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Xue Q, Ma Y, Shao H. Bacillus amyloliquefaciens Protect Against Atherosclerosis Through Alleviating Foam Cell Formation and Macrophage Polarization. Curr Microbiol 2024; 81:263. [PMID: 38997545 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-024-03775-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
This study was to investigate the therapeutic effect of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (Ba) on atherosclerosis (AS). THP-1 monocyte was differentiated to THP-1 macrophage (THP-M) through phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate. After pre-treatment by 108 cfu/ml Ba lasting 6 h, THP-M was induced with 100 mg/l ox-LDL lasting 48 h to form macrophage foam cell (THP-F). RT-qPCR and flow cytometry were employed to determine the polarization of THP-M and THP-F. ApoE-/- mice with high-fat and high-cholesterol diet were used for constructing an AS model to evaluate the effect of Ba on AS. Our in vitro results showed that Ba vegetative cells pre-treatment distinctly inhibited the levels of iNOS and CD16/CD32 (M1 macrophage markers), and increased the levels of FIZZ1, Ym1, Arg1, CD163, and CD206 (M2 macrophage markers), indicating that Ba pre-treatment promoted anti-inflammatory M2-like polarization both in THP-M and THP-F. Meanwhile, it also suppressed cholesterol uptake, esterification, and hydrolysis, and efflux by THP-M and THP-F. Additionally, our animal experiments demonstrated that Ba vegetative cells treatment suppressed high cholesterol, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and the release of inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β) in ApoE-/- AS mice. In a word, our results indicated that Ba may protect against AS through alleviating foam cell formation and macrophage polarization through targeting certain stages of AS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Xue
- Department of Cardiology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, No. 158 Shangtang Road, Hangzhou, 310014, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yuan Ma
- Department of Cardiology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, No. 158 Shangtang Road, Hangzhou, 310014, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hong Shao
- Department of Cardiology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, No. 158 Shangtang Road, Hangzhou, 310014, Zhejiang, China.
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2
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Li N. Platelets as an inter-player between hyperlipidaemia and atherosclerosis. J Intern Med 2024; 296:39-52. [PMID: 38704820 DOI: 10.1111/joim.13794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Platelet hyperreactivity and hyperlipidaemia contribute significantly to atherosclerosis. Thus, it is desirable to review the platelet-hyperlipidaemia interplay and its impact on atherogenesis. Native low-density lipoprotein (nLDL) and oxidized LDL (oxLDL) are the key proatherosclerotic components of hyperlipidaemia. nLDL binds to the platelet-specific LDL receptor (LDLR) ApoE-R2', whereas oxLDL binds to the platelet-expressed scavenger receptor CD36, lectin-type oxidized LDLR 1 and scavenger receptor class A 1. Ligation of nLDL/oxLDL induces mild platelet activation and may prime platelets for other platelet agonists. Platelets, in turn, can modulate lipoprotein metabolisms. Platelets contribute to LDL oxidation by enhancing the production of reactive oxygen species and LDLR degradation via proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 release. Platelet-released platelet factor 4 and transforming growth factor β modulate LDL uptake and foam cell formation. Thus, platelet dysfunction and hyperlipidaemia work in concert to aggravate atherogenesis. Hypolipidemic drugs modulate platelet function, whereas antiplatelet drugs influence lipid metabolism. The research prospects of the platelet-hyperlipidaemia interplay in atherosclerosis are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nailin Li
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Medicine-Solna, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stockholm, Sweden
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3
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Ramos-Regalado L, Alcover S, Badimon L, Vilahur G. The Influence of Metabolic Risk Factors on the Inflammatory Response Triggered by Myocardial Infarction: Bridging Pathophysiology to Treatment. Cells 2024; 13:1125. [PMID: 38994977 PMCID: PMC11240659 DOI: 10.3390/cells13131125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Myocardial infarction (MI) sets off a complex inflammatory cascade that is crucial for effective cardiac healing and scar formation. Yet, if this response becomes excessive or uncontrolled, it can lead to cardiovascular complications. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the tightly regulated local inflammatory response triggered in the early post-MI phase involving cardiomyocytes, (myo)fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and infiltrating immune cells. Next, we explore how the bone marrow and extramedullary hematopoiesis (such as in the spleen) contribute to sustaining immune cell supply at a cardiac level. Lastly, we discuss recent findings on how metabolic cardiovascular risk factors, including hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, diabetes, and hypertension, disrupt this immunological response and explore the potential modulatory effects of lifestyle habits and pharmacological interventions. Understanding how different metabolic risk factors influence the inflammatory response triggered by MI and unraveling the underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms may pave the way for developing personalized therapeutic approaches based on the patient's metabolic profile. Similarly, delving deeper into the impact of lifestyle modifications on the inflammatory response post-MI is crucial. These insights may enable the adoption of more effective strategies to manage post-MI inflammation and improve cardiovascular health outcomes in a holistic manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisaidy Ramos-Regalado
- Research Institute, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, IIB-Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain (S.A.)
- Faculty of Biology, Universitat de Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sebastià Alcover
- Research Institute, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, IIB-Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain (S.A.)
- Faculty of Biology, Universitat de Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lina Badimon
- Research Institute, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, IIB-Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain (S.A.)
- Ciber CV, Institute Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Cardiovascular Research Chair, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gemma Vilahur
- Research Institute, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, IIB-Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain (S.A.)
- Ciber CV, Institute Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
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Cao Zhang AM, Ziogos E, Harb T, Gerstenblith G, Leucker TM. Emerging clinical role of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibition-Part one: Pleiotropic pro-atherosclerotic effects of PCSK9. Eur J Clin Invest 2024:e14273. [PMID: 38922860 DOI: 10.1111/eci.14273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is primarily recognized for its role in lipid metabolism, but recent evidence suggests that it may have broader implications due to its diverse tissue expression. OBJECTIVE This review aims to explore the multifaceted functions of PCSK9, highlighting its pro-atherosclerotic effects, including its impact on circulating lipoprotein variables, non-low-density lipoprotein receptors, and various cell types involved in atherosclerotic plaque development. CONCLUSIONS PCSK9 exhibits diverse roles beyond lipid metabolism, potentially contributing to atherosclerosis through multiple pathways. Understanding these mechanisms could offer new insights into therapeutic strategies targeting PCSK9 for cardiovascular disease management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander M Cao Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Efthymios Ziogos
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Tarek Harb
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Gary Gerstenblith
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Thorsten M Leucker
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Luquero A, Pimentel N, Vilahur G, Badimon L, Borrell-Pages M. Unique Splicing of Lrp5 in the Brain: A New Player in Neurodevelopment and Brain Maturation. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6763. [PMID: 38928468 PMCID: PMC11203723 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 5 (LRP5) is a constitutively expressed receptor with observed roles in bone homeostasis, retinal development, and cardiac metabolism. However, the function of LRP5 in the brain remains unexplored. This study investigates LRP5's role in the central nervous system by conducting an extensive analysis using RNA-seq tools and in silico assessments. Two protein-coding Lrp5 transcripts are expressed in mice: full-length Lrp5-201 and a truncated form encoded by Lrp5-202. Wt mice express Lrp5-201 in the liver and brain and do not express the truncated form. Lrp5-/- mice express Lrp5-202 in the liver and brain and do not express Lrp5-201 in the liver. Interestingly, Lrp5-/- mouse brains show full-length Lrp5-201 expression, suggesting that LRP5 has a role in preserving brain function during development. Functional gene enrichment analysis on RNA-seq unveils dysregulated expression of genes associated with neuronal differentiation and synapse formation in the brains of Lrp5-/- mice compared to Wt mice. Furthermore, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis highlights downregulated expression of genes involved in retinol and linoleic acid metabolism in Lrp5-/- mouse brains. Tissue-specific alternative splicing of Lrp5 in Lrp5-/- mice supports that the expression of LRP5 in the brain is needed for the correct synthesis of vitamins and fatty acids, and it is indispensable for correct brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aureli Luquero
- Cardiovascular Program, Institut de Recerca de Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain; (A.L.); (N.P.); (G.V.); (L.B.)
- Biomedicine Doctorate Program, Universitat de Barcelona, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Noelia Pimentel
- Cardiovascular Program, Institut de Recerca de Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain; (A.L.); (N.P.); (G.V.); (L.B.)
- Biomedicine Doctorate Program, Universitat de Barcelona, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gemma Vilahur
- Cardiovascular Program, Institut de Recerca de Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain; (A.L.); (N.P.); (G.V.); (L.B.)
- Centro Investigación Biomédica en Red-Cardiovascular (CIBER-CV), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Lina Badimon
- Cardiovascular Program, Institut de Recerca de Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain; (A.L.); (N.P.); (G.V.); (L.B.)
- Centro Investigación Biomédica en Red-Cardiovascular (CIBER-CV), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Borrell-Pages
- Cardiovascular Program, Institut de Recerca de Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain; (A.L.); (N.P.); (G.V.); (L.B.)
