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Srkalovic G, Nijim S, Srkalovic MB, Fajgenbaum D. Increase in Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) Expression and the Pathogenesis of iMCD-TAFRO. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1328. [PMID: 38927535 PMCID: PMC11201201 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12061328] [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: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
TAFRO (thrombocytopenia (T), anasarca (A), fever (F), reticulin fibrosis (F/R), renal failure (R), and organomegaly (O)) is a heterogeneous clinical subtype of idiopathic multicentric Castleman disease (iMCD) associated with a significantly poorer prognosis than other subtypes of iMCD. TAFRO symptomatology can also be seen in pathological contexts outside of iMCD, but it is unclear if those cases should be considered representative of a different disease entity or simply a severe presentation of other infectious, malignant, and rheumatological diseases. While interleukin-6 (IL-6) is an established driver of iMCD-TAFRO pathogenesis in a subset of patients, the etiology is unknown. Recent case reports and literature reviews on TAFRO patients suggest that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and the interplay of VEGF and IL-6 in concert, rather than IL-6 as a single cytokine, may be drivers for iMCD-TAFRO pathophysiology, especially renal injury. In this review, we discuss the possible role of VEGF in the pathophysiology and clinical manifestations of iMCD-TAFRO. In particular, VEGF may be involved in iMCD-TAFRO pathology through its ability to activate RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathways. Further elucidating a role for the VEGF-IL-6 axis and additional disease drivers may shed light on therapeutic options for the treatment of TAFRO patients who do not respond to, or otherwise relapse following, treatment with IL-6 targeting drugs. This review investigates the potential role of VEGF in the pathophysiology of iMCD-TAFRO and the potential for targeting related signaling pathways in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gordan Srkalovic
- Herbert-Herman Cancer Center, University of Michigan Health-Sparrow, Lansing, MI 48912, USA
| | - Sally Nijim
- Center for Cytokine Storm Treatment & Laboratory, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (S.N.); (D.F.)
| | | | - David Fajgenbaum
- Center for Cytokine Storm Treatment & Laboratory, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (S.N.); (D.F.)
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Chakraborty MP, Das D, Mondal P, Kaul P, Bhattacharyya S, Kumar Das P, Das R. Molecular basis of VEGFR1 autoinhibition at the plasma membrane. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1346. [PMID: 38355851 PMCID: PMC10866885 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45499-2] [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: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Ligand-independent activation of VEGFRs is a hallmark of diabetes and several cancers. Like EGFR, VEGFR2 is activated spontaneously at high receptor concentrations. VEGFR1, on the other hand, remains constitutively inactive in the unligated state, making it an exception among VEGFRs. Ligand stimulation transiently phosphorylates VEGFR1 and induces weak kinase activation in endothelial cells. Recent studies, however, suggest that VEGFR1 signaling is indispensable in regulating various physiological or pathological events. The reason why VEGFR1 is regulated differently from other VEGFRs remains unknown. Here, we elucidate a mechanism of juxtamembrane inhibition that shifts the equilibrium of VEGFR1 towards the inactive state, rendering it an inefficient kinase. The juxtamembrane inhibition of VEGFR1 suppresses its basal phosphorylation even at high receptor concentrations and transiently stabilizes tyrosine phosphorylation after ligand stimulation. We conclude that a subtle imbalance in phosphatase activation or removing juxtamembrane inhibition is sufficient to induce ligand-independent activation of VEGFR1 and sustain tyrosine phosphorylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manas Pratim Chakraborty
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, Mohanpur campus, Mohanpur, 741246, India
| | - Diptatanu Das
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, Mohanpur campus, Mohanpur, 741246, India
| | - Purav Mondal
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, Mohanpur campus, Mohanpur, 741246, India
| | - Pragya Kaul
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, Mohanpur campus, Mohanpur, 741246, India
| | - Soumi Bhattacharyya
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, Mohanpur campus, Mohanpur, 741246, India
| | - Prosad Kumar Das
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, Mohanpur campus, Mohanpur, 741246, India
| | - Rahul Das
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, Mohanpur campus, Mohanpur, 741246, India.
- Centre for Advanced Functional Materials, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, Mohanpur campus, Mohanpur, 741246, India.
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Pérez-Gutiérrez L, Ferrara N. Biology and therapeutic targeting of vascular endothelial growth factor A. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2023; 24:816-834. [PMID: 37491579 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-023-00631-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
The formation of new blood vessels, called angiogenesis, is an essential pathophysiological process in which several families of regulators have been implicated. Among these, vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA; also known as VEGF) and its two tyrosine kinase receptors, VEGFR1 and VEGFR2, represent a key signalling pathway mediating physiological angiogenesis and are also major therapeutic targets. VEGFA is a member of the gene family that includes VEGFB, VEGFC, VEGFD and placental growth factor (PLGF). Three decades after its initial isolation and cloning, VEGFA is arguably the most extensively investigated signalling system in angiogenesis. Although many mediators of angiogenesis have been identified, including members of the FGF family, angiopoietins, TGFβ and sphingosine 1-phosphate, all current FDA-approved anti-angiogenic drugs target the VEGF pathway. Anti-VEGF agents are widely used in oncology and, in combination with chemotherapy or immunotherapy, are now the standard of care in multiple malignancies. Anti-VEGF drugs have also revolutionized the treatment of neovascular eye disorders such as age-related macular degeneration and ischaemic retinal disorders. In this Review, we emphasize the molecular, structural and cellular basis of VEGFA action as well as recent findings illustrating unexpected interactions with other pathways and provocative reports on the role of VEGFA in regenerative medicine. We also discuss clinical and translational aspects of VEGFA. Given the crucial role that VEGFA plays in regulating angiogenesis in health and disease, this molecule is largely the focus of this Review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Pérez-Gutiérrez
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Napoleone Ferrara
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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4
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Sun S, Zhang C, Zhang Q, Li C, Huang D, Ding R, Cao J, Hao J. Role of ROS-mediated PERK/ATF4 signaling activation in extracorporeal tube formation injury of human umbilical vein endothelial cells induced by cooking oil fume PM 2.5 exposure. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 263:115332. [PMID: 37611476 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Cooking oil fume-derived PM2.5 (COF-PM2.5) is a major source of indoor air contamination in China, which has been demonstrated to be a hazard factor of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. This study aimed to investigate the role of ROS-mediated PERK/ATF4 signaling activation in COF-PM2.5-inhibited extracorporeal tube formation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). HUVECs were treated with 100 μg/mL COF-PM2.5 at different times, with or without 100 nM PERK activity inhibitor GSK2606414 (GSK) or 200 μM antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) pretreatment. Our results showed that COF-PM2.5 exposure can inhibit extracorporeal tube formation and down-regulate VEGFR2 expression in HUVECs. Furthermore, our data indicated that COF-PM2.5 exposure can activate the PERK/ATF4 signaling in HUVECs. Mechanistically, pretreatment with GSK interdicted PERK/ATF4 signaling, thereby reversing COF-PM2.5-downregulated VEGFR2 protein expression in HUVECs. Furthermore, NAC reversed VEGFR2 expression downregulated induced by COF-PM2.5 by inhibiting the upregulation of intracellular ROS levels and PERK/ATF4 signaling in HUVECs. As above, COF-PM2.5 exposure could induce ROS release from HUVECs, which in turn activate the endoplasmic reticulum PERK/ATF4 signaling and inhibit tube formation of HUVECs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Sun
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Chao Zhang
- Teaching Center for Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Hefei Institutes of Physical Science Chinese Academy of Sciences, No 350 Shushanhu Road, Hefei 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Changlian Li
- Department of Environmental Health, Hefei Center for Disease Control and Prevention, No 86 Lu'an Road, Hefei 230061, Anhui, China
| | - Dan Huang
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Rui Ding
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230032, China
| | - Jiyu Cao
- Teaching Center for Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China.
| | - Jiahu Hao
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China.
