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Chitoran E, Rotaru V, Ionescu SO, Gelal A, Capsa CM, Bohiltea RE, Mitroiu MN, Serban D, Gullo G, Stefan DC, Simion L. Bevacizumab-Based Therapies in Malignant Tumors-Real-World Data on Effectiveness, Safety, and Cost. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2590. [PMID: 39061228 PMCID: PMC11274419 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16142590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Overall, it is estimated that more than 3,500,000 patients have received Bevacizumab as part of systemic oncologic treatment. Bevacizumab and its biosimilars are currently marketed in over 130 countries. Given the wide usage of Bevacizumab in current oncological practice, it is very important to compare the "real-world" results to those obtained in controlled clinical trials. This study aims to describe the clinical experience of using Bevacizumab in a large cohort of cancer patients in "non-controlled real-world" conditions with regard to effectiveness, safety, and cost of therapy. METHODS For this purpose, we conducted an open, observational, retrospective study involving all patients treated for solid malignant tumors in the Bucharest Institute of Oncology with "Prof. Dr. Al. Trestioreanu" with Bevacizumab-based systemic therapy, between 2017 and 2021. RESULTS The study consisted of 657 treatment episodes in 625 patients (F/B = 1.62/1, with a median age of 57.6 years) which were treated for malignant tumors (majority colorectal, non-small cell lung, ovarian, and breast cancer). First-line treatment was administered in 229 patients, and the rest received Bevacizumab as second or subsequent lines of treatment. The overall response rate to Bevacizumab-based therapies was around 60-65% across all indication except for subsequent treatment lines in colorectal and ovarian cancers, where lower values were recorded (27.1%, and 31.5% respectively). Median PFS for the entire cohort was 8.2 months (95% CI 6.8-9.6), and the median OS was 13.2 months (95% CI 11.5-14.9). Usual bevacizumab-related toxicities were observed, including bleeding, hypertension, wound-healing complications, gastrointestinal perforation, other types of fistulas, septic complications, and thromboembolic events. Although the clinical benefits are undeniable, the addition of Bevacizumab to standard chemotherapy increased the overall treatment cost by 213%. CONCLUSIONS Bevacizumab remains a high-cost therapy, but it can add to clinical benefits (like overall survival, progression-free survival, and response rate) when used in conjunction with standard chemotherapy. Similar results as those presented in various controlled trials are observable even on unselected cohorts of patients in the uncontrolled conditions of "real-world" oncological practice. Off-label usage is encountered in clinical practice, and this aspect should be monitored given the potential adverse effects of the therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Chitoran
- Medicine School, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- General Surgery and Surgical Oncology Department I, Bucharest Institute of Oncology “Prof. Dr. Al. Trestioreanu”, 022328 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Vlad Rotaru
- Medicine School, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- General Surgery and Surgical Oncology Department I, Bucharest Institute of Oncology “Prof. Dr. Al. Trestioreanu”, 022328 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Sinziana-Octavia Ionescu
- Medicine School, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- General Surgery and Surgical Oncology Department I, Bucharest Institute of Oncology “Prof. Dr. Al. Trestioreanu”, 022328 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Aisa Gelal
- Medicine School, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- General Surgery and Surgical Oncology Department I, Bucharest Institute of Oncology “Prof. Dr. Al. Trestioreanu”, 022328 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cristina-Mirela Capsa
- Medicine School, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Radiology Department, Bucharest Institute of Oncology “Prof. Dr. Al. Trestioreanu”, 022328 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Roxana-Elena Bohiltea
- Medicine School, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, “Filantropia” Clinical Hospital, 011132 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Madalina-Nicoleta Mitroiu
- Medicine School, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, “Filantropia” Clinical Hospital, 011132 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Dragos Serban
- Medicine School, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Surgery Department 4, Bucharest University Emergency Hospital, 050098 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Giuseppe Gullo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Villa Sofia Cervello Hospital, University of Palermo, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - Daniela-Cristina Stefan
- Medicine School, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Laurentiu Simion
- Medicine School, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- General Surgery and Surgical Oncology Department I, Bucharest Institute of Oncology “Prof. Dr. Al. Trestioreanu”, 022328 Bucharest, Romania
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Elzanaty KA, Omran GA, Elmahallawy EK, Albrakati A, Saleh AA, Dahran N, Alhegaili AS, Salahuddin A, Abd-El-Azim H, Noreldin A, Okda TM. Design and Optimization of Sesamol Nanosuspensions to Potentiate the Anti-Tumor Activity of Epirubicin against Ehrlich Solid Carcinoma-Bearing Mice. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:937. [PMID: 39065634 PMCID: PMC11279961 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16070937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
There is a growing interest in discovering natural sources of anti-cancer drugs. Sesamol (SES) is a phenolic compound with antitumor effects. The present study aimed to investigate the anticancer properties of SES and its nano-suspensions (SES-NS) combined with Epirubicin (EPI) in breast cancer (BC) using mice bearing a solid Ehrlich tumor. The study involved 35 female albino mice and investigated the effects of SES and EPI on tumor growth, proliferation, apoptosis, autophagy, angiogenesis, and oxidative stress. Methods including ELISA, qRT-PCR, and immunohistochemistry were utilized. The findings revealed reductions in tumor growth and proliferation using SES either alone or combined and evidenced by decreased AKT (AKT Serine/Threonine kinase1) levels, angiogenesis indicated by lower levels of VEGFR (vascular endothelial growth factor), and apoptosis demonstrated by elevated caspase3 and BAX levels. Furthermore, autophagy increased and was indicated by increased levels of beclin1 and lc3, along with decreased oxidative stress as evidenced by elevated TAC (total antioxidant capacity) and reduced MDA (malondialdehyde) levels. Interestingly, SES-NS demonstrated more significant effects at lower doses. In summary, this study underscores the potential of SES as a promising agent for BC treatment. Moreover, SES-NS potentiated the beneficial effects of EPI while mitigating its adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kholoud A. Elzanaty
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Damanhour University, Damanhour 22511, Egypt (T.M.O.)
| | - Gamal A. Omran
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Damanhour University, Damanhour 22511, Egypt (T.M.O.)
| | - Ehab Kotb Elmahallawy
- Grupo de Investigación en Sanidad Animal y Zoonosis (GISAZ), Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Universidad de Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain
- Department of Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag 82524, Egypt
| | - Ashraf Albrakati
- Department of Human Anatomy, College of Medicine, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Ayman A. Saleh
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of Hail, Hail 55428, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Naief Dahran
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Jeddah, Jeddah 21959, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alaa S. Alhegaili
- Department of Medical Laboratory, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad Salahuddin
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Damanhour University, Damanhour 22511, Egypt (T.M.O.)
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Pharmacy, Al-Ayen Iraqi University, Nasiriyah 64001, Iraq
| | - Heba Abd-El-Azim
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Damanhour University, Damanhour 22511, Egypt;
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Ahmed Noreldin
- Department of Histology and Cytology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour 22511, Egypt
| | - Tarek M. Okda
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Damanhour University, Damanhour 22511, Egypt (T.M.O.)
