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Abstract
Discovered in 1987 as a potent endothelial cell-derived vasoconstrictor peptide, endothelin-1 (ET-1), the predominant member of the endothelin peptide family, is now recognized as a multifunctional peptide with cytokine-like activity contributing to almost all aspects of physiology and cell function. More than 30 000 scientific articles on endothelin were published over the past 3 decades, leading to the development and subsequent regulatory approval of a new class of therapeutics-the endothelin receptor antagonists (ERAs). This article reviews the history of the discovery of endothelin and its role in genetics, physiology, and disease. Here, we summarize the main clinical trials using ERAs and discuss the role of endothelin in cardiovascular diseases such as arterial hypertension, preecclampsia, coronary atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction in the absence of obstructive coronary artery disease (MINOCA) caused by spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD), Takotsubo syndrome, and heart failure. We also discuss how endothelins contributes to diabetic kidney disease and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, pulmonary arterial hypertension, as well as cancer, immune disorders, and allograft rejection (which all involve ETA autoantibodies), and neurological diseases. The application of ERAs, dual endothelin receptor/angiotensin receptor antagonists (DARAs), selective ETB agonists, novel biologics such as receptor-targeting antibodies, or immunization against ETA receptors holds the potential to slow the progression or even reverse chronic noncommunicable diseases. Future clinical studies will show whether targeting endothelin receptors can prevent or reduce disability from disease and improve clinical outcome, quality of life, and survival in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Barton
- From Molecular Internal Medicine, University of Zürich, Switzerland (M.B.)
- Andreas Grüntzig Foundation, Zürich, Switzerland (M.B.)
| | - Masashi Yanagisawa
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS) and Life Science Center, Tsukuba Advanced Research Alliance, University of Tsukuba, Japan (M.Y.)
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX (M.Y.)
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Caron J, Michel PA, Dussaule JC, Chatziantoniou C, Ronco P, Boffa JJ. Extracorporeal shock wave therapy does not improve hypertensive nephropathy. Physiol Rep 2016; 4:4/11/e12699. [PMID: 27255359 PMCID: PMC4908482 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.12699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2015] [Accepted: 01/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Low-energy extracorporeal shock wave therapy (SWT) has been shown to improve myocardial dysfunction, hind limb ischemia, erectile function, and to facilitate cell therapy and healing process. These therapeutic effects were mainly due to promoting angiogenesis. Since chronic kidney diseases are characterized by renal fibrosis and capillaries rarefaction, they may benefit from a proangiogenic treatment. The objective of our study was to determine whether SWT could ameliorate renal repair and favor angiogenesis in L-NAME-induced hypertensive nephropathy in rats. SWT was started when proteinuria exceeded 1 g/mmol of creatinine and 1 week after L-NAME removal. SWT consisted of implying 0.09 mJ/mm(2) (400 shots), 3 times per week. After 4 weeks of SWT, blood pressure, renal function and urinary protein excretion did not differ between treated (LN + SWT) and untreated rats (LN). Histological lesions including glomerulosclerosis and arteriolosclerosis scores, tubular dilatation and interstitial fibrosis were similar in both groups. In addition, peritubular capillaries and eNOS, VEGF, VEGF-R, SDF-1 gene expressions did not increase in SWT-treated compared to untreated animals. No procedural complications or adverse effects were observed in control (C + SWT) and hypertensive rats (LN + SWT). These results suggest that extracorporeal kidney shock wave therapy does not induce angiogenesis and does not improve renal function and structure, at least in the model of hypertensive nephropathy although the treatment is well tolerated.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pierre-Antoine Michel
- INSERM UNIT 1155, Paris, F-75020, France Université Pierre et Marie Curie-Paris 6 UMR S 1155, Paris, France Department of Nephrology, AP-HP Hôpital Tenon, Paris, F-75020, France
| | - Jean-Claude Dussaule
- INSERM UNIT 1155, Paris, F-75020, France Université Pierre et Marie Curie-Paris 6 UMR S 1155, Paris, France Department of physiology, AP-HP Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Paris, F-75012, France
| | - Christos Chatziantoniou
- INSERM UNIT 1155, Paris, F-75020, France Université Pierre et Marie Curie-Paris 6 UMR S 1155, Paris, France
| | - Pierre Ronco
- INSERM UNIT 1155, Paris, F-75020, France Université Pierre et Marie Curie-Paris 6 UMR S 1155, Paris, France Department of Nephrology, AP-HP Hôpital Tenon, Paris, F-75020, France
| | - Jean-Jacques Boffa
- INSERM UNIT 1155, Paris, F-75020, France Université Pierre et Marie Curie-Paris 6 UMR S 1155, Paris, France Department of Nephrology, AP-HP Hôpital Tenon, Paris, F-75020, France
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Abstract
Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is a 21-amino acid peptide with mitogenic and powerful vasoconstricting properties. Under healthy conditions, ET-1 is expressed constitutively in all cells of the glomerulus and participates in homeostasis of glomerular structure and filtration function. Under disease conditions, increases in ET-1 are critically involved in initiating and maintaining glomerular inflammation, glomerular basement membrane hypertrophy, and injury of podocytes (visceral epithelial cells), thereby promoting proteinuria and glomerulosclerosis. Here, we review the role of ET-1 in the function of glomerular endothelial cells, visceral (podocytes) and parietal epithelial cells, mesangial cells, the glomerular basement membrane, stromal cells, inflammatory cells, and mesenchymal stem cells. We also discuss molecular mechanisms by which ET-1, predominantly through activation of the ETA receptor, contributes to injury to glomerular cells, and review preclinical and clinical evidence supporting its pathogenic role in glomerular injury in chronic renal disease. Finally, the therapeutic rationale for endothelin antagonists as a new class of antiproteinuric drugs is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Barton
- Molecular Internal Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Andrey Sorokin
- Department of Medicine, Kidney Disease Center, Division of Nephrology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
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Kohan DE, Barton M. Endothelin and endothelin antagonists in chronic kidney disease. Kidney Int 2014; 86:896-904. [PMID: 24805108 PMCID: PMC4216619 DOI: 10.1038/ki.2014.143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 191] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2013] [Revised: 01/31/2014] [Accepted: 02/06/2014] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The incidence and prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD), with diabetes and hypertension accounting for the majority of cases, is on the rise, with up to 160 million individuals worldwide predicted to be affected by 2020. Given that current treatment options, primarily targeted at the renin-angiotensin system, only modestly slow down progression to end-stage renal disease, the urgent need for additional effective therapeutics is evident. Endothelin-1 (ET-1), largely through activation of endothelin A receptors, has been strongly implicated in renal cell injury, proteinuria, inflammation, and fibrosis leading to CKD. Endothelin receptor antagonists (ERAs) have been demonstrated to ameliorate or even reverse renal injury and/or fibrosis in experimental models of CKD, whereas clinical trials indicate a substantial antiproteinuric effect of ERAs in diabetic and nondiabetic CKD patients even on top of maximal renin-angiotensin system blockade. This review summarizes the role of ET in CKD pathogenesis and discusses the potential therapeutic benefit of targeting the ET system in CKD, with attention to the risks and benefits of such an approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald E. Kohan
- Division of Nephrology, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Matthias Barton
- Molecular Internal Medicine, University of Zürich, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland
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Romero MJ, Yao L, Sridhar S, Bhatta A, Dou H, Ramesh G, Brands MW, Pollock DM, Caldwell RB, Cederbaum SD, Head CA, Bagi Z, Lucas R, Caldwell RW. l-Citrulline Protects from Kidney Damage in Type 1 Diabetic Mice. Front Immunol 2013; 4:480. [PMID: 24400007 PMCID: PMC3871963 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2013.00480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2013] [Accepted: 12/09/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a major cause of end-stage renal disease, associated with endothelial dysfunction. Chronic supplementation of l-arginine (l-arg), the substrate for endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), failed to improve vascular function. l-Citrulline (l-cit) supplementation not only increases l-arg synthesis, but also inhibits cytosolic arginase I, a competitor of eNOS for the use of l-arg, in the vasculature. AIMS To investigate whether l-cit treatment reduces DN in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced type 1 diabetes (T1D) in mice and rats and to study its effects on arginase II (ArgII) function, the main renal isoform. METHODS STZ-C57BL6 mice received l-cit or vehicle supplemented in the drinking water. For comparative analysis, diabetic ArgII knock out mice and l-cit-treated STZ-rats were evaluated. RESULTS l-Citrulline exerted protective effects in kidneys of STZ-rats, and markedly reduced urinary albumin excretion, tubulo-interstitial fibrosis, and kidney hypertrophy, observed in untreated diabetic mice. Intriguingly, l-cit treatment was accompanied by a sustained elevation of tubular ArgII at 16 weeks and significantly enhanced plasma levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. Diabetic ArgII knock out mice showed greater blood urea nitrogen levels, hypertrophy, and dilated tubules than diabetic wild type (WT) mice. Despite a marked reduction in collagen deposition in ArgII knock out mice, their albuminuria was not significantly different from diabetic WT animals. l-Cit also restored nitric oxide/reactive oxygen species balance and barrier function in high glucose-treated monolayers of human glomerular endothelial cells. Moreover, l-cit also has the ability to establish an anti-inflammatory profile, characterized by increased IL-10 and reduced IL-1β and IL-12(p70) generation in the human proximal tubular cells. CONCLUSION l-Citrulline supplementation established an anti-inflammatory profile and significantly preserved the nephron function during T1D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maritza J Romero