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5
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Saikia Q, Reeve H, Alzahrani A, Critchley WR, Zeqiraj E, Divan A, Harrison MA, Ponnambalam S. VEGFR endocytosis: Implications for angiogenesis. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2022; 194:109-139. [PMID: 36631189 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2022.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The binding of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) superfamily to VEGF receptor tyrosine kinases (VEGFRs) and co-receptors regulates vasculogenesis, angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis. A recurring theme is that dysfunction in VEGF signaling promotes pathological angiogenesis, an important feature of cancer and pro-inflammatory disease states. Endocytosis of basal (resting) or activated VEGFRs facilitates signal attenuation and endothelial quiescence. However, increasing evidence suggest that activated VEGFRs can continue to signal from intracellular compartments such as endosomes. In this chapter, we focus on the evolving link between VEGFR endocytosis, signaling and turnover and the implications for angiogenesis. There is much interest in how such understanding of VEGFR dynamics can be harnessed therapeutically for a wide range of human disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Queen Saikia
- School of Molecular & Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Hannah Reeve
- School of Molecular & Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Areej Alzahrani
- School of Molecular & Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - William R Critchley
- School of Molecular & Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Elton Zeqiraj
- School of Molecular & Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Aysha Divan
- School of Molecular & Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Michael A Harrison
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
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Dai Y, Zhang X, Lv J, Feng F, Wan X, Huang F, Zhang H, Zhu L. Familial uterine leiomyoma-associated germline oncogenic mutant VEGFR1 is sensitive to mTOR inhibitor. Sci Bull (Beijing) 2022; 67:585-587. [PMID: 36546119 DOI: 10.1016/j.scib.2021.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Dai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, State Key Laboratory of Complex, Severe and Rare Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Obstetric & Gynecologic Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Xinyu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences and School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Jiarui Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences and School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China; Department of Physiology, School of Life Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Fengzhi Feng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, State Key Laboratory of Complex, Severe and Rare Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Obstetric & Gynecologic Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Xirun Wan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, State Key Laboratory of Complex, Severe and Rare Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Obstetric & Gynecologic Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Fuqiang Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences and School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Hongbing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences and School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China.
| | - Lan Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, State Key Laboratory of Complex, Severe and Rare Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Obstetric & Gynecologic Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China.
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7
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Malekan M, Ebrahimzadeh MA. Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptors [VEGFR] as Target in Breast Cancer Treatment: Current Status in Preclinical and Clinical Studies and Future Directions. Curr Top Med Chem 2022; 22:891-920. [PMID: 35260067 DOI: 10.2174/1568026622666220308161710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer [BC] is one of the most common cancers among women, one of the leading causes of a considerable number of cancer-related death globally. Among all procedures leading to the formation of breast tumors, angiogenesis has an important role in cancer progression and outcomes. Therefore, various anti-angiogenic strategies have developed so far to enhance treatment's efficacy in different types of BC. Vascular endothelial growth factors [VEGFs] and their receptors are regarded as the most well-known regulators of neovascularization. VEGF binding to vascular endothelial growth factor receptors [VEGFRs] provides cell proliferation and vascular tissue formation by the subsequent tyrosine kinase pathway. VEGF/VEGFR axis displays an attractive target for anti-angiogenesis and anti-cancer drug design. This review aims to describe the existing literature regarding VEGFR inhibitors, focusing on BC treatment reported in the last two decades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Malekan
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ali Ebrahimzadeh
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, School of Pharmacy, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
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8
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Karaman S, Paavonsalo S, Heinolainen K, Lackman MH, Ranta A, Hemanthakumar KA, Kubota Y, Alitalo K. Interplay of vascular endothelial growth factor receptors in organ-specific vessel maintenance. J Exp Med 2022; 219:212969. [PMID: 35050301 PMCID: PMC8785977 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20210565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) and their receptors (VEGFRs) are quintessential for the development and maintenance of blood and lymphatic vessels. However, genetic interactions between the VEGFRs are poorly understood. VEGFR2 is the dominant receptor that is required for the growth and survival of the endothelium, whereas deletion of VEGFR1 or VEGFR3 was reported to induce vasculature overgrowth. Here we show that vascular regression induced by VEGFR2 deletion in postnatal and adult mice is aggravated by additional deletion of VEGFR1 or VEGFR3 in the intestine, kidney, and pancreas, but not in the liver or kidney glomeruli. In the adult mice, hepatic and intestinal vessels regressed within a few days after gene deletion, whereas vessels in skin and retina remained stable for at least four weeks. Our results show changes in endothelial transcriptomes and organ-specific vessel maintenance mechanisms that are dependent on VEGFR signaling pathways and reveal previously unknown functions of VEGFR1 and VEGFR3 in endothelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sinem Karaman
- Wihuri Research Institute, Biomedicum Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Individualized Drug Therapy Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Satu Paavonsalo
- Wihuri Research Institute, Biomedicum Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Individualized Drug Therapy Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Krista Heinolainen
- Wihuri Research Institute, Biomedicum Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Madeleine H. Lackman
- Individualized Drug Therapy Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Amanda Ranta
- Wihuri Research Institute, Biomedicum Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Yoshiaki Kubota
- Department of Anatomy, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kari Alitalo
- Wihuri Research Institute, Biomedicum Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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Bao M, Shang F, Liu F, Hu Z, Wang S, Yang X, Yu Y, Zhang H, Jiang C, Jiang J, Liu Y, Wang X. Comparative transcriptomic analysis of the brain in Takifugu rubripes shows its tolerance to acute hypoxia. FISH PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY 2021; 47:1669-1685. [PMID: 34460041 DOI: 10.1007/s10695-021-01008-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Hypoxia in water that caused by reduced levels of oxygen occurred frequently, due to the complex aquatic environment. Hypoxia tolerance for fish depends on a complete set of coping mechanisms such as oxygen perception and gene-protein interaction regulation. The present study examined the short-term effects of hypoxia on the brain in Takifugu rubripes. We sequenced the transcriptomes of the brain in T. rubripes to study their response mechanism to acute hypoxia. A total of 167 genes were differentially expressed in the brain of T. rubripes after exposed to acute hypoxia. Gene ontology and KEGG enrichment analysis indicated that hypoxia could cause metabolic and neurological changes, showing the clues of their adaptation to acute hypoxia. As the most complex and important organ, the brain of T. rubripes might be able to create a self-protection mechanism to resist or reduce damage caused by acute hypoxia stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingxiu Bao
- College of Fisheries and Life Science, Dalian Ocean University, 52 Heishijiao Street, DalianLiaoning, 116023, China
| | - Fengqin Shang
- College of Fisheries and Life Science, Dalian Ocean University, 52 Heishijiao Street, DalianLiaoning, 116023, China
- College of Marine Technology and Environment, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Fujun Liu
- College of Fisheries and Life Science, Dalian Ocean University, 52 Heishijiao Street, DalianLiaoning, 116023, China
| | - Ziwen Hu
- College of Fisheries and Life Science, Dalian Ocean University, 52 Heishijiao Street, DalianLiaoning, 116023, China
| | - Shengnan Wang
- College of Fisheries and Life Science, Dalian Ocean University, 52 Heishijiao Street, DalianLiaoning, 116023, China
| | - Xiao Yang
- College of Fisheries and Life Science, Dalian Ocean University, 52 Heishijiao Street, DalianLiaoning, 116023, China
| | - Yundeng Yu
- College of Fisheries and Life Science, Dalian Ocean University, 52 Heishijiao Street, DalianLiaoning, 116023, China
| | - Hongbin Zhang
- College of Fisheries and Life Science, Dalian Ocean University, 52 Heishijiao Street, DalianLiaoning, 116023, China
| | - Chihang Jiang
- College of Fisheries and Life Science, Dalian Ocean University, 52 Heishijiao Street, DalianLiaoning, 116023, China
| | - Jielan Jiang
- College of Fisheries and Life Science, Dalian Ocean University, 52 Heishijiao Street, DalianLiaoning, 116023, China
| | - Yang Liu
- College of Fisheries and Life Science, Dalian Ocean University, 52 Heishijiao Street, DalianLiaoning, 116023, China.
| | - Xiuli Wang
- College of Fisheries and Life Science, Dalian Ocean University, 52 Heishijiao Street, DalianLiaoning, 116023, China.