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Hu B, Pei J, Wan C, Liu S, Xu Z, Zou Y, Li Z, Tang Z. Mechanisms of Postischemic Stroke Angiogenesis: A Multifaceted Approach. J Inflamm Res 2024; 17:4625-4646. [PMID: 39045531 PMCID: PMC11264385 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s461427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Ischemic stroke constitutes a significant global health care challenge, and a comprehensive understanding of its recovery mechanisms is imperative for the development of innovative therapeutic strategies. Angiogenesis, a pivotal element of ischemic tissue repair, facilitates the restoration of blood flow to damaged regions, thereby promoting neuronal regeneration and functional recovery. Nevertheless, the mechanisms underlying postischemic stroke angiogenesis remain incompletely elucidated. This review meticulously examines the constituents of the neurovascular unit, ion channels, molecular mediators, and signaling pathways implicated in angiogenesis following stroke. Furthermore, it delves into prospective therapeutic strategies informed by these factors. Our objective is to provide detailed and exhaustive information on the intricate mechanisms governing postischemic stroke angiogenesis, thus providing a robust scientific foundation for the advancement of novel neurorepair therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Hu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jingchun Pei
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, People’s Republic of China
| | - Cheng Wan
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Medical Imaging, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shuangshuang Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhe Xu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, People’s Republic of China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Qujing Medical College, Qujing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yongwei Zou
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhigao Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhiwei Tang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, People’s Republic of China
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Tarallo V, Magliacane Trotta S, Panico S, D'Orsi L, Mercadante G, Cicatiello V, De Falco S. PlGF and VEGF-A/PlGF Heterodimer are Crucial for Recruitment and Activation of Immune Cells During Choroid Neovascularization. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2024; 65:12. [PMID: 38967942 PMCID: PMC11232896 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.65.8.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Recruitment and activation of inflammatory cells, such as retinal microglia/macrophages, in the subretinal space contribute significantly to the pathogenesis of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This study aims to explore the functional role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-A), placental growth factor (PlGF) and VEGF-A/PlGF heterodimer in immune homeostasis and activation during pathological laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV). Methods To investigate these roles, we utilized the PlGF-DE knockin (KI) mouse model, which is the full functional knockout (KO) of PlGF. In this model, mice express a variant of PlGF, named PlGF-DE, that is unable to bind and activate VEGFR-1 but can still form heterodimer with VEGF-A. Results Our findings demonstrate that, although there is no difference in healthy conditions, PlGF-DE-KI mice exhibit decreased microglia reactivity and reduced recruitment of both microglia and monocyte-macrophages, compared to wild-type mice during laser-induced CNV. This impairment is associated with a reduction in VEGF receptor 1 (VEGFR-1) phosphorylation in the retinae of PlGF-DE-KI mice compared to C57Bl6/J mice. Corroborating these data, intravitreal delivery of PlGF or VEGF-A/PlGF heterodimer in PlGF-DE-KI mice rescued the immune cell response at the early phase of CNV compared to VEGF-A delivery. Conclusions In summary, our study suggests that targeting PlGF and the VEGF-A/PlGF heterodimer, thereby preventing VEGFR-1 activation, could represent a potential therapeutic approach for the management of inflammatory processes in diseases such as AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Tarallo
- Angiogenesis Lab, Institute of Genetics and Biophysics ‘Adriano Buzzati-Traverso’ - CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - Sara Magliacane Trotta
- Angiogenesis Lab, Institute of Genetics and Biophysics ‘Adriano Buzzati-Traverso’ - CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - Sonia Panico
- Angiogenesis Lab, Institute of Genetics and Biophysics ‘Adriano Buzzati-Traverso’ - CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - Luca D'Orsi
- Angiogenesis Lab, Institute of Genetics and Biophysics ‘Adriano Buzzati-Traverso’ - CNR, Naples, Italy
- BIOVIIIx srl, Via Alessandro Manzoni 1, Napoli, Italy
| | - Grazia Mercadante
- Angiogenesis Lab, Institute of Genetics and Biophysics ‘Adriano Buzzati-Traverso’ - CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - Valeria Cicatiello
- Angiogenesis Lab, Institute of Genetics and Biophysics ‘Adriano Buzzati-Traverso’ - CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - Sandro De Falco
- Angiogenesis Lab, Institute of Genetics and Biophysics ‘Adriano Buzzati-Traverso’ - CNR, Naples, Italy
- BIOVIIIx srl, Via Alessandro Manzoni 1, Napoli, Italy
- AnBition srl, Via Alessandro Manzoni 1, Napoli, Italy
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Chiang H, Chung CA. Simulation of Soluble and Bound VEGF-stimulated in vitro Capillary-like Network Formation on Deformed Substrate. PLoS Comput Biol 2024; 20:e1012281. [PMID: 39038038 PMCID: PMC11262697 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1012281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Capillary plexus cultivation is crucial in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Theoretical simulations have been conducted to supplement the expensive experimental works. However, the mechanisms connecting mechanical and chemical stimuli remained undefined, and the functions of the different VEGF forms in the culture environment were still unclear. In this paper, we developed a hybrid model for simulating short-term in vitro capillary incubations. We used the Cellular Potts model to predict individual cell migration, morphology change, and continuum mechanics to quantify biogel deformation and VEGF transport dynamics. By bridging the mechanical regulation and chemical stimulation in the model, the results showed good agreement between the predicted network topology and experiments, in which elongated cells connected, forming the network cords and round cells gathered, creating cobblestone-like aggregates. The results revealed that the capillary-like networks could develop in high integrity only when the mechanical and chemical couplings worked adequately, with the cell morphology and haptotaxis driven by the soluble and bound forms of VEGF, respectively, functioning simultaneously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsun Chiang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Central University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Ang Chung
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Central University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
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6
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Gazzini S, Cerullo R, Soloperto D. VEGF as a Key Actor in Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis: A Narrative Review. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:6757-6768. [PMID: 39057045 PMCID: PMC11275356 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46070403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) is a benign disease of the upper aerodigestive tract caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) types 6 and 11. The clinical course is unpredictable and some patients, especially younger children, experience a high rate of recurrence with a significant impact on their quality of life. The molecular mechanisms of HPV infection in keratinocytes have been extensively studied throughout the years, with particular regard to its role in causing malignant tumors, like cervical cancer and head and neck carcinomas. A minor but not negligible amount of the literature has investigated the molecular landscape of RRP patients, and some papers have studied the role of angiogenesis (the growth of blood vessels from pre-existing vasculature) in this disease. A central role in this process is played by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which activates different signaling cascades on multiple levels. The increased knowledge has led to the introduction of the VEGF inhibitor bevacizumab in recent years as an adjuvant treatment in some patients, with good results. This review summarizes the current evidence about the role of VEGF in the pathophysiology of RRP, the molecular pathways activated by binding with its receptors, and the current and future roles of anti-angiogenic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Gazzini
- Division of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery Department, University Hospital of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Raffaele Cerullo
- Division of Otolaryngology, Hospital of Treviso, 31100 Treviso, Italy
| | - Davide Soloperto
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital of Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy
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Amin N, Abbasi IN, Wu F, Shi Z, Sundus J, Badry A, Yuan X, Zhao BX, Pan J, Mi XD, Luo Y, Geng Y, Fang M. The Janus face of HIF-1α in ischemic stroke and the possible associated pathways. Neurochem Int 2024; 177:105747. [PMID: 38657682 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2024.105747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Stroke is the most devastating disease, causing paralysis and eventually death. Many clinical and experimental trials have been done in search of a new safe and efficient medicine; nevertheless, scientists have yet to discover successful remedies that are also free of adverse effects. This is owing to the variability in intensity, localization, medication routes, and each patient's immune system reaction. HIF-1α represents the modern tool employed to treat stroke diseases due to its functions: downstream genes such as glucose metabolism, angiogenesis, erythropoiesis, and cell survival. Its role can be achieved via two downstream EPO and VEGF strongly related to apoptosis and antioxidant processes. Recently, scientists paid more attention to drugs dealing with the HIF-1 pathway. This review focuses on medicines used for ischemia treatment and their potential HIF-1α pathways. Furthermore, we discussed the interaction between HIF-1α and other biological pathways such as oxidative stress; however, a spotlight has been focused on certain potential signalling contributed to the HIF-1α pathway. HIF-1α is an essential regulator of oxygen balance within cells which affects and controls the expression of thousands of genes related to sustaining homeostasis as oxygen levels fluctuate. HIF-1α's role in ischemic stroke strongly depends on the duration and severity of brain damage after onset. HIF-1α remains difficult to investigate, particularly in ischemic stroke, due to alterations in the acute and chronic phases of the disease, as well as discrepancies between the penumbra and ischemic core. This review emphasizes these contrasts and analyzes the future of this intriguing and demanding field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nashwa Amin
- Center for Rehabilitation Medicine, Department of Neurology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China; Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Aswan University, Egypt; Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
| | - Irum Naz Abbasi
- Institute of Systemic Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fei Wu
- Institute of Systemic Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zongjie Shi
- Center for Rehabilitation Medicine, Department of Neurology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Javaria Sundus
- Institute of Systemic Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Azhar Badry
- Institute of Systemic Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xia Yuan
- Institute of Systemic Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bing-Xin Zhao
- Center for Rehabilitation Medicine, Department of Neurology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Jie Pan
- Center for Rehabilitation Medicine, Department of Neurology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Xiao-Dan Mi
- Center for Rehabilitation Medicine, Rehabilitation & Sports Medicine Research Institute of Zhejiang Province, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yuhuan Luo
- Department of Pediatrics, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yu Geng
- Center for Rehabilitation Medicine, Department of Neurology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Marong Fang
- Institute of Systemic Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China.
