of M2 macrophages. Mechanistic studies revealed that IL-19 promotes the activation of key pathways leading to M2 macrophage polarization, including STAT3, STAT6, Kruppel-like factor 4, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ, and can reduce cytokine-induced inflammation in vivo. We identified a novel role for IL-19 in regulating macrophage lipid metabolism through peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ-dependent regulation of scavenger receptor-mediated cholesterol uptake and ABCA1-mediated cholesterol efflux. These data show that IL-19 can halt progression of preformed atherosclerotic plaques by regulating both macrophage inflammation and cholesterol homeostasis and implicate IL-19 as a link between inflammation and macrophage cholesterol metabolism.

Prospect and progress of gene therapy in treating atherosclerosis

INTRODUCTION

Despite considerable improvements in therapies, atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death worldwide. Therefore, in addition to current treatment options, new therapeutic approaches are still needed.

AREAS COVERED

In this review, novel gene and RNA interference-based therapy approaches and promising target genes for treating atherosclerosis are addressed. In addition, relevant animal models for the demonstration of the efficacy of different gene therapy applications, and current progress toward more efficient, targeted and safer gene transfer vectors are reviewed.

EXPERT OPINION

Atherosclerosis represents a complex multifactorial disease that is dependent on the interplay between lipoprotein metabolism, cellular reactions and inflammation. Recent advances and novel targets, especially in the field of RNA interference-based therapies, are very promising. However, it should be noted that the modulation of a particular gene is not as clearly associated with a complex polygenic disease as it is in the case of monogenic diseases. A deeper understanding of molecular mechanisms of atherosclerosis, further progress in vector development and the demonstration of treatment efficacy in relevant animal models will be required before gene therapy of atherosclerosis meets its clinical reality.

Statins as Pleiotropic Modifiers of Vascular Oxidative Stress and Inflammation

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the industrialized world and in the future is expected to be the number one killer worldwide. The main cause underlying CVD is atherosclerosis. A key event in atherosclerosis initiation and progression is oxidative stress through the production of reactive oxygen species as well as endothelial dysfunction. Several pro- inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines and proteins are involved in this process, complemented by activation of adhesion molecules that promote leukocyte rolling, tethering and infiltration into the sub-endothelial space. Statins represent the agent of choice since numerous clinical trials have verified that their pharmacological action extends beyond lipid lowering. Statins demonstrate direct anti-oxidant effects by scavenging free radicals and stimulating anti-oxidant enzymes while acting as regulators for cytokine, protein and adhesion molecule expression, all of which are involved in the atherosclerotic process. Statin use is considered one of the most efficient currently used interventions in managing CVD with the likely hood of remaining so in the near future.

Macrophage-specific overexpression of interleukin-5 attenuates atherosclerosis in LDL receptor-deficient mice

Interleukin-5 (IL-5) increases the secretion of natural T15/EO6 IgM antibodies that inhibit the uptake of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (LDL) by macrophages. This study aimed to determine whether macrophage-specific expression of IL-5 in LDL receptor-deficient mice (Ldlr(-/-)) could improve cholesterol metabolism and reduce atherosclerosis. To induce macrophage-specific IL-5 expression, the pLVCD68-IL5 lentivirus was delivered into Ldlr(-/-) mice via bone marrow transplantation. The recipient mice were fed a Western-type diet for 12 weeks to induce lesion formation. We found that IL-5 was efficiently and specifically overexpressed in macrophages in recipients of pLVCD68-IL5-transduced bone marrow cells (BMC). Plasma titers of T15/EO6 IgM antibodies were significantly elevated by 58% compared with control mice transplanted with pLVCD68 lacking the IL-5 coding sequence. Plaque areas of aortas in IL-5-overexpressing mice were reduced by 43% and associated with a 2.4-fold decrease in lesion size at the aortic roots when compared with mice receiving pLVCD68-transduced BMCs. The study showed that macrophage-specific overexpression of IL-5 inhibited the progression of atherosclerotic lesions. These findings suggest that modulation of IL-5 cytokine expression represents a potential strategy for intervention of familial hypercholesterolemia and other cardiovascular diseases.