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Qiang W, Wei R, Chen Y, Chen D. Clinical Pathological Features and Current Animal Models of Type 3 Macular Neovascularization. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:734860. [PMID: 34512255 PMCID: PMC8427186 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.734860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Type 3 macular neovascularization (MNV3), or retinal angiomatous proliferation (RAP), is a distinct type of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which is a leading cause of vision loss in older persons. During the past decade, systematic investigation into the clinical, multimodal imaging, and histopathological features and therapeutic outcomes has provided important new insight into this disease. These studies favor the retinal origin of MNV3 and suggest the involvement of retinal hypoxia, inflammation, von Hippel–Lindau (VHL)–hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)–vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathway, and multiple cell types in the development and progression of MNV3. Several mouse models, including the recently built Rb/p107/Vhl triple knockout mouse model by our group, have induced many of the histological features of MNV3 and provided much insight into the underlying pathological mechanisms. These models have revealed the roles of retinal hypoxia, inflammation, lipid metabolism, VHL/HIF pathway, and retinoblastoma tumor suppressor (Rb)–E2F cell cycle pathway in the development of MNV3. This article will summarize the clinical, multimodal imaging, and pathological features of MNV3 and the diversity of animal models that exist for MNV3, as well as their strengths and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Qiang
- Research Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ran Wei
- Research Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yongjiang Chen
- The School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Danian Chen
- Research Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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11
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Dailey W, Shunemann R, Yang F, Moore M, Knapp A, Chen P, Deshpande M, Metcalf B, Tompkins Q, Guzman AE, Felisky J, Mitton KP. Differences in activation of intracellular signaling in primary human retinal endothelial cells between isoforms of VEGFA 165. Mol Vis 2021; 27:191-205. [PMID: 33953532 PMCID: PMC8092446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose There are reports that a b-isoform of vascular endothelial growth factor-A 165 (VEGFA165b) is predominant in normal human vitreous, switching to the a-isoform (VEGFA165a) in the vitreous of some diseased eyes. Although these isoforms appear to have a different ability to activate the VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR2) in various endothelial cells, the nature of their ability to activate intracellular signaling pathways is not fully characterized, especially in retinal endothelial cells. We determined their activation potential for two key intracellular signaling pathways (MAPK, AKT) over complete dose-response curves and compared potential effects on the expression of several VEGFA165 target genes in primary human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (HRMECs). Methods To determine full dose-response curves for the activation of MAPK (ERK1/2), AKT, and VEGFR2, direct in-cell western assays were developed using primary HRMECs. Potential differences in dose-response effects on gene expression markers related to endothelial cell and leukocyte adhesion (ICAM1, VCAM1, and SELE) and tight junctions (CLDN5 and OCLN) were tested with quantitative PCR. Results Activation dose-response analysis revealed much stronger activation of MAPK, AKT, and VEGFR2 by the a-isoform at lower doses. MAPK activation in primary HRMECs displayed a sigmoidal dose-response to a range of VEGFA 165 a concentrations spanning 10-250 pM, which shifted higher into the 100-5,000 pM range with VEGFA 165 b. Similar maximum activation of MAPK was achieved by both isoforms at high concentrations. Maximum activation of AKT by VEGFA 165 b was only half of the maximum activation from VEGFA 165 a. At a lower intermediate dose, where VEGFA 165 a activated intracellular signaling stronger than VEGFA 165 b, the changes in VEGFA target gene expression were generally greater with VEGFA 165 a. Conclusions In primary HRMECs, VEGFA 165 a could maximally activate MAPK and AKT at lower concentrations where VEGFA 165 b had relatively little effect. The timing for maximum activation of MAPK was similar for the isoforms, which is different from that reported for non-retinal endothelial cells. Although differences in VEGFA 165 a and VEGFA 165 b are limited to the sequence of their six C-terminal six amino acids, this results in a large difference in their ability to activate at least two key intracellular signaling pathways and VEGF-target gene expression in primary human retinal endothelial cells.
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12
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Shaik F, Cuthbert GA, Homer-Vanniasinkam S, Muench SP, Ponnambalam S, Harrison MA. Structural Basis for Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor Activation and Implications for Disease Therapy. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10121673. [PMID: 33333800 PMCID: PMC7765180 DOI: 10.3390/biom10121673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 12/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) bind to membrane receptors on a wide variety of cells to regulate diverse biological responses. The VEGF-A family member promotes vasculogenesis and angiogenesis, processes which are essential for vascular development and physiology. As angiogenesis can be subverted in many disease states, including tumour development and progression, there is much interest in understanding the mechanistic basis for how VEGF-A regulates cell and tissue function. VEGF-A binds with high affinity to two VEGF receptor tyrosine kinases (VEGFR1, VEGFR2) and with lower affinity to co-receptors called neuropilin-1 and neuropilin-2 (NRP1, NRP2). Here, we use a structural viewpoint to summarise our current knowledge of VEGF-VEGFR activation and signal transduction. As targeting VEGF-VEGFR activation holds much therapeutic promise, we examine the structural basis for anti-angiogenic therapy using small-molecule compounds such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors that block VEGFR activation and downstream signalling. This review provides a rational basis towards reconciling VEGF and VEGFR structure and function in developing new therapeutics for a diverse range of ailments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faheem Shaik
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK;
- William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, UK
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-207-8824207
| | - Gary A. Cuthbert
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK; (G.A.C.); (S.H.-V.); (M.A.H.)
| | | | - Stephen P. Muench
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK;
| | | | - Michael A. Harrison
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK; (G.A.C.); (S.H.-V.); (M.A.H.)
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13
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Song X, Hu Y, Li Y, Shao R, Liu F, Liu Y. Overview of current targeted therapy in gallbladder cancer. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2020; 5:230. [PMID: 33028805 PMCID: PMC7542154 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-020-00324-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 08/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is rare, but is the most malignant type of biliary tract tumor. Unfortunately, only a small population of cancer patients is acceptable for the surgical resection, the current effective regimen; thus, the high mortality rate has been static for decades. To substantially circumvent the stagnant scenario, a number of therapeutic approaches owing to the creation of advanced technologic measures (e.g., next-generation sequencing, transcriptomics, proteomics) have been intensively innovated, which include targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and nanoparticle-based delivery systems. In the current review, we primarily focus on the targeted therapy capable of specifically inhibiting individual key molecules that govern aberrant signaling cascades in GBC. Global clinical trials of targeted therapy in GBC are updated and may offer great value for novel pathologic and therapeutic insights of this deadly disease, ultimately improving the efficacy of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoling Song
- Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of General Surgery, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 1665 Kongjiang Road, 200092, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease Research, 1665 Kongjiang Road, 200092, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200127, Shanghai, China
| | - Yunping Hu
- Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of General Surgery, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 1665 Kongjiang Road, 200092, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease Research, 1665 Kongjiang Road, 200092, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200127, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongsheng Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease Research, 1665 Kongjiang Road, 200092, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200127, Shanghai, China
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200127, Shanghai, China
| | - Rong Shao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease Research, 1665 Kongjiang Road, 200092, Shanghai, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200127, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Pharmacology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200025, Shanghai, China.
| | - Fatao Liu
- Department of General Surgery and Laboratory of General Surgery, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 1665 Kongjiang Road, 200092, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease Research, 1665 Kongjiang Road, 200092, Shanghai, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200127, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yingbin Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Biliary Tract Disease Research, 1665 Kongjiang Road, 200092, Shanghai, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200127, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200127, Shanghai, China.
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14
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Parveen A, Subedi L, Kim HW, Khan Z, Zahra Z, Farooqi MQ, Kim SY. Phytochemicals Targeting VEGF and VEGF-Related Multifactors as Anticancer Therapy. J Clin Med 2019; 8:E350. [PMID: 30871059 PMCID: PMC6462934 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8030350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Revised: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in cancer cells is not limited to angiogenesis; there are also multiple factors, such as neuropilins (non-tyrosine kinases receptors), tyrosine kinases receptors, immunodeficiencies, and integrins, that interact with VEGF signaling and cause cancer initiation. By combating these factors, tumor progression can be inhibited or limited. Natural products are sources of several bioactive phytochemicals that can interact with VEGF-promoting factors and inhibit them through various signaling pathways, thereby inhibiting cancer growth. This review provides a deeper understanding of the relation and interaction of VEGF with cancer-promoting factors and phytochemicals in order to develop multi-targeted cancer prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amna Parveen
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science, Government College University, Faisalabad, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan.
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, No. 191, Hambakmoero, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 21936, Korea.
| | - Lalita Subedi
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, No. 191, Hambakmoero, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 21936, Korea.
| | - Heung Wan Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, No. 191, Hambakmoero, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 21936, Korea.
| | - Zahra Khan
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, No. 191, Hambakmoero, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 21936, Korea.
| | - Zahra Zahra
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology, Sector H-12, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan.
| | | | - Sun Yeou Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, No. 191, Hambakmoero, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 21936, Korea.
- Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Gachon University, No. 191 Hambakmoe-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 21936, Korea.
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15
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Karaman S, Leppänen VM, Alitalo K. Vascular endothelial growth factor signaling in development and disease. Development 2018; 145:145/14/dev151019. [DOI: 10.1242/dev.151019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 176] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) are best known for their involvement in orchestrating the development and maintenance of the blood and lymphatic vascular systems. VEGFs are secreted by a variety of cells and they bind to their cognate tyrosine kinase VEGF receptors (VEGFRs) in endothelial cells to elicit various downstream effects. In recent years, there has been tremendous progress in elucidating different VEGF/VEGFR signaling functions in both the blood and lymphatic vascular systems. Here, and in the accompanying poster, we present key elements of the VEGF/VEGFR pathway and highlight the classical and newly discovered functions of VEGF signaling in blood and lymphatic vessel development and pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sinem Karaman
- Wihuri Research Institute and Translational Cancer Biology Program, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00290, Finland
| | - Veli-Matti Leppänen
- Wihuri Research Institute and Translational Cancer Biology Program, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00290, Finland
| | - Kari Alitalo
- Wihuri Research Institute and Translational Cancer Biology Program, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00290, Finland
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16
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Lan TH, Xu DP, Huang MT, Song JX, Wu HL, Li M. Ginsenoside Rb1 prevents homocysteine-induced EPC dysfunction via VEGF/p38MAPK and SDF-1/CXCR4 activation. Sci Rep 2017; 7:13061. [PMID: 29026158 PMCID: PMC5638839 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-13436-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyperhomocystinemia (HHcy) is known as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Our previous study showed that ginsenoside Rb1, the major active constituent of ginseng, prevents homocysteine (Hcy)-induced endothelial damage. However, the role of ginsenoside Rb1 in Hcy-induced dysfunction in endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) remains unknown. In the study, we found that ginsenoside Rb1 reversed the Hcy-induced impairment of adhesive and migratory ability in EPCs which were significantly abolished by CXCR4 antagonist AMD3100 and VEGFR2 inhibitor SU5416. Ginsenoside Rb1 significantly reversed Hcy-induced SDF-1 reduction in the supernatant and in the serum. Ginsenoside Rb1 reversed downregulation of SDF-1 and VEGFR2 protein expression, inhibition of p38MAPK phosphorylation induced by Hcy. Re-endothelialization in balloon-injured carotid arteries significantly increased with EPCs transplant, and was even better with Rb1 treatment. This effect was significantly abolished by AMD3100. AMD3100 also decreased the number of CM-DiI labeled EPCs in injured arteries. Here we show for the first time that Rb1 prevents Hcy-induced EPC dysfunction via VEGF/p38MAPK and SDF-1/CXCR4 activation. These findings demonstrate a novel mechanism of the action of Rb1 that may have value in prevention of HHcy associated cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao-Hua Lan
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, P. R. China.,School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Dan-Ping Xu
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Man-Ting Huang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Ju-Xian Song
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Huan-Lin Wu
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, P. R. China.