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Cai R, Jiang Q, Chen D, Feng Q, Liang X, Ouyang Z, Liao W, Zhang R, Fang H. Identification of osteoblastic autophagy-related genes for predicting diagnostic markers in osteoarthritis. iScience 2024; 27:110130. [PMID: 38952687 PMCID: PMC11215306 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.110130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
The development of osteoarthritis (OA) involves subchondral bone lesions, but the role of osteoblastic autophagy-related genes (ARGs) in osteoarthritis is unclear. Through integrated analysis of single-cell dataset, Bulk RNA dataset, and 367 ARGs extracted from GeneCards, 40 ARGs were found. By employing multiple machine learning algorithms and PPI networks, three key genes (DDIT3, JUN, and VEGFA) were identified. Then the RF model constructed from these genes indicated great potential as a diagnostic tool. Furthermore, the model's effectiveness in predicting OA has been confirmed through external validation datasets. Moreover, the expression of ARGs was examined in osteoblasts subject to excessive mechanical stress, human and mouse tissues. Finally, the role of ARGs in OA was confirmed through co-culturing explants and osteoblasts. Thus, osteoblastic ARGs could be crucial in OA development, providing potential diagnostic and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rulong Cai
- Department of Joint Surgery, Center for Orthopedic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- Academy of Orthopedics · Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- Orthopedic Hospital of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Degeneration Diseases, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- The Third School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Qijun Jiang
- The Third School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Dongli Chen
- Department of Ultrasound, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518053, China
| | - Qi Feng
- Department of Joint Surgery, Center for Orthopedic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- Academy of Orthopedics · Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- Orthopedic Hospital of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Degeneration Diseases, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- The Third School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Xinzhi Liang
- Department of Joint Surgery, Center for Orthopedic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- Academy of Orthopedics · Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- Orthopedic Hospital of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Degeneration Diseases, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- The Third School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Zhaoming Ouyang
- Department of Joint Surgery, Center for Orthopedic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- Academy of Orthopedics · Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- Orthopedic Hospital of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Degeneration Diseases, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- The Third School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Weijian Liao
- Department of Joint Surgery, Center for Orthopedic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- Academy of Orthopedics · Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- Orthopedic Hospital of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Degeneration Diseases, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- The Third School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Rongkai Zhang
- Department of Joint Surgery, Center for Orthopedic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- Academy of Orthopedics · Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- Orthopedic Hospital of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Degeneration Diseases, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- The Third School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Hang Fang
- Department of Joint Surgery, Center for Orthopedic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- Academy of Orthopedics · Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- Orthopedic Hospital of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bone and Joint Degeneration Diseases, Guangzhou, 510630, China
- The Third School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
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Hossain MA. Targeting the RAS upstream and downstream signaling pathway for cancer treatment. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 979:176727. [PMID: 38866361 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Cancer often involves the overactivation of RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK (MAPK) and PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathways due to mutations in genes like RAS, RAF, PTEN, and PIK3CA. Various strategies are employed to address the overactivation of these pathways, among which targeted therapy emerges as a promising approach. Directly targeting specific proteins, leads to encouraging results in cancer treatment. For instance, RTK inhibitors such as imatinib and afatinib selectively target these receptors, hindering ligand binding and reducing signaling initiation. These inhibitors have shown potent efficacy against Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Other inhibitors, like lonafarnib targeting Farnesyltransferase and GGTI 2418 targeting geranylgeranyl Transferase, disrupt post-translational modifications of proteins. Additionally, inhibition of proteins like SOS, SH2 domain, and Ras demonstrate promising anti-tumor activity both in vivo and in vitro. Targeting downstream components with RAF inhibitors such as vemurafenib, dabrafenib, and sorafenib, along with MEK inhibitors like trametinib and binimetinib, has shown promising outcomes in treating cancers with BRAF-V600E mutations, including myeloma, colorectal, and thyroid cancers. Furthermore, inhibitors of PI3K (e.g., apitolisib, copanlisib), AKT (e.g., ipatasertib, perifosine), and mTOR (e.g., sirolimus, temsirolimus) exhibit promising efficacy against various cancers such as Invasive Breast Cancer, Lymphoma, Neoplasms, and Hematological malignancies. This review offers an overview of small molecule inhibitors targeting specific proteins within the RAS upstream and downstream signaling pathways in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Arafat Hossain
- Department of Pharmacy, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science and Technology University, Gopalganj, 8100, Bangladesh.
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10
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Lin C, Merley A, Jaminet SS. TM4SF1 is a molecular facilitator that distributes cargo proteins intracellularly in endothelial cells in support of blood vessel formation. J Cell Commun Signal 2024; 18:e12031. [PMID: 38946725 PMCID: PMC11208120 DOI: 10.1002/ccs3.12031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Transmembrane-4 L-six family member-1 (TM4SF1) is an atypical tetraspanin that is highly and selectively expressed in proliferating endothelial cells and plays an essential role in blood vessel development. TM4SF1 forms clusters on the cell surface called TMED (TM4SF1-enriched microdomains) and recruits other proteins that internalize along with TM4SF1 via microtubules to intracellular locations including the nucleus. We report here that tumor growth and wound healing are inhibited in Tm4sf1-heterozygous mice. Investigating the mechanisms of TM4SF1 activity, we show that 12 out of 18 signaling molecules examined are recruited to TMED on the surface of cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and internalize along with TMED; notable among them are PLCγ and HDAC6. When TM4SF1 is knocked down in HUVEC, microtubules are heavily acetylated despite normal levels of HDAC6 protein, and, despite normal levels of VEGFR2, are unable to proliferate. Together, our studies indicate that pathological angiogenesis is inhibited when levels of TM4SF1 are reduced as in Tm4sf1-heterozygous mice; a likely mechanism is that TM4SF1 regulates the intracellular distribution of signaling molecules necessary for endothelial cell proliferation and migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi‐Iou Lin
- Center for Vascular Biology Research and Department of PathologyBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Department of AnesthesiologyRiverview HospitalNoblesvilleIndianaUSA
| | - Anne Merley
- Center for Vascular Biology Research and Department of PathologyBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Center for Animal Resources and EducationBrown UniversityProvidenceRhode IslandUSA
| | - Shou‐Ching S. Jaminet
- Center for Vascular Biology Research and Department of PathologyBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Biology DepartmentAngiex Inc.CambridgeMassachusettsUSA
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11
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Berro A, Assi A, Farhat M, Hatoum L, Saad JP, Mohanna R, Bechara AMA, Prince G, Hachem MCR, Zalaquett Z, Kourie HR. Unlocking Hope: Anti-VEGFR inhibitors and their potential in glioblastoma treatment. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024; 198:104365. [PMID: 38677355 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2024.104365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This systematic review summarizes evidence of VEGFR gene mutations and VEGF/VEGFR protein expression in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) patients, alongside the efficacy and safety of anti-VEGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) for GBM treatment. METHODS A comprehensive literature review was conducted using PubMed up to August 2023. Boolean operators and MeSH term "glioma," along with specific VEGFR-related keywords, were utilized following thorough examination of existing literature. RESULTS VEGFR correlates with glioma grade and GBM progression, presenting a viable therapeutic target. Regorafenib and axitinib show promise among studied TKIs. Other multi-targeted TKIs (MTKI) and combination therapies exhibit potential, albeit limited by blood-brain barrier penetration and toxicity. Combining treatments like radiotherapy and enhancing BBB penetration may benefit patients. Further research is warranted in patient quality of life and biomarker-guided selection. CONCLUSION While certain therapies hold promise for GBM, future research should prioritize personalized medicine and innovative strategies for improved treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Berro
- Hematology-Oncology Department, Hôtel-Dieu de France University Hospital, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ahmad Assi
- Hematology-Oncology Department, Hôtel-Dieu de France University Hospital, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mohamad Farhat
- Hematology-Oncology Department, Hôtel-Dieu de France University Hospital, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Lea Hatoum
- Hematology-Oncology Department, Hôtel-Dieu de France University Hospital, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Jean-Pierre Saad
- Hematology-Oncology Department, Hôtel-Dieu de France University Hospital, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rami Mohanna
- Hematology-Oncology Department, Hôtel-Dieu de France University Hospital, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Anna Maria Antoun Bechara
- Hematology-Oncology Department, Hôtel-Dieu de France University Hospital, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Gilles Prince
- Hematology-Oncology Department, Hôtel-Dieu de France University Hospital, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Maria Catherine Rita Hachem
- Hematology-Oncology Department, Hôtel-Dieu de France University Hospital, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ziad Zalaquett
- Hematology-Oncology Department, Hôtel-Dieu de France University Hospital, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.
| | - Hampig-Raphael Kourie
- Hematology-Oncology Department, Hôtel-Dieu de France University Hospital, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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12
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Li K, Wang Y, Huang P. Association of Four VEGFA Gene Variants with Rheumatoid Arthritis Risk: A Meta-analysis and Trial Sequential Analysis. Biochem Genet 2024:10.1007/s10528-024-10834-1. [PMID: 38814384 DOI: 10.1007/s10528-024-10834-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
The association between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) risk and specific variants of the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A (VEGFA) gene remains contentious. This study sought to elucidate the correlations between RA risk and several VEGFA gene variants, including VEGFA-634 (rs2010963), VEGFA-C936 (rs3025039), VEGFA-2578 (rs699947), VEGFA-1154 (rs1570360), through a comprehensive meta-analysis. We systematically reviewed literature from the Cochrane Library database, Embase, PubMed, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and the Wanfang Data Information Service platform to gather relevant case-control studies. Using odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI), we analyzed the data to assess potential correlations. Sensitivity analysis and the Egger's test were employed to ensure the results stability and to evaluate potential publication bias. Additionally, trial sequential analysis (TSA) was conducted to validate the findings. Our meta-analysis incorporated ten studies involving 2817 patients and 2855 controls. Results indicated that the AA genotype of VEGFA-1154 (rs1570360) is associated with a reduced risk of RA in the overall population (AG + GG vs AA: P = 0.032 OR = 1.932 95% CI 1.059-3.523). However, no significant association is found for VEGFA-634 (rs2010963), VEGFA-C936 (rs3025039), and VEGFA-2578 (rs699947) variants with RA risk. Subgroup analysis revealed a significant association between the VEGF rs3025039(C936) variant and RA risk in the PCR-RFLP group under the TC vs. CC model. TSA confirmed the sufficiency of the sample size for robust conclusions. These findings suggest that the G allele of VEGFA-1154 (rs1570360) may increase RA risk, whereas the A allele appears to confer a protective effect. This study enhances our understanding of the genetic predispositions to RA and underscores the potential role of VEGFA gene variants in its pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Li
- Queen Mary School, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Yilu Wang
- Queen Mary School, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Peng Huang
- Center for Evidence-Based Medicine, School of Public Health, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, No. 461, Bayi Avenue, Donghu District, Nanchang, 330006, China.
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China.
