1
|
Moutal A, Martin LF, Boinon L, Gomez K, Ran D, Zhou Y, Stratton HJ, Cai S, Luo S, Gonzalez KB, Perez-Miller S, Patwardhan A, Ibrahim MM, Khanna R. SARS-CoV-2 spike protein co-opts VEGF-A/neuropilin-1 receptor signaling to induce analgesia. Pain 2021; 162:243-252. [PMID: 33009246 PMCID: PMC7737878 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Global spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 continues unabated. Binding of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2's spike protein to host angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 triggers viral entry, but other proteins may participate, including the neuropilin-1 receptor (NRP-1). Because both spike protein and vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A)-a pronociceptive and angiogenic factor, bind NRP-1, we tested whether spike could block VEGF-A/NRP-1 signaling. VEGF-A-triggered sensory neuron firing was blocked by spike protein and NRP-1 inhibitor EG00229. Pronociceptive behaviors of VEGF-A were similarly blocked through suppression of spontaneous spinal synaptic activity and reduction of electrogenic currents in sensory neurons. Remarkably, preventing VEGF-A/NRP-1 signaling was antiallodynic in a neuropathic pain model. A "silencing" of pain through subversion of VEGF-A/NRP-1 signaling may underlie increased disease transmission in asymptomatic individuals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Laurent F. Martin
- Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Song Cai
- Departments of Pharmacology, and
| | | | | | - Samantha Perez-Miller
- Departments of Pharmacology, and
- Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Amol Patwardhan
- Departments of Pharmacology, and
- Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- Comprehensive Pain and Addiction Center, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Mohab M. Ibrahim
- Departments of Pharmacology, and
- Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- Comprehensive Pain and Addiction Center, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Rajesh Khanna
- Departments of Pharmacology, and
- Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- Comprehensive Pain and Addiction Center, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
- Center for Innovation in Brain Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
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.
Collapse
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.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Moutal A, Martin LF, Boinon L, Gomez K, Ran D, Zhou Y, Stratton HJ, Cai S, Luo S, Gonzalez KB, Perez-Miller S, Patwardhan A, Ibrahim MM, Khanna R. SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein co-opts VEGF-A/Neuropilin-1 receptor signaling to induce analgesia. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2020:2020.07.17.209288. [PMID: 32869019 PMCID: PMC7457601 DOI: 10.1101/2020.07.17.209288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Global spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) continues unabated. Binding of SARS-CoV-2's Spike protein to host angiotensin converting enzyme 2 triggers viral entry, but other proteins may participate, including neuropilin-1 receptor (NRP-1). As both Spike protein and vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) - a pro-nociceptive and angiogenic factor, bind NRP-1, we tested if Spike could block VEGF-A/NRP-1 signaling. VEGF-A-triggered sensory neuronal firing was blocked by Spike protein and NRP-1 inhibitor EG00229. Pro-nociceptive behaviors of VEGF-A were similarly blocked via suppression of spontaneous spinal synaptic activity and reduction of electrogenic currents in sensory neurons. Remarkably, preventing VEGF-A/NRP-1 signaling was antiallodynic in a neuropathic pain model. A 'silencing' of pain via subversion of VEGF-A/NRP-1 signaling may underlie increased disease transmission in asymptomatic individuals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aubin Moutal
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Laurent F. Martin
- Department of Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Lisa Boinon
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Kimberly Gomez
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Dongzhi Ran
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Yuan Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Harrison J. Stratton
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Song Cai
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Shizhen Luo
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Kerry Beth Gonzalez
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Samantha Perez-Miller
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
- Department of Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Amol Patwardhan
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
- Department of Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
- Comprehensive Pain and Addiction Center, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Mohab M. Ibrahim
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
- Department of Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
- Comprehensive Pain and Addiction Center, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| | - Rajesh Khanna
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
- Department of Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
- Center for Innovation in Brain Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, United States of America
- Comprehensive Pain and Addiction Center, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, 85724 United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Yaron JR, Zhang L, Guo Q, Burgin M, Schutz LN, Awo E, Wise L, Krause KL, Ildefonso CJ, Kwiecien JM, Juby M, Rahman MM, Chen H, Moyer RW, Alcami A, McFadden G, Lucas AR. Deriving Immune Modulating Drugs from Viruses-A New Class of Biologics. J Clin Med 2020; 9:E972. [PMID: 32244484 PMCID: PMC7230489 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9040972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Viruses are widely used as a platform for the production of therapeutics. Vaccines containing live, dead and components of viruses, gene therapy vectors and oncolytic viruses are key examples of clinically-approved therapeutic uses for viruses. Despite this, the use of virus-derived proteins as natural sources for immune modulators remains in the early stages of development. Viruses have evolved complex, highly effective approaches for immune evasion. Originally developed for protection against host immune responses, viral immune-modulating proteins are extraordinarily potent, often functioning at picomolar concentrations. These complex viral intracellular parasites have "performed the R&D", developing highly effective immune evasive strategies over millions of years. These proteins provide a new and natural source for immune-modulating therapeutics, similar in many ways to penicillin being developed from mold or streptokinase from bacteria. Virus-derived serine proteinase inhibitors (serpins), chemokine modulating proteins, complement control, inflammasome inhibition, growth factors (e.g., viral vascular endothelial growth factor) and cytokine mimics (e.g., viral interleukin 10) and/or inhibitors (e.g., tumor necrosis factor) have now been identified that target central immunological response pathways. We review here current development of virus-derived immune-modulating biologics with efficacy demonstrated in pre-clinical or clinical studies, focusing on pox and herpesviruses-derived immune-modulating therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jordan R. Yaron
- Center for Personalized Diagnostics, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA; (J.R.Y.); (L.Z.); (Q.G.); (M.B.); (L.N.S.); (E.A.); (M.J.)
- Center for Immunotherapy, Vaccines and Virotherapy, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA (G.M.)
| | - Liqiang Zhang
- Center for Personalized Diagnostics, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA; (J.R.Y.); (L.Z.); (Q.G.); (M.B.); (L.N.S.); (E.A.); (M.J.)
- Center for Immunotherapy, Vaccines and Virotherapy, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA (G.M.)
| | - Qiuyun Guo
- Center for Personalized Diagnostics, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA; (J.R.Y.); (L.Z.); (Q.G.); (M.B.); (L.N.S.); (E.A.); (M.J.)
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Michelle Burgin
- Center for Personalized Diagnostics, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA; (J.R.Y.); (L.Z.); (Q.G.); (M.B.); (L.N.S.); (E.A.); (M.J.)
- Center for Immunotherapy, Vaccines and Virotherapy, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA (G.M.)
| | - Lauren N. Schutz
- Center for Personalized Diagnostics, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA; (J.R.Y.); (L.Z.); (Q.G.); (M.B.); (L.N.S.); (E.A.); (M.J.)
- Center for Immunotherapy, Vaccines and Virotherapy, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA (G.M.)
| | - Enkidia Awo
- Center for Personalized Diagnostics, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA; (J.R.Y.); (L.Z.); (Q.G.); (M.B.); (L.N.S.); (E.A.); (M.J.)
- Center for Immunotherapy, Vaccines and Virotherapy, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA (G.M.)
| | - Lyn Wise
- University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand; (L.W.); (K.L.K.)
| | - Kurt L. Krause
- University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand; (L.W.); (K.L.K.)
| | | | - Jacek M. Kwiecien
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S4L8, Canada
| | - Michael Juby
- Center for Personalized Diagnostics, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA; (J.R.Y.); (L.Z.); (Q.G.); (M.B.); (L.N.S.); (E.A.); (M.J.)
- Center for Immunotherapy, Vaccines and Virotherapy, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA (G.M.)
| | - Masmudur M. Rahman
- Center for Immunotherapy, Vaccines and Virotherapy, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA (G.M.)
| | - Hao Chen
- The Department of Tumor Surgery, Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730030, China;
| | - Richard W. Moyer
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA;
| | - Antonio Alcami
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas and Universidad Autónoma de Madrid), Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Grant McFadden
- Center for Immunotherapy, Vaccines and Virotherapy, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA (G.M.)
| | - Alexandra R. Lucas
- Center for Personalized Diagnostics, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA; (J.R.Y.); (L.Z.); (Q.G.); (M.B.); (L.N.S.); (E.A.); (M.J.)
- Center for Immunotherapy, Vaccines and Virotherapy, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA (G.M.)
- St Joseph Hospital, Dignity Health, Creighton University, Phoenix, AZ 85013, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Youssef Z, Yesmurzayeva N, Larue L, Jouan-Hureaux V, Colombeau L, Arnoux P, Acherar S, Vanderesse R, Frochot C. New Targeted Gold Nanorods for the Treatment of Glioblastoma by Photodynamic Therapy. J Clin Med 2019; 8:E2205. [PMID: 31847227 PMCID: PMC6947424 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8122205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2019] [Revised: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
This study describes the employment of gold nanorods (AuNRs), known for their good reputation in hyperthermia-based cancer therapy, in a hybrid combination of photosensitizers (PS) and peptides (PP). We report here, the design and the synthesis of this nanosystem and its application as a vehicle for the selective drug delivery and the efficient photodynamic therapy (PDT). AuNRs were functionalized by polyethylene glycol, phototoxic pyropheophorbide-a (Pyro) PS, and a "KDKPPR" peptide moiety to target neuropilin-1 receptor (NRP-1). The physicochemical characteristics of AuNRs, the synthesized peptide and the intermediate PP-PS conjugates were investigated. The photophysical properties of the hybrid AuNRs revealed that upon conjugation, the AuNRs acquired the characteristic properties of Pyro concerning the extension of the absorption profile and the capability to fluoresce (Φf = 0.3) and emit singlet oxygen (ΦΔ = 0.4) when excited at 412 nm. Even after being conjugated onto the surface of the AuNRs, the molecular affinity of "KDKPPR" for NRP-1 was preserved. Under irradiation at 652 nm, in vitro assays were conducted on glioblastoma U87 cells incubated with different PS concentrations of free Pyro, intermediate PP-PS conjugate and hybrid AuNRs. The AuNRs showed no cytotoxicity in the absence of light even at high PS concentrations. However, they efficiently decreased the cell viability by 67% under light exposure. This nanosystem possesses good efficiency in PDT and an expected potential effect in a combined photodynamic/photothermal therapy guided by NIR fluorescence imaging of the tumors due to the presence of both the hyperthermic agent, AuNRs, and the fluorescent active phototoxic PS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zahraa Youssef
- Laboratoire Réactions et Génie des Procédés (LRGP), UMR 7274, CNRS, Université de Lorraine, 54000 Nancy, France; (Z.Y.); (N.Y.); (L.L.); (L.C.); (P.A.)
| | - Nurlykyz Yesmurzayeva
- Laboratoire Réactions et Génie des Procédés (LRGP), UMR 7274, CNRS, Université de Lorraine, 54000 Nancy, France; (Z.Y.); (N.Y.); (L.L.); (L.C.); (P.A.)