Human monocyte-derived dendritic cells turn into foamy dendritic cells with IL-17A

Interleukin 17A (IL-17A) is a proinflammatory cytokine involved in the pathogenesis of chronic inflammatory diseases. In the field of immunometabolism, we have studied the impact of IL-17A on the lipid metabolism of human in vitro-generated monocyte-derived dendritic cells (DCs). Microarrays and lipidomic analysis revealed an intense remodeling of lipid metabolism induced by IL-17A in DCs. IL-17A increased 2-12 times the amounts of phospholipids, cholesterol, triglycerides, and cholesteryl esters in DCs. Palmitic (16:0), stearic (18:0), and oleic (18:ln-9c) acid were the main fatty acid chains present in DCs. They were strongly increased in response to IL-17A while their relative proportion remained unchanged. Capture of extracellular lipids was the major mechanism of lipid droplet accumulation, visualized by electron microscopy and Oil Red O staining. Besides this foamy phenotype, IL-17A induced a mixed macrophage-DC phenotype and expression of the nuclear receptor NR1H3/liver X receptor-α, previously identified in the context of atherosclerosis as the master regulator of cholesterol homeostasis in macrophages. These IL-17A-treated DCs were as competent as untreated DCs to stimulate allogeneic naive T-cell proliferation. Following this first characterization of lipid-rich DCs, we propose to call these IL-17A-dependent cells "foamy DCs" and discuss the possible existence of foamy DCs in atherosclerosis, a metabolic and inflammatory disorder involving IL-17A.

Salicylate improves macrophage cholesterol homeostasis via activation of Ampk

Atherosclerosis stems from imbalances in lipid metabolism and leads to maladaptive inflammatory responses. The AMP-activated protein kinase (Ampk) is a highly conserved serine/threonine kinase that regulates many aspects of lipid and energy metabolism, although its specific role in controlling macrophage cholesterol homeostasis remains unclear. We sought to address this question by testing the effects of direct Ampk activators in primary bone marrow-derived macrophages from Ampk β1-deficient (β1^−/−) mice. Macrophages from Ampk β1^−/− mice had enhanced lipogenic capacity and diminished cholesterol efflux, although cholesterol uptake was unaffected. Direct activation of Ampk β1 via salicylate (the unacetylated form of aspirin) or A-769662 (a small molecule activator), decreased the synthesis of FAs and sterols in WT but not Ampk β1^−/− macrophages. In lipid-laden macrophages, Ampk activation decreased cholesterol content (foam cell formation) and increased cholesterol efflux to HDL and apoA-I, effects that occurred in an Ampk β1-dependent manner. Increased cholesterol efflux was also associated with increased gene expression of the ATP binding cassette transporters, Abcg1 and Abca1. Moreover, in vivo reverse cholesterol transport was suppressed in mice that received Ampk β1^−/− macrophages compared with the WT control. Our data highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting macrophage Ampk with new or existing drugs for the possible reduction in foam cell formation during the early stages of atherosclerosis.

IRF5 deficiency ameliorates lupus but promotes atherosclerosis and metabolic dysfunction in a mouse model of lupus-associated atherosclerosis

Premature atherosclerosis is a severe complication of lupus and other systemic autoimmune disorders. Gain-of-function polymorphisms in IFN regulatory factor 5 (IRF5) are associated with an increased risk of developing lupus, and IRF5 deficiency in lupus mouse models ameliorates disease. However, whether IRF5 deficiency also protects against atherosclerosis development in lupus is not known. In this study, we addressed this question using the gld.apoE(-/-) mouse model. IRF5 deficiency markedly reduced lupus disease severity. Unexpectedly, despite the reduction in systemic immune activation, IRF5-deficient mice developed increased atherosclerosis and also exhibited metabolic dysregulation characterized by hyperlipidemia, increased adiposity, and insulin resistance. Levels of the atheroprotective cytokine IL-10 were reduced in aortae of IRF5-deficient mice, and in vitro studies demonstrated that IRF5 is required for IL-10 production downstream of TLR7 and TLR9 signaling in multiple immune cell types. Chimera studies showed that IRF5 deficiency in bone marrow-derived cells prevents lupus development and contributes in part to the increased atherosclerosis. Notably, IRF5 deficiency in non-bone marrow-derived cells also contributes to the increased atherosclerosis through the generation of hyperlipidemia and increased adiposity. Together, our results reveal a protective role for IRF5 in lupus-associated atherosclerosis that is mediated through the effects of IRF5 in both immune and nonimmune cells. These findings have implications for the proposed targeting of IRF5 in the treatment of autoimmune disease as global IRF5 inhibition may exacerbate cardiovascular disease in these patients.