| | - Min Li
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
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17
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Dynamic alterations in decoy VEGF receptor-1 stability regulate angiogenesis. Nat Commun 2017; 8:15699. [PMID: 28589930 PMCID: PMC5467243 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms15699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Blood vessel expansion is driven by sprouting angiogenesis of endothelial cells, and is essential for development, wound healing and disease. Membrane-localized vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (mVEGFR1) is an endothelial cell-intrinsic decoy receptor that negatively modulates blood vessel morphogenesis. Here we show that dynamic regulation of mVEGFR1 stability and turnover in blood vessels impacts angiogenesis. mVEGFR1 is highly stable and constitutively internalizes from the plasma membrane. Post-translational palmitoylation of mVEGFR1 is a binary stabilization switch, and ligand engagement leads to depalmitoylation and lysosomal degradation. Trafficking of palmitoylation enzymes via Rab27a regulates mVEGFR1 stability, as reduced levels of Rab27a impaired palmitoylation of mVEGFR1, decreased its stability, and elevated blood vessel sprouting and in vivo angiogenesis. These findings identify a regulatory axis affecting blood vessel morphogenesis that highlights exquisite post-translational regulation of mVEGFR1 in its role as a molecular rheostat.
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18
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19
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Okada T, Kimura A, Kanki K, Nakatani S, Nagahara Y, Hiraga M, Watanabe Y. Liver Resident Macrophages (Kupffer Cells) Share Several Functional Antigens in Common with Endothelial Cells. Scand J Immunol 2016; 83:139-50. [PMID: 26678711 DOI: 10.1111/sji.12402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2015] [Accepted: 12/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The identification and specific functions of Kupffer cells (KCs), a liver resident macrophage subpopulation, are still unclear. We compared KCs with peritoneal macrophages using cDNA microarray analysis and found that these cells share some antigens with endothelial cells. KCs highly express VCAM-1 and VEGF receptors (VEGF-Rs) at transcriptional and protein levels. VCAM-1 mediates the functional binding of KCs with lymphocytes and induces KC activation. Among the VEGF receptors, VEGF-R2 and VEGF-R3 were expressed on the KCs, while VEGF-R1 was expressed on other tissue macrophage subsets. VEGF120, a ligand of both VEGF-R1 and VEGF-R2, transduced strong survival and chemotactic signals through the KCs, when compared to PIGF, a VEGF-R1 ligand, indicating that VEGF-R2 plays significant roles in regulating KC activities. Expression of the VEGF-Rs was regulated by TLR4 signalling. These results suggest that the function of KCs is partly regulated by the common antigens shared with endothelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Okada
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Musashino University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - A Kimura
- Denka Seiken Co. Ltd., Niigata, Japan
| | - K Kanki
- Tottori University Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Regenerative Medicine and Biofunction, Yonago, Japan
| | - S Nakatani
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science and Engineering, Tokyo Denki University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Y Nagahara
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science and Engineering, Tokyo Denki University, Saitama, Japan
| | - M Hiraga
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Musashino University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Y Watanabe
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Musashino University, Tokyo, Japan
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20
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Claesson-Welsh L. VEGF receptor signal transduction - A brief update. Vascul Pharmacol 2016; 86:14-17. [PMID: 27268035 DOI: 10.1016/j.vph.2016.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2016] [Revised: 03/20/2016] [Accepted: 05/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signal transduction through receptor tyrosine kinases VEGF receptor-1, -2 and -3 is of crucial importance for monocytes/macrophages, blood vascular endothelial and lymphatic endothelial cells both in physiology and in a number of pathologies notably cancer. This brief review summarizes the current status of VEGF receptor signaling with emphasis on in vivo data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Claesson-Welsh
- Uppsala University, Dept. Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Rudbeck Laboratory, Dag Hammarskjöldsv 20, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden.
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21
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Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) plays a fundamental role in angiogenesis and endothelial cell biology, and has been the subject of intense study as a result. VEGF acts via a diverse and complex range of signaling pathways, with new targets constantly being discovered. This review attempts to summarize the current state of knowledge regarding VEGF cell signaling in endothelial and cardiovascular biology, with a particular emphasis on its role in angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Evans
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Medicine, Division of Medicine, University College London, Rayne Building, 5 University Street, London, WC1E 6JF, UK,
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22
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A novel kinase mutation in VEGFR-1 predisposes its αC-helix/activation loop towards allosteric activation: Atomic insights from protein simulation. Eur J Hum Genet 2016; 24:1287-93. [PMID: 27049304 DOI: 10.1038/ejhg.2016.26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2015] [Revised: 01/27/2016] [Accepted: 03/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1 (VEGFR-1) has been implicated in diverse pathologies, including cancers. Although VEGFR-1 is considered as functionally impaired kinase, its decoy characteristics make it an important regulator of VEGFR-mediated signaling, particularly in tumor angiogenesis. VEGFR-1 conveys signaling via its tyrosine kinase (TK) domain whose activation is regulated by phosphorylation of specific tyrosine residues. Thus dysregulation of VEGFR-1 signaling, as reported in most of the cancers, might be a consequence of altered phosphorylation that could be attributed to genotypic variations in its TK domain. Considering the importance of TK domain of VEGFR-1, we carried out its mutational screening in 84 clinically validated and histopathologically confirmed colorectal cancer patients. By means of direct DNA sequencing and SNP analyses, eight novel variations, including one synonymous, two deletion, one missense and four intronic variations, were reported in the TK domain of VEGFR-1. rs730882263:C>G variation specifically reported in colon cancer, representing a single-atomic change (Sulfur to Oxygen) in the predicted (p.Cys1110Ser) protein, was observed as potentially deleterious variation as assessed by multiple single-nucleotide polymorphism prediction servers. Molecular dynamics simulations of VEGFR-1 Wt and (p.Cys1110Ser) variant models revealed major conformational changes in variant protein presumptuously generating an open conformation thereby exposing the activation domain and consequently increasing the probability of phosphorylation events: a condition frequently reported in cancers.
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Romereim SM, Cupp AS. Mesonephric Cell Migration into the Gonads and Vascularization Are Processes Crucial for Testis Development. Results Probl Cell Differ 2016; 58:67-100. [PMID: 27300176 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-31973-5_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Testis morphogenesis requires the integration and reorganization of multiple cell types from several sources, one of the more notable being the mesonephric-derived cell population. One of the earliest sex-specific morphogenetic events in the gonad is a wave of endothelial cell migration from the mesonephros that is crucial for (1) partitioning the gonad into domains for testis cords, (2) providing the vasculature of the testis, and (3) signaling to cells both within the gonad and beyond it to coordinately regulate testis development. In addition to endothelial cell migration, there is evidence that precursors of peritubular myoid cells migrate from the mesonephros, an event which is also important for testis cord architecture. Investigation of the mesonephric cell migration event has utilized histology, lineage tracing with mouse genetic markers, and many studies of the signaling molecules/pathways involved. Some of the more well-studied signaling molecules involved include vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), and neurotrophins. In this chapter, the morphogenetic events, relevant signaling pathways, mechanisms underlying the migration, and the role of the migratory cells within the testis will be discussed. Overall, the migration of mesonephric cells into the early testis is indispensable for its development and future functionality.