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13
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Lin YH, Chen TM, Tsai YL, Tsai WC, Wang HH, Chen Y, Wu ST. The Reduction of PSMB4 in T24 and J82 Bladder Cancer Cells Inhibits the Angiogenesis and Migration of Endothelial Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5559. [PMID: 38791597 PMCID: PMC11122396 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Bladder cancer (BC) is a malignant tumor of the urinary system with high mortality and recurrence rates. Proteasome subunit type 4 (PSMB4) is highly expressed and has been identified as having oncogenic properties in a variety of cancer types. This study aimed to explore the effect of PSMB4 knockdown on the survival, migration, and angiogenesis of human bladder cancer cells with different degrees of malignancy. We analyzed the effects of PSMB4 knockdown in bladder cancer cells and endothelial cells in the tumor microenvironment. PSMB4 was highly expressed in patients with low- and high-grade urothelial carcinoma. Inhibition of PSMB4 reduced protein expression of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and myosin light chain (MLC), leading to reduced migration. Furthermore, the suppression of PSMB4 decreased the levels of vascular endothelial factor B (VEGF-B), resulting in lower angiogenic abilities in human bladder cancer cells. PSMB4 inhibition affected the migratory ability of HUVECs and reduced VEGFR2 expression, consequently downregulating angiogenesis. In the metastatic animal model, PSMB4 knockdown reduced the relative volumes of lung tumors. Our findings suggest the role of PSMB4 as a potential target for therapeutic strategies against human bladder cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Hsuan Lin
- Department of Biology and Anatomy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan; (Y.-H.L.); (T.-M.C.)
| | - Tzu-Min Chen
- Department of Biology and Anatomy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan; (Y.-H.L.); (T.-M.C.)
| | - Yu-Ling Tsai
- Department of Pathology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan; (Y.-L.T.); (W.-C.T.)
| | - Wen-Chiuan Tsai
- Department of Pathology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan; (Y.-L.T.); (W.-C.T.)
| | - Hisao-Hsien Wang
- Department of Urology, Cheng Hsin General Hospital, Taipei 11490, Taiwan;
| | - Ying Chen
- Department of Biology and Anatomy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan; (Y.-H.L.); (T.-M.C.)
| | - Sheng-Tang Wu
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan
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14
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Janes PW, Parslow AC, Cao D, Rigopoulos A, Lee FT, Gong SJ, Cartwright GA, Burvenich IJG, Eriksson U, Johns TG, Scott FE, Scott AM. An Anti-VEGF-B Antibody Reduces Abnormal Tumor Vasculature and Enhances the Effects of Chemotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1902. [PMID: 38791979 PMCID: PMC11119922 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16101902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) and their receptors (VEGFRs) are key regulators of blood vessel formation, including in tumors, where their deregulated function can promote the production of aberrant, leaky blood vessels, supporting tumor development. Here we investigated the VEGFR1 ligand VEGF-B, which we demonstrate to be expressed in tumor cells and in tumor stroma and vasculature across a range of tumor types. We examined the anti-VEGF-B-specific monoclonal antibody 2H10 in preclinical xenograft models of breast and colorectal cancer, in comparison with the anti-VEGF-A antibody bevacizumab. Similar to bevacizumab, 2H10 therapy was associated with changes in tumor blood vessels and intra-tumoral diffusion consistent with normalization of the tumor vasculature. Accordingly, treatment resulted in partial inhibition of tumor growth, and significantly improved the response to chemotherapy. Our studies indicate the importance of VEGF-B in tumor growth, and the potential of specific anti-VEGF-B treatment to inhibit tumor development, alone or in combination with established chemotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter W. Janes
- Tumour Targeting Program, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia
- School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3083, Australia
| | - Adam C. Parslow
- Tumour Targeting Program, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia
| | - Diana Cao
- Tumour Targeting Program, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia
| | - Angela Rigopoulos
- Tumour Targeting Program, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia
| | - Fook-Thean Lee
- Tumour Targeting Program, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia
| | - Sylvia J. Gong
- School of Computing, Engineering and Mathematical Sciences, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3083, Australia
- Department of Molecular Imaging and Therapy, Austin Health, Melbourne, VIC 3084, Australia
| | - Glenn A. Cartwright
- Tumour Targeting Program, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia
| | - Ingrid J. G. Burvenich
- Tumour Targeting Program, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia
- School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3083, Australia
| | - Ulf Eriksson
- Division of Vascular Biology, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institute, 171 77 Solna, Sweden
| | - Terrance G. Johns
- Oncogenic Signalling Laboratory, Telethon Kids Cancer Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
- Medical School, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Fiona E. Scott
- Tumour Targeting Program, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia
| | - Andrew M. Scott
- Tumour Targeting Program, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia
- School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3083, Australia
- Department of Molecular Imaging and Therapy, Austin Health, Melbourne, VIC 3084, Australia
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
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15
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Koutrouli A, Machla F, Arapostathis K, Kokoti M, Bakopoulou A. "Biological responses of two calcium-silicate-based cements on a tissue-engineered 3D organotypic deciduous pulp analogue". Dent Mater 2024; 40:e14-e25. [PMID: 38431482 DOI: 10.1016/j.dental.2024.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The biological responses of MTA and Biodentine™ has been assessed on a three-dimensional, tissue-engineered organotypic deciduous pulp analogue. METHODS Human endothelial (HUVEC) and dental mesenchymal stem cells (SHED) at a ratio of 3:1, were incorporated into a collagen I/fibrin hydrogel; succeeding Biodentine™ and MTA cylindrical specimens were placed in direct contact with the pulp analogue 48 h later. Cell viability/proliferation and morphology were evaluated through live/dead staining, MTT assay and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and expression of angiogenic, odontogenic markers through real time PCR. RESULTS Viable cells dominated at day 3 after treatment presenting typical morphology, firmly attached within the hydrogel structures, as shown by live/dead staining and SEM images. MTT assay at day 1 presented a significant increase of cell proliferation in Biodentine™ group. Real-time PCR showed significant upregulation of odontogenic markers DSPP, BMP-2 (day 3,6), RUNX2, ALP (day 3) in contact with Biodentine™ compared to MTA and the control, whereas MTA promoted significant upregulation of DSPP, BMP-2, RUNX2, Osterix (day 3) and ALP (day 6) compared to the control. MSX1 presented downregulation in both experimental groups. Expression of angiogenic markers VEGFa and ANGPT-1 at day 3 was significantly upregulated in contact with Biodentine™ and MTA respectively, while the receptors VEGFR1, VEGFR2 and Tie-2, as well as PECAM-1 were downregulated. SIGNIFICANCE Both calcium silicate-based materials are biocompatible and exert positive angiogenic and odontogenic effects, although Biodentine™ during the first days of culture, seems to induce higher cell proliferation and provoke a more profound odontogenic and angiogenic response from SHED.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Koutrouli
- Department of Paediatric Dentistry, School of Dentistry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki GR-54124, Greece
| | - F Machla
- Department of Prosthodontics, School of Dentistry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki GR-54124, Greece
| | - K Arapostathis
- Department of Paediatric Dentistry, School of Dentistry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki GR-54124, Greece
| | - M Kokoti
- Department of Prosthodontics, School of Dentistry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki GR-54124, Greece
| | - A Bakopoulou
- Department of Prosthodontics, School of Dentistry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki GR-54124, Greece.
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16
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Kaur A, Raji, Verma V, Goel RK. Strategic pathway analysis for dual management of epilepsy and comorbid depression: a systems biology perspective. In Silico Pharmacol 2024; 12:36. [PMID: 38699778 PMCID: PMC11061056 DOI: 10.1007/s40203-024-00208-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Depression is a common psychiatric comorbidity among patients with epilepsy (PWE), affecting more than a third of PWE. Management of depression may improve quality of life of epileptic patients. Unfortunately, available antidepressants worsen epilepsy by reducing the seizure threshold. This situation demands search of new safer target for combined directorate of epilepsy and comorbid depression. A system biology approach may be useful to find novel pathways/markers for the cure of both epilepsy and associated depression via analyzing available genomic and proteomic information. Hence, the system biology approach using curated 64 seed genes involved in temporal lobe epilepsy and mental depression was applied. The interplay of 600 potential proteins was revealed by the Disease Module Detection (DIAMOnD) Algorithm for the treatment of both epilepsy and comorbid depression using these seed genes. The gene enrichment analysis of seed and diamond genes through DAVID suggested 95 pathways. Selected pathways were refined based on their syn or anti role in epilepsy and depression. In conclusion, total 8 pathways and 27 DIAMOnD genes/proteins were finally deduced as potential new targets for modulation of selected pathways to manage epilepsy and comorbid depression. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40203-024-00208-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arvinder Kaur
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research, Punjabi University, Patiala, Punjab India 147002
| | - Raji
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research, Punjabi University, Patiala, Punjab India 147002
| | - Varinder Verma
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research, Punjabi University, Patiala, Punjab India 147002
| | - Rajesh Kumar Goel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research, Punjabi University, Patiala, Punjab India 147002
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17
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Lang L, Liang S, Zhang F, Fu Y, Wang J, Deng K, Wang L, Gao P, Zhu C, Shu G, Wu R, Jiang Q, Wang S. Knockdown of the VEGFB/VEGFR1 signaling suppresses pubertal mammary gland development of mice via the inhibition of PI3K/Akt pathway. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 264:130782. [PMID: 38471613 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.130782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor B (VEGFB) has been well demonstrated to play a crucial role in regulating vascular function by binding to the VEGF receptors (VEGFRs). However, the specific role of VEGFB and VEGFRs in pubertal mammary gland development remains unclear. In this study, we observed that blocking the VEGF receptors with Axitinib suppressed the pubertal mammary gland development. Meanwhile, the proliferation of mammary epithelial cells (HC11) was repressed by blocking the VEGF receptors with Axitinib. Additionally, knockdown of VEGFR1 rather than VEGFR2 and NRP1 elicited the inhibition of HC11 proliferation, suggesting the essential role of VEGFR1 during this process. Furthermore, Axitinib or VEGFR1 knockdown led to the inhibition of the PI3K/Akt pathway. However, the inhibition of HC11 proliferation induced by Axitinib and or VEGFR1 knockdown was eliminated by the Akt activator SC79, indicating the involvement of the PI3K/Akt pathway. Finally, the knockdown of VEGFB and VEGFR1 suppressed the pubertal development of mice mammary gland with the inhibition of the PI3K/Akt pathway. In summary, the results showed that knockdown of the VEGFB/VEGFR1 signaling suppresses pubertal mammary gland development of mice via the inhibition of the PI3K/Akt pathway, which provides a new target for the regulation of pubertal mammary gland development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Limin Lang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry and State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China
| | - Shuyi Liang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry and State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China
| | - Fenglin Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry and State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China
| | - Yiming Fu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry and State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China
| | - Junfeng Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry and State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China
| | - Kaixin Deng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry and State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China
| | - Lina Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry and State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China
| | - Ping Gao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry and State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China
| | - Canjun Zhu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry and State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China
| | - Gang Shu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry and State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China
| | - Ruifan Wu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry and State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China
| | - Qingyan Jiang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry and State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China
| | - Songbo Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry and State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China; Yunfu Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Research Institute of Wens Foodstuff Group Co., Ltd., Xinxing 527400, PR China.