Interleukin-10 protects against atherosclerosis by modulating multiple atherogenic macrophage function

Atherosclerosis is primarily a disorder of lipid metabolism, but there is also a prominent chronic inflammatory component that drives the atherosclerotic lesion progression in the artery wall. During hyperlipidaemic conditions, there is a rapid influx of circulating monocytes into the atherosclerosis-prone areas of the arterial intima. These infiltrated monocytes differentiate into macrophages and take up the atherogenic lipoproteins in the intima of the vessel wall that have been modified within the lesion environment. Interleukin (IL)-10 is a prototypic anti-inflammatory cytokine made primarily by the macrophages and Th2 subtype T lymphocytes. In terms of atherosclerosis its major roles include inhibition of macrophage activation as well as inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase, pro-inflammatory cytokines and cyclooxygenase-2 expression in lipid-loaded and activated macrophage foam cells. Recent discoveries suggest another important role of IL-10 in atherosclerosis: its ability to alter lipid metabolism in macrophages. The current review will highlight the present knowledge on multiple ways in which IL-10 mediates atherosclerosis. As macrophages play a critical role in all stages of atherosclerosis, the review will concentrate on how IL-10 regulates the activities of macrophages that are especially important in the development of atherosclerosis.

HIV-derived ssRNA binds to TLR8 to induce inflammation-driven macrophage foam cell formation

Even though combined anti-retroviral therapy (cART) dramatically improves patient survival, they remain at a higher risk of being afflicted with non-infectious complications such as cardiovascular disease (CVD). This increased risk is linked to persistent inflammation and chronic immune activation. In this study, we assessed whether this complication is related to HIV-derived ssRNAs inducing in macrophages increases in TNFα release through TLR8 activation leading to foam cell formation. HIV ssRNAs induced foam cell formation in monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) in a dose-dependent manner. This response was reduced when either endocytosis or endosomal acidification was inhibited by dynasore or chloroquine, respectively. Using a flow cytometry FRET assay, we demonstrated that ssRNAs bind to TLR8 in HEK cells. In MDMs, ssRNAs triggered a TLR8-mediated inflammatory response that ultimately lead to foam cell formation. Targeted silencing of the TLR8 and MYD88 genes reduced foam cell formation. Furthermore, foam cell formation induced by these ssRNAs was blocked by an anti-TNFα neutralizing antibody. Taken together in MDMs, HIV ssRNAs are internalized; bind TLR8 in the endosome followed by endosomal acidification. TLR8 signaling then triggers TNFα release and ultimately leads to foam cell formation. As this response was inhibited by a blocking anti-TNFα antibody, drug targeting HIV ssRNA-driven TLR8 activation may serve as a potential therapeutic target to reduce chronic immune activation and inflammation leading to CVD in HIV+ patients.

Interleukin-10 increases reverse cholesterol transport in macrophages through its bidirectional interaction with liver X receptor α

Interleukin (IL)-10 is a prototypical anti-inflammatory cytokine that has been shown to attenuate atherosclerosis development. In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, the anti-atherogenic effect of IL-10 has recently also been suggested to reflect a complex effect of IL-10 on lipid metabolism in macrophages. In the present study we examined the effects of IL-10 on cholesterol efflux mechanism in lipid-loaded THP-1 macrophages. Our main findings were: (i) IL-10 significantly enhanced cholesterol efflux induced by fetal-calf serum, high-density lipoprotein (HDL)2 and apolipoprotein A-1. (ii) The IL-10-mediated effects on cholesterol efflux were accompanied by an increased IL-10-mediated expression of the ATP-binding cassette transporters ABCA1 and ABCG1, that was further enhanced when the cells were co-activated with the liver X receptor (LXR)α agonist (22R)-hydroxycholesterol. (iii) The effect of LXRα activation on the IL-10-mediated effects on the ATP-binding cassette transporters seems to include enhancing effects on the IL-10 receptor 1 (IL10R1) expression and interaction with STAT-3 signaling. (iv) These enhancing effects on ABCA1 and ABCG1 was not seen when the cells were stimulated with the IL-10 family members IL-22 and IL-24. This study suggests that the anti-atherogenic properties of IL-10 may include enhancing effects on cholesterol efflux mechanism that involves cross-talk with LXRα activation.