- Kazakh National Research Technical University after K.I Satpayev, 22 Satpayev str., Almaty 050013, Kazakhstan
| | - Ludivine Larue
- Laboratoire Réactions et Génie des Procédés (LRGP), UMR 7274, CNRS, Université de Lorraine, 54000 Nancy, France; (Z.Y.); (N.Y.); (L.L.); (L.C.); (P.A.)
| | | | - Ludovic Colombeau
- Laboratoire Réactions et Génie des Procédés (LRGP), UMR 7274, CNRS, Université de Lorraine, 54000 Nancy, France; (Z.Y.); (N.Y.); (L.L.); (L.C.); (P.A.)
| | - Philippe Arnoux
- Laboratoire Réactions et Génie des Procédés (LRGP), UMR 7274, CNRS, Université de Lorraine, 54000 Nancy, France; (Z.Y.); (N.Y.); (L.L.); (L.C.); (P.A.)
| | - Samir Acherar
- Laboratoire de Chimie Physique Macromoléculaire (LCPM), UMR 7375, CNRS, Université de Lorraine, 54000 Nancy, France; (S.A.); (R.V.)
| | - Régis Vanderesse
- Laboratoire de Chimie Physique Macromoléculaire (LCPM), UMR 7375, CNRS, Université de Lorraine, 54000 Nancy, France; (S.A.); (R.V.)
| | - Céline Frochot
- Laboratoire Réactions et Génie des Procédés (LRGP), UMR 7274, CNRS, Université de Lorraine, 54000 Nancy, France; (Z.Y.); (N.Y.); (L.L.); (L.C.); (P.A.)
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Regulation of VEGFR2 trafficking and signaling by Rab GTPase-activating proteins. Sci Rep 2019; 9:13342. [PMID: 31527750 PMCID: PMC6746989 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-49646-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR2) and its ligands (VEGFs) are crucial players in vasculogenesis and angiogenesis. General blocking of this signaling system with antibodies or small molecule inhibitors is an established strategy to treat cancer and age-related macular degeneration. Nevertheless, the activated receptor can signal to discrete downstream signaling pathways and the equilibrium between these pathways is modulated by coreceptors and distinct isoforms of VEGF. Here we investigated the influence of Rab GTPase activating proteins (RabGAPs) on VEGFR2 signaling, tube formation, and migration of endothelial cells. We demonstrate that members of the TBC1D10 subfamily of RabGAPs have opposite effects. Whereas TBC1D10A leads to increased Erk1/2 signaling, TBC1D10B lowered Erk1/2 and p38 signaling and reduced tube formation in vitro. TBC1D10A is a RabGAP acting on RAB13 that was shown before to play a role in angiogenesis and we could indeed show colocalization of these two proteins with VEGFR2 in activated cells. In addition, we observed that cells expressing TBC1D10B show lower expression of VEGFR2 and NRP1 on filopodia of activated cells. Taken together, our systematic analysis of influence of RabGAPs on VEGFR2 signaling identifies the TBC1D10 subfamily members as modulators of angiogenesis.
Collapse
|
7
|
Abstract
Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are essential components of cell communication pathways utilized from the embryonic to adult stages of life. These transmembrane receptors bind polypeptide ligands, such as growth factors, inducing signalling cascades that control cellular processes such as proliferation, survival, differentiation, motility and inflammation. Many viruses have acquired homologs of growth factors encoded by the hosts that they infect. Production of growth factors during infection allows viruses to exploit RTKs for entry and replication in cells, as well as for host and environmental dissemination. This review describes the genetic diversity amongst virus-derived growth factors and the mechanisms by which RTK exploitation enhances virus survival, then highlights how viral ligands can be used to further understanding of RTK signalling and function during embryogenesis, homeostasis and disease scenarios.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zabeen Lateef
- a Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences , University of Otago , Dunedin , New Zealand
| | - Lyn M Wise
- a Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences , University of Otago , Dunedin , New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
VEGF Upregulation in Viral Infections and Its Possible Therapeutic Implications. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19061642. [PMID: 29865171 PMCID: PMC6032371 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19061642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2018] [Revised: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Several viruses are recognized as the direct or indirect causative agents of human tumors and other severe human diseases. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is identified as a principal proangiogenic factor that enhances the production of new blood vessels from existing vascular network. Therefore, oncogenic viruses such as Kaposi’s sarcoma herpesvirus (KSHV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and non-oncogenic viruses such as herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) and dengue virus, which lack their own angiogenic factors, rely on the recruitment of cellular genes for angiogenesis in tumor progression or disease pathogenesis. This review summarizes how human viruses exploit the cellular signaling machinery to upregulate the expression of VEGF and benefit from its physiological functions for their own pathogenesis. Understanding the interplay between viruses and VEGF upregulation will pave the way to design targeted and effective therapeutic approaches for viral oncogenesis and severe diseases.
Collapse
|
9
|
Silva-Hucha S, Hernández RG, Benítez-Temiño B, Pastor ÁM, de la Cruz RR, Morcuende S. Extraocular motoneurons of the adult rat show higher levels of vascular endothelial growth factor and its receptor Flk-1 than other cranial motoneurons. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0178616. [PMID: 28570669 PMCID: PMC5453543 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0178616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2016] [Accepted: 05/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies show a relationship between the deficit of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and motoneuronal degeneration, such as that occurring in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). VEGF delivery protects motoneurons from cell death and delayed neurodegeneration in animal models of ALS. Strikingly, extraocular motoneurons show lesser vulnerability to neurodegeneration in ALS compared to other cranial or spinal motoneurons. Therefore, the present study investigates possible differences in VEGF and its main receptor VEGFR-2 or Flk-1 between extraocular and non-extraocular brainstem motoneurons. We performed immunohistochemistry and Western blot to determine the presence of VEGF and Flk-1 in rat motoneurons located in the three extraocular motor nuclei (abducens, trochlear and oculomotor) and to compare it to that observed in two other brainstem nuclei (hypoglossal and facial) that are vulnerable to degeneration. Extraocular motoneurons presented higher amounts of VEGF and its receptor Flk-1 than other brainstem motoneurons, and thus these molecules could be participating in their higher resistance to neurodegeneration. In conclusion, we hypothesize that differences in VEGF availability and signaling could be a contributing factor to the different susceptibility of extraocular motoneurons, when compared with other motoneurons, in neurodegenerative diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Silva-Hucha
- Laboratorio de Fisiología y Plasticidad Neuronal, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Rosendo G. Hernández
- Laboratorio de Fisiología y Plasticidad Neuronal, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Beatriz Benítez-Temiño
- Laboratorio de Fisiología y Plasticidad Neuronal, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Ángel M. Pastor
- Laboratorio de Fisiología y Plasticidad Neuronal, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Rosa R. de la Cruz
- Laboratorio de Fisiología y Plasticidad Neuronal, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Sara Morcuende
- Laboratorio de Fisiología y Plasticidad Neuronal, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Muhl L, Folestad EB, Gladh H, Wang Y, Moessinger C, Jakobsson L, Eriksson U. Neuropilin 1 binds platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-D and is a co-receptor in PDGF-D/PDGF receptor β signaling. J Cell Sci 2017; 130:1365-1378. [DOI: 10.1242/jcs.200493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Accepted: 02/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-D is a PDGF receptor β (PDGFRβ) specific ligand implicated in a number of pathological conditions, such as cardiovascular disease and cancer, but its biological function remains incompletely understood.
In this study, we demonstrate that PDGF-D binds directly to NRP1, with the requirement of the C-terminal Arg residue of PDGF-D. Stimulation with PDGF-D, but not PDGF-B, induced PDGFRβ/NRP1 complex formation in fibroblasts. Additionally, PDGF-D induced translocation of NRP1 to cell-cell junctions in endothelial cells, independent of PDGFRβ, altering the availability of NRP1 for VEGF-A/VEGF receptor 2 signaling. PDGF-D showed differential effects on pericyte behavior in ex vivo sprouting assays, compared to PDGF-B. Furthermore, PDGF-D induced PDGFRβ/NRP1 interaction in the trans-configuration between endothelial cells and pericytes.