- Centro Investigación Biomédica en Red-Cardiovascular (CIBER-CV), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
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Smith TKT, Ghorbani P, LeBlond ND, Nunes JRC, O'Dwyer C, Ambursley N, Fong-McMaster C, Minarrieta L, Burkovsky LA, El-Hakim R, Trzaskalski NA, Locatelli CAA, Stotts C, Pember C, Rayner KJ, Kemp BE, Loh K, Harper ME, Mulvihill EE, St-Pierre J, Fullerton MD. AMPK-mediated regulation of endogenous cholesterol synthesis does not affect atherosclerosis in a murine Pcsk9-AAV model. Atherosclerosis 2024:117608. [PMID: 38880706 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2024.117608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Dysregulated cholesterol metabolism is a hallmark of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases, yet our understanding of how endogenous cholesterol synthesis affects atherosclerosis is not clear. The energy sensor AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylates and inhibits the rate-limiting enzyme in the mevalonate pathway HMG-CoA reductase (HMGCR). Recent work demonstrated that when AMPK-HMGCR signaling was compromised in an Apoe-/- model of hypercholesterolemia, atherosclerosis was exacerbated due to elevated hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell mobilization and myelopoiesis. We sought to validate the significance of the AMPK-HMGCR signaling axis in atherosclerosis using a non-germline hypercholesterolemia model with functional ApoE. METHODS Male and female HMGCR S871A knock-in (KI) mice and wild-type (WT) littermate controls were made atherosclerotic by intravenous injection of a gain-of-function Pcsk9D374Y-adeno-associated virus followed by high-fat and high-cholesterol atherogenic western diet feeding for 16 weeks. RESULTS AMPK activation suppressed endogenous cholesterol synthesis in primary bone marrow-derived macrophages from WT but not HMGCR KI mice, without changing other parameters of cholesterol regulation. Atherosclerotic plaque area was unchanged between WT and HMGCR KI mice, independent of sex. Correspondingly, there were no phenotypic differences observed in hematopoietic progenitors or differentiated immune cells in the bone marrow, blood, or spleen, and no significant changes in systemic markers of inflammation. When lethally irradiated female mice were transplanted with KI bone marrow, there was similar plaque content relative to WT. CONCLUSIONS Given previous work, our study demonstrates the importance of preclinical atherosclerosis model comparison and brings into question the importance of AMPK-mediated control of cholesterol synthesis in atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler K T Smith
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Peyman Ghorbani
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Nicholas D LeBlond
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Julia R C Nunes
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Conor O'Dwyer
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Nia Ambursley
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Claire Fong-McMaster
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Lucía Minarrieta
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Leah A Burkovsky
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Rama El-Hakim
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Natasha A Trzaskalski
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada; University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Cassandra A A Locatelli
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada; University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Cameron Stotts
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada; University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Ciara Pember
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Katey J Rayner
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, Ottawa, ON, Canada; University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Bruce E Kemp
- Protein Chemistry and Metabolism, St. Vincent's Institute of Medical Research, Fitzroy, Australia; Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Kim Loh
- Diabetes and Metabolic Disease, St. Vincent's Institute of Medical Research, Fitzroy, Australia; Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mary-Ellen Harper
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Erin E Mulvihill
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, Ottawa, ON, Canada; University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Julie St-Pierre
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Morgan D Fullerton
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Centre for Catalysis Research and Innovation, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
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Wang J, Xu J, Liu T, Yu C, Xu F, Wang G, Li S, Dai X. Biomechanics-mediated endocytosis in atherosclerosis. Front Cardiovasc Med 2024; 11:1337679. [PMID: 38638885 PMCID: PMC11024446 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2024.1337679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Biomechanical forces, including vascular shear stress, cyclic stretching, and extracellular matrix stiffness, which influence mechanosensitive channels in the plasma membrane, determine cell function in atherosclerosis. Being highly associated with the formation of atherosclerotic plaques, endocytosis is the key point in molecule and macromolecule trafficking, which plays an important role in lipid transportation. The process of endocytosis relies on the mobility and tension of the plasma membrane, which is sensitive to biomechanical forces. Several studies have advanced the signal transduction between endocytosis and biomechanics to elaborate the developmental role of atherosclerosis. Meanwhile, increased plaque growth also results in changes in the structure, composition and morphology of the coronary artery that contribute to the alteration of arterial biomechanics. These cross-links of biomechanics and endocytosis in atherosclerotic plaques play an important role in cell function, such as cell phenotype switching, foam cell formation, and lipoprotein transportation. We propose that biomechanical force activates the endocytosis of vascular cells and plays an important role in the development of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinxuan Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Jianxiong Xu
- School of Health Management, Xihua University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tianhu Liu
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
- Cardiology and Vascular Health Research Center, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Chaoping Yu
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
- Cardiology and Vascular Health Research Center, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Fengcheng Xu
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
- Cardiology and Vascular Health Research Center, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Guixue Wang
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shun Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaozhen Dai
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
- Cardiology and Vascular Health Research Center, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
- School of Biosciences and Technology, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
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8
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Borrell-Pages M, Luquero A, Vilahur G, Padró T, Badimon L. Canonical Wnt pathway and the LDL receptor superfamily in neuronal cholesterol homeostasis and function. Cardiovasc Res 2024; 120:140-151. [PMID: 37882606 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvad159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS There is little information on the regulation of cholesterol homeostasis in the brain. Whether cholesterol crosses the blood-brain barrier is under investigation, but the present understanding is that cholesterol metabolism in the brain is independent from that in peripheral tissues. Lipoprotein receptors from the LDL receptor family (LRPs) have key roles in lipid particle accumulation in cells involved in vascular and cardiac pathophysiology; however, their function on neural cells is unknown. METHODS AND RESULTS The expression of LRP5 and the components and targets of its downstream signalling pathway, the canonical Wnt pathway, including β-catenin, LEF1, VEGF, OPN, MMP7, and ADAM10, is analysed in the brains of Wt and Lrp5-/- mice and in a neuroblastoma cell line. LRP5 expression is increased in a time- and dose-dependent manner after lipid loading in neuronal cells; however, it does not participate in cholesterol homeostasis as shown by intracellular lipid accumulation analyses. Neurons challenged with staurosporin and H2O2 display an anti-apoptotic protective role for LRP5. CONCLUSIONS For the first time, it has been shown that neurons can accumulate intracellular lipids and lipid uptake is performed mainly by the LDLR, while CD36, LRP1, and LRP5 do not play a major role. In addition, it has been shown that LRP5 triggers the canonical Wnt pathway in neuronal cells to generate pro-survival signals. Finally, Lrp5-/- mice have maintained expression of LRP5 only in the brain supporting the biological plausible concept of the need of brain LRP5 to elicit pro-survival processes and embryonic viability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Borrell-Pages
- Cardiovascular Program ICCC, Sant Pau Institute for Biomedical Research (IIB-Sant Pau), C/Sant Antoni Maria Claret 167, Barcelona 08025, Spain
- CIBER-CV, Av. Monforte de Lemos, 3-5, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Aureli Luquero
- Cardiovascular Program ICCC, Sant Pau Institute for Biomedical Research (IIB-Sant Pau), C/Sant Antoni Maria Claret 167, Barcelona 08025, Spain
- CIBER-CV, Av. Monforte de Lemos, 3-5, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Gemma Vilahur
- Cardiovascular Program ICCC, Sant Pau Institute for Biomedical Research (IIB-Sant Pau), C/Sant Antoni Maria Claret 167, Barcelona 08025, Spain
- CIBER-CV, Av. Monforte de Lemos, 3-5, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Teresa Padró
- Cardiovascular Program ICCC, Sant Pau Institute for Biomedical Research (IIB-Sant Pau), C/Sant Antoni Maria Claret 167, Barcelona 08025, Spain
- CIBER-CV, Av. Monforte de Lemos, 3-5, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Lina Badimon
- Cardiovascular Program ICCC, Sant Pau Institute for Biomedical Research (IIB-Sant Pau), C/Sant Antoni Maria Claret 167, Barcelona 08025, Spain
- CIBER-CV, Av. Monforte de Lemos, 3-5, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Cardiovascular Research Chair, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Plaça Cívica, 08193 Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
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9
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Li J, Li J, Lin C, Zhou J, Wang J, Wang F, Li H, Zhou Z. Genetically proxied PCSK9 inhibition is associated with reduced psoriatic arthritis risk. Inflamm Res 2024; 73:475-484. [PMID: 38341813 PMCID: PMC10894168 DOI: 10.1007/s00011-024-01850-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lipid pathways play a crucial role in psoriatic arthritis development, and some lipid-lowering drugs are believed to have therapeutic benefits due to their anti-inflammatory properties. Traditional observational studies face issues with confounding factors, complicating the interpretation of causality. This study seeks to determine the genetic link between these medications and the risk of psoriatic arthritis. METHODS This drug target study utilized the Mendelian randomization strategy. We harnessed high-quality data from population-level genome-wide association studies sourced from the UK Biobank and FinnGen databases. The inverse variance-weighted method, complemented by robust pleiotropy methods, was employed. We examined the causal relationships between three lipid-lowering agents and psoriatic arthritis to unveil the underlying mechanisms. RESULTS A significant association was observed between genetically represented proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibition and a decreased risk of psoriatic arthritis (odds ratio [OR]: 0.51; 95% CI 0.14-0.88; P < 0.01). This association was further corroborated in an independent dataset (OR 0.60; 95% CI 0.25-0.94; P = 0.03). Sensitivity analyses affirmed the absence of statistical evidence for pleiotropic or genetic confounding biases. However, no substantial associations were identified for either 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase inhibitors or Niemann-Pick C1-like 1 inhibitors. CONCLUSIONS This Mendelian randomization analysis underscores the pivotal role of PCSK9 in the etiology of psoriatic arthritis. Inhibition of PCSK9 is associated with reduced psoriatic arthritis risk, highlighting the potential therapeutic benefits of existing PCSK9 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junhong Li
- Innovation Platform of Regeneration and Repair of Spinal Cord and Nerve Injury, Guangming District, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, 66 Gongchang Road, Shenzhen, 518107, China
- Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma, The Affiliated Hospital of Yunnan University, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650091, China
| | - Jianfeng Li
- Innovation Platform of Regeneration and Repair of Spinal Cord and Nerve Injury, Guangming District, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, 66 Gongchang Road, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Chengkai Lin
- Innovation Platform of Regeneration and Repair of Spinal Cord and Nerve Injury, Guangming District, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, 66 Gongchang Road, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Jiaxiang Zhou
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Jianmin Wang
- Innovation Platform of Regeneration and Repair of Spinal Cord and Nerve Injury, Guangming District, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, 66 Gongchang Road, Shenzhen, 518107, China
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Yantaishan Hospital, Yantai, 264003, China
| | - Fuan Wang
- Innovation Platform of Regeneration and Repair of Spinal Cord and Nerve Injury, Guangming District, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, 66 Gongchang Road, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Haizhen Li
- Innovation Platform of Regeneration and Repair of Spinal Cord and Nerve Injury, Guangming District, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, 66 Gongchang Road, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Zhiyu Zhou
- Innovation Platform of Regeneration and Repair of Spinal Cord and Nerve Injury, Guangming District, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, 66 Gongchang Road, Shenzhen, 518107, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
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10
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Yuan D, Zheng Z, Shen C, Ye J, Zhu L. Cytoprotective effects of C1s enzyme in macrophages in atherosclerosis mediated through the LRP5 and Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Mol Immunol 2024; 166:29-38. [PMID: 38218080 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2024.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
C1s enzyme (active C1s) is a subunit of the complement C1 complex that cleaves low-density lipoprotein receptor-related proteins 5 and 6, leading to Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation in some cell lines. Macrophages have two major functional polarization states (the classically activated M1 state and the alternatively activated M2 state) and play an essential role in atherosclerosis. An increasing amount of evidence suggests that canonical Wnt signaling is related to macrophage polarization. In this study, we explored the cytoprotective effects of C1s enzyme in macrophages. The results show that C1s enzyme activates canonical Wnt signaling in macrophages, exacerbates macrophage M2 polarization, and inhibits M1 polarization. Moreover, C1s enzyme reduces foam cell formation and simultaneously enhances efferocytosis. This study reveals a novel function of C1s enzyme in macrophages in the context of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Yuan
- The Affiliated Taizhou People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, China
| | | | - Cheng Shen
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Ye
- The Affiliated Taizhou People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, China.
| | - Li Zhu
- The Affiliated Taizhou People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, China.
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11
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Bao X, Liang Y, Chang H, Cai T, Feng B, Gordon K, Zhu Y, Shi H, He Y, Xie L. Targeting proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9): from bench to bedside. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:13. [PMID: 38185721 PMCID: PMC10772138 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01690-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) has evolved as a pivotal enzyme in lipid metabolism and a revolutionary therapeutic target for hypercholesterolemia and its related cardiovascular diseases (CVD). This comprehensive review delineates the intricate roles and wide-ranging implications of PCSK9, extending beyond CVD to emphasize its significance in diverse physiological and pathological states, including liver diseases, infectious diseases, autoimmune disorders, and notably, cancer. Our exploration offers insights into the interaction between PCSK9 and low-density lipoprotein receptors (LDLRs), elucidating its substantial impact on cholesterol homeostasis and cardiovascular health. It also details the evolution of PCSK9-targeted therapies, translating foundational bench discoveries into bedside applications for optimized patient care. The advent and clinical approval of innovative PCSK9 inhibitory therapies (PCSK9-iTs), including three monoclonal antibodies (Evolocumab, Alirocumab, and Tafolecimab) and one small interfering RNA (siRNA, Inclisiran), have marked a significant breakthrough in cardiovascular medicine. These therapies have demonstrated unparalleled efficacy in mitigating hypercholesterolemia, reducing cardiovascular risks, and have showcased profound value in clinical applications, offering novel therapeutic avenues and a promising future in personalized medicine for cardiovascular disorders. Furthermore, emerging research, inclusive of our findings, unveils PCSK9's potential role as a pivotal indicator for cancer prognosis and its prospective application as a transformative target for cancer treatment. This review also highlights PCSK9's aberrant expression in various cancer forms, its association with cancer prognosis, and its crucial roles in carcinogenesis and cancer immunity. In conclusion, this synthesized review integrates existing knowledge and novel insights on PCSK9, providing a holistic perspective on its transformative impact in reshaping therapeutic paradigms across various disorders. It emphasizes the clinical value and effect of PCSK9-iT, underscoring its potential in advancing the landscape of biomedical research and its capabilities in heralding new eras in personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuhui Bao
- Institute of Therapeutic Cancer Vaccines, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Oncology, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China.
- Center for Clinical Research, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China.