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Sargent KM, McFee RM, Spuri Gomes R, Cupp AS. Vascular endothelial growth factor A: just one of multiple mechanisms for sex-specific vascular development within the testis? J Endocrinol 2015; 227:R31-50. [PMID: 26562337 PMCID: PMC4646736 DOI: 10.1530/joe-15-0342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Testis development from an indifferent gonad is a critical step in embryogenesis. A hallmark of testis differentiation is sex-specific vascularization that occurs as endothelial cells migrate from the adjacent mesonephros into the testis to surround Sertoli-germ cell aggregates and induce seminiferous cord formation. Many in vitro experiments have demonstrated that vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) is a critical regulator of this process. Both inhibitors to VEGFA signal transduction and excess VEGFA isoforms in testis organ cultures impaired vascular development and seminiferous cord formation. However, in vivo models using mice which selectively eliminated all VEGFA isoforms: in Sertoli and germ cells (pDmrt1-Cre;Vegfa(-/-)); Sertoli and Leydig cells (Amhr2-Cre;Vegfa(-/-)) or Sertoli cells (Amh-Cre;Vegfa(-/-) and Sry-Cre;Vegfa(-/-)) displayed testes with observably normal cords and vasculature at postnatal day 0 and onwards. Embryonic testis development may be delayed in these mice; however, the postnatal data indicate that VEGFA isoforms secreted from Sertoli, Leydig or germ cells are not required for testis morphogenesis within the mouse. A Vegfa signal transduction array was employed on postnatal testes from Sry-Cre;Vegfa(-/-) versus controls. Ptgs1 (Cox1) was the only upregulated gene (fivefold). COX1 stimulates angiogenesis and upregulates, VEGFA, Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and PGD2. Thus, other gene pathways may compensate for VEGFA loss, similar to multiple independent mechanisms to maintain SOX9 expression. Multiple independent mechanism that induce vascular development in the testis may contribute to and safeguard the sex-specific vasculature development responsible for inducing seminiferous cord formation, thus ensuring appropriate testis morphogenesis in the male.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin M Sargent
- Department of Animal ScienceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln, Animal Science Building, 3940 Fair Street, Lincoln, Nebraska 68583-0908, USA
| | - Renee M McFee
- Department of Animal ScienceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln, Animal Science Building, 3940 Fair Street, Lincoln, Nebraska 68583-0908, USA
| | - Renata Spuri Gomes
- Department of Animal ScienceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln, Animal Science Building, 3940 Fair Street, Lincoln, Nebraska 68583-0908, USA
| | - Andrea S Cupp
- Department of Animal ScienceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln, Animal Science Building, 3940 Fair Street, Lincoln, Nebraska 68583-0908, USA
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The cellular response to vascular endothelial growth factors requires co-ordinated signal transduction, trafficking and proteolysis. Biosci Rep 2015; 35:BSR20150171. [PMID: 26285805 PMCID: PMC4613718 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20150171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2015] [Accepted: 08/18/2015] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
VEGFs (vascular endothelial growth factors) are a family of conserved disulfide-linked soluble secretory glycoproteins found in higher eukaryotes. VEGFs mediate a wide range of responses in different tissues including metabolic homoeostasis, cell proliferation, migration and tubulogenesis. Such responses are initiated by VEGF binding to soluble and membrane-bound VEGFRs (VEGF receptor tyrosine kinases) and co-receptors. VEGF and receptor splice isoform diversity further enhances complexity of membrane protein assembly and function in signal transduction pathways that control multiple cellular responses. Different signal transduction pathways are simultaneously activated by VEGFR-VEGF complexes with membrane trafficking along the endosome-lysosome network further modulating signal output from multiple enzymatic events associated with such pathways. Balancing VEGFR-VEGF signal transduction with trafficking and proteolysis is essential in controlling the intensity and duration of different intracellular signalling events. Dysfunction in VEGF-regulated signal transduction is important in chronic disease states including cancer, atherosclerosis and blindness. This family of growth factors and receptors is an important model system for understanding human disease pathology and developing new therapeutics for treating such ailments.
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26
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Li Y, Wang K, Zou QY, Magness RR, Zheng J. 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin differentially suppresses angiogenic responses in human placental vein and artery endothelial cells. Toxicology 2015; 336:70-8. [PMID: 26275813 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2015.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2015] [Revised: 08/06/2015] [Accepted: 08/09/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Placental angiogenesis is dramatically increased during pregnancy in association with the elevated placental blood flows to support the rapidly growing fetus. 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) is an environmental toxicant and a ligand of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). Herein, we investigated the effects of TCDD on proliferation, migration, and viability of fetoplacental endothelial cells in response to a complete growth medium which contained serum and growth supplement using human umbilical cord vein (HUVECs) and artery (HUAECs) cells as models. We found that TCDD dose- and time-dependently inhibited (p < 0.05) proliferation of HUVECs and HUAECs. Treatment with TCDD at 10 nM for 6 days inhibited (p < 0.05) migration (by ∼ 30%) of HUAECs, but not HUVECs. TCDD at 10nM also decreased (p < 0.05) viability of HUVECs and HUAECs. Interestingly, specific AhR siRNA blocked (p < 0.05) the TCDD-inhibited cellular responses in HUAECs, but not HUVECs. Nonetheless, TCDD at 10nM neither affected the cell cycle progression, nor did it induce cell apoptosis in HUVECs and HUAECs. In addition, TCDD at 10 nM also did not alter activation of ERK1/2 and AKT1 in HUVECs and HUAECs. Collectively, TCDD suppresses proliferation and/or migration (two key steps of angiogenesis) of HUVECs and HUAECs independent and dependent of AhR, respectively. These data suggest that TCDD inhibited growth of HUVECs and HUAECs via decreasing cell viability. Thus, TCDD may inhibit fetoplacental angiogenesis, leading to negative pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Perinatal Research Laboratories, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Kai Wang
- Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200040, PR China
| | - Qing-Yun Zou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Perinatal Research Laboratories, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Ronald R Magness
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Perinatal Research Laboratories, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA; Departments of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA; Department of Animal Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Jing Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Perinatal Research Laboratories, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53715, USA; Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical College, Zhanjiang 524001, Guangdong, PR China.
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Endothelial progenitor cells in tumor angiogenesis: another brick in the wall. Stem Cells Int 2015; 2015:832649. [PMID: 26000021 PMCID: PMC4427119 DOI: 10.1155/2015/832649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2014] [Revised: 03/25/2015] [Accepted: 03/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Until 15 years ago, vasculogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels from undifferentiated cells, was thought to occur only during embryonic development. The discovery of circulating cells that are able to promote vascular regeneration and repair—the so-called endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs)—changed that, and EPCs have since been studied extensively. It is already known that EPCs include many subtypes of cells that play a variety of roles in promoting vascular growth. Some EPCs are destined to differentiate into endothelial cells, whereas others are capable of promoting and sustaining angiogenesis through paracrine mechanisms. Vasculogenesis and angiogenesis might constitute complementary mechanisms for postnatal neovascularization, and EPCs could be at the core of this process. Although the formation of new blood vessels from preexisting vasculature plays a beneficial role in many physiological processes, such as wound healing, it also contributes to tumor growth and metastasis. However, many aspects of the role played by EPCs in tumor angiogenesis remain unclear. This review aims to address the main aspects of EPCs differentiation and certain characteristics of their main function, especially in tumor angiogenesis, as well as the potential clinical applications.