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18
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González-Rojas A, Valencia-Narbona M. Neurodevelopmental Disruptions in Children of Preeclamptic Mothers: Pathophysiological Mechanisms and Consequences. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3632. [PMID: 38612445 PMCID: PMC11012011 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a multisystem disorder characterized by elevated blood pressure in the mother, typically occurring after 20 weeks of gestation and posing risks to both maternal and fetal health. PE causes placental changes that can affect the fetus, particularly neurodevelopment. Its key pathophysiological mechanisms encompass hypoxia, vascular and angiogenic dysregulation, inflammation, neuronal and glial alterations, and disruptions in neuronal signaling. Animal models indicate that PE is correlated with neurodevelopmental alterations and cognitive dysfunctions in offspring and in humans, an association between PE and conditions such as cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and sexual dimorphism has been observed. Considering the relevance for mothers and children, we conducted a narrative literature review to describe the relationships between the pathophysiological mechanisms behind neurodevelopmental alterations in the offspring of PE mothers, along with their potential consequences. Furthermore, we emphasize aspects pertinent to the prevention/treatment of PE in pregnant mothers and alterations observed in their offspring. The present narrative review offers a current, complete, and exhaustive analysis of (i) the pathophysiological mechanisms that can affect neurodevelopment in the children of PE mothers, (ii) the relationship between PE and neurological alterations in offspring, and (iii) the prevention/treatment of PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea González-Rojas
- Laboratorio de Neurociencias Aplicadas, Escuela de Kinesiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Avenida Brasil 2950, Valparaíso 2340025, Chile;
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19
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Yanar S, Sarihan M, Kasap M, Akpinar G, Teke K, Yaprak Bayrak B. GFP Transfection Alters Protein Expression Patterns in Prostate Cancer Cells: A Proteomic Study. J Fluoresc 2024:10.1007/s10895-023-03498-4. [PMID: 38502405 DOI: 10.1007/s10895-023-03498-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Green Fluorescent Protein is widely used as a cellular marker tool, but its potential influence on cells has been questioned. Although the potential off-target effects of GFP on tumor cells have been studied to some extent, the findings at the molecular level are insufficient to explain the effect of GFP expression on the tumorigenic capacity of cancer cells. Here, we aimed to investigate the effect of GFP expression on the tumorigenicity of PC3 prostate cancer cells. METHODS Using GFP-expressing and wild-type PC-3 cells, xenograft models were generated in athymic BALB/C mice. To identify differentially expressed proteins, the change in cells proteome was investigated by label-free quantification with nano-high performance liquid chromatography to tandem mass spectrometry (nHPLC-MS/MS). Proteins that showed significantly altered expression levels were evaluated using the bioinformatics tools. RESULTS Unlike the wild-type PC-3 cells, GFP-expressing cells failed to develop tumor. Comparative proteome analysis of GFP-expressing cells with WT PC-3 cells revealed a total of 216 differentially regulated proteins, of which 98 were upregulated and 117 were downregulated. CONCLUSION Upon GFP expression, differential changes in several pathways including the immune system, translational machinery, energy metabolism, elements of cytoskeletal and VEGF signaling pathway were observed. Therefore, care should be taken into account to prevent reporting deceitful mechanisms generated from studies utilizing GFP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sevinc Yanar
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey.
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Sakarya University, Korucuk, Sakarya, Turkey.
| | - Mehmet Sarihan
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Murat Kasap
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Gurler Akpinar
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Kerem Teke
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Urology, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Busra Yaprak Bayrak
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
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20
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Xi X, Yang Y, Chen Q, Ma J, Wang X, Deng Y, Wang X, Li Y. GnT-V-mediated aberrant N-glycosylation of TIMP-1 promotes diabetic retinopathy progression. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:428. [PMID: 38499842 PMCID: PMC10948582 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-024-09388-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling pathway plays an important role in the progression of diabetic retinopathy (DR). The glycosylation modification process of many key functional proteins in DR patients is abnormal. However, the potential involvement of abnormal N-glycoproteins in DR progression remains unclear. METHODS Glycoproteomic profiling of the vitreous humor was performed. The level of protein and N-glycoprotein was confirmed by Western blot and Lectin blot, respectively. The cell viability and migration efficiency were detected by CCK-8 and Transwell assay. Flow cytometry was conducted to analyze the level of cell apoptosis and reactive oxygen specie. Malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase activity and VEGF content were detected by Enzyme linked immunosorbent assays. The interaction of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP-1) with N-acetylglucosamine transferase V (GnT-V) was detected by GST pull-down. Hematoxylin and eosin staining and choroidal and retinal flat mount stained with fluorescein isothiocyanate-Dextran assay were used for functional research in vivo. RESULTS We found that N-glycosylation was up-regulated in DR rats and high glucose (HG)-induced human retinal pigment epithelium cell line ARPE-19. HG-induced inhibited the viability of ARPE-19 cells and promoted cell apoptosis and oxidative stress (OS), but these effects were reversed with kifunensine treatment, GnT-V knockdown and TIMP-1 mutation. Additionally, GnT-V binds to TIMP-1 to promote N-glycosylation of TIMP-1. Over-expression of GnT-V inhibited the viability of ARPE-19 cells and promoted cell apoptosis, OS and VEGF release, which these effects were reversed with TIMP-1 mutation. Interestingly, over-expression of GnT-V promoted retinal microvascular endothelial cells (RMECs) angiogenesis but was revered with TIMP-1 mutation, which was terminally boosted by VEGF-A treatment. Finally, knockdown of GnT-V relieved DR progression. CONCLUSION The findings indicate that GnT-V can promote RMECs angiogenesis and ARPE-19 cells injury through activation VEGF signaling pathway by increasing TIMP-1 N-glycosylation level, which provides a new theoretical basis for the prevention of DR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoting Xi
- Ophthalmology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, No. 295, Xichang Road, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China
| | - Yanni Yang
- Ophthalmology Department, The Second Hospital of Ningbo, Ningbo, 315010, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qianbo Chen
- Ophthalmology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, No. 295, Xichang Road, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China
| | - Jia Ma
- Ophthalmology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, No. 295, Xichang Road, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China
| | - Xuewei Wang
- Ophthalmology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, No. 295, Xichang Road, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China
| | - Yachun Deng
- Ophthalmology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, No. 295, Xichang Road, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China
| | - Xi Wang
- Ophthalmology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, No. 295, Xichang Road, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China
| | - Yan Li
- Ophthalmology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, No. 295, Xichang Road, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China.