In summary, we show that NRP1 can act as a co-receptor for PDGF-D in PDGFRβ signaling, possibly implicated in intercellular communication in the vascular wall.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lars Muhl
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Division of Vascular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Scheeles väg 2, A3:P4, S-17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Erika Bergsten Folestad
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Division of Vascular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Scheeles väg 2, A3:P4, S-17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hanna Gladh
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Division of Vascular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Scheeles väg 2, A3:P4, S-17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Yixin Wang
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Division of Vascular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Scheeles väg 2, A3:P4, S-17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christine Moessinger
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Division of Vascular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Scheeles väg 2, A3:P4, S-17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lars Jakobsson
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Division of Vascular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Scheeles väg 2, A3:P4, S-17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ulf Eriksson
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Division of Vascular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Scheeles väg 2, A3:P4, S-17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Fagiani E, Lorentz P, Bill R, Pavotbawan K, Kopfstein L, Christofori G. VEGF receptor-2-specific signaling mediated by VEGF-E induces hemangioma-like lesions in normal and in malignant tissue. Angiogenesis 2016; 19:339-58. [PMID: 27038485 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-016-9508-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2015] [Accepted: 03/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Viral VEGF-E (ovVEGF-E), a homolog of VEGF-A, was discovered in the genome of Orf virus. Together with VEGF-A, B, C, D, placental growth factor (PlGF) and snake venom VEGF (svVEGF), ovVEGF-E is a member of the VEGF family of potent angiogenesis factors with a bioactivity similar to VEGF-A it induces proliferation, migration and sprouting of cultured vascular endothelial cells and proliferative lesions in the skin of sheep, goat and man that are characterized by massive capillary proliferation and dilation. These biological functions are mediated exclusively via its interaction with VEGF receptor-2 (VEGFR-2). Here, we have generated transgenic mice specifically expressing ovVEGF-E in β-cells of the endocrine pancreas (Rip1VEGF-E; RVE). RVE mice show an increase in number and size of the islets of Langerhans and a distorted organization of insulin and glucagon-expressing cells. Islet endothelial cells of RVE mice hyper-proliferate and form increased numbers of functional blood vessels. In addition, the formation of disorganized lymphatic vessels and increased immune cell infiltration is observed. Upon crossing RVE single-transgenic mice with Rip1Tag2 (RT2) transgenic mice, a well-studied model of pancreatic β-cell carcinogenesis, double-transgenic mice (RT2;RVE) display hyper-proliferation of endothelial cells resulting in the formation of hemangioma-like lesions. In addition, RT2;RVE mice exhibit activated lymphangiogenesis at the tumor periphery and increased neutrophil and macrophage tumor infiltration and micro-metastasis to lymph nodes and lungs. These phenotypes markedly differ from the phenotypes observed with the transgenic expression of the other VEGF family members in β-cells of normal mice and of RT2 mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ernesta Fagiani
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 28, 4058, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Pascal Lorentz
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 28, 4058, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ruben Bill
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 28, 4058, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kirusigan Pavotbawan
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 28, 4058, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Lucie Kopfstein
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 28, 4058, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Gerhard Christofori
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 28, 4058, Basel, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Sargent KM, Clopton DT, Lu N, Pohlmeier WE, Cupp AS. VEGFA splicing: divergent isoforms regulate spermatogonial stem cell maintenance. Cell Tissue Res 2015; 363:31-45. [PMID: 26553653 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-015-2297-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2015] [Accepted: 09/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Despite being well-known for regulating angiogenesis in both normal and tumorigenic environments, vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) has been recently implicated in male fertility, namely in the maintenance of spermatogonial stem cells (SSC). The VEGFA gene can be spliced into multiple distinct isoforms that are either angiogenic or antiangiogenic in nature. Although studies have demonstrated the alternative splicing of VEGFA, including the divergent roles of the two isoform family types, many investigations do not differentiate between them. Data concerning VEGFA in the mammalian testis are limited, but the various angiogenic isoforms appear to promote seminiferous cord formation and to form a gradient across which cells may migrate. Treatment with either antiangiogenic isoforms of VEGFA or with inhibitors to angiogenic signaling impair these processes. Serendipitously, expression of KDR, the primary receptor for both types of VEGFA isoforms, was observed on male germ cells. These findings led to further investigation of the way that VEGFA elicits avascular functions within testes. Following treatment of donor perinatal male mice with either antiangiogenic VEGFA165b or angiogenic VEGFA164 isoforms, seminiferous tubules were less colonized following transplantation with cells from VEGFA165b-treated donors. Thus, VEGFA165b and possibly other antiangiogenic isoforms of VEGFA reduce SSC number either by promoting premature differentiation, inducing cell death, or by preventing SSC formation. Thus, angiogenic isoforms of VEGFA are hypothesized to promote SSC self-renewal, and the divergent isoforms are thought to balance one another to maintain SSC homeostasis in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin M Sargent
- Department of Animal Science, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, A224i Animal Science Building, 3940 Fair Street, Lincoln, NE 68583-0908, USA
| | - Debra T Clopton
- Department of Animal Science, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, A224i Animal Science Building, 3940 Fair Street, Lincoln, NE 68583-0908, USA
| | - Ningxia Lu
- Department of Animal Science, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, A224i Animal Science Building, 3940 Fair Street, Lincoln, NE 68583-0908, USA
| | - William E Pohlmeier
- Department of Animal Science, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, A224i Animal Science Building, 3940 Fair Street, Lincoln, NE 68583-0908, USA
| | - Andrea S Cupp
- Department of Animal Science, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, A224i Animal Science Building, 3940 Fair Street, Lincoln, NE 68583-0908, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Kamarulzaman EE, Mohd Gazzali A, Acherar S, Frochot C, Barberi-Heyob M, Boura C, Chaimbault P, Sibille E, Wahab HA, Vanderesse R. New Peptide-Conjugated Chlorin-Type Photosensitizer Targeting Neuropilin-1 for Anti-Vascular Targeted Photodynamic Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:24059-80. [PMID: 26473840 PMCID: PMC4632738 DOI: 10.3390/ijms161024059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2015] [Revised: 09/10/2015] [Accepted: 09/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a cancer treatment modality that requires three components, namely light, dioxygen and a photosensitizing agent. After light excitation, the photosensitizer (PS) in its excited state transfers its energy to oxygen, which leads to photooxidation reactions. In order to improve the selectivity of the treatment, research has focused on the design of PS covalently attached to a tumor-targeting moiety. In this paper, we describe the synthesis and the physico-chemical and photophysical properties of six new peptide-conjugated photosensitizers designed for targeting the neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) receptor. We chose a TPC (5-(4-carboxyphenyl)-10,15, 20-triphenyl chlorine as photosensitizer, coupled via three different spacers (aminohexanoic acid, 1-amino-3,6-dioxaoctanoic acid, and 1-amino-9-aza-3,6,12,15-tetraoxa-10-on-heptadecanoic acid) to two different peptides (DKPPR and TKPRR). The affinity towards the NRP-1 receptor of the conjugated chlorins was evaluated along with in vitro and in vivo stability levels. The tissue concentration of the TPC-conjugates in animal model shows good distribution, especially for the DKPPR conjugates. The novel peptide-PS conjugates proposed in this study were proven to have potential to be further developed as future NRP-1 targeting photodynamic therapy agent.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ezatul Ezleen Kamarulzaman
- LCPM UMR 7375, CNRS, ENSIC, 1 rue Grandville, BP 20451-54001 Nancy Cedex, France; E-Mails: (E.E.K.); (A.M.G.); (S.A.)
- LCPM, UMR 7375, Université de Lorraine, ENSIC, 1 rue Grandville, BP 20451-54001 Nancy Cedex, France
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Penang, Malaysia; E-Mail:
| | - Amirah Mohd Gazzali
- LCPM UMR 7375, CNRS, ENSIC, 1 rue Grandville, BP 20451-54001 Nancy Cedex, France; E-Mails: (E.E.K.); (A.M.G.); (S.A.)
- LCPM, UMR 7375, Université de Lorraine, ENSIC, 1 rue Grandville, BP 20451-54001 Nancy Cedex, France
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Penang, Malaysia; E-Mail:
| | - Samir Acherar
- LCPM UMR 7375, CNRS, ENSIC, 1 rue Grandville, BP 20451-54001 Nancy Cedex, France; E-Mails: (E.E.K.); (A.M.G.); (S.A.)
- LCPM, UMR 7375, Université de Lorraine, ENSIC, 1 rue Grandville, BP 20451-54001 Nancy Cedex, France
| | - Céline Frochot
- LRGP, UMR 7274, CNRS, ENSIC, 1 rue Grandville, BP 20451-54001 Nancy Cedex, France; E-Mail:
- LRGP, UMR 7274, Université de Lorraine, ENSIC, 1 rue Grandville, BP 20451-54001 Nancy cedex, France
| | - Muriel Barberi-Heyob
- CRAN, UMR 7039, Université de Lorraine, Campus Sciences, BP 70239-54506 Vandœuvre Cedex, France; E-Mails: (M.B.-H.); (C.B.)
- CRAN, UMR 7039, CNRS, Campus Sciences, BP 70239-54506 Vandœuvre Cedex, France
| | - Cédric Boura
- CRAN, UMR 7039, Université de Lorraine, Campus Sciences, BP 70239-54506 Vandœuvre Cedex, France; E-Mails: (M.B.-H.); (C.B.)
- CRAN, UMR 7039, CNRS, Campus Sciences, BP 70239-54506 Vandœuvre Cedex, France
| | - Patrick Chaimbault
- SRSMC, UMR 7565 ICPM, Université de Lorraine, 1 boulevard Arago, 57078 Metz Cedex 3, France; E-Mail:
- SRSMC, UMR 7565 ICPM, CNRS, 1 boulevard Arago, 57078 Metz Cedex 3, France
| | - Estelle Sibille
- LCP-A2MC, EA 4632, ICPM, 1 boulevard Arago, 57078 Metz Cedex 3, France; E-Mail:
| | - Habibah A. Wahab
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Penang, Malaysia; E-Mail:
| | - Régis Vanderesse
- LCPM UMR 7375, CNRS, ENSIC, 1 rue Grandville, BP 20451-54001 Nancy Cedex, France; E-Mails: (E.E.K.); (A.M.G.); (S.A.)