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Georgia Regents University , Augusta, GA , USA ; Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Georgia Regents University , Augusta, GA , USA ; Vascular Biology Center, Georgia Regents University , Augusta, GA , USA
| | - Lin Yao
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Georgia Regents University , Augusta, GA , USA
| | - Supriya Sridhar
- Vascular Biology Center, Georgia Regents University , Augusta, GA , USA
| | - Anil Bhatta
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Georgia Regents University , Augusta, GA , USA
| | - Huijuan Dou
- Vascular Biology Center, Georgia Regents University , Augusta, GA , USA
| | - Ganesan Ramesh
- Vascular Biology Center, Georgia Regents University , Augusta, GA , USA ; Department of Medicine, Georgia Regents University , Augusta, GA , USA
| | - Michael W Brands
- Department of Physiology, Georgia Regents University , Augusta, GA , USA
| | - David M Pollock
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Georgia Regents University , Augusta, GA , USA ; Department of Medicine, Georgia Regents University , Augusta, GA , USA
| | - Ruth B Caldwell
- Vascular Biology Center, Georgia Regents University , Augusta, GA , USA ; Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Georgia Regents University , Augusta, GA , USA ; Department of Ophthalmology, Georgia Regents University , Augusta, GA , USA ; VA Medical Center, Georgia Regents University , Augusta, GA , USA
| | - Stephen D Cederbaum
- Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center/Neuropsychiatric Institute (IDDRC/NPI), University of California Los Angeles School of Medicine , Los Angeles, CA , USA
| | - C Alvin Head
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Georgia Regents University , Augusta, GA , USA
| | - Zsolt Bagi
- Vascular Biology Center, Georgia Regents University , Augusta, GA , USA
| | - Rudolf Lucas
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Georgia Regents University , Augusta, GA , USA ; Vascular Biology Center, Georgia Regents University , Augusta, GA , USA ; Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Georgia Regents University , Augusta, GA , USA
| | - Robert W Caldwell
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Georgia Regents University , Augusta, GA , USA ; Department of Physiology, Georgia Regents University , Augusta, GA , USA
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The RenTg mice: a powerful tool to study renin-dependent chronic kidney disease. PLoS One 2012; 7:e52362. [PMID: 23300650 PMCID: PMC3530557 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0052362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2011] [Accepted: 11/16/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several studies have shown that activation of the renin-angiotensin system may lead to hypertension, a major risk factor for the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The existing hypertension-induced CDK mouse models are quite fast and consequently away from the human pathology. Thus, there is an urgent need for a mouse model that can be used to delineate the pathogenic process leading to progressive renal disease. The objective of this study was dual: to investigate whether mice overexpressing renin could mimic the kinetics and the physiopathological characteristics of hypertension-induced renal disease and to identify cellular and/or molecular events characterizing the different steps of the progression of CKD. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS We used a novel transgenic strain, the RenTg mice harboring a genetically clamped renin transgene. At 3 months, heterozygous mice are hypertensive and slightly albuminuric. The expression of adhesion markers such as vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 and platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 are increased in the renal vasculature indicating initiation of endothelial dysfunction. At 5 months, perivascular and periglomerular infiltrations of macrophages are observed. These early renal vascular events are followed at 8 months by leukocyte invasion, decreased expression of nephrin, increased expression of KIM-1, a typical protein of tubular cell stress, and of several pro-fibrotic agents of the TGFβ family. At 12 months, mice display characteristic structural alterations of hypertensive renal disease such as glomerular ischemia, glomerulo- and nephroangio-sclerosis, mesangial expansion and tubular dilation. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE The RenTg strain develops CKD progressively. In this model, endothelial dysfunction is an early event preceding the structural and fibrotic alterations which ultimately lead to the development of CKD. This model can provide new insights into the mechanisms of chronic renal failure and help to identify new targets for arresting and/or reversing the development of the disease.