- Clinical Research Center for Cell-based Immunotherapy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Yongjun Liang
- Center for Medical Research and Innovation, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Hanman Chang
- Institute for Food Safety and Health, Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Tianji Cai
- Department of Sociology, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Baijie Feng
- Department of Oncology, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Konstantin Gordon
- Medical Institute, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia, Moscow, Russia
- A. Tsyb Medical Radiological Research Center, Obninsk, Russia
| | - Yuekun Zhu
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Hailian Shi
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Compound Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhangjiang Hi-tech Park, Shanghai, China
| | - Yundong He
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Liyi Xie
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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12
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Vilella A, Bodria M, Papotti B, Zanotti I, Zimetti F, Remaggi G, Elviri L, Potì F, Ferri N, Lupo MG, Panighel G, Daini E, Vandini E, Zoli M, Giuliani D, Bernini F. PCSK9 ablation attenuates Aβ pathology, neuroinflammation and cognitive dysfunctions in 5XFAD mice. Brain Behav Immun 2024; 115:517-534. [PMID: 37967665 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2023.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasing evidence highlights the importance of novel players in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathophysiology, including alterations of lipid metabolism and neuroinflammation. Indeed, a potential involvement of Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) in AD has been recently postulated. Here, we first investigated the effects of PCSK9 on neuroinflammation in vitro. Then, we examined the impact of a genetic ablation of PCSK9 on cognitive performance in a severe mouse model of AD. Finally, in the same animals we evaluated the effect of PCSK9 loss on Aβ pathology, neuroinflammation, and brain lipids. METHODS For in vitro studies, U373 human astrocytoma cells were treated with Aβ fibrils and human recombinant PCSK9. mRNA expression of the proinflammatory cytokines and inflammasome-related genes were evaluated by q-PCR, while MCP-1 secretion was measured by ELISA. For in vivo studies, the cognitive performance of a newly generated mouse line - obtained by crossing 5XFADHet with PCSK9KO mice - was tested by the Morris water maze test. After sacrifice, immunohistochemical analyses were performed to evaluate Aβ plaque deposition, distribution and composition, BACE1 immunoreactivity, as well as microglia and astrocyte reactivity. Cholesterol and hydroxysterols levels in mouse brains were quantified by fluorometric and LC-MS/MS analyses, respectively. Statistical comparisons were performed according to one- or two-way ANOVA, two-way repeated measure ANOVA or Chi-square test. RESULTS In vitro, PCSK9 significantly increased IL6, IL1B and TNFΑ mRNA levels in Aβ fibrils-treated U373 cells, without influencing inflammasome gene expression, except for an increase in NLRC4 mRNA levels. In vivo, PCSK9 ablation in 5XFAD mice significantly improved the performance at the Morris water maze test; these changes were accompanied by a reduced corticohippocampal Aβ burden without affecting plaque spatial/regional distribution and composition or global BACE1 expression. Furthermore, PCSK9 loss in 5XFAD mice induced decreased microgliosis and astrocyte reactivity in several brain regions. Conversely, knocking out PCSK9 had minimal impact on brain cholesterol and hydroxysterol levels. CONCLUSIONS In vitro studies showed a pro-inflammatory effect of PCSK9. Consistently, in vivo data indicated a protective role of PCSK9 ablation against cognitive impairments, associated with improved Aβ pathology and attenuated neuroinflammation in a severe mouse model of AD. PCSK9 may thus be considered a novel pharmacological target for the treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonietta Vilella
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Center for Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy.
| | - Martina Bodria
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Center for Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Bianca Papotti
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Ilaria Zanotti
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Francesca Zimetti
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy.
| | - Giulia Remaggi
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Lisa Elviri
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Francesco Potì
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Unit of Neurosciences, University of Parma, 43121, Parma, Italy
| | - Nicola Ferri
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, 35129, Padova, Italy; Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine (VIMM), 35129, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Panighel
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Eleonora Daini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Center for Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Eleonora Vandini
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Michele Zoli
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Center for Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Daniela Giuliani
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Center for Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Franco Bernini
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
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13
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Zhang Y, Wang Z, Jia C, Yu W, Li X, Xia N, Nie H, Wikana LP, Chen M, Ni Y, Han S, Pu L. Blockade of Hepatocyte PCSK9 Ameliorates Hepatic Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury by Promoting Pink1-Parkin-Mediated Mitophagy. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 17:149-169. [PMID: 37717824 PMCID: PMC10696400 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2023.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury is a significant complication of partial hepatic resection and liver transplantation, impacting the prognosis of patients undergoing liver surgery. The protein proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is primarily synthesized by hepatocytes and has been implicated in myocardial ischemic diseases. However, the role of PCSK9 in hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the role and mechanism of PCSK9 in hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury. METHODS We first examined the expression of PCSK9 in mouse warm ischemia-reperfusion models and AML12 cells subjected to hypoxia/reoxygenation. Subsequently, we explored the impact of PCSK9 on liver ischemia-reperfusion injury by assessing mitochondrial damage and the resulting inflammatory response. RESULTS Our findings reveal that PCSK9 is up-regulated in response to ischemia-reperfusion injury and exacerbates hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury. Blocking PCSK9 can alleviate hepatocyte mitochondrial damage and the consequent inflammatory response mediated by ischemia-reperfusion. Mechanistically, this protective effect is dependent on mitophagy. CONCLUSIONS Inhibiting PCSK9 in hepatocytes attenuates the inflammatory responses triggered by reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial DNA by promoting PINK1-Parkin-mediated mitophagy. This, in turn, ameliorates hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation (Nanjing Medical University), Nanjing, China
| | - Ziyi Wang
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation (Nanjing Medical University), Nanjing, China
| | - Chenyang Jia
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wenjie Yu
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation (Nanjing Medical University), Nanjing, China
| | - Xiangdong Li
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation (Nanjing Medical University), Nanjing, China
| | - Nan Xia
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation (Nanjing Medical University), Nanjing, China
| | - Huiling Nie
- Affiliated Eye Hospital and Fourth School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Likalamu Pascalia Wikana
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation (Nanjing Medical University), Nanjing, China
| | - Minhao Chen
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation (Nanjing Medical University), Nanjing, China
| | - Yong Ni
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Sheng Han
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation (Nanjing Medical University), Nanjing, China.
| | - Liyong Pu
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation (Nanjing Medical University), Nanjing, China.
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14
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Li W, Pang Y, Jin K, Wang Y, Wu Y, Luo J, Xu W, Zhang X, Xu R, Wang T, Jiao L. Membrane contact sites orchestrate cholesterol homeostasis that is central to vascular aging. WIREs Mech Dis 2023; 15:e1612. [PMID: 37156598 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Revised: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Chronological age causes structural and functional vascular deterioration and is a well-established risk factor for the development of cardiovascular diseases, leading to more than 40% of all deaths in the elderly. The etiology of vascular aging is complex; a significant impact arises from impaired cholesterol homeostasis. Cholesterol level is balanced through synthesis, uptake, transport, and esterification, the processes executed by multiple organelles. Moreover, organelles responsible for cholesterol homeostasis are spatially and functionally coordinated instead of isolated by forming the membrane contact sites. Membrane contact, mediated by specific protein-protein interaction, pulls opposing organelles together and creates the hybrid place for cholesterol transfer and further signaling. The membrane contact-dependent cholesterol transfer, together with the vesicular transport, maintains cholesterol homeostasis and has intimate implications in a growing list of diseases, including vascular aging-related diseases. Here, we summarized the latest advances regarding cholesterol homeostasis by highlighting the membrane contact-based regulatory mechanism. We also describe the downstream signaling under cholesterol homeostasis perturbations, prominently in cholesterol-rich conditions, stimulating age-dependent organelle dysfunction and vascular aging. Finally, we discuss potential cholesterol-targeting strategies for therapists regarding vascular aging-related diseases. This article is categorized under: Cardiovascular Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Li
- Laboratory of Computational Biology and Machine Intelligence, National Laboratory of Pattern Recognition, Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- School of Artificial Intelligence, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yiyun Pang
- Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Kehan Jin
- Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yuru Wang
- Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yujie Wu
- Laboratory of Computational Biology and Machine Intelligence, National Laboratory of Pattern Recognition, Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jichang Luo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), Beijing, China
| | - Wenlong Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), Beijing, China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), Beijing, China
| | - Ran Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), Beijing, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), Beijing, China
| | - Liqun Jiao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI), Beijing, China
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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15
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Feng Z, Liao X, Peng J, Quan J, Zhang H, Huang Z, Yi B. PCSK9 causes inflammation and cGAS/STING pathway activation in diabetic nephropathy. FASEB J 2023; 37:e23127. [PMID: 37561547 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202300342rrr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Our previous research revealed that an increase in PCSK9 is linked to aggravated inflammation in the kidneys of mice affected by a high-fat diet and streptozotocin (HFD/STZ) or in HGPA-induced HK-2 cells. Furthermore, the cGAS/STING pathway has been reported to be involved in diabetic nephropathy (DN). Therefore, in this study, we aimed to examine the correlation between the proinflammatory effect of PCSK9 and the cGAS/STING pathway in DN. We used PCSK9 mAbs to inhibit PCSK9 in vivo and PCSK9 siRNA in vitro and measured the inflammatory phenotype in HFD/STZ-treated mice or HGPA-induced HK-2 cells, and observed decreased blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, UACR, and kidney injury in response to the PCSK9 mAb in HFD/STZ-treated mice. Moreover, IL-1 β, MCP-1, and TNF-α levels were reduced by the PCSK9 mAb in vivo and PCSK9 siRNA in vitro. We observed increased mtDNA damage and activation of the cGAS-STING signaling pathway during DN, as well as the downstream targets p-TBK1, p-NF-κB p65, and IL-1β. In a further experiment with an HGPA-induced DN model in HK-2 cells, we revealed that mtDNA damage was increased, which led to the activation of the cGAS/STING system and its downstream targets. Notably, the cGAS-STING signaling pathway was inhibited by the PCSK9 mAb in vivo and PCSK9 siRNA in vitro. In addition, inhibition of STING with C-176 in HGPA-induced HK-2 cells markedly blocked inflammation. In conclusion, we report for the first time that PCSK9 triggers mitochondrial DNA damage and activates the cGAS-STING pathway in DN, which leads to a series of inflammation cascades. PCSK9-targeted intervention can effectively reduce DN inflammation and delay its progression. Moreover, the inhibition of STING significantly abrogated the inflammation triggered by HGPA in HK-2 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhicai Feng
- Department of Nephrology, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- The Critical Kidney Disease Research Center of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiangyu Liao
- Department of Nephrology, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- The Critical Kidney Disease Research Center of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Juan Peng
- Department of Nephrology, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- The Critical Kidney Disease Research Center of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jingjing Quan
- Department of Nephrology, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- The Critical Kidney Disease Research Center of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- The Critical Kidney Disease Research Center of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhijun Huang
- Department of Nephrology, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Furong Laboratory, Changsha, China
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Bin Yi
- Department of Nephrology, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- The Critical Kidney Disease Research Center of Central South University, Changsha, China
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16
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Hummelgaard S, Vilstrup JP, Gustafsen C, Glerup S, Weyer K. Targeting PCSK9 to tackle cardiovascular disease. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 249:108480. [PMID: 37331523 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Lowering blood cholesterol levels efficiently reduces the risk of developing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), including coronary artery disease (CAD), which is the main cause of death worldwide. CAD is caused by plaque formation, comprising cholesterol deposits in the coronary arteries. Proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin/type 9 (PCSK9) was discovered in the early 2000s and later identified as a key regulator of cholesterol metabolism. PCSK9 induces lysosomal degradation of the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor in the liver, which is responsible for clearing LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) from the circulation. Accordingly, gain-of-function PCSK9 mutations are causative of familial hypercholesterolemia, a severe condition with extremely high plasma cholesterol levels and increased ASCVD risk, whereas loss-of-function PCSK9 mutations are associated with very low LDL-C levels and protection against CAD. Since the discovery of PCSK9, extensive investigations in developing PCSK9 targeting therapies have been performed. The combined delineation of clear biology, genetic risk variants, and PCSK9 crystal structures have been major drivers in developing antagonistic molecules. Today, two antibody-based PCSK9 inhibitors have successfully progressed to clinical application and shown to be effective in reducing cholesterol levels and mitigating the risk of ASCVD events, including myocardial infarction, stroke, and death, without any major adverse effects. A third siRNA-based inhibitor has been FDA-approved but awaits cardiovascular outcome data. In this review, we outline the PCSK9 biology, focusing on the structure and nonsynonymous mutations reported in the PCSK9 gene and elaborate on PCSK9-lowering strategies under development. Finally, we discuss future perspectives with PCSK9 inhibition in other severe disorders beyond cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Simon Glerup
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; Draupnir Bio, INCUBA Skejby, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Kathrin Weyer
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
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17
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Zhang X, Xu H, Yu J, Cui J, Chen Z, Li Y, Niu Y, Wang S, Ran S, Zou Y, Wu J, Xia J. Immune Regulation of the Liver Through the PCSK9/CD36 Pathway During Heart Transplant Rejection. Circulation 2023; 148:336-353. [PMID: 37232170 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.123.062788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND PCSK9 (proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin 9), which is mainly secreted by the liver, is not only a therapeutic target for hyperlipidemia and cardiovascular disease, but also has been implicated in the immune regulation of infections and tumors. However, the role of PCSK9 and the liver in heart transplant rejection (HTR) and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. METHODS We assessed serum PCSK9 expression in both murine and human recipients during HTR and investigated the effect of PCSK9 ablation on HTR by using global knockout mice and a neutralizing antibody. Moreover, we performed multiorgan histological and transcriptome analyses, and multiomics and single-cell RNA-sequencing studies of the liver during HTR, as well. We further used hepatocyte-specific Pcsk9 knockout mice to investigate whether the liver regulated HTR through PCSK9. Last, we explored the regulatory effect of the PCSK9/CD36 pathway on the phenotype and function of macrophages in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS Here, we report that murine and human recipients have high serum PCSK9 levels during HTR. PCSK9 ablation prolonged cardiac allograft survival and attenuated the infiltration of inflammatory cells in the graft and the expansion of alloreactive T cells in the spleen. Next, we demonstrated that PCSK9 was mainly produced and significantly upregulated in the recipient liver, which also showed a series of signaling changes, including changes in the TNF-α (tumor necrosis factor α) and IFN-γ (interferon γ) signaling pathways and the bile acid and fatty acid metabolism pathways. We found mechanistically that TNF-α and IFN-γ synergistically promoted PCSK9 expression in hepatocytes through the transcription factor SREBP2 (sterol regulatory element binding protein 2). Moreover, in vitro and in vivo studies indicated that PCSK9 inhibited CD36 expression and fatty acid uptake by macrophages and strengthened the proinflammatory phenotype, which facilitated their ability to promote proliferation and IFN-γ production by donor-reactive T cells. Last, we found that the protective effect of PCSK9 ablation against HTR is dependent on the CD36 pathway in the recipient. CONCLUSIONS This study reveals a novel mechanism for immune regulation by the liver through the PCSK9/CD36 pathway during HTR, which influences the phenotype and function of macrophages and suggests that the modulation of this pathway may be a potential therapeutic target to prevent HTR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Zhang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery (X.Z., H.X., J.Y., J.C., Z.C., Y.L., Y.N., S.W., S.R., Y.Z., J.W., J.X.), Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine (X.Z., J.Y., Z.C., Y.L., Y.N., S.W., S.R., J.W., J.X.), Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Heng Xu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery (X.Z., H.X., J.Y., J.C., Z.C., Y.L., Y.N., S.W., S.R., Y.Z., J.W., J.X.), Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jizhang Yu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery (X.Z., H.X., J.Y., J.C., Z.C., Y.L., Y.N., S.W., S.R., Y.Z., J.W., J.X.), Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine (X.Z., J.Y., Z.C., Y.L., Y.N., S.W., S.R., J.W., J.X.), Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jikai Cui
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery (X.Z., H.X., J.Y., J.C., Z.C., Y.L., Y.N., S.W., S.R., Y.Z., J.W., J.X.), Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhang Chen
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery (X.Z., H.X., J.Y., J.C., Z.C., Y.L., Y.N., S.W., S.R., Y.Z., J.W., J.X.), Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine (X.Z., J.Y., Z.C., Y.L., Y.N., S.W., S.R., J.W., J.X.), Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuan Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery (X.Z., H.X., J.Y., J.C., Z.C., Y.L., Y.N., S.W., S.R., Y.Z., J.W., J.X.), Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine (X.Z., J.Y., Z.C., Y.L., Y.N., S.W., S.R., J.W., J.X.), Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuqing Niu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery (X.Z., H.X., J.Y., J.C., Z.C., Y.L., Y.N., S.W., S.R., Y.Z., J.W., J.X.), Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine (X.Z., J.Y., Z.C., Y.L., Y.N., S.W., S.R., J.W., J.X.), Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Song Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery (X.Z., H.X., J.Y., J.C., Z.C., Y.L., Y.N., S.W., S.R., Y.Z., J.W., J.X.), Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine (X.Z., J.Y., Z.C., Y.L., Y.N., S.W., S.R., J.W., J.X.), Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China (S.W., S.R., J.W., J.X.)