- LCPM, UMR 7375, Université de Lorraine, ENSIC, 1 rue Grandville, BP 20451-54001 Nancy Cedex, France
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +33-(0)383-175-204; Fax: +33-(0)383-379-977
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Clegg LW, Mac Gabhann F. Site-Specific Phosphorylation of VEGFR2 Is Mediated by Receptor Trafficking: Insights from a Computational Model. PLoS Comput Biol 2015; 11:e1004158. [PMID: 26067165 PMCID: PMC4466579 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1004158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2014] [Accepted: 01/25/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Matrix-binding isoforms and non-matrix-binding isoforms of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are both capable of stimulating vascular remodeling, but the resulting blood vessel networks are structurally and functionally different. Here, we develop and validate a computational model of the binding of soluble and immobilized ligands to VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR2), the endosomal trafficking of VEGFR2, and site-specific VEGFR2 tyrosine phosphorylation to study differences in induced signaling between these VEGF isoforms. In capturing essential features of VEGFR2 signaling and trafficking, our model suggests that VEGFR2 trafficking parameters are largely consistent across multiple endothelial cell lines. Simulations demonstrate distinct localization of VEGFR2 phosphorylated on Y1175 and Y1214. This is the first model to clearly show that differences in site-specific VEGFR2 activation when stimulated with immobilized VEGF compared to soluble VEGF can be accounted for by altered trafficking of VEGFR2 without an intrinsic difference in receptor activation. The model predicts that Neuropilin-1 can induce differences in the surface-to-internal distribution of VEGFR2. Simulations also show that ligated VEGFR2 and phosphorylated VEGFR2 levels diverge over time following stimulation. Using this model, we identify multiple key levers that alter how VEGF binding to VEGFR2 results in different coordinated patterns of multiple downstream signaling pathways. Specifically, simulations predict that VEGF immobilization, interactions with Neuropilin-1, perturbations of VEGFR2 trafficking, and changes in expression or activity of phosphatases acting on VEGFR2 all affect the magnitude, duration, and relative strength of VEGFR2 phosphorylation on tyrosines 1175 and 1214, and they do so predictably within our single consistent model framework. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is an important regulator of blood vessel growth. To date, therapies attempting to harness the VEGF system to promote blood vessel growth (e.g. for wound healing or ischemic disease) have achieved only limited success. To improve VEGF-based therapies, we need to better understand how VEGF promotes development of functional blood vessels. We have developed a computational model of VEGF binding to the receptor VEGFR2, trafficking of VEGFR2 through endosomal compartments in the cell, and activation of VEGFR2 on several tyrosine residues. The pattern of tyrosines activated on VEGFR2 influences cell behavior, promoting cell survival, proliferation, or migration. The combination of these cues influences the diameter of vessels, degree of branching, and leakiness of the resultant vessel network. Our model shows that changes in VEGFR2 trafficking as a result of VEGF immobilization to the extracellular matrix are sufficient to describe observed changes in the pattern of VEGFR2 activation compared to stimulation with purely soluble VEGF. This model can be used to predict how VEGF immobilization, interactions with co-receptors or proteins that deactivate VEGFR2, and changes to VEGFR2 trafficking can be tuned to promote development of functional blood vessel networks for tissue engineering applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Wendel Clegg
- Institute for Computational Medicine and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Feilim Mac Gabhann
- Institute for Computational Medicine and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Li X, Gu F, Niu C, Wang Y, Liu Z, Li N, Pan B, He D, Kong J, Zhang S, Wang X, Yao Y, Zheng L. VEGF111b, a C-terminal splice variant of VEGF-A and induced by mitomycin C, inhibits ovarian cancer growth. J Transl Med 2015; 13:164. [PMID: 25990504 PMCID: PMC4480579 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-015-0522-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2014] [Accepted: 05/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Alternative splicing of VEGF-A gives rise to two families – the pro-angiogenic VEGFxxx family and the anti-angiogenic VEGFxxxb family that differ by only six amino acids at their C-terminal end. The first verified and widely reported VEGFxxxb family member is VEGF165b, and here VEGF165b is a positive control. Methords VEGF111b mRNA was detected in ovarian cancer cell lines SKOV3 and OVCAR3 by RT-PCR. Western blot was used to detect VEGF111b and VEGF165b protein in the CMs and lysates of OVCAR3 cells. MTT and colony formation assay were used to detect the short-term and long-term proliferation inhibition ability of ovarian cancer cells with VEGF111b overexpression. Cell-cycle analysis was performed to further characterize VEGF111b inhibition effects. VEGF111b signaling on ovarian cancer cells were determined by western blot. The expression levels of Ki67, PCNA, CD31 and VEGF in VEGF111b overexpression xenograft model were detected by immunohistochemistry. Results Under the effect of mitomycin C, we identify a new member of VEGFxxxb family-VEGF111b in ovarian cancer cell lines. SKOV3 and OVCAR cells were transfected with empty lentivirus, VEGF111b or VEGF165b lentivirus. VEGF111b and VEGF165b overexpression inhibits proliferation of the ovarian cancer cells, but inhibition effect of VEGF111b is slightly less efficient than VEGF165b. Cell cycle analysis was further used to elucidate the mechanism involved in the inhibition effect. Further, we detected the expression of VEGF-R2 in SKOV3 and OVCAR3 cells, and shown that VEGF111b might bind to conventional VEGF-R2 with the results of reducing VEGF-R2 tyrosine phosphorylation and downstream signaling to have anti-tumor effects. In vivo VEGF111b overexpression inhibits ovarian cancer growth in xenograft mice. Conclusion Our results show that VEGF111b, as a new member of VEGFxxxb family, with similar properties to VEGF165b, plays potent anti-tumor effect in vitro and in vivo that can target the VEGF-R2 and its signaling pathway to inhibit ovarian tumor growth. This also opens a new avenue for treating ovarian cancer. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12967-015-0522-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiuli Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.
| | - Fang Gu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Beijing, China.
| | - Chenguang Niu
- The Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Institute of Systems Biomedicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, and Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Sciences of Ministry of Education, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Yuanfen Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.
| | - Zhongyu Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.
| | - Na Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100071, China.
| | - Bing Pan
- The Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Institute of Systems Biomedicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, and Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Sciences of Ministry of Education, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Dan He
- The Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Institute of Systems Biomedicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, and Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Sciences of Ministry of Education, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Jian Kong
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100043, China.
| | - Shaobo Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, PLA 180th hospital, Fujian, China.
| | - Xu Wang
- The Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Institute of Systems Biomedicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, and Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Sciences of Ministry of Education, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Yuanqing Yao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.
| | - Lemin Zheng
- The Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Institute of Systems Biomedicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, and Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Sciences of Ministry of Education, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Fleming SB, Wise LM, Mercer AA. Molecular genetic analysis of orf virus: a poxvirus that has adapted to skin. Viruses 2015; 7:1505-39. [PMID: 25807056 PMCID: PMC4379583 DOI: 10.3390/v7031505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2015] [Revised: 03/17/2015] [Accepted: 03/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Orf virus is the type species of the Parapoxvirus genus of the family Poxviridae. It induces acute pustular skin lesions in sheep and goats and is transmissible to humans. The genome is G+C rich, 138 kbp and encodes 132 genes. It shares many essential genes with vaccinia virus that are required for survival but encodes a number of unique factors that allow it to replicate in the highly specific immune environment of skin. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that both viral interleukin-10 and vascular endothelial growth factor genes have been "captured" from their host during the evolution of the parapoxviruses. Genes such as a chemokine binding protein and a protein that binds granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor and interleukin-2 appear to have evolved from a common poxvirus ancestral gene while three parapoxvirus nuclear factor (NF)-κB signalling pathway inhibitors have no homology to other known NF-κB inhibitors. A homologue of an anaphase-promoting complex subunit that is believed to manipulate the cell cycle and enhance viral DNA synthesis appears to be a specific adaptation for viral-replication in keratinocytes. The review focuses on the unique genes of orf virus, discusses their evolutionary origins and their role in allowing viral-replication in the skin epidermis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen B Fleming
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, 720 Cumberland St, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand.
| | - Lyn M Wise
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, 720 Cumberland St, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand.