Interleukin 10 and clustering of metabolic syndrome components in pediatrics

BACKGROUND

Interleukin 10 (IL-10) has multifaceted anti-inflammatory properties that are known to regulate insulin sensitivity and atherosclerotic development. However, studies in children are limited and have yielded conflicting results. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether changes in this circulating anti-inflammatory cytokine is a marker for metabolic syndrome.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This cross-sectional study involved children and young adolescents from eight elementary schools and two junior high schools located in Taipei and New Taipei City. A total of 553 children ages 8, 11 and 13 years old were included in the analysis. Parameters for obesity, anti- and pro-inflammatory cytokines, and metabolic risk profiles were evaluated.

RESULTS

Overweight/obese children had lower serum IL-10 concentrations compared with normal weight children in the same age group (all P < 0·001). IL-10 quartiles were negatively associated with body mass index (BMI) and percentage (%) body fat (all P < 0·05). Multivariate regression analysis showed significant inverse relationship between IL-10 concentrations and % body fat (β = -0·009, P < 0·0001), and total cholesterol (β = -0·726, P = 0·003), and a small positive correlation between IL-10 and systolic blood pressure (β = 0·980, P = 0·027). In normal weight children, IL-10 concentrations were independently associated with fasting plasma insulin (β = 0·2912, P = 0·001) and waist circumference (β = 0·0069, P = 0·022). By contrast, % body fat (β = -0·016, P = 0·0009) was independently associated with IL-10 concentrations in overweight and obese children. Association between IL-10 and fasting plasma insulin concentrations was weaker in overweight/obese children compared with normal weight (β = 0·283, P = 0·011 vs. β = 0·2912, P = 0·001).

CONCLUSION

Our data indicate that changes in circulating IL-10 concentrations are marker of metabolic risk in children.

Detailed characterization of the endocannabinoid system in human macrophages and foam cells, and anti-inflammatory role of type-2 cannabinoid receptor

OBJECTIVE

Cannabinoid receptors are activated in murine macrophages upon exposure to oxidized low-density lipoproteins (oxLDL), and type-1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1R) is considered as a risk factor in atherosclerosis, because it promotes cholesterol accumulation and release of inflammatory mediators. Conversely, accumulated evidence suggests a protective role for type-2 cannabinoid receptor (CB2R). Here, we sought to ascertain whether different elements of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) were activated in human lipid-laden macrophages, and whether CB2R played any role in atherogenesis and inflammation of these cells.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Human macrophages were exposed to oxLDL in order to obtain lipid-laden foam cells. Liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) was used to measure the production of the endocannabinoids in both macrophages and foam cells, and radiometric assays were performed to measure cannabinoid receptor binding and activity of endocannabinoid metabolizing enzymes. OxLDL accumulation was investigated by confocal imaging, and cytokine production and release were measured by means of flow cytometry and ELISA. The results showed that human macrophages possess a fully functional ECS, which was modulated by oxLDL. Selective CB2R activation reduced cellular oxLDL accumulation, which was associated with decreased expression of CD36 scavenger receptor, and decreased production of TNFα, IL-12 and IL-10. These anti-atherogenic and anti-inflammatory effects were reverted by the selective CB2R antagonist SR144528.

CONCLUSIONS

A fully active ECS is present in human macrophages and macrophage-derived foam cells. Selective activation of CB2R reduces CD36-dependent oxLDL accumulation and modulates production of inflammatory cytokines, thus representing a potential therapeutic strategy to combat atherosclerosis.