| | - Shuan Ran
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery (X.Z., H.X., J.Y., J.C., Z.C., Y.L., Y.N., S.W., S.R., Y.Z., J.W., J.X.), Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine (X.Z., J.Y., Z.C., Y.L., Y.N., S.W., S.R., J.W., J.X.), Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China (S.W., S.R., J.W., J.X.)
| | - Yanqiang Zou
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery (X.Z., H.X., J.Y., J.C., Z.C., Y.L., Y.N., S.W., S.R., Y.Z., J.W., J.X.), Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jie Wu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery (X.Z., H.X., J.Y., J.C., Z.C., Y.L., Y.N., S.W., S.R., Y.Z., J.W., J.X.), Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine (X.Z., J.Y., Z.C., Y.L., Y.N., S.W., S.R., J.W., J.X.), Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education, NHC Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan (J.W.)
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China (S.W., S.R., J.W., J.X.)
| | - Jiahong Xia
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery (X.Z., H.X., J.Y., J.C., Z.C., Y.L., Y.N., S.W., S.R., Y.Z., J.W., J.X.), Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Translational Medicine (X.Z., J.Y., Z.C., Y.L., Y.N., S.W., S.R., J.W., J.X.), Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China (S.W., S.R., J.W., J.X.)
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18
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Ma M, Hou C, Liu J. Effect of PCSK9 on atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases and its mechanisms: Focus on immune regulation. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1148486. [PMID: 36970356 PMCID: PMC10036592 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1148486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a basic pathological characteristic of many cardiovascular diseases, and if not effectively treated, patients with such disease may progress to atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVDs) and even heart failure. The level of plasma proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is significantly higher in patients with ASCVDs than in the healthy population, suggesting that it may be a promising new target for the treatment of ASCVDs. PCSK9 produced by the liver and released into circulation inhibits the clearance of plasma low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), mainly by downregulating the level of LDL-C receptor (LDLR) on the surface of hepatocytes, leading to upregulated LDL-C in plasma. Numerous studies have revealed that PCSK9 may cause poor prognosis of ASCVDs by activating the inflammatory response and promoting the process of thrombosis and cell death independent of its lipid-regulatory function, yet the underlying mechanisms still need to be further clarified. In patients with ASCVDs who are intolerant to statins or whose plasma LDL-C levels fail to descend to the target value after treatment with high-dose statins, PCSK9 inhibitors often improve their clinical outcomes. Here, we summarize the biological characteristics and functional mechanisms of PCSK9, highlighting its immunoregulatory function. We also discuss the effects of PCSK9 on common ASCVDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minglu Ma
- Department of Cardiology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Early Prediction and Intervention of Acute Myocardial Infarction, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chang Hou
- Department of Cardiology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Early Prediction and Intervention of Acute Myocardial Infarction, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jian Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Early Prediction and Intervention of Acute Myocardial Infarction, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- Correspondence: Jian Liu
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19
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Sotler T, Šebeštjen M. PCSK9 as an Atherothrombotic Risk Factor. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24031966. [PMID: 36768292 PMCID: PMC9916735 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24031966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Disturbances in lipid metabolism are among the most important risk factors for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is a key protein in lipid metabolism that is also involved in the production of inflammatory cytokines, endothelial dysfunction and aherosclerotic plaque development. Studies have shown a connection between PCSK9 and various indicators of inflammation. Signalling pathways that include PCSK9 play important role in the initiation and development of atherosclerotic lesions by inducing vascular inflammation. Studies so far have suggested that PCSK9 is associated with procoagulation, enhancing the development of atherosclerosis. Experimentally, it was also found that an increased concentration of PCSK9 significantly accelerated the apoptosis of endothelial cells and reduced endothelial function, which created conditions for the development of atherosclerosis. PCSK9 inhibitors can therefore improve clinical outcomes not only in a lipid-dependent manner, but also through lipid-independent pathways. The aim of our review was to shed light on the impact of PCSK9 on these factors, which are not directly related to low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tadeja Sotler
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Miran Šebeštjen
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Department of Vascular Diseases, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Correspondence:
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20
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Wang Y, Fang D, Yang Q, You J, Wang L, Wu J, Zeng M, Luo M. Interactions between PCSK9 and NLRP3 inflammasome signaling in atherosclerosis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1126823. [PMID: 36911736 PMCID: PMC9992811 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1126823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is an early pathological basis of numerous cardiovascular events that result in death or disability. Recent studies have described PCSK9 as a novel target for the treatment of atherosclerosis; PCSK9 is capable of degrading LDLR on the surface of hepatocytes through the regulation of lipid metabolism, and it can function as a novel inflammatory modulator in atherosclerosis. Inflammasomes are important intracellular multiprotein complexes that promote the inflammatory response in atherosclerosis. Among inflammasomes, the NLRP3 inflammasome is particularly notable because of its important role in the development of atherosclerotic disease. After activation, NLRP3 forms a complex with ASC and pro-caspase-1, converting pro-caspase-1 into activated caspase-1, which may trigger the release of IL-1β and IL-18 and contribute to the inflammatory response. Several recent studies have indicated that there may be interactions between PCSK9 and the NLRP3 inflammasome, which may contribute to the inflammatory response that drives atherosclerosis development and progression. On the one hand, the NLRP3 inflammasome plays an important role via IL-1β in regulating PCSK9 secretion. On the other hand, PCSK9 regulates caspase-1-dependent pyroptosis by initiating mtDNA damage and activating NLRP3 inflammasome signaling. This paper reviews the mechanisms underlying PCSK9 and NLRP3 inflammasome activation in the context of atherosclerosis. Furthermore, we describe the current understanding of the specific molecular mechanism underlying the interactions between PCSK9 and NLRP3 inflammasome signaling as well as the drug repositioning events that influence vascular cells and exert beneficial antiatherosclerotic effects. This review may provide a new therapeutic direction for the effective prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education, Drug Discovery Research Center, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Laboratory for Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Metabolic Vascular Disease Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Luzhou Municipal Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Vascular Biology, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Dan Fang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education, Drug Discovery Research Center, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Laboratory for Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Metabolic Vascular Disease Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Luzhou Municipal Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Vascular Biology, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Qinzhi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education, Drug Discovery Research Center, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Laboratory for Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Metabolic Vascular Disease Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Luzhou Municipal Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Vascular Biology, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Jingcan You
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education, Drug Discovery Research Center, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Laboratory for Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Metabolic Vascular Disease Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Luzhou Municipal Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Vascular Biology, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Liqun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education, Drug Discovery Research Center, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Laboratory for Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Metabolic Vascular Disease Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Luzhou Municipal Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Vascular Biology, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Jianbo Wu
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education, Drug Discovery Research Center, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Laboratory for Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Metabolic Vascular Disease Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Luzhou Municipal Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Vascular Biology, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Min Zeng
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Mao Luo
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education, Drug Discovery Research Center, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Laboratory for Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Metabolic Vascular Disease Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Luzhou Municipal Key Laboratory of Thrombosis and Vascular Biology, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.,Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
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21
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Song X, Gao F, Li H, Qin W, Chai C, Shi G, Yang H. Long noncoding RNA THRIL promotes foam cell formation and inflammation in macrophages. Cell Biol Int 2023; 47:156-166. [PMID: 36229925 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and heterogenous nuclear ribonucleoprotein L (hnRNPL)-related immunoregulatory lincRNA (THRIL) is a long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) involved in various inflammatory diseases. However, its role in atherosclerosis is not known. In this study, we aimed to investigate the function of THRIL in mediating macrophage inflammation and foam cell formation. The expression of THRIL was quantified in THP-1 macrophages after treatment with oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL). The effect of THRIL overexpression and knockdown on oxLDL-induced inflammatory responses and lipid accumulation was determined. THRIL-associated protein partners were identified by RNA pull-down and RNA immunoprecipitation assays. We show that THRIL is upregulated in macrophages after oxLDL treatment. Knockdown of THRIL blocks oxLDL-induced expression of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, and TNF-α and lipid accumulation. Conversely, ectopic expression of THRIL enhances inflammatory gene expression and lipid deposition in oxLDL-treated macrophages. Moreover, THRIL depletion increases cholesterol efflux from macrophages and the expression of ATP-binding cassette transporter (ABC) A1 and ABCG1. FOXO1 is identified as a protein partner of THRIL and promotes macrophage inflammation and lipid accumulation. Furthermore, overexpression of FOXO1 restores lipid accumulation and inflammatory cytokine production in THRIL-depleted macrophages. In conclusion, our data suggest a model where THRIL interacts with FOXO1 to promote macrophage inflammation and foam cell formation. THRIL may represent a therapeutic target for atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaosu Song
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Fen Gao
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Hong Li
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Weiwei Qin
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Chanjuan Chai
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Guojuan Shi
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Huiyu Yang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
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22
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Alannan M, Seidah NG, Merched AJ. PCSK9 in Liver Cancers at the Crossroads between Lipid Metabolism and Immunity. Cells 2022; 11:cells11244132. [PMID: 36552895 PMCID: PMC9777286 DOI: 10.3390/cells11244132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic rewiring and defective immune responses are considered to be the main driving forces sustaining cell growth and oncogenesis in many cancers. The atypical enzyme, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), is produced by the liver in large amounts and plays a major role in lipid metabolism via the control of the low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) and other cell surface receptors. In this context, many clinical studies have clearly demonstrated the high efficacy of PCSK9 inhibitors in treating hyperlipidemia and cardiovascular diseases. Recent data implicated PCSK9 in the degradation of major histocompatibility complex I (MHC-I) receptors and the immune system as well as in other physiological activities. This review highlights the complex crosstalk between PCSK9, lipid metabolism and immunosuppression and underlines the latest advances in understanding the involvement of this convertase in other critical functions. We present a comprehensive assessment of the different strategies targeting PCSK9 and show how these approaches could be extended to future therapeutic options to treat cancers with a main focus on the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malak Alannan
- Bordeaux Institute of Oncology (BRIC), INSERM U1312, University of Bordeaux, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Nabil G. Seidah