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Yajima I, Kumasaka MY, Ohnuma S, Ohgami N, Naito H, Shekhar HU, Omata Y, Kato M. Arsenite-Mediated Promotion of Anchorage-Independent Growth of HaCaT Cells through Placental Growth Factor. J Invest Dermatol 2015; 135:1147-1156. [PMID: 25493652 DOI: 10.1038/jid.2014.514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2014] [Revised: 11/09/2014] [Accepted: 11/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Fraga A, Ribeiro R, Príncipe P, Lopes C, Medeiros R. Hypoxia and Prostate Cancer Aggressiveness: A Tale With Many Endings. Clin Genitourin Cancer 2015; 13:295-301. [PMID: 26007708 DOI: 10.1016/j.clgc.2015.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2014] [Revised: 03/13/2015] [Accepted: 03/23/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Angiogenesis, increased glycolysis, and cellular adaptation to hypoxic microenvironment are characteristic of solid tumors, including prostate cancer. These representative features are the cornerstone of cancer biology, which are well correlated with invasion, metastasis, and lethality, as well as likely with the success of prostate cancer treatment (eg, tumor hypoxia has been associated with resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy). It is well established that prostate cancer cells also metabolically depend on enhanced glucose transport and glycolysis for expansion, whereas growth is contingent with neovascularization to permit diffusion of oxygen and glucose. While hypoxia inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α) remains the central player, the succeeding activated molecules and pathways track distinct branches, all positively correlated with the degree of intratumoral hypoxia. Among these, the vascular endothelial growth factor axis as well as the lysyl oxidase and carbonic anhydrase IX activities are notable in prostate cancer and merit further study. Here, we demonstrate their linkage with HIF-1α as a tentative explanatory mechanism of prostate cancer aggressiveness. Hypoxia drives a tale where HIF-1α-dependent effects lead to many influences in distinct key cancer biology features, rendering targeted therapies toward targets at the endings less efficient. The most appropriate approach will be to inhibit the upstream common driver (HIF-1α) activity. Additional translational and clinical research initiatives in prostate cancer are required to prove its usefulness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avelino Fraga
- Urology Department, Porto Hospital Centre, St António Hospital, Porto, Portugal; ICBAS, Abel Salazar Biomedical Sciences Institute, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; Center for Urological Research, Porto Hospital Centre, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Ricardo Ribeiro
- Center for Urological Research, Porto Hospital Centre, Porto, Portugal; Molecular Oncology Group, CI, Portuguese Institute of Oncology, Porto, Portugal; Genetics Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal; Research Department, Portuguese League Against Cancer, North Centre, Porto, Portugal
| | - Paulo Príncipe
- Urology Department, Porto Hospital Centre, St António Hospital, Porto, Portugal; Center for Urological Research, Porto Hospital Centre, Porto, Portugal
| | - Carlos Lopes
- ICBAS, Abel Salazar Biomedical Sciences Institute, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rui Medeiros
- Center for Urological Research, Porto Hospital Centre, Porto, Portugal; Molecular Oncology Group, CI, Portuguese Institute of Oncology, Porto, Portugal; Research Department, Portuguese League Against Cancer, North Centre, Porto, Portugal
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Zheng L, Han P, Liu J, Li R, Yin W, Wang T, Zhang W, Kang YJ. Role of copper in regression of cardiac hypertrophy. Pharmacol Ther 2014; 148:66-84. [PMID: 25476109 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2014.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2014] [Accepted: 11/17/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Pressure overload causes an accumulation of homocysteine in the heart, which is accompanied by copper depletion through the formation of copper-homocysteine complexes and the excretion of the complexes. Copper supplementation recovers cytochrome c oxidase (CCO) activity and promotes myocardial angiogenesis, along with the regression of cardiac hypertrophy and the recovery of cardiac contractile function. Increased copper availability is responsible for the recovery of CCO activity. Copper promoted expression of angiogenesis factors including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in endothelial cells is responsible for angiogenesis. VEGF receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) is critical for hypertrophic growth of cardiomyocytes and VEGFR-1 is essential for the regression of cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. Copper, through promoting VEGF production and suppressing VEGFR-2, switches the VEGF signaling pathway from VEGFR-2-dependent to VEGFR-1-dependent, leading to the regression of cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. Copper is also required for hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) transcriptional activity, acting on the interaction between HIF-1 and the hypoxia responsible element and the formation of HIF-1 transcriptional complex by inhibiting the factor inhibiting HIF-1. Therefore, therapeutic targets for copper supplementation-induced regression of cardiac hypertrophy include: (1) the recovery of copper availability for CCO and other critical cellular events; (2) the activation of HIF-1 transcriptional complex leading to the promotion of angiogenesis in the endothelial cells by VEGF and other factors; (3) the activation of VEGFR-1-dependent regression signaling pathway in the cardiomyocytes; and (4) the inhibition of VEGFR-2 through post-translational regulation in the hypertrophic cardiomyocytes. Future studies should focus on target-specific delivery of copper for the development of clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily Zheng
- Regenerative Medicine Research Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, PR China
| | - Pengfei Han
- Regenerative Medicine Research Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, PR China
| | - Jiaming Liu
- Regenerative Medicine Research Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, PR China
| | - Rui Li
- Regenerative Medicine Research Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, PR China
| | - Wen Yin
- Regenerative Medicine Research Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, PR China
| | - Tao Wang
- Regenerative Medicine Research Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, PR China
| | - Wenjing Zhang
- Regenerative Medicine Research Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, PR China
| | - Y James Kang
- Regenerative Medicine Research Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, PR China; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40292, USA.
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The anti-angiogenic role of discoidin domain receptor 2 (DDR2) in laser-induced choroidal neovascularization. J Mol Med (Berl) 2014; 93:187-98. [PMID: 25355563 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-014-1213-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2014] [Revised: 08/17/2014] [Accepted: 08/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Choroidal neovascularization (CNV), an aberrant growth of blood vessels in the choroid layer of the eye, is a major cause of vision loss. In view of our recent finding that discoidin domain receptor 2 (DDR2), a collagen-binding receptor tyrosine kinase, is involved in control of vascular endothelial activity and tumor angiogenesis, the present study aims to investigate whether and how DDR2 affects the pathogenesis of CNV. We initially found that a spontaneous DDR2 mutant mouse colony (slie) exhibited enhanced amplitude of laser-induced CNV. The inhibitory role of DDR2 in CNV development was further confirmed by experiments through intravitreous injection of DDR2 small interference RNA (siRNA) or DDR2-expressing adenovirus. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and immunoblot analysis showed that DDR2 regulates the expression of several major pro-angiogenic factors in the laser-injured choroid as well as in retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells. In addition, it was demonstrated that the CNV-induced increases in the phosphorylation levels of Akt and mTOR were affected by the upregulation or downregulation of DDR2. Thus, the data from this study for the first time revealed that DDR2 negatively regulates the development of experimental CNV in vivo, which may provide a novel target for preventing human pathological ocular neovascularization. Key messages: DDR2 does not affect retinal development. DDR2 inhibits laser-induced CNV. DDR2 regulates angiogenic factor expression in CNV lesion as well as in RPE cells. DDR2 is involved in modulation of CNV-induced activation of PI3K pathway.
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Unlocking Doors without Keys: Activation of Src by Truncated C-terminal Intracellular Receptor Tyrosine Kinases Lacking Tyrosine Kinase Activity. Cells 2014; 3:92-111. [PMID: 24709904 PMCID: PMC3980740 DOI: 10.3390/cells3010092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2013] [Revised: 02/07/2014] [Accepted: 02/07/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the best examples of the renaissance of Src as an open door to cancer has been the demonstration that just five min of Src activation is sufficient for transformation and also for induction and maintenance of cancer stem cells [1]. Many tyrosine kinase receptors, through the binding of their ligands, become the keys that unlock the structure of Src and activate its oncogenic transduction pathways. Furthermore, intracellular isoforms of these receptors, devoid of any tyrosine kinase activity, still retain the ability to unlock Src. This has been shown with a truncated isoform of KIT (tr-KIT) and a truncated isoform of VEGFR-1 (i21-VEGFR-1), which are intracellular and require no ligand binding, but are nonetheless able to activate Src and induce cell migration and invasion of cancer cells. Expression of the i21-VEGFR-1 is upregulated by the Notch signaling pathway and repressed by miR-200c and retinoic acid in breast cancer cells. Both Notch inhibitors and retinoic acid have been proposed as potential therapies for invasive breast cancer.
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FMS-related tyrosine kinase 3. Mol Oncol 2013. [DOI: 10.1017/cbo9781139046947.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Placental trophoblast cell differentiation: Physiological regulation and pathological relevance to preeclampsia. Mol Aspects Med 2013; 34:981-1023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2012.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 238] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2012] [Revised: 12/01/2012] [Accepted: 12/19/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Hirsch E, Ciraolo E, Franco I, Ghigo A, Martini M. PI3K in cancer-stroma interactions: bad in seed and ugly in soil. Oncogene 2013; 33:3083-90. [PMID: 23893246 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2013.265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2013] [Revised: 05/21/2013] [Accepted: 05/21/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Over the past decade the phosphoinositide-3 kinase (PI3K) signaling pathway emerged as an important player for tumor initiation and growth and, currently, PI3K inhibition constitutes a promising therapeutic approach for solid and hematological tumors. Beside its role in tumor cell evolution, PI3K signaling also provides integral functions for noncancerous cells that reside in healthy tissues surrounding the tumor, also referred as tumor microenvironment (TME). This review will address how PI3K signaling participates to the tumorigenic process and discuss the interaction between tumor cells and the surrounding TME, with particular focus on the role of PI3Ks in tumor-associated immune responses, tumor angiogenesis and metastasis formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Hirsch
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences-Center for Molecular Biotechnology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - E Ciraolo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences-Center for Molecular Biotechnology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - I Franco
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences-Center for Molecular Biotechnology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - A Ghigo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences-Center for Molecular Biotechnology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - M Martini
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences-Center for Molecular Biotechnology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
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Abstract
PI3Ks are signaling enzymes engaged by different types of membrane receptors and activated in cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, thrombosis and heart failure. Studies performed on genetically modified animals have provided proof-of-concept that general or isoform-specific blockade of these enzymes can modify disease development and progression. Hence, therapeutic inhibition of PI3Ks with novel pharmacological compounds constitutes a promising area of drug development. In particular, inhibitors of PI3Ks have the potential to reduce blood pressure, restrain the development of atherosclerosis and/or stabilize atherosclerotic plaques, blunt platelet aggregation, prevent left ventricular remodeling and preserve myocardial contractility in heart failure. This review summarizes the rationale of PI3K inhibition in the most prevalent cardiovascular diseases, and the available data on the therapeutic effects of PI3K inhibitors in their preclinical models. Implications for future drug development and human therapy are also discussed.