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Identification of periostin as a critical marker of progression/reversal of hypertensive nephropathy. PLoS One 2012; 7:e31974. [PMID: 22403621 PMCID: PMC3293874 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0031974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2011] [Accepted: 01/16/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major health issue due to persistent accumulation of extracellular matrix in the injured kidney. However, our current understanding of fibrosis is limited, therapeutic options are lacking, and progressive degradation of renal function prevails in CKD patients. Uncovering novel therapeutic targets is therefore necessary.We have previously demonstrated reversal of renal fibrosis with losartan in experimental hypertensive nephropathy. Reversal was achieved provided that the drug was administered before late stages of nephropathy, thereby determining a non-return point of CKD progression. In the present study, to identify factors critically involved in the progression of renal fibrosis, we introduced losartan at the non-return point in L-NAME treated Sprague Dawley rats. Our results showed either reversal or progression of renal disease with losartan, defining 2 groups according to the opposite evolution of renal function. We took advantage of these experimental conditions to perform a transcriptomic screening to identify novel factors potentially implicated in the mechanisms of CKD progression. A secondary analysis of selected markers was thereafter performed. Among the targets identified, periostin, an extracellular matrix protein, presented a significant 3.3-fold higher mRNA expression in progression compared to reversal group. Furthermore, independent of blood pressure, periostin was strongly correlated with plasma creatinine, proteinuria and renal blood flow, hallmarks of hypertensive renal disease severity. Periostin staining was predominant in the injured regions, both in experimental hypertensive and human nephropathy.These results identify periostin as a previously unrecognized marker associated with disease progression and regression in hypertensive nephropathy and suggest measuring periostin may be a sensitive tool to evaluate severity, progression and response to therapy in human kidney disease associated to hypertension.
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Abstract
In the past decade, research has advanced our understanding how endothelin contributes to proteinuria and glomerulosclerosis. Data from pre-clinical and clinical studies now provide evidence that proteinuric diseases such as focal segmental glomerulosclerosis and diabetic nephropathy as well as hypertension nephropathy are sensitive to treatment with endothelin receptor antagonists (ERAs). Like blockade of the renin-angiotensin system, ERA treatment-under certain conditions-may even cause disease regression, effects that could be achieved on top of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system blockade, suggesting independent therapeutic mechanisms by which ERAs convey nephroprotection. Beneficial effects of ERAs on podocyte function, which is essential to maintain the glomerular filtration barrier, have been identified as one of the key mechanisms by which inhibition of the endothelin ETA receptor ameliorates renal structure and function. In this article, we will review pre-clinical studies demonstrating a causal role for endothelin in proteinuric chronic kidney disease (with a particular focus on functional and structural integrity of podocytes in vitro and in vivo). We will also review the evidence suggesting a therapeutic benefit of ERA treatment on the functional integrity of podocytes in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Barton
- Molecular Internal Medicine, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Pierre-Louis Tharaux
- INSERM and Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris Cardiovascular Centre, Paris, France
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Kanbay M, Sánchez-Lozada LG, Franco M, Madero M, Solak Y, Rodriguez-Iturbe B, Covic A, Johnson RJ. Microvascular disease and its role in the brain and cardiovascular system: a potential role for uric acid as a cardiorenal toxin. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2010; 26:430-7. [PMID: 20935013 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfq635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Arteriolosclerosis (microvascular disease) may have a key role not only in driving salt-sensitive hypertension but also in mediating the development of chronic kidney disease, vascular dementia, stroke and coronary heart disease. In this paper, we review the evidence that these latter conditions result from the altered autoregulation that occurs when arterioles become diseased. We also discuss the increasing evidence that dietary intake of sugars rich in fructose may be driving the development of microvascular disease as a consequence of raising intracellular uric acid. We hypothesize that the treatment of microvascular disease may require a multifaceted approach by utilizing agents which aim at blocking of the renin-angiotensin system, reducing oxidative stress, stimulating endothelial nitric oxide production and lowering uric acid levels. Paradoxically, agents that only stimulate nitric oxide, such as oestrogens, may increase the risk of poor outcomes if microvascular disease is not reversed.