Thymic stromal lmphopoietin pomotes macrophage-derived foam cell formation

The effect of thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) on macrophage-derived foam cell formation and the underlying mechanism were studied. Macrophages isolated from C57BL/6 mice were co-cultured in vitro with different concentrations of TSLP or TSLPR-antibody in the presence of oxidized low density lipoprotein (ox-LDL). The effects of TSLP on macrophage-derived foam cell formation were observed by using oil red O staining and intracellular lipid determination. The expression levels of foam cell scavenger receptors (CD36 and SRA) as well as ABCA1 and TSLPR were detected by using RT-PCR and Western blotting. As compared with the control group, TSLP treatment significantly promoted lipid accumulation in macrophages, significantly increased protein expression of CD36 and TSLPR in a dose-dependent manner, and significantly reduced the expression of ABCA1 protein in a dose-dependent manner. No significant differences were noted between the TSLPR-antibody group and the control group. TSLP may down-regulate the expression of cholesterol efflux receptor ABCA1 and up-regulate scavenger receptor expression via the TSLPR signaling pathway, thereby promoting macrophage-derived foam cell formation.

Role of extracellular RNA in atherosclerotic plaque formation in mice

BACKGROUND

Atherosclerosis and vascular remodeling after injury are driven by inflammation and mononuclear cell infiltration. Extracellular RNA (eRNA) has recently been implicated to become enriched at sites of tissue damage and to act as a proinflammatory mediator. Here, we addressed the role of eRNA in high-fat diet-induced atherosclerosis and neointima formation after injury in atherosclerosis-prone mice.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The presence of eRNA was revealed in atherosclerotic lesions from high-fat diet-fed low-density lipoprotein receptor-deficient (Ldlr(-/-)) mice in a time-progressive fashion. RNase activity in plasma increased within the first 2 weeks (44±9 versus 70±7 mU/mg protein; P=0.0012), followed by a decrease to levels below baseline after 4 weeks of high-fat diet (44±9 versus 12±2 mU/mg protein; P<0.0001). Exposure of bone marrow-derived macrophages to eRNA resulted in a concentration-dependent upregulation of the proinflammatory mediators tumor necrosis factor-α, arginase-2, interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, and interferon-γ. In a model of accelerated atherosclerosis after arterial injury in apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE(-/-)) mice, treatment with RNase1 diminished the increased plasma level of eRNA evidenced after injury. Likewise, RNase1 administration reduced neointima formation in comparison with vehicle-treated ApoE(-/-) controls (25.0±6.2 versus 46.9±6.9×10(3) μm(2), P=0.0339) and was associated with a significant decrease in plaque macrophage content. Functionally, RNase1 treatment impaired monocyte arrest on activated smooth muscle cells under flow conditions in vitro and inhibited leukocyte recruitment to injured carotid arteries in vivo.

CONCLUSIONS

Because eRNA is associated with atherosclerotic lesions and contributes to inflammation-dependent plaque progression in atherosclerosis-prone mice, its targeting with RNase1 may serve as a new treatment option against atherosclerosis.

Selenoprotein K is required for palmitoylation of CD36 in macrophages: implications in foam cell formation and atherogenesis

Selk is an ER transmembrane protein important for calcium flux and macrophage activation, but its role in foam cell formation and atherosclerosis has not been evaluated. BMDMs from Selk(-/-) mice exhibited decreased uptake of modLDL and foam cell formation compared with WT controls, and the differences were eliminated with anti-CD36 blocking antibody. CD36 expression was decreased in TNF-α-stimulated Selk(-/-) BMDMs compared with WT controls. Fluorescence microscopy revealed TNF-α-induced clustering of CD36 in WT BMDMs indicative of lipid raft localization, which was absent in Selk(-/-) BMDMs. Fractionation revealed lower levels of CD36 reaching lipid rafts in TNF-α-stimulated Selk(-/-) BMDMs. Immunoprecipitation showed that Selk(-/-) BMDMs have decreased CD36 palmitoylation, which occurs at the ER membrane and is crucial for stabilizing CD36 expression and directing its localization to lipid rafts. To assess if this phenomenon had a role in atherogenesis, a HFD was fed to irradiated Ldlr(-/-) mice reconstituted with BM from Selk(-/-) or WT mice. Selk was detected in aortic plaques of controls, particularly in macrophages. Selk(-/-) in immune cells led to reduction in atherosclerotic lesion formation without affecting leukocyte migration into the arterial wall. These findings suggest that Selk is important for stable, localized expression of CD36 in macrophages during inflammation, thereby contributing to foam cell formation and atherogenesis.