| | - Andrew A Mercer
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, 720 Cumberland St, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Eswarappa SM, Potdar AA, Koch WJ, Fan Y, Vasu K, Lindner D, Willard B, Graham LM, DiCorleto PE, Fox PL. Programmed translational readthrough generates antiangiogenic VEGF-Ax. Cell 2014; 157:1605-18. [PMID: 24949972 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2014.04.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2013] [Revised: 02/21/2014] [Accepted: 04/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Translational readthrough, observed primarily in less complex organisms from viruses to Drosophila, expands the proteome by translating select transcripts beyond the canonical stop codon. Here, we show that vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) mRNA in mammalian endothelial cells undergoes programmed translational readthrough (PTR) generating VEGF-Ax, an isoform containing a unique 22-amino-acid C terminus extension. A cis-acting element in the VEGFA 3' UTR serves a dual function, not only encoding the appended peptide but also directing the PTR by decoding the UGA stop codon as serine. Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein (hnRNP) A2/B1 binds this element and promotes readthrough. Remarkably, VEGF-Ax exhibits antiangiogenic activity in contrast to the proangiogenic activity of VEGF-A. Pathophysiological significance of VEGF-Ax is indicated by robust expression in multiple human tissues but depletion in colon adenocarcinoma. Furthermore, genome-wide analysis revealed AGO1 and MTCH2 as authentic readthrough targets. Overall, our studies reveal a novel protein-regulated PTR event in a vertebrate system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandeepa M Eswarappa
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, The Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Alka A Potdar
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, The Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - William J Koch
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, The Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Yi Fan
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, The Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Kommireddy Vasu
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, The Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Daniel Lindner
- Taussig Cancer Center, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Belinda Willard
- Mass Spectrometry Laboratory for Protein Sequencing, The Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Linda M Graham
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Paul E DiCorleto
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, The Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Paul L Fox
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, The Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Vempati P, Popel AS, Mac Gabhann F. Extracellular regulation of VEGF: isoforms, proteolysis, and vascular patterning. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2013; 25:1-19. [PMID: 24332926 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2013.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 198] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2013] [Revised: 11/14/2013] [Accepted: 11/19/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF) is critical to neovascularization in numerous tissues under physiological and pathological conditions. VEGF has multiple isoforms, created by alternative splicing or proteolytic cleavage, and characterized by different receptor-binding and matrix-binding properties. These isoforms are known to give rise to a spectrum of angiogenesis patterns marked by differences in branching, which has functional implications for tissues. In this review, we detail the extensive extracellular regulation of VEGF and the ability of VEGF to dictate the vascular phenotype. We explore the role of VEGF-releasing proteases and soluble carrier molecules on VEGF activity. While proteases such as MMP9 can 'release' matrix-bound VEGF and promote angiogenesis, for example as a key step in carcinogenesis, proteases can also suppress VEGF's angiogenic effects. We explore what dictates pro- or anti-angiogenic behavior. We also seek to understand the phenomenon of VEGF gradient formation. Strong VEGF gradients are thought to be due to decreased rates of diffusion from reversible matrix binding, however theoretical studies show that this scenario cannot give rise to lasting VEGF gradients in vivo. We propose that gradients are formed through degradation of sequestered VEGF. Finally, we review how different aspects of the VEGF signal, such as its concentration, gradient, matrix-binding, and NRP1-binding can differentially affect angiogenesis. We explore how this allows VEGF to regulate the formation of vascular networks across a spectrum of high to low branching densities, and from normal to pathological angiogenesis. A better understanding of the control of angiogenesis is necessary to improve upon limitations of current angiogenic therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Prakash Vempati
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Aleksander S Popel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Feilim Mac Gabhann
- Institute for Computational Medicine and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
van Wijk XMR, van Kuppevelt TH. Heparan sulfate in angiogenesis: a target for therapy. Angiogenesis 2013; 17:443-62. [PMID: 24146040 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-013-9401-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2013] [Accepted: 10/15/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Heparan sulfate (HS), a long linear polysaccharide of alternating disaccharide residues, interacts with a wide variety of proteins, including many angiogenic factors. The involvement of HS in signaling of pro-angiogenic factors (e.g. vascular endothelial growth factor and fibroblast growth factor 2), as well as interaction with anti-angiogenic factors (e.g. endostatin), warrants its role as an important modifier of (tumor) angiogenesis. This review summarizes our current understanding of the role of HS in angiogenic growth factor signaling, and discusses therapeutic strategies to target HS and modulate angiogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xander M R van Wijk
- Department of Biochemistry (280), Nijmegen Centre for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, PO. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Gu F, Li X, Kong J, Pan B, Sun M, Zheng L, Yao Y. VEGF111b, a new member of VEGFxxxb isoforms and induced by mitomycin C, inhibits angiogenesis. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2013; 441:18-24. [PMID: 24125722 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2013.09.144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2013] [Accepted: 09/25/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-A) stimulating angiogenesis is required for tumor growth and progression. The conventional VEGF-A isoforms have been considered as pro-angiogenic factors. Another family of VEGF-A isoforms generated by alternative splicing, termed VEGFxxxb isoforms, has anti-angiogenic property, exemplified by VEGF165b. Here, we identify a new number of VEGFxxx family-VEGF111b induced by mitomycin C, although not detected in mitomycin C-unexposed ovarian cancer cells. SKOV3 cells were transfected with pcDNA3.1 empty vector, pcDNA3.1-VEGF111b or pcDNA3.1-VEGF165b to collect conditioned mediums respectively. VEGF111b overexpression inhibits proliferation, migration and tube formation of endothelial cell by inhibiting VEGF-R2 phosphorylation and its downstream signaling, similar to VEGF165b but slightly lower than VEGF165b. The anti-angiogenic property depends on the six amino acids of exon 8b of the VEGFxxxb isoforms. Our results show that VEGF111b is a novel potent anti-angiogenic agent that can target the VEGF-R2 and its signaling pathway to inhibit ovarian tumor growth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fang Gu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Nieminen T, Toivanen PI, Rintanen N, Heikura T, Jauhiainen S, Airenne KJ, Alitalo K, Marjomäki V, Ylä-Herttuala S. The impact of the receptor binding profiles of the vascular endothelial growth factors on their angiogenic features. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2013; 1840:454-63. [PMID: 24112971 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2013.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2013] [Revised: 09/12/2013] [Accepted: 10/01/2013] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) are potential therapeutic agents for treatment of ischemic diseases. Their angiogenic effects are mainly mediated through VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR2). METHODS Receptor binding, signaling, and biological efficacy of several VEGFR2 ligands were compared to determine their characteristics regarding angiogenic activity and vascular permeability. RESULTS Tested VEGFR2 ligands induced receptor tyrosine phosphorylation with different efficacy depending on their binding affinities. However, the tyrosine phosphorylation pattern and the activation of the major downstream signaling pathways were comparable. The maximal angiogenic effect stimulated by different VEGFR2 ligands was dependent on their ability to bind to co-receptor Neuropilin (Nrp), which was shown to form complexes with VEGFR2. The ability of these VEGFR2 ligands to induce vascular permeability was dependent on their concentration and VEGFR2 affinity, but not on Nrp binding. CONCLUSIONS VEGFR2 activation alone is sufficient for inducing endothelial cell proliferation, formation of tube-like structures and vascular permeability. The level of VEGFR2 activation is dependent on the binding properties of the ligand used. However, closely similar activation pattern of the receptor kinase domain is seen with all VEGFR2 ligands. Nrp binding strengthens the angiogenic potency without increasing vascular permeability. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE This study sheds light on how different structurally closely related VEGFR2 ligands bind to and signal via VEGFR2/Nrp complex to induce angiogenesis and vascular permeability. The knowledge of this study could be used for designing VEGFR2/Nrp ligands with improved therapeutic properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tiina Nieminen
- Department of Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine, A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Hoffmann DC, Willenborg S, Koch M, Zwolanek D, Müller S, Becker AKA, Metzger S, Ehrbar M, Kurschat P, Hellmich M, Hubbell JA, Eming SA. Proteolytic processing regulates placental growth factor activities. J Biol Chem 2013; 288:17976-89. [PMID: 23645683 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m113.451831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Placental growth factor (PlGF) is a critical mediator of blood vessel formation, yet mechanisms of its action and regulation are incompletely understood. Here we demonstrate that proteolytic processing regulates the biological activity of PlGF. Specifically, we show that plasmin processing of PlGF-2 yields a protease-resistant core fragment comprising the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 binding site but lacking the carboxyl-terminal domain encoding the heparin-binding domain and an 8-amino acid peptide encoded by exon 7. We have identified plasmin cleavage sites, generated a truncated PlGF118 isoform mimicking plasmin-processed PlGF, and explored its biological function in comparison with that of PlGF-1 and -2. The angiogenic responses induced by the diverse PlGF forms were distinct. Whereas PlGF-2 increased endothelial cell chemotaxis, vascular sprouting, and granulation tissue formation upon skin injury, these activities were abrogated following plasmin digestion. Investigation of PlGF/Neuropilin-1 binding and function suggests a critical role for heparin-binding domain/Neuropilin-1 interaction and its regulation by plasmin processing. Collectively, here we provide new mechanistic insights into the regulation of PlGF-2/Neuropilin-1-mediated tissue vascularization and growth.