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Helle F, Iversen BM, Chatziantoniou C. Losartan increases NO release in afferent arterioles during regression of l-NAME-induced renal damage. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2010; 298:F1170-7. [DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00056.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of nitric oxide synthesis (NOS) induces hypertension and heavy proteinuria. Renal structure and function have shown striking improvement after interventions targeting ANG II or endothelin (ET) receptors in rats recovering after long-term NOS inhibition. To search for mechanisms underlying losartan-assisted regression of renal disease in rodents, we measured NO release and contractility to ET in afferent arterioles (AAs) from Sprague-Dawley rats recovering for 2 wk after 4 wk of NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester treatment. Losartan administration during the recovery period decreased blood pressure (113 ± 4 vs. 146 ± 5 mmHg, P < 0.01), reduced protein/creatinine ratio more (proteinuria decrease: Δ1,836 ± 214 vs. Δ1,024 ± 180 mg/mmol, P < 0.01), and normalized microvascular hypertrophy (AA media/lumen ratio: 1.74 ± 0.05 vs. 2.09 ± 0.08, P < 0.05) compared with no treatment. In diaminofluorescein-FM-loaded AAs from losartan-treated animals, NO release (% of baseline) was increased compared with untreated animals after stimulation with 10−7 M ACh (118 ± 4 vs. 90 ± 7%, t = 560 s, P < 0.001) and 10−9 M ET (123 ± 4 vs. 101 ± 5%, t = 560 s, P < 0.001). There was also a blunted contractile response to 10−7 M ET in AAs from losartan-treated animals compared with untreated animals (Δ4.01 ± 2.9 vs. Δ14.6 ± 1.7 μm, P < 0.01), which disappeared after acute NOS inhibition (Δ10.7 ± 3.7 vs. Δ12.5 ± 2.9 μm, not significant). Contractile dose responses to ET (10−9, 10−8, 10−7 M) were enhanced by NOS inhibition and blunted by exogenous NO (10−2 mM S-nitroso- N-acetyl-penicillamine) in losartan-treated but not in untreated vessels. Reducing blood pressure similar to losartan with hydralazine did not improve AA hypertrophy, ET-induced contractility, ET-induced NO release, and NO sensitivity. In conclusion, blockade of the local action of ANG II improved endothelial function in AAs, a mechanism that is likely to contribute to the beneficial effects of AT1aR antagonism during the recovery of renal function after long-term NOS inhibition in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Helle
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U702, Hôpital Tenon, Paris
- Renal Research Group, Institute of Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen; and
- Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Bjarne M. Iversen
- Renal Research Group, Institute of Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen; and
- Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Christos Chatziantoniou
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U702, Hôpital Tenon, Paris
- Pierre et Marie Curie University, Paris, France
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Barton M. Therapeutic potential of endothelin receptor antagonists for chronic proteinuric renal disease in humans. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2010; 1802:1203-13. [PMID: 20359530 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2010.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2010] [Revised: 03/23/2010] [Accepted: 03/25/2010] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Diabetes and arterial hypertension continue to be the main causes of chronic renal failure in 2010, with a rising prevalence in part due to the worldwide obesity epidemic. Proteinuria is a main feature of chronic renal disease and mediated by defects in the glomerular filtration barrier and is as a good predictor of cardiovascular events. Indeed, chronic renal disease due to glomerulosclerosis is one of the important risk factors for the development of coronary artery disease and stroke. Glomerulosclerosis develops in response to inflammatory activation and increased growth factor production. Preclinical and first preliminary clinical studies provide strong evidence that endogenous endothelin-1 (ET-1), a 21-amino-acid peptide with strong growth-promoting and vasoconstricting properties, plays a central role in the pathogenesis of proteinuria and glomerulosclerosis via activation of its ET(A) subtype receptor involving podocyte injury. These studies have not only shown that endothelin participates in the disease processes of hypertension and glomerulosclerosis but also that features of chronic renal disease such as proteinuria and glomerulosclerosis are reversible processes. Remarkably, the protective effects of endothelin receptors antagonists (ERAs) are present even on top of concomitant treatments with inhibitors of the renin-angiotensin system. This review discusses current evidence for a role of endothelin for proteinuric renal disease and podocyte injury in diabetes and arterial hypertension and reviews the current status of endothelin receptor antagonists as a potential new treatment option in renal medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Barton
- Molecular Internal Medicine, University of Zurich, LTK Y 44 G 22, Winterthurer Strasse 190, CH-8057 Zürich, Switzerland.