Caveolin-1 reduces HIV-1 infectivity by restoration of HIV Nef mediated impairment of cholesterol efflux by apoA-I

Background

HIV infection results in inhibited cholesterol efflux by apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) in macrophages, and this impairment involves Nef mediated down-regulation and redistribution of ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA-1). We investigated the effect of caveolin-1 (Cav-1) on the cholesterol efflux by apoA-I in HIV infected primary and THP-1 cell-differentiated macrophages as well as astrocyte derived glioblastoma U87 cells.

Results

Our results reveal that Cav-1 restores the Nef -mediated impairment of cholesterol efflux by apoA-I in both cell types. Co-immunoprecipitation studies indicate a physical association of Cav-1 and Nef. The level of ABCA-1 expression remains the same whether Cav-1 is over-expressed or not. In addition, we examined the cholesterol composition of HIV particles released from Cav-1 treated cells and identified that the cholesterol content is dramatically reduced. The infectivity level of these virus particles is also significantly decreased.

Conclusions

These observations suggest that the interplay of Cav-1 with Nef and cholesterol subsequently counters Nef induced impairment of cholesterol efflux by apoA-l. The findings provide a cellular mechanism by which Cav-1 has an ability to restore HIV mediated impairment of cholesterol efflux in macrophages. This subsequently influences the cholesterol content incorporated into virus particles thereby inhibiting HIV infectivity and contributing to HIV’s persistent infection of macrophages.

Rho-associated coiled-coil-containing kinase 2 deficiency in bone marrow-derived cells leads to increased cholesterol efflux and decreased atherosclerosis

BACKGROUND

Macrophages play a central role in the development of atherosclerosis. However, the signaling pathways that regulate their function are not well understood. The Rho-associated coiled-coil-containing kinases (ROCK1 and ROCK2) are serine-threonine protein kinases that are involved in the regulation of the actin cytoskeleton. Recent studies suggest that ROCK1 in macrophages and bone marrow-derived cells mediates atherogenesis. However, a similar role for ROCK2 in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis has not been determined.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The bone marrows from wild-type, ROCK2(+/-), and ROCK2(-/-) mice were transplanted into irradiated recipient low-density lipoprotein receptor(-/-) mice, and atherosclerosis was induced with a 16-week high-cholesterol diet. Compared with wild-type bone marrow-transplanted mice, ROCK2(+/-) bone marrow-transplanted and ROCK2(-/-) bone marrow-transplanted mice showed substantially less lipid accumulation in the aorta (8.46±1.42% and 9.80±2.34% versus 15.64±1.89%; P<0.01 for both) and decreased atherosclerotic lesions in the subaortic sinus (158.1±44.4 and 330.1±109.5×10(3)μm(2) versus 520.2±125.7×10(3)μm(2); P<0.01 for both). These findings correlated with decreased foam cell formation (2.27±0.57 versus 4.10±0.3; P<0.01) and increased cholesterol efflux (17.65±0.6 versus 9.75±0.8; P<0.05) in ROCK2-deficient mice that are mediated, in part, through the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ/liver X receptor/ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 pathway in macrophages.

CONCLUSIONS

ROCK2 contributes to atherosclerosis, in part, by inhibiting peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ-mediated reverse cholesterol transport in macrophages, which contributes to foam cell formation. These findings suggest that inhibition of ROCK2 in macrophages may have therapeutic benefits in preventing the development of atherosclerosis.

Leu128(3.43) (l128) and Val247(6.40) (V247) of CXCR1 are critical amino acid residues for g protein coupling and receptor activation