Collapse
|
23
|
Nakayama M, Berger P. Coordination of VEGF receptor trafficking and signaling by coreceptors. Exp Cell Res 2013; 319:1340-7. [PMID: 23499743 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2013.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2012] [Revised: 02/25/2013] [Accepted: 03/02/2013] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
During development, regeneration and in certain pathological settings, the vasculature is expanded and remodeled substantially. Proper morphogenesis and function of blood vessels are essential in multicellular organisms. Upon stimulation with growth factors including vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs), the activation, internalization and sorting of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) orchestrate developmental processes and the homeostatic maintenance of all organs including the vasculature. Previously, RTK signaling was thought to occur exclusively at the plasma membrane, a process that was subsequently terminated by endocytosis and receptor degradation. However, this model turned out to be an oversimplification and there is now a substantial amount of reports indicating that receptor internalization and trafficking to intracellular compartments depends on coreceptors leading to the activation of specific signaling pathways. Here we review the latest findings concerning endocytosis and intracellular trafficking of VEGFRs. The body of evidence is compelling that VEGF receptor trafficking is coordinated with other proteins such as Neuropilin-1, ephrin-B2, VE-cadherin and protein phosphatases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masanori Nakayama
- Max-Planck-Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Department of Tissue Morphogenesis, D-48149 Münster, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Hota PK, Buck M. Plexin structures are coming: opportunities for multilevel investigations of semaphorin guidance receptors, their cell signaling mechanisms, and functions. Cell Mol Life Sci 2012; 69:3765-805. [PMID: 22744749 PMCID: PMC11115013 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-012-1019-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2012] [Revised: 04/09/2012] [Accepted: 04/11/2012] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Plexin transmembrane receptors and their semaphorin ligands, as well as their co-receptors (Neuropilin, Integrin, VEGFR2, ErbB2, and Met kinase) are emerging as key regulatory proteins in a wide variety of developmental, regenerative, but also pathological processes. The diverse arenas of plexin function are surveyed, including roles in the nervous, cardiovascular, bone and skeletal, and immune systems. Such different settings require considerable specificity among the plexin and semaphorin family members which in turn are accompanied by a variety of cell signaling networks. Underlying the latter are the mechanistic details of the interactions and catalytic events at the molecular level. Very recently, dramatic progress has been made in solving the structures of plexins and of their complexes with associated proteins. This molecular level information is now suggesting detailed mechanisms for the function of both the extracellular as well as the intracellular plexin regions. Specifically, several groups have solved structures for extracellular domains for plexin-A2, -B1, and -C1, many in complex with semaphorin ligands. On the intracellular side, the role of small Rho GTPases has been of particular interest. These directly associate with plexin and stimulate a GTPase activating (GAP) function in the plexin catalytic domain to downregulate Ras GTPases. Structures for the Rho GTPase binding domains have been presented for several plexins, some with Rnd1 bound. The entire intracellular domain structure of plexin-A1, -A3, and -B1 have also been solved alone and in complex with Rac1. However, key aspects of the interplay between GTPases and plexins remain far from clear. The structural information is helping the plexin field to focus on key questions at the protein structural, cellular, as well as organism level that collaboratoria of investigations are likely to answer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Prasanta K. Hota
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, 10900 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44106 USA
| | - Matthias Buck
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, 10900 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44106 USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, 10900 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44106 USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, 10900 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44106 USA
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, 10900 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44106 USA
- Center for Proteomics and Bioinformatics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, 10900 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44106 USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Abstract
Anti-angiogenic vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF) 165b and pro-angiogenic VEGF 165 are generated from the same transcript, and their relative amounts are dependent on alternative splicing. The role of VEGF 165b has not been investigated in as much detail as VEGF 165, although it appears to be highly expressed in non-angiogenic tissues and, in contrast with VEGF 165, is downregulated in tumors and other pathologies associated with abnormal neovascularization such as diabetic retinopathy or Denys Drash syndrome. VEGF 165b inhibits VEGFR2 signaling by inducing differential phosphorylation, and it can be used to block angiogenesis in in vivo models of tumorigenesis and angiogenesis-related eye disease. Recent reports have identified three serine/arginine-rich proteins, SRSF1, SRSF2 and SRSF6, and studied their role in regulating terminal splice-site selection. Since the balance of VEGF isoforms is lost in cancer and angiogenesis-related conditions, control of VEGF splicing could also be used as a basis for therapy in these diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Peiris-Pagès
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Abstract
Abstract
VEGFs activate 3 receptor tyrosine kinases, VEGFR-1, VEGFR-2, and VEGFR-3, promoting angiogenic and lymphangiogenic signaling. The extracellular receptor domain (ECD) consists of 7 Ig-homology domains; domains 2 and 3 (D23) represent the ligand-binding domain, whereas the function of D4-7 is unclear. Ligand binding promotes receptor dimerization and instigates transmembrane signaling and receptor kinase activation. In the present study, isothermal titration calorimetry showed that the Gibbs free energy of VEGF-A, VEGF-C, or VEGF-E binding to D23 or the full-length ECD of VEGFR-2 is dominated by favorable entropic contribution with enthalpic penalty. The free energy of VEGF binding to the ECD is 1.0-1.7 kcal/mol less favorable than for binding to D23. A model of the VEGF-E/VEGFR-2 ECD complex derived from small-angle scattering data provided evidence for homotypic interactions in D4-7. We also solved the crystal structures of complexes between VEGF-A or VEGF-E with D23, which revealed comparable binding surfaces and similar interactions between the ligands and the receptor, but showed variation in D23 twist angles. The energetically unfavorable homotypic interactions in D4-7 may be required for re-orientation of receptor monomers, and this mechanism might prevent ligand-independent activation of VEGFR-2 to evade the deleterious consequences for blood and lymph vessel homeostasis arising from inappropriate receptor activation.
Collapse
|
27
|
Neuropilin-1 regulates a new VEGF-induced gene, Phactr-1, which controls tubulogenesis and modulates lamellipodial dynamics in human endothelial cells. Cell Signal 2012; 24:214-23. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2011.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2011] [Accepted: 09/05/2011] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
|
28
|
Jarray R, Allain B, Borriello L, Biard D, Loukaci A, Larghero J, Hadj-Slimane R, Garbay C, Lepelletier Y, Raynaud F. Depletion of the novel protein PHACTR-1 from human endothelial cells abolishes tube formation and induces cell death receptor apoptosis. Biochimie 2011; 93:1668-75. [PMID: 21798305 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2011.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2011] [Accepted: 07/08/2011] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Using suppression subtractive hybridisation (SSH), we identified a hitherto unreported gene PHACTR-1 (Phosphatase Actin Regulating Protein-1) in Human Umbilical Vascular Endothelial Cells (HUVECs). PHACTR-1 is an actin and protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) binding protein which is reported to be highly expressed in brain and which controls PP1 activity and F-actin remodelling. We have also reported that its expression is dependent of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF-A(165)). To study its function in endothelial cells, we used a siRNA strategy against PHACTR-1. PHACTR-1 siRNA-treated HUVECs showed a major impairment of tube formation and stabilisation. PHACTR-1 depletion triggered apoptosis through death receptors DR4, DR5 and FAS, which was reversed using death receptor siRNAs or with death receptor-dependent caspase-8 siRNA. Our findings suggest that PHACTR-1 is likely to be a key regulator of endothelial cell function properties. Because of its central role in the control of tube formation and endothelial cell survival, PHACTR-1 may represent a new target for the development of anti-angiogenic therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rafika Jarray
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, CNRS UMR 8601, Laboratoire de chimie et biochimie pharmacologiques et toxicologiques, 45 rue des Saints-Pères, 75006 Paris, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Neuropilin-1 promotes VEGFR-2 trafficking through Rab11 vesicles thereby specifying signal output. Blood 2011; 118:816-26. [PMID: 21586748 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2011-01-328773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) regulate blood and lymph vessel development by activating 3 receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), VEGFR-1, -2, and -3, and by binding to coreceptors such as neuropilin-1 (NRP-1). We investigated how different VEGF-A isoforms, in particular VEGF-A(165)a and VEGF-A(165)b, control the balance between VEGFR-2 recycling, degradation, and signaling. Stimulation of cells with the NRP-1-binding VEGF-A(165)a led to sequential NRP-1-mediated VEGFR-2 recycling through Rab5, Rab4, and Rab11 vesicles. Recycling was accompanied by dephosphorylation of VEGFR-2 between Rab4 and Rab11 vesicles and quantitatively and qualitatively altered signal output. In cells stimulated with VEGF-A(165)b, an isoform unable to bind NRP-1, VEGFR-2 bypassed Rab11 vesicles and was routed to the degradative pathway specified by Rab7 vesicles. Deletion of the GIPC (synectin) binding motif of NRP-1 prevented transition of VEGFR-2 through Rab11 vesicles and attenuated signaling. Coreceptor engagement was specific for VEGFR-2 because EGFR recycled through Rab11 vesicles in the absence of known coreceptors. Our data establish a distinct role of NRP-1 in VEGFR-2 signaling and reveal a general mechanism for the function of coreceptors in modulating RTK signal output.