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Ara J, Shukla P, Frank M. Enhanced expression of the Flt-1 and Flk-1 receptor tyrosine kinases in a newborn piglet model of ischemic tolerance. J Neurochem 2013. [DOI: 10.1111/jnc.12110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jahan Ara
- Department of Pediatrics; Drexel University College of Medicine and Saint Christopher's Hospital for Children; Philadelphia PA USA
| | - Panchanan Shukla
- Department of Pediatrics; Drexel University College of Medicine and Saint Christopher's Hospital for Children; Philadelphia PA USA
| | - Melissa Frank
- Department of Pediatrics; Drexel University College of Medicine and Saint Christopher's Hospital for Children; Philadelphia PA USA
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Abstract
New vessel formation (angiogenesis) is an essential physiological process for embryologic development, normal growth, and tissue repair. Angiogenesis is tightly regulated at the molecular level; however, this process is dysregulated in several pathological conditions such as cancer. The imbalance between pro- and antiangiogenic signaling molecules within tumors creates an abnormal vascular network that is characterized by dilated, tortuous, and leaky vessels. The pathophysiological consequences of these vascular abnormalities include temporal and spatial heterogeneity in tumor blood flow, oxygenation, and increased tumor interstitial fluid pressure. The resultant microenvironment deeply impacts on tumor progression, and also leads to a reduction in therapy efficacy. The discovery of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) as a major driver of tumor angiogenesis has led to efforts to develop novel therapeutics aimed at inhibiting its activity. Anti-VEGF therapy has become an important option for the management of several human malignancies; however, a significant number of patients do not respond to anti-VEGF therapy when used either as single agent or in combination with chemotherapy. In addition, the benefit of antiangiogenic therapy is relatively short lived and the majority of patients relapse and progress. An increasing amount of reports suggest several potential mechanisms of resistance to antiangiogenic therapy including, but not limited to, tumor hypoxia. This chapter discusses the role of the VEGF axis in tumor biology and highlights the clinical application of anti-VEGF therapies elaborating on pitfalls and strategies to improve clinical outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria Rapisarda
- SAIC-Frederick, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
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Vieira JM, Ruhrberg C, Schwarz Q. VEGF receptor signaling in vertebrate development. Organogenesis 2012; 6:97-106. [PMID: 20885856 DOI: 10.4161/org.6.2.11686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2008] [Accepted: 04/10/2008] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The secreted glycoprotein vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF or VEGFA) affects many different cell types and modifies a wide spectrum of cellular behaviors in tissue culture models, including proliferation, migration, differentiation and survival. The versatility of VEGF signaling is reflected in the complex composition of its cell surface receptors and their ability to activate a variety of different downstream signaling molecules. A major challenge for VEGF research is to determine which of the specific signaling pathways identified in vitro control development and homeostasis of tissues containing VEGF-responsive cell types in vivo.
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Soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 and soluble endoglin are elevated circulating anti-angiogenic factors in pre-eclampsia. Pregnancy Hypertens 2012; 2:358-67. [PMID: 26105603 DOI: 10.1016/j.preghy.2012.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2012] [Accepted: 06/24/2012] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Pre-eclampsia, characterized by hypertension and proteinuria, affects approximately 3-5% of all pregnancies worldwide and is a major cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Maternal endothelial dysfunction is associated with disease pathogenesis. Recently, reports have shown that elevated levels of circulating soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 [sFlt1] and soluble endoglin [sEng] are associated with pre-eclampsia. Flt1 is a receptor for vascular endothelial growth factor receptor [VEGF], whereas endoglin [Eng] is an auxiliary receptor for transforming growth factor-β [TGF-β] super-family members. Both signaling pathways modulate angiogenesis and are involved in vascular homeostasis. Increased levels of sFlt1 and sEng dysregulate VEGF and TGF-β signaling respectively, resulting in endothelial dysfunction of maternal blood vessels. This review summarizes our current knowledge of Flt1 and endoglin and soluble forms in pre-eclampsia. Furthermore, it highlights the predictive and early-screening value of circulating levels of sFlt1 and sEng for the risk of developing pre-eclampsia.
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Abstract
During normal pregnancy, dramatically increased placental blood flow is critical for fetal growth and survival as well as neonatal birth weights and survivability. This increased blood flow results from angiogenesis, vasodilatation, and vascular remodeling. Locally produced growth factors including fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) are key regulators of placental endothelial functions including cell proliferation, migration, and vasodilatation. However, the precise signaling mechanisms underlying such regulation in fetoplacental endothelium are less well defined, specifically with regard to the interactions amongst protein kinases (PKs), protein phosphatase, and nitric oxide (NO). Recently, we and other researchers have obtained solid evidence showing that different signaling mechanisms participate in FGF2- and VEGFA-regulated fetoplacental endothelial cell proliferation and migration as well as NO production. This review will briefly summarize currently available data on signaling mediating fetoplacental angiogenesis with a specific emphasis on PKs, ERK1/2, AKT1, and p38 MAPK and protein phosphatases, PPP2 and PPP3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Wang
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Jing Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53715
- Address correspondence and reprint requests to: Jing Zheng, Ph.D., Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Perinatal Research Laboratories, University of Wisconsin, PAB1 Meriter Hospital, 202 S Park St., Madison, WI 53715. Phone: (608) 417-6314 Fax: (608) 257-1304.
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Khankin EV, Mandala M, Colton I, Karumanchi SA, Osol G. Hemodynamic, vascular, and reproductive impact of FMS-like tyrosine kinase 1 (FLT1) blockade on the uteroplacental circulation during normal mouse pregnancy. Biol Reprod 2012; 86:57. [PMID: 22075472 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.111.095380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
To investigate the role of FMS-like tyrosine kinase 1 (FLT1, also known as VEGFR1) signaling during pregnancy, mice were injected with anti-FLT1 neutralizing antibody (Ab) beginning on Gestational Day 8 or 12 and every other day thereafter until Day 18; vehicle-only injected mice served as controls. Uterine artery blood flow was measured with ultrasound on Days 13 and 18, and morphometric measurements of the uterine arcade were carried out on Day 19 to provide a measure of gestational vascular remodeling; reproductive performance was evaluated by determining litter size, resorption rates, and pup and placental weights. Ab injections beginning on Day 8 or Day 12 resulted in significant reductions of uterine artery peak systolic and diastolic flows at Days 13 and 18. In addition, normal reproductive function was compromised, as evidenced by a significant reduction in average number of viable pups along with enhanced resorption rates. Reproductive performance was also significantly compromised in this group, although less severely. There was no evidence of a reduction in main uterine artery diameters, though arterial distensibility was reduced, and the diameter of the main uterine vein was significantly smaller in the Ab-injected mice. Significant reductions in main uterine artery and segmental artery length were also noted. Placental and pup weights were similar in all the groups. FLT1 inhibition during murine pregnancy impaired blood flow to the fetal-placental unit, compromised several indices of vascular remodeling, reduced fecundity, and increased fetal reabsorptions. The effects of FLT1 inhibition are most pronounced when targeted during early pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliyahu V Khankin
- Center for Vascular Biology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Kang DH, Lee DJ, Lee KW, Park YS, Lee JY, Lee SH, Koh YJ, Koh GY, Choi C, Yu DY, Kim J, Kang SW. Peroxiredoxin II is an essential antioxidant enzyme that prevents the oxidative inactivation of VEGF receptor-2 in vascular endothelial cells. Mol Cell 2012; 44:545-58. [PMID: 22099303 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2011.08.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2011] [Revised: 06/20/2011] [Accepted: 08/04/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Cellular antioxidant enzymes play crucial roles in aerobic organisms by eliminating detrimental oxidants and maintaining the intracellular redox homeostasis. Therefore, the function of antioxidant enzymes is inextricably linked to the redox-dependent activities of multiple proteins and signaling pathways. Here, we report that the VEGFR2 RTK has an oxidation-sensitive cysteine residue whose reduced state is preserved specifically by peroxiredoxin II (PrxII) in vascular endothelial cells. In the absence of PrxII, the cellular H(2)O(2) level is markedly increased and the VEGFR2 becomes inactive, no longer responding to VEGF stimulation. Such VEGFR2 inactivation is due to the formation of intramolecular disulfide linkage between Cys1199 and Cys1206 in the C-terminal tail. Interestingly, the PrxII-mediated VEGFR2 protection is achieved by association of two proteins in the caveolae. Furthermore, PrxII deficiency suppresses tumor angiogenesis in vivo. This study thus demonstrates a physiological function of PrxII as the residential antioxidant safeguard specific to the redox-sensitive VEGFR2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Hoon Kang
- Division of Life and Pharmaceutical Science, Center for Cell Signaling and Drug Discovery Research, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 127-750, Korea
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Bruce D, Tan PH. Vascular endothelial growth factor receptors and the therapeutic targeting of angiogenesis in cancer: where do we go from here? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 18:85-103. [PMID: 22017472 DOI: 10.3109/15419061.2011.619673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Abstract Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor receptors (VEGFRs), the interactions with their ligands and the subsequent signalling pathways are known to play a vital role in tumour angiogenesis. Initial clinical trials of VEGFR inhibitors were disappointing but over the past decade some therapies have been successfully brought to market. At present, VEGFR inhibitors appear to be most promising as adjuvants to conventional chemotherapy. However, several interacting signalling molecules and downstream pathways have recently been shown to interact with VEGFR signalling and provide promising novel targets, such as the platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), epithelial growth factor (EGF), human epithelial receptor-2, (HER-2) Tie-2 and oestrogen receptors. Elucidation of this web of signalling pathways may identify new therapeutic strategies which may be used in combination with VEGFR inhibitors to augment the efficacy of anti-angiogenic cancer treatments. This review assesses the role of modulating VEGFR activity in cancer and systematically examines current evidence and trials in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Bruce
- Nuffield Department of Surgical Science, Oxford University, The John Radcliffe, Headley Way, Oxford, UK
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Abstract
VEGFs (vascular endothelial growth factors) control vascular development during embryogenesis and the function of blood vessels and lymphatic vessels in the adult. There are five related mammalian ligands, which act through three receptor tyrosine kinases. Signalling is modulated through neuropilins, which act as VEGF co-receptors. Heparan sulfate and integrins are also important modulators of VEGF signalling. Therapeutic agents that interfere with VEGF signalling have been developed with the aim of decreasing angiogenesis in diseases that involve tissue growth and inflammation, such as cancer. The present review will outline the current understanding and consequent biology of VEGF receptor signalling.