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Restoration of podocyte structure and improvement of chronic renal disease in transgenic mice overexpressing renin. PLoS One 2009; 4:e6721. [PMID: 19696925 PMCID: PMC2725297 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0006721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2009] [Accepted: 07/12/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Proteinuria is a major marker of the decline of renal function and an important risk factor of coronary heart disease. Elevated proteinuria is associated to the disruption of slit-diaphragm and loss of podocyte foot processes, structural alterations that are considered irreversible. The objective of the present study was to investigate whether proteinuria can be reversed and to identify the structural modifications and the gene/protein regulation associated to this reversal. Methodology/Principal Findings We used a novel transgenic strain of mouse (RenTg) that overexpresses renin at a constant high level. At the age of 12-month, RenTg mice showed established lesions typical of chronic renal disease such as peri-vascular and periglomerular inflammation, glomerular ischemia, glomerulosclerosis, mesangial expansion and tubular dilation. Ultrastructural analysis indicated abnormal heterogeneity of basement membrane thickness and disappearance of podocyte foot processes. These structural alterations were accompanied by decreased expressions of proteins specific of podocyte (nephrin, podocin), or tubular epithelial cell (E-cadherin and megalin) integrity. In addition, since TGFβ is considered the major pro-fibrotic agent in renal disease and since exogenous administration of BMP7 is reported to antagonize the TGFβ-induced phenotype changes in kidney, we have screened the expressions of several genes belonging in the TGFβ/BMP superfamily. We found that the endogenous inhibitors of BMPs such as noggin and Usag-1 were several-fold activated inhibiting the action of BMPs and thus reinforcing the deleterious action of TGFβ.Treatment with an AT1 receptor antagonist, at dose that did not decrease arterial pressure, gradually reduced albuminuria. This decrease was accompanied by re-expression of podocin, nephrin, E-cadherin and megalin, and reappearance of podocyte foot processes. In addition, expressions of noggin and Usag-1 were markedly decreased, permitting thus activation of the beneficial action of BMPs. Conclusions/Significance These findings show that proteinuria and alterations in the expression of proteins involved in the integrity and function of glomerular and renal epithelial phenotype are reversible events when the local action of angiotensin II is blocked, and provide hope that chronic renal disease can be efficiently treated.
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Helle F, Jouzel C, Chadjichristos C, Placier S, Flamant M, Guerrot D, François H, Dussaule JC, Chatziantoniou C. Improvement of renal hemodynamics during hypertension-induced chronic renal disease: role of EGF receptor antagonism. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2009; 297:F191-9. [DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00015.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study investigated mechanisms of regression of renal disease after severe proteinuria by focusing on the interaction among EGF receptors, renal hemodynamics, and structural lesions. The nitric oxide (NO) inhibitor NG-nitro-l-arginine-methyl ester (l-NAME) was administered chronically in Sprague-Dawley rats. When proteinuria exceeded 2 g/mmol creatinine, animals were divided into three groups for an experimental period of therapy of 2 wk; in one group, l-NAME was removed to allow reactivation of endogenous NO synthesis; in the two other groups, l-NAME removal was combined with EGF or angiotensin receptor type 1 (AT1) antagonism. l-NAME removal partially reduced mean arterial pressure and proteinuria and increased renal blood flow (RBF), but not microvascular hypertrophy. Progression of structural damage was stopped, but not reversed. The administration of an EGF receptor antagonist did not have an additional effect on lowering blood pressure or on renal inflammation but did normalize RBF and afferent arteriole hypertrophy; the administration of an AT1 antagonist normalized all measured functional and structural parameters. Staining with a specific marker of endothelial integrity indicated loss of functional endothelial cells in the l-NAME removal group; in contrast, in the animals treated with an EGF or AT1 receptor antagonist, functional endothelial cells reappeared at levels equal to control animals. In addition, afferent arterioles freshly isolated from the l-NAME removal group showed an exaggerated constrictor response to endothelin; this response was blunted in the vessels isolated from the EGF or AT1 receptor antagonist groups. The EGF receptor is an important mediator of endothelial dysfunction and contributes to the decline of RBF in the chronic kidney disease induced by NO deficiency. The EGF receptor antagonist-induced improvement of RBF is important but not sufficient for a complete reversal of renal disease, because it has little effect on renal inflammation. To achieve full recovery, it is necessary to apply AT1 receptor antagonism.