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21
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Letsoalo K, Nortje E, Patrick S, Nyakudya T, Hlophe Y. Decoding the synergistic potential of MAZ-51 and zingerone as therapy for melanoma treatment in alignment with sustainable development goals. Cell Biochem Funct 2024; 42:e3950. [PMID: 38348768 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Melanoma, an invasive class of skin cancer, originates from mutations in melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells. Globally, approximately 132,000 new cases are reported each year, and in South Africa, the incidence stands at 2.7 per 100,000 people, signifying a worrisome surge in melanoma rates. Therefore, there is a need to explore treatment modalities that will target melanoma's signalling pathways. Melanoma metastasis is aided by ligand activity of transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1), vascular endothelial growth factor-C (VEGF-C) and C-X-C chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12) which bind to their receptors and promote tumour cell survival, lymphangiogenesis and chemotaxis. (3-(4-dimethylaminonaphthelen-1-ylmethylene)-1,3-dihydroindol-2-one) MAZ-51 is an indolinone-based molecule that inhibits VEGF-C induced phosphorylation of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 3 (VEGFR-3). Despite the successful use of conventional cancer therapies, patients endure adverse side effects and cancer drug resistance. Moreover, conventional therapies are toxic to the environment and caregivers. The use of medicinal plants and their phytochemical constituents in cancer treatment strategies has become more widespread because of the rise in drug resistance and the development of unfavourable side effects. Zingerone, a phytochemical derived from ginger exhibits various pharmacological properties positioning it as a promising candidate for cancer treatment. This review provides an overview of melanoma biology and the intracellular signalling pathways promoting cell survival, proliferation and adhesion. There is a need to align health and environmental objectives within sustainable development goals 3 (good health and well-being), 13 (climate action) and 15 (life on land) to promote early detection of skin cancer, enhance sun-safe practices, mitigation of environmental factors and advancing the preservation of biodiversity, including medicinal plants. Thus, this review discusses the impact of cytostatic cancer drugs on patients and the environment and examines the potential use of phytochemicals as adjuvant therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kganya Letsoalo
- Department of Physiology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Evangeline Nortje
- Department of Physiology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Sean Patrick
- Environmental Chemical Pollution and Health Research Unit, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Trevor Nyakudya
- Department of Physiology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Yvette Hlophe
- Department of Physiology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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22
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Ceci C, Lacal PM, Barbaccia ML, Mercuri NB, Graziani G, Ledonne A. The VEGFs/VEGFRs system in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases: Pathophysiological roles and therapeutic implications. Pharmacol Res 2024; 201:107101. [PMID: 38336311 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
The vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) and their cognate receptors (VEGFRs), besides their well-known involvement in physiological angiogenesis/lymphangiogenesis and in diseases associated to pathological vessel formation, play multifaceted functions in the central nervous system (CNS). In addition to shaping brain development, by controlling cerebral vasculogenesis and regulating neurogenesis as well as astrocyte differentiation, the VEGFs/VEGFRs axis exerts essential functions in the adult brain both in physiological and pathological contexts. In this article, after describing the physiological VEGFs/VEGFRs functions in the CNS, we focus on the VEGFs/VEGFRs involvement in neurodegenerative diseases by reviewing the current literature on the rather complex VEGFs/VEGFRs contribution to the pathogenic mechanisms of Alzheimer's (AD) and Parkinson's (PD) diseases. Thereafter, based on the outcome of VEGFs/VEGFRs targeting in animal models of AD and PD, we discuss the factual relevance of pharmacological VEGFs/VEGFRs modulation as a novel and potential disease-modifying approach for these neurodegenerative pathologies. Specific VEGFRs targeting, aimed at selective VEGFR-1 inhibition, while preserving VEGFR-2 signal transduction, appears as a promising strategy to hit the molecular mechanisms underlying AD pathology. Moreover, therapeutic VEGFs-based approaches can be proposed for PD treatment, with the aim of fine-tuning their brain levels to amplify neurotrophic/neuroprotective effects while limiting an excessive impact on vascular permeability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Ceci
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Maria Luisa Barbaccia
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Biagio Mercuri
- Neurology Section, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy; IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Department of Experimental Neuroscience, Rome, Italy; Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| | - Grazia Graziani
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.
| | - Ada Ledonne
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy; IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Department of Experimental Neuroscience, Rome, Italy; Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
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23
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Shaw P, Dwivedi SKD, Bhattacharya R, Mukherjee P, Rao G. VEGF signaling: Role in angiogenesis and beyond. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189079. [PMID: 38280470 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2024.189079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
Angiogenesis is a crucial process for tissue development, repair, and tumor survival. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a key driver secreted by cancer cells, promoting neovascularization. While VEGF's role in angiogenesis is well-documented, its influence on the other aspects in tumor microenvironemt is less discussed. This review elaborates on VEGF's impact on intercellular interactions within the tumor microenvironment, including how VEGF affects pericyte proliferation and migration and mediates interactions between tumor-associated macrophages and cancer cells, resulting in PDL-1-mediated immunosuppression and Nrf2-mediated epithelial-mesenchymal transition. The review discusses VEGF's involvement in intra-organelle crosstalk, tumor metabolism, stemness, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. It also provides insights into current anti-VEGF therapies and their limitations in cancer treatment. Overall, this review aims to provide a thorough overview of the current state of knowledge concerning VEGF signaling and its impact, not only on angiogenesis but also on various other oncogenic processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pallab Shaw
- Peggy and Charles Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA; Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Shailendra Kumar Dhar Dwivedi
- Peggy and Charles Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Resham Bhattacharya
- Peggy and Charles Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Priyabrata Mukherjee
- Peggy and Charles Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA; Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Geeta Rao
- Peggy and Charles Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA; Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
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Kannan S, Rutkowski JM. VEGFR-3 signaling in macrophages: friend or foe in disease? Front Immunol 2024; 15:1349500. [PMID: 38464522 PMCID: PMC10921555 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1349500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Lymphatic vessels have been increasingly appreciated in the context of immunology not only as passive conduits for immune and cancer cell transport but also as key in local tissue immunomodulation. Targeting lymphatic vessel growth and potential immune regulation often takes advantage of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-3 (VEGFR-3) signaling to manipulate lymphatic biology. A receptor tyrosine kinase, VEGFR-3, is highly expressed on lymphatic endothelial cells, and its signaling is key in lymphatic growth, development, and survival and, as a result, often considered to be "lymphatic-specific" in adults. A subset of immune cells, notably of the monocyte-derived lineage, have been identified to express VEGFR-3 in tissues from the lung to the gut and in conditions as varied as cancer and chronic kidney disease. These VEGFR-3+ macrophages are highly chemotactic toward the VEGFR-3 ligands VEGF-C and VEGF-D. VEGFR-3 signaling has also been implicated in dictating the plasticity of these cells from pro-inflammatory to anti-inflammatory phenotypes. Conversely, expression may potentially be transient during monocyte differentiation with unknown effects. Macrophages play critically important and varied roles in the onset and resolution of inflammation, tissue remodeling, and vasculogenesis: targeting lymphatic vessel growth and immunomodulation by manipulating VEGFR-3 signaling may thus impact macrophage biology and their impact on disease pathogenesis. This mini review highlights the studies and pathologies in which VEGFR-3+ macrophages have been specifically identified, as well as the activity and polarization changes that macrophage VEGFR-3 signaling may elicit, and affords some conclusions as to the importance of macrophage VEGFR-3 signaling in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joseph M. Rutkowski
- Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A&M University School of Medicine, Bryan, TX, United States
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25
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Luckett T, Abudula M, Ireland L, Glenn M, Bellomo G, Stafferton R, Halloran C, Ghaneh P, Jones R, Schmid MC, Mielgo A. Mesothelin Secretion by Pancreatic Cancer Cells Co-opts Macrophages and Promotes Metastasis. Cancer Res 2024; 84:527-544. [PMID: 38356443 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-23-1542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly metastatic disease, yet effective treatments to inhibit PDAC metastasis are lacking. The rich PDAC tumor microenvironment plays a major role in disease progression. Macrophages are the most abundant immune cell population in PDAC tumors and can acquire a range of functions that either hinder or promote tumor growth and metastasis. Here, we identified that mesothelin secretion by pancreatic cancer cells co-opts macrophages to support tumor growth and metastasis of cancer cells to the lungs, liver, and lymph nodes. Mechanistically, secretion of high levels of mesothelin by metastatic cancer cells induced the expression of VEGF alpha (VEGFA) and S100A9 in macrophages. Macrophage-derived VEGFA fed back to cancer cells to support tumor growth, and S100A9 increased neutrophil lung infiltration and formation of neutrophil extracellular traps. These results reveal a role for mesothelin in regulating macrophage functions and interaction with neutrophils to support PDAC metastasis. SIGNIFICANCE Mesothelin secretion by cancer cells supports pancreatic cancer metastasis by inducing macrophage secretion of VEGFA and S100A9 to support cancer cell proliferation and survival, recruit neutrophils, and stimulate neutrophil extracellular trap formation. See related commentary by Alewine, p. 513.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teifion Luckett
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Maidinaimu Abudula
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Lucy Ireland
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Glenn
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Gaia Bellomo
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Ruth Stafferton
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Chris Halloran
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Paula Ghaneh
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Rob Jones
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Liverpool University Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Michael C Schmid
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Ainhoa Mielgo
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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Horan DE, Kielsen K, Weischendorff SW, Sørum ME, Kammersgaard MB, Ifversen M, Nielsen C, Ryder LP, Johansson PI, Müller K. sVEGF-R1 in acute non-infectious toxicity syndromes after pediatric allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Transpl Immunol 2024; 82:101975. [PMID: 38122992 DOI: 10.1016/j.trim.2023.101975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is challenged by acute non-infectious toxicities, including sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS), engraftment syndrome (ES) and capillary leak syndrome (CLS) among others. These complications are thought to be driven by a dysfunctional vascular endothelium, but the pathophysiological mechanisms remain incompletely understood, and the diagnoses are challenged by purely clinical diagnostic criteria that are partly overlapping, limiting the possibilities for progress in this field. There is, however, increasing evidence suggesting that these challenges may be met through the development of diagnostic biomarkers to improve diagnostic accuracy of pathogenetically homogenous entities, improved pre-transplant risk assessment and the early identification of patients with increased need for specific treatment. Soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (sVEGF-R1) is emerging as an important biomarker of endothelial damage in patients with trauma and sepsis but has not been studied in HSCT. OBJECTIVES To investigate sVEGF-R1 as a marker of endothelial damage in pediatric HSCT patients by exploring associations with SOS, CLS, ES, and acute graft-versus-host disease (aGvHD). METHODS We prospectively included 113 children undergoing myeloablative HSCT and measured sVEGF-R1 in plasma samples obtained weekly during the early period of transplantation and 3 months post-transplant. RESULTS All over, sVEGF-R1 levels were significantly increased from day +7 after graft infusion, peaking at day +30, most pronounced in patients receiving busulfan. Patients considered to be at increased risk of SOS and therefore commenced on prophylactic defibrotide had significantly elevated levels of sVEGF-R1 before start of conditioning (446 pg/mL vs. 281 pg/mL, p = 0.0035), and this treatment appeared to stabilize sVEGF-R1 levels compared to patients not treated with defibrotide. Thirteen (11.5%) children meeting the modified Seattle criteria for SOS at median day +8 (1-18), had significantly elevated sVEGF-R1 levels on day +14 (489 pg/mL vs. 327 pg/mL, p = 0.007). In contrast. sVEGF-R1 levels in the much broader group of patients (45.1%) meeting EBMT-SOS criteria, including patients with very mild disease, did not overall differ in sVEGF-R1 levels, but higher sVEGF-R1 levels were seen in EBMT-SOS patients with an increased need for diuretic treatment. Importantly, sVEGF-R1 levels were not associated with ES and CLS but were significantly increased on day +30 in patients with grade III-IV aGvHD (OR = 4.2 pr. quartile, p = 0.023). CONCLUSION VEGF-R1 levels are found to be increased in pediatric patients developing SOS, reflecting the severity of morbidity. sVEGF-R1 were unassociated with both CLS and ES. The potential of sVEGF-R1 as a clinically useful biomarker for SOS should be further explored to improve pre-transplant SOS-risk assessment, SOS-severity grading, and to guide treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise Elbæk Horan