Collapse
|
30
|
Vempati P, Popel AS, Mac Gabhann F. Formation of VEGF isoform-specific spatial distributions governing angiogenesis: computational analysis. BMC SYSTEMS BIOLOGY 2011; 5:59. [PMID: 21535871 PMCID: PMC3113235 DOI: 10.1186/1752-0509-5-59] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2010] [Accepted: 05/02/2011] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The spatial distribution of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF) is an important mediator of vascular patterning. Previous experimental studies in the mouse hindbrain and retina have suggested that VEGF alternative splicing, which controls the ability of VEGF to bind to heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) in the extracellular matrix (ECM), plays a key role in controlling VEGF diffusion and gradients in tissues. Conversely, proteolysis notably by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), plays a critical role in pathological situations by releasing matrix-sequestered VEGF and modulating angiogenesis. However, computational models have predicted that HSPG binding alone does not affect VEGF localization or gradients at steady state. RESULTS Using a 3D molecular-detailed reaction-diffusion model of VEGF ligand-receptor kinetics and transport, we test alternate models of VEGF transport in the extracellular environment surrounding an endothelial sprout. We show that differences in localization between VEGF isoforms, as observed experimentally in the mouse hindbrain, as well as the ability of proteases to redistribute VEGF in pathological situations, are consistent with a model where VEGF is endogenously cleared or degraded in an isoform-specific manner. We use our predictions of the VEGF distribution to quantify a tip cell's receptor binding and gradient sensing capacity. A novel prediction is that neuropilin-1, despite functioning as a coreceptor to VEGF₁₆₅-VEGFR2 binding, reduces the ability of a cell to gauge the relative steepness of the VEGF distribution. Comparing our model to available in vivo vascular patterning data suggests that vascular phenotypes are most consistently predicted at short range by the soluble fraction of the VEGF distributions, or at longer range by matrix-bound VEGF detected in a filopodia-dependent manner. CONCLUSIONS Isoform-specific VEGF degradation provides a possible explanation for numerous examples of isoform specificity in VEGF patterning and examples of proteases relocation of VEGF upon release.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Prakash Vempati
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Expression of the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor neuropilin-1 at the human embryo–maternal interface. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2011; 154:151-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2010.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2010] [Revised: 08/25/2010] [Accepted: 10/16/2010] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
|
32
|
|
33
|
Varet J, Douglas SK, Gilmartin L, Medford ARL, Bates DO, Harper SJ, Millar AB. VEGF in the lung: a role for novel isoforms. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2010; 298:L768-74. [PMID: 20228180 PMCID: PMC2886605 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00353.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2009] [Accepted: 03/12/2010] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF) is a potent mitogen and permogen that increases in the plasma and decreases in the alveolar space in respiratory diseases such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). This observation has led to controversy over the role of this potent molecule in lung physiology and disease. We hypothesized that some of the VEGF previously detected in normal lung may be of the anti-angiogenic family (VEGF(xxx)b) with significant potential effects on VEGF bioactivity. VEGF(xxx)b protein expression was assessed by indirect immunohistochemistry in normal and ARDS tissue. Expression of VEGF(xxx)b was also detected by immunoblotting in normal lung tissue, primary human alveolar type II (ATII) cells, and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid in normal subjects and by ELISA in normal, "at risk," and ARDS subjects. The effect of VEGF(165) and VEGF(165)b on both human primary endothelial cells and alveolar epithelial cell proliferation was assessed by [(3)H]thymidine uptake. We found that VEGF(165)b was widely expressed in normal healthy lung tissue but is reduced in ARDS lung. VEGF(121)b and VEGF(165)b were present in whole lung, BAL, and ATII lysate. The proliferative effect of VEGF(165) on both human primary endothelial cells and human alveolar epithelial cells was significantly inhibited by VEGF(165)b (P < 0.01). These data demonstrate that the novel VEGF(xxx)b family members are expressed in normal lung and are reduced in ARDS. A specific functional effect on primary human endothelial and alveolar epithelial cells has also been shown. These data suggest that the VEGF(xxx)b family may have a role in repair after lung injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Varet
- Lung Research Group, Department of Clinical Science at North Bristol, University of Bristol Paul O'Gorman Lifeline Centre, Southmead Hospital, Westbury-on-Trym; and
- Microvascular Research Laboratories, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Samantha K. Douglas
- Lung Research Group, Department of Clinical Science at North Bristol, University of Bristol Paul O'Gorman Lifeline Centre, Southmead Hospital, Westbury-on-Trym; and
| | - Laura Gilmartin
- Lung Research Group, Department of Clinical Science at North Bristol, University of Bristol Paul O'Gorman Lifeline Centre, Southmead Hospital, Westbury-on-Trym; and
- Microvascular Research Laboratories, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew R. L. Medford
- Lung Research Group, Department of Clinical Science at North Bristol, University of Bristol Paul O'Gorman Lifeline Centre, Southmead Hospital, Westbury-on-Trym; and
| | - David O. Bates
- Microvascular Research Laboratories, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Steven J. Harper
- Microvascular Research Laboratories, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Ann B. Millar
- Lung Research Group, Department of Clinical Science at North Bristol, University of Bristol Paul O'Gorman Lifeline Centre, Southmead Hospital, Westbury-on-Trym; and
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Structural determinants of growth factor binding and specificity by VEGF receptor 2. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2010; 107:2425-30. [PMID: 20145116 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0914318107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) regulate blood and lymph vessel formation through activation of three receptor tyrosine kinases, VEGFR-1, -2, and -3. The extracellular domain of VEGF receptors consists of seven immunoglobulin homology domains, which, upon ligand binding, promote receptor dimerization. Dimerization initiates transmembrane signaling, which activates the intracellular tyrosine kinase domain of the receptor. VEGF-C stimulates lymphangiogenesis and contributes to pathological angiogenesis via VEGFR-3. However, proteolytically processed VEGF-C also stimulates VEGFR-2, the predominant transducer of signals required for physiological and pathological angiogenesis. Here we present the crystal structure of VEGF-C bound to the VEGFR-2 high-affinity-binding site, which consists of immunoglobulin homology domains D2 and D3. This structure reveals a symmetrical 22 complex, in which left-handed twisted receptor domains wrap around the 2-fold axis of VEGF-C. In the VEGFs, receptor specificity is determined by an N-terminal alpha helix and three peptide loops. Our structure shows that two of these loops in VEGF-C bind to VEGFR-2 subdomains D2 and D3, while one interacts primarily with D3. Additionally, the N-terminal helix of VEGF-C interacts with D2, and the groove separating the two VEGF-C monomers binds to the D2/D3 linker. VEGF-C, unlike VEGF-A, does not bind VEGFR-1. We therefore created VEGFR-1/VEGFR-2 chimeric proteins to further study receptor specificity. This biochemical analysis, together with our structural data, defined VEGFR-2 residues critical for the binding of VEGF-A and VEGF-C. Our results provide significant insights into the structural features that determine the high affinity and specificity of VEGF/VEGFR interactions.
Collapse
|
35
|
Hua J, Spee C, Kase S, Rennel ES, Magnussen AL, Qiu Y, Varey A, Dhayade S, Churchill AJ, Harper SJ, Bates DO, Hinton DR. Recombinant human VEGF165b inhibits experimental choroidal neovascularization. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2010; 51:4282-8. [PMID: 20237252 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.09-4360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-A) is the principal stimulator of angiogenesis in wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD). However, VEGF-A is generated by alternate splicing into two families, the proangiogenic VEGF-A(xxx) family and the antiangiogenic VEGF-A(xxx)b family. It is the proangiogenic family that is responsible for the blood vessel growth seen in AMD. METHODS To determine the role of antiangiogenic isoforms of VEGF-A as inhibitors of choroidal neovascularization, the authors used a model of laser-induced choroidal neovascularization in the mouse eye and investigated VEGF-A(165)b effects on endothelial cells and VEGFRs in vitro. RESULTS VEGF-A(165)b inhibited VEGF-A(165)-mediated endothelial cell migration with a dose effect similar to that of ranibizumab and bevacizumab and 200-fold more potent than that of pegaptanib. VEGF-A(165)b bound both VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 with affinity similar to that of VEGF-A(165). After laser injury, mice were injected either intraocularly or subcutaneously with recombinant human VEGF-A(165)b. Intraocular injection of rhVEGF-A(165)b gave a pronounced dose-dependent inhibition of fluorescein leakage, with an IC(50) of 16 pg/eye, neovascularization (IC(50), 0.8 pg/eye), and lesion as assessed by histologic staining (IC(50), 8 pg/eye). Subcutaneous administration of 100 microg twice a week also inhibited fluorescein leakage and neovascularization and reduced lesion size. CONCLUSIONS These results show that VEGF-A(165)b is a potent antiangiogenic agent in a mouse model of age-related macular degeneration and suggest that increasing the ratio of antiangiogenic-to-proangiogenic isoforms may be therapeutically effective in this condition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Hua
- Microvascular Research Laboratories, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Bristol Heart Institute, School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Rich RL, Myszka DG. Grading the commercial optical biosensor literature-Class of 2008: 'The Mighty Binders'. J Mol Recognit 2010; 23:1-64. [PMID: 20017116 DOI: 10.1002/jmr.1004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Optical biosensor technology continues to be the method of choice for label-free, real-time interaction analysis. But when it comes to improving the quality of the biosensor literature, education should be fundamental. Of the 1413 articles published in 2008, less than 30% would pass the requirements for high-school chemistry. To teach by example, we spotlight 10 papers that illustrate how to implement the technology properly. Then we grade every paper published in 2008 on a scale from A to F and outline what features make a biosensor article fabulous, middling or abysmal. To help improve the quality of published data, we focus on a few experimental, analysis and presentation mistakes that are alarmingly common. With the literature as a guide, we want to ensure that no user is left behind.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L Rich
- Center for Biomolecular Interaction Analysis, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
From combinatorial peptide selection to drug prototype (I): targeting the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor pathway. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2010; 107:5112-7. [PMID: 20190181 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0915141107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of blood vessel formation is a viable therapeutic approach in angiogenesis-dependent diseases. We previously used a combinatorial screening on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-activated endothelial cells to select the sequence CPQPRPLC and showed that the motif Arg-Pro-Leu targets VEGF receptor-1 and neuropilin-1. Here, we evaluated and validated (D)(LPR), a derivative molecule with strong antiangiogenesis attributes. This prototype drug markedly inhibits neovascularization in three mouse models: Matrigel-based assay, functional human/murine blood vessel formation, and retinopathy of prematurity. In addition to its systemic activity, (D)(LPR) also inhibits retinal angiogenesis when administered in an eye-drop formulation. Finally, in preliminary studies, we have showed targeted drug activity in an experimental tumor-bearing mouse model. These results show that drugs targeting extracellular domains of VEGF receptors are active, affect signal transduction, and have potential for clinical application. On a larger context, this study illustrates the power of ligand-directed selection plus retro-inversion for rapid drug discovery and development.
Collapse
|
38
|
Abstract
A specific splice variant of the CD44 cell- surface protein family, CD44v6, has been shown to act as a coreceptor for the receptor tyrosine kinase c-Met on epithelial cells. Here we show that also on endothelial cells (ECs), the activity of c-Met is dependent on CD44v6. Furthermore, another receptor tyrosine kinase, VEGFR-2, is also regulated by CD44v6. The CD44v6 ectodomain and a small peptide mimicking a specific extracellular motif of CD44v6 or a CD44v6-specific antibody prevent CD44v6-mediated receptor activation. This indicates that the extracellular part of CD44v6 is required for interaction with c-Met or VEGFR-2. In the cytoplasm, signaling by activated c-Met and VEGFR-2 requires association of the CD44 carboxy-terminus with ezrin that couples CD44v6 to the cytoskeleton. CD44v6 controls EC migration, sprouting, and tubule formation induced by hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) or VEGF-A. In vivo the development of blood vessels from grafted EC spheroids and angiogenesis in tumors is impaired by CD44v6 blocking reagents, suggesting that the coreceptor function of CD44v6 for c-Met and VEGFR-2 is a promising target to block angiogenesis in pathologic conditions.