- Laboratory of Biochemical Neuroendocrinology, Montreal Clinical Research Institute, IRCM, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H2W 1R7, Canada
| | - Aksam J. Merched
- Bordeaux Institute of Oncology (BRIC), INSERM U1312, University of Bordeaux, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
- Correspondence:
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23
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Ahamad S, Bhat SA. Recent Update on the Development of PCSK9 Inhibitors for Hypercholesterolemia Treatment. J Med Chem 2022; 65:15513-15539. [PMID: 36446632 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
The proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin-type 9 (PCSK9) binds to low-density lipoprotein receptors (LDLR), thereby trafficking them to lysosomes upon endocytosis and enhancing intracellular degradation to prevent their recycling. As a result, the levels of circulating LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) increase, which is a prominent risk factor for developing atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD). Thus, PCSK9 has become a promising therapeutic target that offers a fertile testing ground for new drug modalities to regulate plasma LDL-C levels to prevent ASCVD. In this review, we have discussed the role of PCSK9 in lipid metabolism and briefly summarized the current clinical status of modalities targeting PCSK9. In particular, a detailed overview of peptide-based PCSK9 inhibitors is presented, which emphasizes their structural features and design, therapeutic effects on patients, and preclinical cardiovascular disease (CVD) models, along with PCSK9 modulation mechanisms. As a promising alternative to monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for managing LDL-C, anti-PCSK9 peptides are emerging as a prospective next generation therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shakir Ahamad
- Department of Chemistry, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, India
| | - Shahnawaz A Bhat
- Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, India
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24
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Schmid JA. PCSK9 inhibition might increase endothelial inflammation. Atherosclerosis 2022; 362:26-28. [PMID: 36396485 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2022.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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25
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Cai J, Jiang Y, Chen F, Wu S, Ren H, Wang P, Wang J, Liu W. Serum PCSK9 is positively correlated with disease activity and Th17 cells, while its short-term decline during treatment reflects desirable outcomes in ankylosing spondylitis patients. Ir J Med Sci 2022:10.1007/s11845-022-03204-6. [PMID: 36344709 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-022-03204-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) participates in the autoimmune disease pathology by regulating T helper (Th) cell differentiation, NF-κB pathway, toll-like receptor 4, etc. This study intended to investigate the association of serum PCSK9 with disease activity, Th cells, and treatment response in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients. METHODS Eighty-nine active AS patients were enrolled in this multicenter, prospective study. Serum was collected from AS patients at week (W)0, W4, W8, and W12, as well as from 20 osteoarthritis patients and 20 healthy controls after enrollment to detect PCSK9 by ELISA. Based on the ASAS40 response at W12, AS patients were classified as responders and non-responders. RESULTS PCSK9 was increased in AS patients versus healthy controls (P < 0.001) and osteoarthritis patients (P = 0.006). In AS patients, PCSK9 was positively linked with C-reactive protein (CRP) (P = 0.003) and ASDAS-CRP (P = 0.017), but not with other clinical properties (P > 0.05). Besides, PCSK9 was negatively correlated with interleukin-4 (P = 0.034), positively associated with Th17 cells (P = 0.005) and interleukin-17A (P = 0.014), but did not relate to Th1 cells, interferon-γ, or Th2 cells (all P > 0.05). Additionally, PCSK9 was decreased from W0 to W12 in general AS patients (P < 0.001) and responders (P < 0.001) but remained unchanged in non-responders (P = 0.129). Moreover, PCSK9 was lower at W4 (P = 0.045), W8 (P = 0.008), and W12 (P = 0.004) in responders versus non-responders. Furthermore, the treatment options did not affect the PCSK9 level (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION Serum PCSK9 is positively associated with disease activity and Th17 cells, while its short-term decline reflects desirable treatment response in AS patients.
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26
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Functional Association of miR-133b and miR-21 Through Novel Gene Targets ATG5, LRP6 and SGPP1 in Coronary Artery Disease. Mol Diagn Ther 2022; 26:655-664. [PMID: 36197604 DOI: 10.1007/s40291-022-00615-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atherosclerosis, a progressive manifestation of coronary artery disease, has been observed to be regulated by microRNAs (miRNAs) targeting various protein-coding genes involved in several pathophysiological events of coronary artery disease. OBJECTIVE In our previous report, we identified differential expression profiles of candidate miRNAs, miR-133b and miR-21, in patients with coronary artery disease as compared with controls, suggesting their possible implication in the pathophysiology of coronary artery disease. To better understand the functional role of these miRNAs, we sought to predict and validate their target genes while assessing the expression pattern of these genes in patients with coronary artery disease, as well as in macrophages. METHODS Potential target genes of miR-133b and miR-21 were predicted bioinformatically followed by validation through the identification of their expression at the protein level in patients with coronary artery disease (n-30), as well as in macrophages treated with respective miRNA inhibitors (antagomiRs), through immunoblotting. RESULTS SGPP1, a gene associated with the sphingolipid pathway, was predicted to be a potential target gene of miR-133b while ATG5 and LRP6 were target genes of miR-21 while being associated with autophagy and Wnt signalling pathways, respectively. SGPP1 was observed to be upregulated significantly (p = 0.019) by 2.07-fold, whereas ATG5 and LRP6 were found to be downregulated (p = 0.026 and 0.007, respectively) by 3.28-fold and 8.46-fold, respectively, in patients with coronary artery disease as compared with controls. Expression patterns of all the genes were also found to be modulated when cells were treated with respective miRNA inhibitors. CONCLUSIONS Results from the present study suggest that SGPP1, ATG5 and LRP6, target genes of miR-133b and miR-21, may serve as potential therapeutic hotspots in the management of coronary artery disease, which undoubtedly merit further experimental confirmation.
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27
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Greco MF, Rizzuto AS, Zarà M, Cafora M, Favero C, Solazzo G, Giusti I, Adorni MP, Zimetti F, Dolo V, Banfi C, Ferri N, Sirtori CR, Corsini A, Barbieri SS, Pistocchi A, Bollati V, Macchi C, Ruscica M. PCSK9 Confers Inflammatory Properties to Extracellular Vesicles Released by Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13065. [PMID: 36361853 PMCID: PMC9655172 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are key participants in both early- and late-stage atherosclerosis and influence neighbouring cells possibly by means of bioactive molecules, some of which are packed into extracellular vesicles (EVs). Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is expressed and secreted by VSMCs. This study aimed to unravel the role of PCSK9 on VSMCs-derived EVs in terms of content and functionality. EVs were isolated from human VSMCs overexpressing human PCSK9 (VSMCPCSK9-EVs) and tested on endothelial cells, monocytes, macrophages and in a model of zebrafish embryos. Compared to EVs released from wild-type VSMCs, VSMCPCSK9-EVs caused a rise in the expression of adhesion molecules in endothelial cells and of pro-inflammatory cytokines in monocytes. These acquired an increased migratory capacity, a reduced oxidative phosphorylation and secreted proteins involved in immune response and immune effector processes. Concerning macrophages, VSMCPCSK9-EVs enhanced inflammatory milieu and uptake of oxidized low-density lipoproteins, whereas the migratory capacity was reduced. When injected into zebrafish embryos, VSMCPCSK9-EVs favoured the recruitment of macrophages toward the site of injection. The results of the present study provide evidence that PCSK9 plays an inflammatory role by means of EVs, at least by those derived from smooth muscle cells of vascular origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Francesca Greco
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Stefania Rizzuto
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Marta Zarà
- Centro Cardiologico Monzino, Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Cafora
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Favero
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Solazzo
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Ilaria Giusti
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, Università degli Studi dell'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Maria Pia Adorni
- Unit of Neuroscience, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università degli Studi di Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Francesca Zimetti
- Department of Food and Drug, Università degli Studi di Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Vincenza Dolo
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, Università degli Studi dell'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Cristina Banfi
- Centro Cardiologico Monzino, Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Nicola Ferri
- Department of Medicine, Università degli Studi di Padova, 35100 Padua, Italy
| | - Cesare R Sirtori
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Alberto Corsini
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Stella Barbieri
- Centro Cardiologico Monzino, Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Pistocchi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational, Università degli Studi di Milano, L.I.T.A., 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Bollati
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Macchi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Ruscica
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
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Functional Crosstalk between PCSK9 Internalization and Pro-Inflammatory Activation in Human Macrophages: Role of Reactive Oxygen Species Release. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169114. [PMID: 36012389 PMCID: PMC9409451 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a cardiovascular disease caused mainly by dyslipidemia and is characterized by the formation of an atheroma plaque and chronic inflammation. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is a protease that induces the degradation of the LDL receptor (LDLR), which contributes to increased levels of LDL cholesterol and the progress of atherosclerosis. Given that macrophages are relevant components of the lipidic and inflammatory environment of atherosclerosis, we studied the effects of PCSK9 treatment on human macrophages. Our data show that human macrophages do not express PCSK9 but rapidly incorporate the circulating protein through the LDLR and also activate the pro-inflammatory TLR4 pathway. Both LDLR and TLR4 are internalized after incubation of macrophages with exogenous PCSK9. PCSK9 uptake increases the production of reactive oxygen species and reduces the expression of genes involved in lipid metabolism and cholesterol efflux, while enhancing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines through a TLR4-dependent mechanism. Under these conditions, the viability of macrophages is compromised, leading to increased cell death. These results provide novel insights into the role of PCSK9 in the crosstalk of lipids and cholesterol metabolism through the LDLR and on the pro-inflammatory activation of macrophages through TLR4 signaling. These pathways are relevant in the outcome of atherosclerosis and highlight the relevance of PCSK9 as a therapeutic target for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
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Bai Y, Ma K, Li J, Ren Z, Zhang J, Shan A. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG ameliorates DON-induced intestinal damage depending on the enrichment of beneficial bacteria in weaned piglets. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2022; 13:90. [PMID: 35962456 PMCID: PMC9375241 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-022-00737-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Deoxynivalenol (DON) is one of the most common environmental pollutants that induces intestinal inflammation and microbiota dysbiosis. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) is a probiotic that not only has anti-inflammatory effects, but also shows protective effect on the intestinal barrier. However, it is still unknown whether LGG exerts beneficial effects against DON-induced intestinal damage in piglets. In this work, a total of 36 weaned piglets were randomized to one of four treatment groups for 21 d. The treatment groups were CON (basal diet); LGG (basal diet supplemented with 1.77 × 1011 CFU/kg LGG); DON (DON-contaminated diet) and LGG + DON (DON-contaminated diet supplemented with 1.77 × 1011 CFU/kg LGG). RESULT Supplementation of LGG can enhance growth performance of piglets exposed to DON by improving intestinal barrier function. LGG has a mitigating effect on intestinal inflammation induced by DON exposure, largely through repression of the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway. Furthermore, supplementation of LGG increased the relative abundances of beneficial bacteria (e.g., Collinsella, Lactobacillus, Ruminococcus_torques_group and Anaerofustis), and decreased the relative abundances of harmful bacteria (e.g., Parabacteroides and Ruminiclostridium_6), and also promoted the production of SCFAs. CONCLUSIONS LGG ameliorates DON-induced intestinal damage, which may provide theoretical support for the application of LGG to alleviate the adverse effects induced by DON exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongsong Bai
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, P. R. China
| | - Kaidi Ma
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, P. R. China
| | - Jibo Li
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, P. R. China
| | - Zhongshuai Ren
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, Changchun, 130062, P. R. China
| | - Jing Zhang
- College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, Changchun, 130062, P. R. China.
| | - Anshan Shan
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, P. R. China.