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Institute for Inflammation Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Katrine Kielsen
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Immunology, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Sarah Wegener Weischendorff
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Institute for Inflammation Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Maria Ebbesen Sørum
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Institute for Inflammation Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Marte B Kammersgaard
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Institute for Inflammation Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Marianne Ifversen
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Claus Nielsen
- Institute for Inflammation Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Lars P Ryder
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Pär I Johansson
- Section for Transfusion Medicine, Capital Region Blood Bank, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Klaus Müller
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Institute for Inflammation Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
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27
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Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is well known for its angiogenic activity, but recent evidence has revealed a neuroprotective action of this factor on injured or diseased neurons. In the present review, we summarize the most relevant findings that have contributed to establish a link between VEGF deficiency and neuronal degeneration. At issue, 1) mutant mice with reduced levels of VEGF show adult-onset muscle weakness and motoneuron degeneration resembling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), 2) administration of VEGF to different animal models of motoneuron degeneration improves motor performance and ameliorates motoneuronal degeneration, and 3) there is an association between low plasmatic levels of VEGF and human ALS. Altogether, the results presented in this review highlight VEGF as an essential motoneuron neurotrophic factor endowed with promising therapeutic potential for the treatment of motoneuron disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula M Calvo
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Rosendo G Hernández
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Angel M Pastor
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Rosa R de la Cruz
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
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Wittig F, Koch F, Pannenberg L, Bekeschus S, Ramer R, Hinz B. β-Caryophyllene Inhibits Endothelial Tube Formation by Modulating the Secretome of Hypoxic Lung Cancer Cells-Possible Role of VEGF Downregulation. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:810. [PMID: 38255884 PMCID: PMC10815222 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
β-Caryophyllene (BCP), a bicyclic sesquiterpene that is a component of the essential oils of various spice and food plants, has been described as a selective CB2 cannabinoid receptor agonist. In the present study, the effect of BCP on angiogenesis was investigated. It was found that conditioned media (CM) from BCP-treated hypoxic A549 lung cancer cells exhibited a concentration-dependent inhibitory effect on human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) tube formation induced by CM from vehicle-treated hypoxic A549 cells. There was an associated concentration-dependent decrease in the proangiogenic factor vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the CM, with both BCP inhibitory effects (tube formation, VEGF secretion) being CB2 receptor-dependent. A reduction of the transcription factor hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) was furthermore detected. The antiangiogenic and VEGF-lowering properties of BCP were confirmed when CM from another lung cancer cell line, H358, were tested. When directly exposed to HUVECs, BCP showed no significant effect on tube formation, but at 10 µM, impaired VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR2) phosphorylation triggered by recombinant VEGF in a CB2 receptor-independent manner. In summary, BCP has a dual antiangiogenic effect on HUVECs, manifested in the inhibition of tube formation through modulation of the tumor cell secretome and additionally in the inhibition of VEGF-induced VEGFR2 activation. Because the CB2 agonist has no psychoactive properties, BCP should continue to be evaluated preclinically for further antitumor effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Wittig
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Center, Schillingallee 70, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (F.W.)
| | - Florian Koch
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Center, Schillingallee 70, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (F.W.)
| | - Liza Pannenberg
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Center, Schillingallee 70, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (F.W.)
| | - Sander Bekeschus
- ZIK plasmatis, Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 2, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Robert Ramer
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Center, Schillingallee 70, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (F.W.)
| | - Burkhard Hinz
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Center, Schillingallee 70, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (F.W.)
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Cowan DB, Wu H, Chen H. Epsin Endocytic Adaptor Proteins in Angiogenic and Lymphangiogenic Signaling. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2024; 14:a041165. [PMID: 37217282 PMCID: PMC10759987 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Circulating vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) ligands and receptors are central regulators of vasculogenesis, angiogenesis, and lymphangiogenesis. In response to VEGF ligand binding, VEGF receptor tyrosine kinases initiate the chain of events that transduce extracellular signals into endothelial cell responses such as survival, proliferation, and migration. These events are controlled by intricate cellular processes that include the regulation of gene expression at multiple levels, interactions of numerous proteins, and intracellular trafficking of receptor-ligand complexes. Endocytic uptake and transport of macromolecular complexes through the endosome-lysosome system helps fine-tune endothelial cell responses to VEGF signals. Clathrin-dependent endocytosis remains the best understood means of macromolecular entry into cells, although the importance of non-clathrin-dependent pathways is increasingly recognized. Many of these endocytic events rely on adaptor proteins that coordinate internalization of activated cell-surface receptors. In the endothelium of both blood and lymphatic vessels, epsins 1 and 2 are functionally redundant adaptors involved in receptor endocytosis and intracellular sorting. These proteins are capable of binding both lipids and proteins and are important for promoting curvature of the plasma membrane as well as binding ubiquitinated cargo. Here, we discuss the role of epsin proteins and other endocytic adaptors in governing VEGF signaling in angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis and discuss their therapeutic potential as molecular targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas B Cowan
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital, and Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Hao Wu
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital, and Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Hong Chen
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital, and Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
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Kusumaningrum AE, Makaba S, Ali E, Singh M, Fenjan MN, Rasulova I, Misra N, Al-Musawi SG, Alsalamy A. A perspective on emerging therapies in metastatic colorectal cancer: Focusing on molecular medicine and drug resistance. Cell Biochem Funct 2024; 42:e3906. [PMID: 38269502 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
The majority of cancer cases are colorectal cancer, which is also the second largest cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Metastasis is the leading cause of death for patients with colorectal cancer. Metastatic colorectal cancer incidence are on the rise due to a tiny percentage of tumors developing resistant to medicines despite advances in treatment tactics. Cutting-edge targeted medications are now the go-to option for customized and all-encompassing CRC care. Specifically, multitarget kinase inhibitors, antivascular endothelial growth factors, and epidermal growth factor receptors are widely used in clinical practice for CRC-targeted treatments. Rare targets in metastatic colorectal cancer are becoming more well-known due to developments in precision diagnostics and the extensive use of second-generation sequencing technology. These targets include the KRAS mutation, the BRAF V600E mutation, the HER2 overexpression/amplification, and the MSI-H/dMMR. Incorporating certain medications into clinical trials has significantly increased patient survival rates, opening new avenues and bringing fresh viewpoints for treating metastatic colorectal cancer. These focused therapies change how cancer is treated, giving patients new hope and better results. These markers can significantly transform and individualize therapy regimens. They could open the door to precisely customized and more effective medicines, improving patient outcomes and quality of life. The fast-growing body of knowledge regarding the molecular biology of colorectal cancer and the latest developments in gene sequencing and molecular diagnostics are directly responsible for this advancement.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sarce Makaba
- Researcher and lecturer, Universitas Cenderawasih Jayapura, Jayapura, Indonesia
| | - Eyhab Ali
- College of Pharmacy, Al-Zahraa University for Women, Karbala, Iraq
| | - Mandeep Singh
- Directorate of Sports and Physical Education, University of Jammu, Jammu, India
| | - Mohammed N Fenjan
- College of Health and Medical Technology, Al-Ayen University, Thi-Qar, Iraq
| | - Irodakhon Rasulova
- School of Humanities, Natural & Social Sciences, New Uzbekistan University, Tashkent, Uzbekistan
- Department of Public Health, Samarkand State Medical University, Samarkand, Uzbekistan
| | - Neeti Misra
- Department of Management, Uttaranchal Institute of Management, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, India
| | - Sada G Al-Musawi
- College of Pharmacy, National University of Science and Technology, Dhi Qar, Iraq
| | - Ali Alsalamy
- College of Technical Engineering, Imam Ja'afar Al-Sadiq University, Al-Muthanna, Iraq
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Lin LC, Liu ZY, Tu B, Song K, Sun H, Zhou Y, Sha JM, Zhang Y, Yang JJ, Zhao JY, Tao H. Epigenetic signatures in cardiac fibrosis: Focusing on noncoding RNA regulators as the gatekeepers of cardiac fibroblast identity. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 254:127593. [PMID: 37898244 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023]
Abstract
Cardiac fibroblasts play a pivotal role in cardiac fibrosis by transformation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts, which synthesis and secrete a large number of extracellular matrix proteins. Ultimately, this will lead to cardiac wall stiffness and impaired cardiac performance. The epigenetic regulation and fate reprogramming of cardiac fibroblasts has been advanced considerably in recent decades. Non coding RNAs (microRNAs, lncRNAs, circRNAs) regulate the functions and behaviors of cardiac fibroblasts, including proliferation, migration, phenotypic transformation, inflammation, pyroptosis, apoptosis, autophagy, which can provide the basis for novel targeted therapeutic treatments that abrogate activation and inflammation of cardiac fibroblasts, induce different death pathways in cardiac fibroblasts, or make it sensitive to established pathogenic cells targeted cytotoxic agents and biotherapy. This review summarizes our current knowledge in this field of ncRNAs function in epigenetic regulation and fate determination of cardiac fibroblasts as well as the details of signaling pathways contribute to cardiac fibrosis. Moreover, we will comment on the emerging landscape of lncRNAs and circRNAs function in regulating signal transduction pathways, gene translation processes and post-translational regulation of gene expression in cardiac fibroblast. In the end, the prospect of cardiac fibroblasts targeted therapy for cardiac fibrosis based on ncRNAs is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Chan Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China
| | - Zhi-Yan Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China
| | - Bin Tu
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China
| | - Kai Song
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China
| | - He Sun
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China
| | - Yang Zhou
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China
| | - Ji-Ming Sha
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China
| | - Ye Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China.