Collapse
|
39
|
Woolard J, Bevan HS, Harper SJ, Bates DO. Molecular diversity of VEGF-A as a regulator of its biological activity. Microcirculation 2009; 16:572-92. [PMID: 19521900 PMCID: PMC2929464 DOI: 10.1080/10739680902997333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family of proteins regulates blood flow, growth, and function in both normal physiology and disease processes. VEGF-A is alternatively spliced to form multiple isoforms, in two subfamilies, that have specific, novel functions. Alternative splicing of exons 5-7 of the VEGF gene generates forms with differing bioavailability and activities, whereas alternative splice-site selection in exon 8 generates proangiogenic, termed VEGF(xxx), or antiangiogenic proteins, termed VEGF(xxx)b. Despite its name, emerging roles for VEGF isoforms on cell types other than endothelium have now been identified. Although VEGF-A has conventionally been considered to be a family of proangiogenic, propermeability vasodilators, the identification of effects on nonendothelial cells, and the discovery of the antiangiogenic subfamily of splice isoforms, has added further complexity to their regulation of microvascular function. The distally spliced antiangiogenic isoforms are expressed in normal human tissue, but downregulated in angiogenic diseases, such as cancer and proliferative retinopathy, and in developmental pathologies, such as Denys Drash syndrome and preeclampsia. Here, we examine the molecular diversity of VEGF-A as a regulator of its biological activity and compare the role of the pro- and antiangiogenic VEGF-A splice isoforms in both normal and pathophysiological processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeanette Woolard
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Bristol Heart Institute, School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Structure-function analysis of VEGF receptor activation and the role of coreceptors in angiogenic signaling. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-PROTEINS AND PROTEOMICS 2009; 1804:567-80. [PMID: 19761875 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbapap.2009.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2009] [Revised: 08/22/2009] [Accepted: 09/04/2009] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) constitute a family of six polypeptides, VEGF-A, -B, -C, -D, -E and PlGF, that regulate blood and lymphatic vessel development. VEGFs specifically bind to three type V receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), VEGFR-1, -2 and -3, and to coreceptors such as neuropilins and heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPG). VEGFRs are activated upon ligand-induced dimerization mediated by the extracellular domain (ECD). A study using receptor constructs carrying artificial dimerization-promoting transmembrane domains (TMDs) showed that receptor dimerization is necessary, but not sufficient, for receptor activation and demonstrates that distinct orientation of receptor monomers is required to instigate transmembrane signaling. Angiogenic signaling by VEGF receptors also depends on cooperation with specific coreceptors such as neuropilins and HSPG. A number of VEGF isoforms differ in binding to coreceptors, and ligand-specific signal output is apparently the result of the specific coreceptor complex assembled by a particular VEGF isoform. Here we discuss the structural features of VEGF family ligands and their receptors in relation to their distinct signal output and angiogenic potential.
Collapse
|
41
|
VEGF(121)b, a new member of the VEGF(xxx)b family of VEGF-A splice isoforms, inhibits neovascularisation and tumour growth in vivo. Br J Cancer 2009; 101:1183-93. [PMID: 19707198 PMCID: PMC2768092 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjc.6605249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The key mediator of new vessel formation in cancer and other diseases is VEGF-A. VEGF-A exists as alternatively spliced isoforms - the pro-angiogenic VEGFxxx family generated by exon 8 proximal splicing, and a sister family, termed VEGFxxxb, exemplified by VEGF165b, generated by distal splicing of exon 8. However, it is unknown whether this anti-angiogenic property of VEGF165b is a general property of the VEGFxxxb family of isoforms. Methods: The mRNA and protein expression of VEGF121b was studied in human tissue. The effect of VEGF121b was analysed by saturation binding to VEGF receptors, endothelial migration, apoptosis, xenograft tumour growth, pre-retinal neovascularisation and imaging of biodistribution in tumour-bearing mice with radioactive VEGF121b. Results: The existence of VEGF121b was confirmed in normal human tissues. VEGF121b binds both VEGF receptors with similar affinity as other VEGF isoforms, but inhibits endothelial cell migration and is cytoprotective to endothelial cells through VEGFR-2 activation. Administration of VEGF121b normalised retinal vasculature by reducing both angiogenesis and ischaemia. VEGF121b reduced the growth of xenografted human colon tumours in association with reduced microvascular density, and an intravenous bolus of VEGF121b is taken up into colon tumour xenografts. Conclusion: Here we identify a second member of the family, VEGF121b, with similar properties to those of VEGF165b, and underline the importance of the six amino acids of exon 8b in the anti-angiogenic activity of the VEGFxxxb isoforms.
Collapse
|
42
|
Abstract
Human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) entry involves the interaction between the surface (SU) subunit of the Env proteins and cellular receptor(s). Previously, our laboratories demonstrated that heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) and neuropilin-1 (NRP-1), a receptor of VEGF(165), are essential for HTLV-1 entry. Here we investigated whether, as when binding VEGF(165), HSPGs and NRP-1 work in concert during HTLV-1 entry. VEGF(165) binds to the b domain of NRP-1 through both HSPG-dependent and -independent interactions, the latter involving its exon 8. We show that VEGF(165) is a selective competitor of HTLV-1 entry and that HTLV-1 mimics VEGF(165) to recruit HSPGs and NRP-1: (1) the NRP-1 b domain is required for HTLV-1 binding; (2) SU binding to target cells is blocked by the HSPG-binding domain of VEGF(165); (3) the formation of Env/NRP-1 complexes is enhanced by HSPGs; and (4) the HTLV SU contains a motif homologous to VEGF(165) exon 8. This motif directly binds to NRP-1 and is essential for HTLV-1 binding to, internalization into, and infection of CD4(+) T cells and dendritic cells. These findings demonstrate that HSPGs and NRP-1 function as HTLV-1 receptors in a cooperative manner and reveal an unexpected mimicry mechanism that may have major implications in vivo.
Collapse
|
43
|
Testa U, Pannitteri G, Condorelli GL. Vascular endothelial growth factors in cardiovascular medicine. J Cardiovasc Med (Hagerstown) 2009; 9:1190-221. [PMID: 19001927 DOI: 10.2459/jcm.0b013e3283117d37] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The discovery of vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) and their receptors has considerably improved the understanding of the development and function of endothelial cells. Each member of the VEGF family appears to have a specific function: VEGF-A induces angiogenesis (i.e. growth of new blood vessels from preexisting ones), placental growth factor mediates both angiogenesis and arteriogenesis (i.e. the formation of collateral arteries from preexisting arterioles), VEGF-C and VEGF-D act mainly as lymphangiogenic factors. The study of the biology of these endothelial growth factors has allowed a major progress in the comprehension of the genesis of the vascular system and its abnormalities observed in various pathologic conditions (atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease). The role of VEGF in the atherogenic process is still unclear, but actual evidence suggests both detrimental (development of a neoangiogenetic process within the atherosclerotic plaque) and beneficial (promotion of collateral vessel formation) effects. VEGF and other angiogenic growth factors (fibroblast growth factor), although initially promising in experimental studies and in initial phase I/II clinical trials in patients with ischemic heart disease or peripheral arterial occlusive disease, have subsequently failed to show significant therapeutic improvements in controlled clinical studies. Challenges still remain about the type or the combination of angiogenic factors to be administered, the form (protein vs. gene), the route, and the duration of administration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ugo Testa
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Italy.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Abstract
The physiology of microvessels limits the growth and development of tumours. Tumours gain nutrients and excrete waste through growth-associated microvessels. New anticancer therapies target this microvasculature by inhibiting vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) splice isoforms that promote microvessel growth. However, certain VEGF-A splice isoforms in normal tissues inhibit growth of microvessels. Thus, it is the VEGF-A isoform balance, which is controlled by mRNA splicing, that orchestrates angiogenesis. Here, we highlight the functional differences between the pro-angiogenic and the anti-angiogenic VEGF-A isoform families and the potential to harness the synthetic capacity of cancer cells to produce factors that inhibit, rather than aid, cancer growth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steven J Harper
- Microvascular Research Laboratories, Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Bristol Heart Institute, School of Veterinary Science, University of Bristol, Southwell Street, Bristol BS2 8EJ, UK.
| | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Neuropilin-1 in regulation of VEGF-induced activation of p38MAPK and endothelial cell organization. Blood 2008; 112:3638-49. [PMID: 18664627 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2007-12-125856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A regulates vascular development and angiogenesis. VEGF isoforms differ in ability to bind coreceptors heparan sulfate (HS) and neuropilin-1 (NRP1). We used VEGF-A165 (which binds HS and NRP1), VEGF-A121 (binds neither HS nor NRP1), and parapoxvirus VEGF-E-NZ2 (binds NRP1 but not HS) to investigate the role of NRP1 in organization of endothelial cells into vascular structures. All 3 ligands induced similar level of VEGFR-2 tyrosine phosphorylation in the presence of NRP1. In contrast, sprouting angiogenesis in differentiating embryonic stem cells (embryoid bodies), formation of branching pericyte-embedded vessels in subcutaneous matrigel plugs, and sprouting of intersegmental vessels in developing zebrafish were induced by VEGF-A165 and VEGF-E-NZ2 but not by VEGF-A121. Analyses of recombinant factors with NRP1-binding gain- and loss-of-function properties supported the conclusion that NRP1 is critical for VEGF-induced sprouting and branching of endothelial cells. Signal transduction antibody arrays implicated NRP1 in VEGF-induced activation of p38MAPK. Inclusion of the p38MAPK inhibitor SB203580 in VEGF-A165-containing matrigel plugs led to attenuated angiogenesis and poor association with pericytes. Our data strongly indicate that the ability of VEGF ligands to bind NRP1 influences p38MAPK activation, and formation of functional, pericyte-associated vessels.
Collapse
|