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Wang H, Geisen P, Wittchen ES, King B, Burridge K, D'Amore PA, Hartnett ME. The role of RPE cell-associated VEGF₁₈₉ in choroidal endothelial cell transmigration across the RPE. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2011; 52:570-8. [PMID: 20811045 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.10-5595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the role of vascular endothelial growth factor 189 (VEGF₁₈₉) in choroidal endothelial cell (CEC) migration across the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and to explore the molecular mechanisms involved. METHODS Using real-time PCR, the expression of VEGF splice variants VEGF₁₂₁, VEGF₁₆₅, and VEGF₁₈₉ was determined in human RPE from donor eyes, cultured human RPE in contact with CECs exposed to hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) or hypoxia, and RPE/choroid specimens from mice treated with laser to induce choroidal neovascularization (CNV). Activation of VEGF receptors (VEGFRs), phosphoinositol 3-kinase (PI-3K) or Rac1 was measured in CECs cocultured in contact with RPE exposed to peroxide or silenced for VEGF₁₈₉ expression. Migration of CECs across the RPE was determined using fluorescence microscopy. RESULTS VEGF₁₈₉ expression was increased in human RPE from aged compared with young donor eyes and from mouse RPE/choroids after laser to induce CNV. VEGF₁₈₉ was also upregulated in human RPE challenged with peroxide, hypoxia, or cultured in contact with CECs. CEC migration across RPE was greater after RPE exposure to peroxide to induce VEGF₁₈₉; VEGFR2 and Rac1 activities were also increased in these CECs. When CECs were cocultured with RPE silenced for VEGF₁₈₉, VEGFR2 and Rac1 activities in CECs were significantly reduced, as was CEC migration across the RPE. Inhibition of Rac1 activity significantly inhibited CEC transmigration without affecting PI-3K activity. CONCLUSIONS RPE-derived cell-associated VEGF₁₈₉ facilitates CEC transmigration by Rac1 activation independently of PI-3K signaling and may have importance in the development of neovascular AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haibo Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Gautier B, Goncalves V, Diana D, Di Stasi R, Teillet F, Lenoir C, Huguenot F, Garbay C, Fattorusso R, D'Andrea LD, Vidal M, Inguimbert N. Biochemical and structural analysis of the binding determinants of a vascular endothelial growth factor receptor peptidic antagonist. J Med Chem 2010; 53:4428-40. [PMID: 20462213 DOI: 10.1021/jm1002167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Cyclic peptide antagonist c[YYDEGLEE]-NH(2), which disrupts the interaction between vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptors (VEGFRs), represents a promising tool in the fight against cancer and age-related macular degeneration. Furthermore, coupled to a cyclen derivative, this ligand could be used as a medicinal imaging agent. Nevertheless, before generating such molecular probes, some preliminary studies need to be undertaken in order to define the more suitable positions for introduction of the cyclen macrocycle. Through an Ala-scan study on this peptide, we identified its binding motif, and an NMR study highlights its binding sites on the VEGFR-1D2 Ig-like domain. Guided by the structural relationship results deduced from the effect of the peptides on endothelial cells, new peptides were synthesized and grafted on beads. Used in a pull-down assay, these new peptides trap the VEGFRs, thus confirming that the identified amino acid positions are suitable for further derivatization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benoit Gautier
- Université Paris Descartes, UFR Biomédicale, Laboratoire de Pharmacochimie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, INSERM U648, 75006 Paris, France
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48
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Gordon FE, Nutt CL, Cheunsuchon P, Nakayama Y, Provencher KA, Rice KA, Zhou Y, Zhang X, Klibanski A. Increased expression of angiogenic genes in the brains of mouse meg3-null embryos. Endocrinology 2010; 151:2443-52. [PMID: 20392836 PMCID: PMC2875815 DOI: 10.1210/en.2009-1151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Maternally expressed gene 3 (MEG3) is a noncoding RNA highly expressed in the normal human brain and pituitary. Expression of MEG3 is lost in gonadotroph-derived clinically nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas. Meg3 knockout mice were generated to identify targets and potential functions of this gene in embryonic development and tumorigenesis. Gene expression profiles were compared in the brains of Meg3-null embryos and wild-type littermate controls using microarray analysis. Microarray data were analyzed with GeneSifter, which uses Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways and Gene Ontology classifications to identify signaling cascades and functional categories of interest within the dataset. Differences were found in signaling pathways and ontologies related to angiogenesis between wild-type and knockout embryos. Quantitative RT-PCR and immunohistological staining showed increased expression of some Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor pathway genes and increased cortical microvessel density in the Meg3-null embryos. In conclusion, Meg3 may play an important role in control of vascularization in the brain and may function as a tumor suppressor in part by inhibiting angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca E Gordon
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Bulfinch 457B, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
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49
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Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most common form of leukemia in adults, and despite some recent progress in understanding the biology of the disease, AML remains the leading cause of leukemia-related deaths in adults and children. AML is a complex and heterogeneous disease, often involving multiple genetic defects that promote leukemic transformation and drug resistance. The cooperativity model suggests that an initial genetic event leads to maturational arrest in a myeloid progenitor cell, and subsequent genetic events induce proliferation and block apoptosis. Together, these genetic abnormalities lead to clonal expansion and frank leukemia. The purpose of this chapter is to review the biology of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) in AML, exploring how RTKs are being used as novel prognostic factors and potential therapeutic targets.
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MESH Headings
- Adult
- Antineoplastic Agents/therapeutic use
- Drug Delivery Systems
- Forecasting
- Gene Duplication
- Humans
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/drug therapy
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/enzymology
- Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute/genetics
- Models, Biological
- Mutation
- Neoplasm Proteins/antagonists & inhibitors
- Neoplasm Proteins/genetics
- Neoplasm Proteins/physiology
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/antagonists & inhibitors
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/genetics
- Oncogene Proteins, Fusion/physiology
- Protein Kinase Inhibitors/therapeutic use
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-kit/antagonists & inhibitors
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-kit/genetics
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-kit/physiology
- Receptor Protein-Tyrosine Kinases/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor Protein-Tyrosine Kinases/genetics
- Receptor Protein-Tyrosine Kinases/physiology
- Signal Transduction/drug effects
- Signal Transduction/physiology
- fms-Like Tyrosine Kinase 3/antagonists & inhibitors
- fms-Like Tyrosine Kinase 3/genetics
- fms-Like Tyrosine Kinase 3/physiology
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek L Stirewalt
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA.
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50
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Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) regulate blood and lymphatic vessel development and homeostasis. VEGFs are predominantly produced by endothelial, hematopoietic, and stromal cells in response to hypoxia and upon stimulation by growth factors such as transforming growth factor beta (TGFbeta), interleukins, or platelet-derived growth factors (PDGFs). VEGFs specifically interact with one or several receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), VEGF receptor-1, -2, and -3 (VEGFR-1, -2, -3), and with distinct coreceptors such as neuropilins or heparan sulfate glycosaminoglycans. VEGF receptors are classified as type V RTKs whose extracellular domains consists of seven immunoglobulin-like (Ig-like) domains. VEGF receptors are activated upon ligand-mediated dimerization. However, little was known about the mechanism of receptor activation at the structural level until recently. New data published by several labs for VEGF and the related type III RTKs now suggest that both ligand-receptor as well as homotypic receptor-receptor interactions stabilize ligand-induced receptor dimers. These data support the idea that structural changes induced in the extracellular domain upon ligand binding instigate transmembrane signaling by properly positioning the intracellular kinase domains in active receptor dimers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Stuttfeld
- Paul Scherrer Institut, Biomolecular Research, Molecular Cell Biology, Villigen, Switzerland
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