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30
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Palumbo M, Giammanco A, Purrello F, Pavanello C, Mombelli G, Di Pino A, Piro S, Cefalù AB, Calabresi L, Averna M, Bernini F, Zimetti F, Adorni MP, Scicali R. Effects of PCSK9 inhibitors on HDL cholesterol efflux and serum cholesterol loading capacity in familial hypercholesterolemia subjects: a multi-lipid-center real-world evaluation. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:925587. [PMID: 35928226 PMCID: PMC9343790 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.925587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), beyond regulating LDL cholesterol (LDL-c) plasma levels, exerts several pleiotropic effects by modulating lipid metabolism in extrahepatic cells such as macrophages. Macrophage cholesterol homeostasis depends on serum lipoprotein functions, including the HDL capacity to promote cell cholesterol efflux (CEC) and the serum capacity to promote cell cholesterol loading (CLC). The aim of this observational study was to investigate the effect of PCSK9 inhibitors (PCSK9-i) treatment on HDL-CEC and serum CLC in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH). 31 genetically confirmed FH patients were recruited. Blood was collected and serum isolated at baseline and after 6 months of PCSK9-i treatment. HDL-CEC was evaluated through the main pathways with a radioisotopic cell-based assay. Serum CLC was assessed fluorimetrically in human THP-1 monocyte-derived macrophages. After treatment with PCSK9-i, total cholesterol and LDL-c significantly decreased (−41.6%, p < 0.0001 and −56.7%, p < 0.0001, respectively). Total HDL-CEC was not different between patients before and after treatment. Conversely, despite no changes in HDL-c levels between the groups, ABCG1 HDL-CEC significantly increased after treatment (+22.2%, p < 0.0001) as well as HDL-CEC by aqueous diffusion (+7.8%, p = 0.0008). Only a trend towards reduction of ABCA1 HDL-CEC was observed after treatment. PCSK9-i significantly decreased serum CLC (−6.6%, p = 0.0272). This effect was only partly related to the reduction of LDL-c levels. In conclusion, PCSK9-i treatment significantly increased HDL-CEC through ABCG1 and aqueous diffusion pathways and reduced the serum CLC in FH patients. The favorable effect of PCSK9-i on functional lipid profile could contribute to the cardiovascular benefit of these drugs in FH patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antonina Giammanco
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (ProMISE)—University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Francesco Purrello
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Chiara Pavanello
- Centro E. Grossi Paoletti, Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
- Centro Dislipidemie, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milano, Italy
| | - Giuliana Mombelli
- Centro Dislipidemie, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milano, Italy
| | - Antonino Di Pino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Piro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Angelo Baldassare Cefalù
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (ProMISE)—University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Laura Calabresi
- Centro E. Grossi Paoletti, Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Maurizio Averna
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (ProMISE)—University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Franco Bernini
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Francesca Zimetti
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
- *Correspondence: Francesca Zimetti,
| | - Maria Pia Adorni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Unit of Neuroscience, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Roberto Scicali
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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31
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Zou Y, Chen Z, Zhang X, Yu J, Xu H, Cui J, Li Y, Niu Y, Zhou C, Xia J, Wu J. Targeting PCSK9 Ameliorates Graft Vascular Disease in Mice by Inhibiting NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells. Front Immunol 2022; 13:894789. [PMID: 35720337 PMCID: PMC9204514 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.894789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Graft vascular disease (GVD), which limits the long-term survival of patients after solid-organ transplantation, is associated with both immune responses and nonimmune factors, including dyslipidemia. Recent studies have shown that inhibition of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), a U.S. Federal Drug Administration-approved treatment for hyperlipidemia, reduces cardiovascular events, regulates inflammatory responses, and enhances the efficacy of immune checkpoint therapy in cancer treatment through a cholesterol-independent mechanism. However, whether targeting PCSK9 is a potential therapeutic strategy for GVD remains unknown. Methods Serum samples and grafts were harvested from male mice undergoing abdominal aortic transplantation. The pathological alterations in the aortic grafts were detected by hematoxylin and eosin staining, Verhoeff’s Van Gieson staining, and Masson staining. Inflammatory cell infiltration and proinflammatory cytokine expression in the aortic grafts were detected by immunohistochemistry and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), respectively. The regulatory effects of PCSK9 on vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) migration and proliferation were examined by transwell, EdU, and western blot assays. The effect of Evolocumab, a PCSK9 inhibitor, on GVD in humanized PCSK9 mice was also evaluated. Results PCSK9 was upregulated in the serum, grafts, and liver of mice in the allograft group subjected to abdominal aortic transplantation. Pcsk9 knockout significantly reduced vascular stenosis, the intimal hyperplasia area and collagen deposition. Pcsk9 depletion also inhibited macrophage recruitment and the mRNA expression of proinflammatory cytokines in aortic grafts. Furthermore, Pcsk9 knockout suppressed the migration and proliferation of VSMCs, which was related to the inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Meanwhile, Evolocumab significantly ameliorated GVD in humanized PCSK9 mice. Conclusion PCSK9 is upregulated in a mouse model of GVD, and Pcsk9 knockout reduces vascular occlusion, suggesting that PCSK9 may be a promising target for the treatment of GVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanqiang Zou
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhang Chen
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xi Zhang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jizhang Yu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Heng Xu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jikai Cui
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuan Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuqing Niu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Cheng Zhou
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiahong Xia
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jie Wu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Bucci T, Ames PR, Cammisotto V, Bartimoccia S, Triggiani M, Parente R, Ciampa A, Pignatelli P, Carnevale R, Pastori D. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) levels in primary antiphospholipid syndrome. The multicenter ATHERO-APS study. J Autoimmun 2022; 129:102832. [PMID: 35512480 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2022.102832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is emerging as a novel cardiovascular risk factor. Levels of PCSK9 in thrombotic primary antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS) have never been investigated. METHODS Cross sectional comparison of baseline characteristics of 91 PAPS patients enrolled in the multicenter prospective ATHERO-APS cohort study. PCSK9 levels were categorized into tertiles and the association with arterial and recurrent thrombosis were assessed by univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis. RESULTS Median age was 51 years and 71.4% (n = 65) were women. Overall, 33% (n = 30) experienced an arterial event while 31% (n = 28) had recurrent thrombotic events. Median PCSK9 levels were 1243 (1100-1650) pg/ml. Patients in the third PCSK9 tertile (>1458 pg/ml) showed a higher prevalence of dyslipidemia, lupus anticoagulant positivity and a history of previous arterial and recurrent thrombosis than patients in the first and second tertile. PCSK9 levels were higher in arterial than venous thrombosis (1502 vs. 1180 pg/ml, p = 0.002), and in patients with recurrent vs isolated thrombosis (1680 vs. 1150 pg/m, p < 0.001). High plasma PCSK9 levels were associated with a 4-fold increase risk for arterial events and with a 10-fold increase risk for recurrent thrombosis after adjustment for confounding factors. CONCLUSION These preliminary data suggest that PCSK9 levels are increased in PAPS patients with arterial and recurrent thrombosis. Its role as a possible therapeutic target in PAPS needs further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Bucci
- Department of General Surgery and Surgical Specialties "Paride Stefanini", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Paul Rj Ames
- Immune Response and Vascular Disease Unit, CEDOC, Nova University Lisbon, Rua Camara Pestana, Lisbon, Portugal; Department of Haematology, Dumfries Royal Infirmary, Cargenbridge, Dumfries, UK
| | - Vittoria Cammisotto
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiological and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Bartimoccia
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiological and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Triggiani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of Salerno, Italy
| | - Roberta Parente
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of Salerno, Italy
| | | | - Pasquale Pignatelli
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiological and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Carnevale
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Latina, Italy
| | - Daniele Pastori
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiological and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
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33
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Inflammation and atherosclerosis: signaling pathways and therapeutic intervention. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:131. [PMID: 35459215 PMCID: PMC9033871 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-00955-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 256] [Impact Index Per Article: 128.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory vascular disease driven by traditional and nontraditional risk factors. Genome-wide association combined with clonal lineage tracing and clinical trials have demonstrated that innate and adaptive immune responses can promote or quell atherosclerosis. Several signaling pathways, that are associated with the inflammatory response, have been implicated within atherosclerosis such as NLRP3 inflammasome, toll-like receptors, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9, Notch and Wnt signaling pathways, which are of importance for atherosclerosis development and regression. Targeting inflammatory pathways, especially the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway and its regulated inflammatory cytokine interleukin-1β, could represent an attractive new route for the treatment of atherosclerotic diseases. Herein, we summarize the knowledge on cellular participants and key inflammatory signaling pathways in atherosclerosis, and discuss the preclinical studies targeting these key pathways for atherosclerosis, the clinical trials that are going to target some of these processes, and the effects of quelling inflammation and atherosclerosis in the clinic.
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34
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Luquero A, Vilahur G, Casani L, Badimon L, Borrell-Pages M. Differential cholesterol uptake in liver cells: A role for PCSK9. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22291. [PMID: 35344222 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202101660rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The clearance of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles from the circulation is regulated by the LDL receptor (LDLR) and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin 9 (PCSK9) interaction. Its disruption reduces blood cholesterol levels and delays atherosclerosis progression. Whether other members of the LDLR superfamily are in vivo targets of PCSK9 has been poorly explored. The aim of this work was to study the interaction between PCSK9 and members of the LDLR superfamily in the regulation of liver cholesterol homeostasis in an in vivo low-density lipoprotein receptor related protein 5 (LRP5) deficient mice model challenged with high-fat diet. Our results show that Wt and Lrp5-/- mice fed a hypercholesterolemic diet (HC) have increased cholesterol ester accumulation and decreased liver LDLR and LRP5 gene and protein expression. Very low-density lipoprotein receptor (VLDLR), LRP6, LRP2, and LRP1 expression levels were analyzed in liver samples and show that they do not participate in Lrp5-/- liver cholesterol uptake. Immunoprecipitation experiments show that LRP5 forms a complex with PCSK9 in liver-specific fat-storing stellate cells but not in structural HepG2 cells. Hepatic stellate cells silenced for LRP5 and/or PCSK9 expression and challenged with lipids show reduced cholesterol ester accumulation, indicating that both proteins are involved in lipid processing in the liver. Our results indicate that cholesterol esters accumulate in livers of Wt mice in a LDLR-family-members dependent manner as VLDLR, LRP2, and LRP6 show increased expression in HC mice. However, this increase is lost in livers of Lrp5-/- mice, where scavenger receptors are involved in cholesterol uptake. PCSK9 expression is strongly downregulated in mice livers after HC feeding. However PCSK9 and LRP5 bind in the cytoplasm of fat storing liver cells, indicating that this PCSK9-LRP5 interaction is cell-type specific and that both proteins contribute to lipid uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aureli Luquero
- Cardiovascular Program ICCC, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau Research Institute, IIB-Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gemma Vilahur
- Cardiovascular Program ICCC, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau Research Institute, IIB-Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain.,CIBER-CV, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain
| | - Laura Casani
- Cardiovascular Program ICCC, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau Research Institute, IIB-Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lina Badimon
- Cardiovascular Program ICCC, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau Research Institute, IIB-Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain.,CIBER-CV, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain.,Cardiovascular Research Chair, UAB, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Borrell-Pages
- Cardiovascular Program ICCC, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau Research Institute, IIB-Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain.,CIBER-CV, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain
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35
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Wu NQ, Shi HW, Li JJ. Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9 and Inflammation: An Updated Review. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:763516. [PMID: 35252378 PMCID: PMC8894439 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.763516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The function of Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9 (PCSK9), a novel plasma protein, has mainly been involved in cholesterol metabolism in the liver, while, more interestingly, recent data have shown that PCSK9 also took part in the modulation of inflammation, which appeared to be another explanation for the reduction of cardiovascular risk by PCSK9 inhibition besides its significant effect on lowering lower-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) concentration. Overall, a series of previous studies suggested an association of PCSK9 with inflammation. Firstly, PCSK9 is able to induce the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines in macrophages and in other various tissues and elevated serum PCSK9 levels could be observed in pro-inflammatory conditions, such as sepsis, acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Secondly, detailed signaling pathway studies indicated that PCSK9 positively regulated toll-like receptor 4 expression and inflammatory cytokines expression followed by nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB) activation, together with apoptosis and autophagy progression. Besides, PCSK9 enhanced and interacted with scavenger receptors (SRs) of inflammatory mediators like lectin-like oxidized-LDL receptor-1 (LOX-1) to promote inflammatory response. Additionally, several studies also suggested that the role of PCSK9 in atherogenesis was intertwined with inflammation and the interacting effect shown between PCSK9 and LOX-1 was involved in the inflammatory response of atherosclerosis. Finally, emerging clinical trials indicated that PCSK9 inhibitors could reduce more events in patients with ACS accompanied by increased inflammatory status, which might be involved in its attenuating impact on arterial plaque. Hence, further understanding of the relationship between PCSK9 and inflammation would be necessary to help prevent and manage the atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) clinically. This review article will update the recent advances in the link of PCSK9 with inflammation.