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Gross DR. Other Transgenic Animal Models Used in Cardiovascular Studies. ANIMAL MODELS IN CARDIOVASCULAR RESEARCH 2009. [PMCID: PMC7121723 DOI: 10.1007/978-0-387-95962-7_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Previous chapters have described a large number of transgenic animal models used to study specific cardiovascular syndromes. This chapter will fill in some gaps. Many of these transgenic animals were developed to study normal and/or abnormal physiological responses in other organ systems, or to study basic biochemical and molecular reactions or pathways. These models were then discovered to also have effects on the cardiovascular system, some of them unanticipated. A word of caution, particularly when highly inbred mouse strains are used to develop transgenic models - not all strains of a particular species are created equal. When cardiovascular parameters of age- and sex-matched A/J and C57BL/6J inbred mice were compared the C57BL/6J mice demonstrated eccentric physiologic ventricular hypertrophy, increased ventricular function, lower heart rates, and increased exercise endurance.1
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Barton M, Yanagisawa M. Endothelin: 20 years from discovery to therapy. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2008; 86:485-98. [PMID: 18758495 DOI: 10.1139/y08-059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 242] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Since its identification as an endothelial cell-derived vasoconstrictor peptide in 1988, endothelin-1, the predominant member of the endothelin peptide family, has received considerable interest in basic medical science and in clinical medicine, which is reflected by more than 20 000 scientific publications on endothelin research in the past 20 years. The story of endothelin is unique as the gene sequences of endothelin receptors and the first receptor antagonists became available within only 4 years of the identification of the peptide sequence. The first clinical study in patients with congestive heart failure was published only 3 years thereafter. Yet, despite convincing experimental evidence of a pathogenetic role for endothelin in development, cell function, and disease, many initial clinical studies on endothelin antagonism were negative. In many of these studies, study designs or patient selection were inadequate. Today, for diseases such as pulmonary hypertension, endothelin antagonist treatment has become reality in clinical medicine, and ongoing clinical studies are evaluating additional indications, such as renal disease and cancer. Twenty years after the discovery of endothelin, its inhibitors have finally arrived in the clinical arena and are now providing us with new options to treat disease and prolong the lives of patients. Possible future indications include resistant arterial hypertension, proteinuric renal disease, cancer, and connective tissue diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Barton
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Innere Medizin, Departement für Innere Medizin, Universitätsspital Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.
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Barton M. Reversal of proteinuric renal disease and the emerging role of endothelin. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 4:490-501. [PMID: 18648345 DOI: 10.1038/ncpneph0891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2008] [Accepted: 06/05/2008] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Proteinuria is a major long-term clinical consequence of diabetes and hypertension, conditions that lead to progressive loss of functional renal tissue and, ultimately, end-stage renal disease. Proteinuria is also a strong predictor of cardiovascular events. Convincing preclinical and clinical evidence exists that proteinuria and the underlying glomerulosclerosis are reversible processes. This Review outlines the mechanisms involved in the development of glomerulosclerosis--particularly those responsible for podocyte injury--with an emphasis on the potential capacity of endothelin receptor blockade to reverse this process. There is strong evidence that endothelin-1, a peptide with growth-promoting and vasoconstricting properties, has a central role in the pathogenesis of proteinuria and glomerulosclerosis, which is mediated via activation of the ET(A) receptor. Several antiproteinuric drugs, including angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor antagonists, statins and certain calcium channel blockers, inhibit the formation of endothelin-1. Preclinical studies have demonstrated that endothelin receptor antagonists can reverse proteinuric renal disease and glomerulosclerosis, and preliminary studies in humans with renal disease have shown that these drugs have remarkable antiproteinuric effects that are additive to those of standard antiproteinuric therapy. Additional clinical studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Barton
- Department of Internal Medicine, Klinik und Poliklinik für Innere Medizin, Universitätsspital Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.