CXCR1, a classic GPCR that binds IL-8, plays a key role in neutrophil activation and migration by activating phospholipase C (PLC)β through Gα₁₅ and Gα_i which generates diacylglycerol and inositol phosphates (IPs). In this study, two conserved amino acid residues of CXCR1 on the transmembrane domain (TM) 3 and TM6, Leu128^3.43 (L128) and Val247^6.40 (V247), respectively, were selectively substituted with other amino acids to investigate the role of these conserved residues in CXCR1 activation. Although two selective mutants on Leu128, Leu128Ala (L128A) and Leu128Arg (L128R), demonstrated high binding affinity to IL-8, they were not capable of coupling to G proteins and consequently lost the functional response of the receptors. By contrast, among the four mutants at residue Val247 (TM6.40), replacing Val247 with Ala (V247A) and Asn (V247N) led to constitutive activation of mutant receptors when cotransfected with Gα₁₅. The V247N mutant also constitutively activated the Gα_i protein. These results indicate that L128 on TM3.43 is involved in G protein coupling and receptor activation but is unimportant for ligand binding. On the other hand, V247 on TM6.40 plays a critical role in maintaining the receptor in the inactive state, and the substitution of V247 impaired the receptor constraint and stabilized an active conformation. Functionally, there was an increase in chemotaxis in response to IL-8 in cells expressing V247A and V247N. Our findings indicate that Leu128^3.43 and Val247^6.40 are critical for G protein coupling and activation of signaling effectors, providing a valuable insight into the mechanism of CXCR1 activation.

Functional consequences of CD36 downregulation by TLR signals

TLR recognition activates the secretion of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines and it also modulates the expression of crucial molecules involved in phagocytosis and antimicrobial activity. Scavenger receptors can act as TLR co-receptors or facilitate antigen loading. However, it remains unknown whether TLR can modulate the expression of these scavenger receptors. We stimulated human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) with TLR2 (Pam3CSK4 and FSL1) and TLR4 ligand lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and then analyzed CD36 expression on different monocyte subpopulations by flow cytometry. TLR2 and TLR4 ligands can downregulate CD36 on the surface of monocytes, guiding the protein to intracellular compartments. Even though TLR-activation induced TNFα, IL-10 and IL-6 production, only recombinant TNFα was able to downregulate CD36. Neutralizing anti-TNFα antibodies showed that the Pam3CSK4 and FSL1-induced downregulation was partially mediated by TNFα but not by IL-6 or IL-10. However, LPS-induced downregulation could have also been caused by direct TLR4 targeting and signaling, and/or mediated by other unknown factors. CD36 downregulation reduced the capability of monocytes to phagocyte apoptotic neutrophils. In conclusion, modulation of scavenger receptor expression by TLR targeting on monocytes has functional consequences. Characterization this complex regulation may help us to understand this innate response and develop specific therapeutic drugs for each mechanism.

Inflammation and metabolic dysfunction: links to cardiovascular diseases

Abdominal obesity is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and recent studies highlight a key role of adipose tissue dysfunction, inflammation, and aberrant adipokine release in this process. An increased demand for lipid storage results in both hyperplasia and hypertrophy, finally leading to chronic inflammation, hypoxia, and a phenotypic change of the cellular components of adipose tissue, collectively leading to a substantially altered secretory output of adipose tissue. In this review we have assessed the adipo-vascular axis, and an overview of adipokines associated with cardiovascular disease is provided. This resulted in a first list of more than 30 adipokines. A deeper analysis only considered adipokines that have been reported to impact on inflammation and NF-κB activation in the vasculature. Out of these, the most prominent link to cardiovascular disease was found for leptin, TNF-α, adipocyte fatty acid-binding protein, interleukins, and several novel adipokines such as lipocalin-2 and pigment epithelium-derived factor. Future work will need to address the potential role of these molecules as biomarkers and/or drug targets.

Differentiation factors and cytokines in the atherosclerotic plaque micro-environment as a trigger for macrophage polarisation

The phenotype of macrophages in atherosclerotic lesions can vary dramatically, from a large lipid laden foam cell to a small inflammatory cell. Classically, the concept of macrophage heterogeneity discriminates between two extremes called either pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages or anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages. Polarisation of plaque macrophages is predominantly determined by the local micro-environment present in the atherosclerotic lesion and is rather more complex than typically described by the M1/M2 paradigm. In this review we will discuss the role of various polarising factors in regulating the phenotypical state of plaque macrophages. We will focus on two main levels of phenotype regulation, one determined by differentiation factors produced in the lesion and the other determined by T-cell-derived polarising cytokines. With foam cell formation being a key characteristic of macrophages during atherosclerosis initiation and progression, these polarisation factors will also be linked to lipid handling of macrophages.