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36
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van Ingen E, Foks AC, Woudenberg T, van der Bent ML, de Jong A, Hohensinner PJ, Wojta J, Bot I, Quax PHA, Nossent AY. Inhibition of microRNA-494-3p activates Wnt signaling and reduces proinflammatory macrophage polarization in atherosclerosis. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2021; 26:1228-1239. [PMID: 34853722 PMCID: PMC8607137 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2021.10.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
We have previously shown that treatment with third-generation antisense oligonucleotides against miR-494-3p (3GA-494) reduces atherosclerotic plaque progression and stabilizes lesions, both in early and established plaques, with reduced macrophage content in established plaques. Within the plaque, different subtypes of macrophages are present. Here, we aimed to investigate whether miR-494-3p directly influences macrophage polarization and activation. Human macrophages were polarized into either proinflammatory M1 or anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages and simultaneously treated with 3GA-494 or a control antisense (3GA-ctrl). We show that 3GA-494 treatment inhibited miR-494-3p in M1 macrophages and dampened M1 polarization, while in M2 macrophages miR-494-3p expression was induced and M2 polarization enhanced. The proinflammatory marker CCR2 was reduced in 3GA-494-treated atherosclerosis-prone mice. Pathway enrichment analysis predicted an overlap between miR-494-3p target genes in macrophage polarization and Wnt signaling. We demonstrate that miR-494-3p regulates expression levels of multiple Wnt signaling components, such as LRP6 and TBL1X. Wnt signaling appears activated upon treatment with 3GA-494, both in cultured M1 macrophages and in plaques of hypercholesterolemic mice. Taken together, 3GA-494 treatment dampened M1 polarization, at least in part via activated Wnt signaling, while M2 polarization was enhanced, which is both favorable in reducing atherosclerotic plaque formation and increasing plaque stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva van Ingen
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, the Netherlands.,Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, the Netherlands.,Division of BioTherapeutics, LACDR, Leiden University, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Amanda C Foks
- Division of BioTherapeutics, LACDR, Leiden University, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Tamar Woudenberg
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, the Netherlands.,Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - M Leontien van der Bent
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, the Netherlands.,Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Alwin de Jong
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, the Netherlands.,Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Philipp J Hohensinner
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Medical, University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Johann Wojta
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Medical, University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria.,Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cardiovascular Research, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Ilze Bot
- Division of BioTherapeutics, LACDR, Leiden University, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Paul H A Quax
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, the Netherlands.,Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Anne Yaël Nossent
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, the Netherlands.,Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, the Netherlands.,Department of Internal Medicine II, Medical, University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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Song F, Li JZ, Wu Y, Wu WY, Wang Y, Li G. Ubiquitinated ligation protein NEDD4L participates in MiR-30a-5p attenuated atherosclerosis by regulating macrophage polarization and lipid metabolism. MOLECULAR THERAPY - NUCLEIC ACIDS 2021; 26:1303-1317. [PMID: 34853729 PMCID: PMC8609110 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2021.10.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
MiR-30a-5p plays an important role in various cardiovascular diseases, but its effect in atherosclerosis has not been reported. Apolipoprotein E-deficient (Apo E−/−) mice were used to investigate the role of miR-30a-5p in atherosclerosis, and the underlying mechanism was investigated in vivo and in vitro. The fluorescence in situ hybridization test revealed that miR-30a-5p was expressed in Apo E−/− mice lesions. Nevertheless, in RAW264.7 macrophages, the expression of miR-30a-5p was reduced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or oxidized low-density lipoprotein. MiR-30a-5p-ago-treated Apo E−/− mice significantly reduced lesion areas in the aorta and aortic root, reduced levels of lipoprotein and pro-inflammatory cytokines, and increased levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines. The ratio of M1/M2 macrophages was decreased in miR-30a-5p-ago-treated Apo E−/− mice and LPS-treated RAW264.7 macrophages by the regulation of Smad-1/2 phosphorylation. MiR-30a-5p reduced lipid uptake in oxidized low-density lipoprotein-treated macrophages by regulating the expression of PPAR-γ, ABCA1, ABCG1, LDLR, and PCSK9. Ubiquitinated ligase NEDD4L was identified as a target of miR-30a-5p. Interestingly, knockdown of NEDD4L decreased the M1/M2 ratio and oxidized low-density lipoprotein uptake in macrophages by inhibiting the ubiquitination of PPAR-γ and phosphorylation of Smad-1/2 and regulating ABCA1, ABCG1, LDLR, and PCSK9. We demonstrated a novel effect and mechanism of miR-30a-5p in atherosclerosis.
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PCSK9 Induces Tissue Factor Expression by Activation of TLR4/NFkB Signaling. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222312640. [PMID: 34884442 PMCID: PMC8657476 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin 9 (PCSK9) increases LDL cholesterol (C) concentration by accelerating the hepatic degradation of the LDL receptor (R) thus promoting atherogenesis. The molecule, however, also exerts proinflammatory effects independent of circulating LDL-C by enhancing local cytokine production and activation of NFkB, a process that might involve Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), a crucial component of the innate immunity system. Tissue factor (TF), a glycoprotein which plays an essential role in coagulation and inflammation, is rapidly induced by circulating monocytes stimulated by proinflammatory agents through NFkB-dependent mechanisms. The aims of our study were (1) to assess whether PCSK9 may induce monocytic TF expression and (2) to evaluate whether the TLR4/NFkB signaling pathway may contribute to that effect. Experiments were carried out in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), THP-1 cells, and HEK293 cells transfected with plasmids encoding the human TLR4 complex. PCSK9 increased procoagulant activity (PCA), mRNA and TF protein expression in both PBMCs and THP-1 cultures. Pre-treatment with inhibitors of TLR4/NFkB signaling such as LPS-RS, CLI-095, and BAY 11-7082, downregulated PCSK9-induced TF expression. A similar effect was obtained by incubating cell cultures with anti-PCSK9 human monoclonal antibody. In TLR4-HEK293 cells, PCSK9 activated the TLR4/NFkB signaling pathway to an extent comparable to LPS, the specific agonist of TLR4s and quantitative confocal microscopy documented the colocalization of PCSK9 and TLR4s. In conclusion, PCSK9 induces TF expression through activation of TLR4/NFkB signaling.
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Lin J, Zheng Z, Liu J, Yang G, Leng L, Wang H, Qiu G, Wu Z. LRP5-Mediated Lipid Uptake Modulates Osteogenic Differentiation of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stromal Cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:766815. [PMID: 34796178 PMCID: PMC8593169 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.766815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Nutritional microenvironment determines the specification of progenitor cells, and lipid availability was found to modulate osteogenesis in skeletal progenitors. Here, we investigated the implications of lipid scarcity in the osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (BMSCs) and the role of low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 5 (LRP5), a co-receptor transducing canonical Wnt/beta-catenin signals, in BMSC lipid uptake during osteogenesis. The osteogenic differentiation of murine BMSCs was suppressed by lipid scarcity and partially rescued by additional fatty acid treatment with oleate. The enhancement of osteogenesis by oleate was found to be dosage-dependent, along with the enhanced activation of beta-catenin and Wnt target genes. Conditional knockout (CKO) of Lrp5 gene in murine mesenchymal lineage using Lrp5fl/fl;Prrx1-cre mice led to decreased bone quality and altered fat distribution in vivo. After Lrp5 ablation using adenoviral Cre-recombinase, the accumulation of lipid droplets in BMSC cytoplasm was significantly reduced, and the osteogenesis of BMSCs was suppressed. Moreover, the impaired osteogenesis due to either lipid scarcity or Lrp5 ablation could be rescued by recombinant Wnt3a protein, indicating that the osteogenesis induced by Wnt/beta-catenin signaling was independent of LRP5-mediated lipid uptake. In conclusion, lipid scarcity suppresses BMSC osteogenic differentiation. LRP5 plays a role in the uptake of lipids in BMSCs and therefore mediates osteogenic specification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiachen Lin
- Medical Science Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zhifa Zheng
- Medical Science Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jieying Liu
- Medical Science Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Guihua Yang
- Harmony Technology Co., Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Ling Leng
- Medical Science Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hai Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Guixing Qiu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zhihong Wu
- Medical Science Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Erol SA, Tanacan A, Firat Oguz E, Anuk AT, Goncu Ayhan S, Neselioglu S, Sahin D. A comparison of the maternal levels of serum proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 in pregnant women with the complication of fetal open neural tube defects. Congenit Anom (Kyoto) 2021; 61:169-176. [PMID: 34128273 DOI: 10.1111/cga.12432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
It was aimed to evaluate the levels of maternal serum proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) in pregnant women with a fetus diagnosed with open neural tube defects (NTDs). This case-control study included 38 pregnant women carrying fetuses with open NTDs and 44 age-matched, pregnant women with no specified risk factors. Comparisons were made of the groups in respect of demographic and clinical data and PCSK9 levels. To examine the performance of PCSK9 levels in the prediction of fetal open NTDs, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used. In the first and second trimesters, PCSK9 levels were determined to be lower in the NTD group than in the control group (p = 0.010 and p = 0.015, respectively). In the first trimester, the lower PCSK9 levels in the NTD group were not statistically significant (p = 0.575). In the second trimester, the ROC curve value with the best balance of sensitivity/specificity for PCSK9 was 71.9 ng/ml (84.6% sensitivity, 51.7% specificity) and in the first and second trimester combined, 74.4 ng/ml (81.6% sensitivity, 45.5% specificity) (p = 0.015, p = 0.036, respectively). PCSK9 may be involved in the etiopathogenesis of open NTDs at the critical steps of fetal neuronal differentiation. Although it has limitations, PCSK9 may be used as an additional biomarker for the screening of NTDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyit Ahmet Erol
- Department of Perinatology, Turkish Ministry of Health, Ankara City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Atakan Tanacan
- Department of Perinatology, Turkish Ministry of Health, Ankara City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Esra Firat Oguz
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Turkish Ministry of Health, Ankara City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ali Taner Anuk
- Department of Perinatology, Turkish Ministry of Health, Ankara City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Sule Goncu Ayhan
- Department of Perinatology, Turkish Ministry of Health, Ankara City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Salim Neselioglu
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Turkish Ministry of Health, Ankara City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey.,Yildirim Beyazit University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Dilek Sahin
- Department of Perinatology, University of Health Sciences, Turkish Ministry of Health, Ankara City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
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41
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Luquero A, Vilahur G, Crespo J, Badimon L, Borrell‐Pages M. Microvesicles carrying LRP5 induce macrophage polarization to an anti-inflammatory phenotype. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:7935-7947. [PMID: 34288375 PMCID: PMC8358886 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2020] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Microvesicles (MV) contribute to cell-to-cell communication through their transported proteins and nucleic acids. MV, released into the extracellular space, exert paracrine regulation by modulating cellular responses after interaction with near and far target cells. MV are released at high concentrations by activated inflammatory cells. Different subtypes of human macrophages have been characterized based on surface epitopes being CD16+ macrophages associated with anti-inflammatory phenotypes. We have previously shown that low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 5 (LRP5), a member of the LDLR family that participates in lipid homeostasis, is expressed in macrophage CD16+ with repair and survival functions. The goal of our study was to characterize the cargo and tentative function of macrophage-derived MV, whether LRP5 is delivered into MV and whether these MV are able to induce inflammatory cell differentiation to a specific CD16- or CD16+ phenotype. We show, for the first time, that lipid-loaded macrophages release MV containing LRP5. LDL loading induces increased expression of macrophage pro-inflammatory markers and increased release of MV containing pro-inflammatory markers. Conditioning of fresh macrophages with MV released by Lrp5-silenced macrophages induced the transcription of inflammatory genes and reduced the transcription of anti-inflammatory genes. Thus, MV containing LRP5 induce anti-inflammatory phenotypes in macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aureli Luquero
- Cardiovascular Program ICCCIR‐Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant PauIIB‐Sant PauBarcelonaSpain
| | - Gemma Vilahur
- Cardiovascular Program ICCCIR‐Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant PauIIB‐Sant PauBarcelonaSpain
- CIBER‐CVInstituto de Salud Carlos IIIMadridSpain
| | - Javier Crespo
- Cardiovascular Program ICCCIR‐Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant PauIIB‐Sant PauBarcelonaSpain
| | - Lina Badimon
- Cardiovascular Program ICCCIR‐Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant PauIIB‐Sant PauBarcelonaSpain
- CIBER‐CVInstituto de Salud Carlos IIIMadridSpain
- Cardiovascular Research ChairUABBarcelonaSpain
| | - Maria Borrell‐Pages
- Cardiovascular Program ICCCIR‐Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant PauIIB‐Sant PauBarcelonaSpain
- CIBER‐CVInstituto de Salud Carlos IIIMadridSpain
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Evans P, Wojta J, Hoefer IE, Waltenberger J, Guzik T, Badimon L, Weber C. The year in basic vascular biology research: from mechanoreceptors and neutrophil extracellular traps to smartphone data and omics. Cardiovasc Res 2021; 117:1814-1822. [PMID: 33744925 PMCID: PMC8083796 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvab105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
2020 has been an extraordinary year. The emergence of COVID-19 has driven urgent research in pulmonary and cardiovascular science and other fields. It has also shaped the way that we work with many experimental laboratories shutting down for several months, while bioinformatics approaches and other large data projects have gained prominence. Despite these setbacks, vascular biology research is stronger than ever. On behalf of the European Society of Cardiology Council for Basic Cardiovascular Science (ESC CBCS), here we review some of the vascular biology research highlights for 2020. This review is not exhaustive and there are many outstanding vascular biology publications that we were unable to cite due to page limits. Notwithstanding this, we have provided a snapshot of vascular biology research excellence in 2020 and identify topics that are in the ascendency and likely to gain prominence in coming years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Evans
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK.,Insigneo Institute, Sheffield, UK
| | - Johann Wojta
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cardiovascular Research, Vienna, Austria
| | - Imo E Hoefer
- Central Diagnostic Laboratory, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Johannes Waltenberger
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Medical Faculty, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Tomasz Guzik
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.,Department of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Collegium Medicum, Cracow, Poland
| | - Lina Badimon
- Cardiovascular Program-ICCC, IR-Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, CiberCV, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Christian Weber
- Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention (IPEK), Ludwig-Maximillian-Universität (LMU) München, München, Germany.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Munich Heart Alliance and Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany; and.,Department of Biochemistry, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
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PCSK9: A Multi-Faceted Protein That Is Involved in Cardiovascular Biology. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9070793. [PMID: 34356856 PMCID: PMC8301306 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9070793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Pro-protein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is secreted mostly by hepatocytes and to a lesser extent by the intestine, pancreas, kidney, adipose tissue, and vascular cells. PCSK9 has been known to interact with the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) and chaperones the receptor to its degradation. In this manner, targeting PCSK9 is a novel attractive approach to reduce hyperlipidaemia and the risk for cardiovascular diseases. Recently, it has been recognised that the effects of PCSK9 in relation to cardiovascular complications are not only LDLR related, but that various LDLR-independent pathways and processes are also influenced. In this review, the various LDLR dependent and especially independent effects of PCSK9 on the cardiovascular system are discussed, followed by an overview of related PCSK9-polymorphisms and currently available and future therapeutic approaches to manipulate PCSK9 expression.