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Pistea A, Bakker ENTP, Spaan JAE, Hardeman MR, van Rooijen N, VanBavel E. Small Artery Remodeling and Erythrocyte Deformability in L-NAME-Induced Hypertension: Role of Transglutaminases. J Vasc Res 2007; 45:10-8. [PMID: 17898543 DOI: 10.1159/000109073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2007] [Accepted: 06/01/2007] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypertension is associated with inward remodeling of small arteries and decreased erythrocyte deformability, both impairing proper tissue perfusion. We hypothesized that these alterations depend on transglutaminases, cross-linking enzymes present in the vascular wall, monocytes/macrophages and erythrocytes. METHODS AND RESULTS Wild-type (WT) mice and tissue-type transglutaminase (tTG) knockout (KO) mice received the nitric oxide inhibitor Nomega-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-NAME) to induce hypertension. After 1 week, mesenteric arteries from hypertensive WT mice showed a smaller lumen diameter (-6.9 +/- 2.0%, p = 0.024) and a larger wall-to-lumen ratio (11.8 +/- 3.5%, p = 0.012) than controls, whereas inward remodeling was absent in hypertensive tTG KO mice. After 3 weeks, the wall-to-lumen ratio was increased in WT (20.8 +/- 4.8%, p = 0.005) but less so in tTG KO mice (11.7 +/- 4.6%, p = 0.026), and wall stress was normalized in WT but not in tTG KO mice. L-NAME did not influence expression of tTG or an alternative transglutaminase, coagulation factor XIII (FXIII). Suppression of FXIII by macrophage depletion was associated with increased tTG in the presence of L-NAME. L-NAME treatment decreased erythrocyte deformability in the WT mice (-15.3% at 30 dynes/cm(2), p = 0.014) but not in the tTG KO mice. CONCLUSION Transglutaminases are involved in small artery inward remodeling and erythrocyte stiffening associated with nitric oxide inhibition-related hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Pistea
- Department of Medical Physics, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Carlström M, Sällström J, Skøtt O, Larsson E, Wåhlin N, Persson AEG. Hydronephrosis causes salt-sensitive hypertension and impaired renal concentrating ability in mice. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2007; 189:293-301. [PMID: 17305709 DOI: 10.1111/j.1748-1716.2006.01637.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM Hypertension is a common disease in the industrialized world and approximately 5% of all cases are secondary to kidney malfunction. We have recently shown that hydronephrosis due to partial unilateral ureteral obstruction (PUUO) causes salt-sensitive hypertension in rats. The mechanisms are still unclear, but appear to be intrarenal and primarily located to the diseased kidney. In the present study, we have developed a model for PUUO to study if hydronephrotic mice develop salt-sensitive hypertension. METHODS PUUO was created in 3-week-old mice (C57bl/6J). Blood pressure and heart rate were measured telemetrically in adult animals on normal and high salt diets. Metabolism cages were used to study the renal excretion of electrolytes and water. Plasma samples for renin analysis were collected and renal histological changes were evaluated. RESULTS All hydronephrotic animals developed salt-sensitive hypertension that correlated to the degree of hydronephrosis. In hydronephrotic animals, blood pressure increased from 114 +/- 1 mmHg on normal salt diet to 120 +/- 2 mmHg on high salt diet, compared with 103 +/- 1 to 104 +/- 1 in controls. Hydronephrotic animals showed increased diuresis and reduced ability to regulate electrolyte concentration. No differences in plasma renin concentration were found between the groups. The parenchymal weight and glomerular area of contralateral kidneys were significantly increased in the hydronephrotic animals. Histopathology of the hydronephrotic kidneys displayed areas with fibrosis, inflammation and glomerular changes. CONCLUSION This study provides a model for PUUO in mice and demonstrates the presence of salt-sensitive hypertension and an impaired renal concentrating ability in mice which has not been described before.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Carlström
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Division of Integrative Physiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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