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Macchi C, Ferri N, Sirtori CR, Corsini A, Banach M, Ruscica M. Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9: A View beyond the Canonical Cholesterol-Lowering Impact. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2021; 191:1385-1397. [PMID: 34019847 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2021.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), mainly synthetized and released by the liver, represents one of the key regulators of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Although genetic and interventional studies have demonstrated that lowering PCSK9 levels corresponds to a cardiovascular benefit, identification of non-cholesterol-related processes has emerged since its discovery. Besides liver, PCSK9 is also expressed in many tissues (eg, intestine, endocrine pancreas, and brain). The aim of the present review is to describe and discuss PCSK9 pathophysiology and possible non-lipid-lowering effects whether already extensively characterized (eg, inflammatory burden of atherosclerosis, triglyceride-rich lipoprotein metabolism, and platelet activation), or to be unraveled (eg, in adipose tissue). The identification of novel transcriptional factors in the promoter region of human PCSK9 (eg, ChREBP) characterizes new mechanisms explaining how controlling intrahepatic glucose may be a therapeutic strategy to reduce cardiovascular risk in type 2 diabetes. Finally, the evidence describing PCSK9 as involved in cell proliferation and apoptosis raises the possibility of this protein being involved in cancer risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Macchi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Universita' degli Studi di Milano, Italy.
| | - Nicola Ferri
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Cesare R Sirtori
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Universita' degli Studi di Milano, Italy
| | - Alberto Corsini
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Universita' degli Studi di Milano, Italy; Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico MultiMedica, Sesto San Giovanni/Milan, Italy
| | - Maciej Banach
- Department of Hypertension, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland; Polish Mother's Memorial Hospital Research Institute, Lodz, Poland; Cardiovascular Research Centre, University of Zielona Góra, Zielona Góra, Poland
| | - Massimiliano Ruscica
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Universita' degli Studi di Milano, Italy.
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Luquero A, Badimon L, Borrell-Pages M. PCSK9 Functions in Atherosclerosis Are Not Limited to Plasmatic LDL-Cholesterol Regulation. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 8:639727. [PMID: 33834043 PMCID: PMC8021767 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.639727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The relevance of PCSK9 in atherosclerosis progression is demonstrated by the benefits observed in patients that have followed PCSK9-targeted therapies. The impact of these therapies is attributed to the plasma lipid-lowering effect induced when LDLR hepatic expression levels are recovered after the suppression of soluble PCSK9. Different studies show that PCSK9 is involved in other mechanisms that take place at different stages during atherosclerosis development. Indeed, PCSK9 regulates the expression of key receptors expressed in macrophages that contribute to lipid-loading, foam cell formation and atherosclerotic plaque formation. PCSK9 is also a regulator of vascular inflammation and its expression correlates with pro-inflammatory cytokines release, inflammatory cell recruitment and plaque destabilization. Furthermore, anti-PCSK9 approaches have demonstrated that by inhibiting PCSK9 activity, the progression of atherosclerotic disease is diminished. PCSK9 also modulates thrombosis by modifying platelets steady-state, leukocyte recruitment and clot formation. In this review we evaluate recent findings on PCSK9 functions in cardiovascular diseases beyond LDL-cholesterol plasma levels regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aureli Luquero
- Cardiovascular Program ICCC, IR-Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, IIB-Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lina Badimon
- Cardiovascular Program ICCC, IR-Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, IIB-Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación en Red- Área Cardiovascular, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Cardiovascular Research Chair, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Borrell-Pages
- Cardiovascular Program ICCC, IR-Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, IIB-Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación en Red- Área Cardiovascular, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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46
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Krychtiuk KA, Lenz M, Hohensinner P, Distelmaier K, Schrutka L, Kastl SP, Huber K, Dostal E, Oravec S, Hengstenberg C, Wojta J, Speidl WS. Circulating levels of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) are associated with monocyte subsets in patients with stable coronary artery disease. J Clin Lipidol 2021; 15:512-521. [PMID: 33789832 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacl.2021.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type-9 (PCSK9) is an enzyme promoting the degradation of low-density lipoprotein receptors (LDL-R) in hepatocytes. Inhibition of PCSK9 has emerged as a novel target for lipid-lowering therapy. Monocytes are crucially involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and can be divided into three subsets. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to examine whether circulating levels of PCSK9 are associated with monocyte subsets. METHODS We included 69 patients with stable coronary artery disease. PCSK9 levels were measured and monocyte subsets were assessed by flow cytometry and divided into classical monocytes (CD14++CD16-; CM), intermediate monocytes (CD14++CD16+; IM) and non-classical monocytes (CD14+CD16++; NCM). RESULTS Mean age was 64 years and 80% of patients were male. Patients on statin treatment (n = 55) showed higher PCSK9-levels (245.4 (206.0-305.5) ng/mL) as opposed to those without statin treatment (186.1 (162.3-275.4) ng/mL; p = 0.05). In patients on statin treatment, CM correlated with circulating PCSK9 levels (R = 0.29; p = 0.04), while NCM showed an inverse correlation with PCSK9 levels (R = -0.33; p = 0.02). Patients with PCSK9 levels above the median showed a significantly higher proportion of CM as compared to patients with PCSK9 below the median (83.5 IQR 79.2-86.7 vs. 80.4, IQR 76.5-85.2%; p = 0.05). Conversely, PCSK9 levels >median were associated with a significantly lower proportion of NCM as compared to those with PCSK9 <median (10.2, IQR 7.3-14.6 vs. 14.3, IQR 10.9-18.7%; p = 0.02). In contrast, IM showed no association with PCSK9 levels. CONCLUSIONS We hereby provide a novel link between PCSK9 regulation, innate immunity and atherosclerotic disease in statin-treated patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin A Krychtiuk
- Department of Internal Medicine II - Division of Cardiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Max Lenz
- Department of Internal Medicine II - Division of Cardiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Philipp Hohensinner
- Department of Internal Medicine II - Division of Cardiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cardiovascular Research, Vienna, Austria
| | - Klaus Distelmaier
- Department of Internal Medicine II - Division of Cardiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lore Schrutka
- Department of Internal Medicine II - Division of Cardiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Stefan P Kastl
- Department of Internal Medicine II - Division of Cardiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Kurt Huber
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cardiovascular Research, Vienna, Austria; 3rd Medical Department, Wilhelminenhospital, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Stanislav Oravec
- 1st Medical Clinic; Medical Faculty of Comenius University Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Christian Hengstenberg
- Department of Internal Medicine II - Division of Cardiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Johann Wojta
- Department of Internal Medicine II - Division of Cardiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Cardiovascular Research, Vienna, Austria; Core Facilities, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Walter S Speidl
- Department of Internal Medicine II - Division of Cardiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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47
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Schlüter KD, Wolf A, Schreckenberg R. Coming Back to Physiology: Extra Hepatic Functions of Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9. Front Physiol 2020; 11:598649. [PMID: 33364976 PMCID: PMC7750466 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.598649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuronal apoptosis regulated convertase-1 (NARC-1), now mostly known as proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), has received a lot of attention due to the fact that it is a key regulator of the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor (LDL-R) and is therefore involved in hepatic LDL clearance. Within a few years, therapies targeting PCSK9 have reached clinical practice and they offer an additional tool to reduce blood cholesterol concentrations. However, PCSK9 is almost ubiquitously expressed in the body but has less well-understood functions and target proteins in extra hepatic tissues. As such, PCSK9 is involved in the regulation of neuronal survival and protein degradation, it affects the expression of the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) in the kidney, it interacts with white blood cells and with cells of the vascular wall, and it modifies contractile activity of cardiomyocytes, and contributes to the regulation of cholesterol uptake in the intestine. Moreover, under stress conditions, signals from the kidney and heart can affect hepatic expression and thereby the plasma concentration of PCSK9 which then in turn can affect other target organs. Therefore, there is an intense relationship between the local (autocrine) and systemic (endocrine) effects of PCSK9. Although, PCSK9 has been recognized as a ubiquitously expressed modifier of cellular function and signaling molecules, its physiological role in different organs is not well-understood. The current review summarizes these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Annemarie Wolf
- Institute of Physiology, Justus-Liebig-University, Gießen, Germany
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Andreadou I, Tsoumani M, Vilahur G, Ikonomidis I, Badimon L, Varga ZV, Ferdinandy P, Schulz R. PCSK9 in Myocardial Infarction and Cardioprotection: Importance of Lipid Metabolism and Inflammation. Front Physiol 2020; 11:602497. [PMID: 33262707 PMCID: PMC7688516 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.602497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Extensive evidence from epidemiologic, genetic, and clinical intervention studies has indisputably shown that elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) concentrations play a central role in the pathophysiology of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Apart from LDL-C, also triglycerides independently modulate cardiovascular risk. Reduction of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) has emerged as a therapeutic target for reducing plasma LDL-C, but it is also associated with a reduction in triglyceride levels potentially through modulation of the expression of free fatty acid transporters. Preclinical data indicate that PCSK9 is up-regulated in the ischaemic heart and decreasing PCSK9 expression impacts on infarct size, post infarct inflammation and remodeling as well as cardiac dysfunction following ischaemia/reperfusion. Clinical data support that notion in that PCSK9 inhibition is associated with reductions in the incidence of myocardial infarction, stroke, and coronary revascularization and an improvement of endothelial function in subjects with increased cardiovascular risk. The aim of the current review is to summarize the current knowledge on the importance of free fatty acid metabolism on myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion injury and to provide an update on recent evidence on the role of hyperlipidemia and PCSK9 in myocardial infarction and cardioprotection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioanna Andreadou
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Tsoumani
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Gemma Vilahur
- Cardiovascular Program-ICCC, Research Institute-Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, IIB-Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain.,CIBERCV, Instituto Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ignatios Ikonomidis
- Second Cardiology Department, Attikon Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Lina Badimon
- Cardiovascular Program-ICCC, Research Institute-Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, IIB-Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain.,CIBERCV, Instituto Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Cardiovascular Research Chair, Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona Spain
| | - Zoltán V Varga
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.,HCEMM-SU Cardiometabolic Immunology Research Group, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Péter Ferdinandy
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.,Pharmahungary Group, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Rainer Schulz
- Institute for Physiology, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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