| | - Jing-Jing Yang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China.
| | - Jian-Yuan Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China; Institute for Developmental and Regenerative Cardiovascular Medicine, MOE-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China.
| | - Hui Tao
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China; Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, PR China; Institute for Developmental and Regenerative Cardiovascular Medicine, MOE-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, PR China.
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Johnson BM, Johnson AM, Heim M, Buckley M, Mortimer B, Berry JL, Sewell-Loftin MK. Biomechanical stimulation promotes blood vessel growth despite VEGFR-2 inhibition. BMC Biol 2023; 21:290. [PMID: 38072992 PMCID: PMC10712065 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-023-01792-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Angiogenesis, or the growth of new vasculature from existing blood vessels, is widely considered a primary hallmark of cancer progression. When a tumor is small, diffusion is sufficient to receive essential nutrients; however, as the tumor grows, a vascular supply is needed to deliver oxygen and nutrients into the increasing mass. Several anti-angiogenic cancer therapies target VEGF and the receptor VEGFR-2, which are major promoters of blood vessel development. Unfortunately, many of these cancer treatments fail to completely stop angiogenesis in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Since these therapies focus on the biochemical activation of VEGFR-2 via VEGF ligand binding, we propose that mechanical cues, particularly those found in the TME, may be a source of VEGFR-2 activation that promotes growth of blood vessel networks even in the presence of VEGF and VEGFR-2 inhibitors. RESULTS In this paper, we analyzed phosphorylation patterns of VEGFR-2, particularly at Y1054/Y1059 and Y1214, stimulated via either VEGF or biomechanical stimulation in the form of tensile strains. Our results show prolonged and enhanced activation at both Y1054/Y1059 and Y1214 residues when endothelial cells were stimulated with strain, VEGF, or a combination of both. We also analyzed Src expression, which is downstream of VEGFR-2 and can be activated through strain or the presence of VEGF. Finally, we used fibrin gels and microfluidic devices as 3D microtissue models to simulate the TME. We determined that regions of mechanical strain promoted increased vessel growth, even with VEGFR-2 inhibition through SU5416. CONCLUSIONS Overall, understanding both the effects that biomechanical and biochemical stimuli have on VEGFR-2 activation and angiogenesis is an important factor in developing effective anti-angiogenic therapies. This paper shows that VEGFR-2 can be mechanically activated through strain, which likely contributes to increased angiogenesis in the TME. These proof-of-concept studies show that small molecular inhibitors of VEGFR-2 do not fully prevent angiogenesis in 3D TME models when mechanical strains are introduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bronte Miller Johnson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1824 6th Avenue South, Wallace Tumor Institute, Room 630A, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Allison McKenzie Johnson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1824 6th Avenue South, Wallace Tumor Institute, Room 630A, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Michael Heim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1824 6th Avenue South, Wallace Tumor Institute, Room 630A, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Molly Buckley
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1824 6th Avenue South, Wallace Tumor Institute, Room 630A, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Bryan Mortimer
- Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
| | - Joel L Berry
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1824 6th Avenue South, Wallace Tumor Institute, Room 630A, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
- O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
| | - Mary Kathryn Sewell-Loftin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1824 6th Avenue South, Wallace Tumor Institute, Room 630A, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA.
- O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA.
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Cuervo H, Mühleder S, García-Gónzalez I, Benedito R. Notch-mediated cellular interactions between vascular cells. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2023; 85:102254. [PMID: 37832167 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2023.102254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Vessel formation and differentiation to a proper hierarchical vasculature requires a coordinated effort from endothelial and mural cells. Over the last decade Notch was identified as a key player in this process by promoting vascular arterialization and modulating endothelial tip-stalk phenotypes. Recent work has identified that Notch fine-tunes the diverse endothelial phenotypes through regulation of canonical cell-cycle and metabolism regulators, such as ERK and Myc. During arterialization, Notch signaling inhibits the cell-cycle and metabolism of endothelial cells which coincides with the acquisition of arterial identity. During angiogenesis, the same molecular machinery prevents the hypermitogenic arrest and excessive sprouting of vessels. Notch also signals in pericytes and smooth muscle cells promoting vascular coverage and maturation. Here, we will review the latest findings on how Notch signals regulate the differentiation and interactions among vascular cells during organ development and homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henar Cuervo
- Molecular Genetics of Angiogenesis Group, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P), Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Severin Mühleder
- Molecular Genetics of Angiogenesis Group, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P), Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Irene García-Gónzalez
- Molecular Genetics of Angiogenesis Group, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P), Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Rui Benedito
- Molecular Genetics of Angiogenesis Group, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P), Madrid 28029, Spain.
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Jiang H, Li X, Chen T, Liu Y, Wang Q, Wang Z, Jia J. Bioprinted vascular tissue: Assessing functions from cellular, tissue to organ levels. Mater Today Bio 2023; 23:100846. [PMID: 37953757 PMCID: PMC10632537 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2023.100846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
3D bioprinting technology is widely used to fabricate various tissue structures. However, the absence of vessels hampers the ability of bioprinted tissues to receive oxygen and nutrients as well as to remove wastes, leading to a significant reduction in their survival rate. Despite the advancements in bioinks and bioprinting technologies, bioprinted vascular structures continue to be unsuitable for transplantation compared to natural blood vessels. In addition, a complete assessment index system for evaluating the structure and function of bioprinted vessels in vitro has not yet been established. Therefore, in this review, we firstly highlight the significance of selecting suitable bioinks and bioprinting techniques as they two synergize with each other. Subsequently, focusing on both vascular-associated cells and vascular tissues, we provide a relatively thorough assessment of the functions of bioprinted vascular tissue based on the physiological functions that natural blood vessels possess. We end with a review of the applications of vascular models, such as vessel-on-a-chip, in simulating pathological processes and conducting drug screening at the organ level. We believe that the development of fully functional blood vessels will soon make great contributions to tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haihong Jiang
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xueyi Li
- Sino-Swiss Institute of Advanced Technology, School of Micro-electronics, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianhong Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yang Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qian Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhimin Wang
- Shanghai-MOST Key Laboratory of Health and Disease Genomics, Chinese National Human Genome Center at Shanghai (CHGC) and Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies (SIBPT), Shanghai, China
| | - Jia Jia
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
- Sino-Swiss Institute of Advanced Technology, School of Micro-electronics, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
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Nazari-Khanamiri F, Abdyazdani N, Abbasi R, Ahmadi M, Rezaie J. Tumor cells-derived exosomal noncoding RNAs in cancer angiogenesis: Molecular mechanisms and prospective. Cell Biochem Funct 2023; 41:1008-1015. [PMID: 37843018 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Exosomes, heterogeneous, membrane-bound nanoparticles that originated from eukaryotic cells, contribute to intracellular communication by transferring various biomolecules both on their surface and as internal cargo. One of the most significant current discussions on cancer progression is noncoding RNAs cargo of exosomes, which can regulate angiogenesis in tumor. A growing body of evidence shows that exosomes from tumor cells contain various microRNAs, long noncoding RNAs, and circular RNAs that can promote tumor progression by inducing angiogenesis. However, some noncoding RNAs may inhibit cancer angiogenesis. Targeting angiogenic noncoding RNA of exosomes may serve as a hopeful implement for cancer therapy. In this review, we discuss the latest knowledge of the roles of exosomal noncoding RNAs in tumor angiogenesis Understanding the biology of exosomal noncoding RNAs can help scientists plan exosomes-based innovations for the treatment of cancer angiogenesis and cancer biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fereshteh Nazari-Khanamiri
- Solid Tumor Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
- Hematology, Immune Cell Therapy, and Stem Cells Transplantation Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Nima Abdyazdani
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reza Abbasi
- Department of Biology, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | - Mahdi Ahmadi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Jafar Rezaie
- Solid Tumor Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
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Suzuki K, Iwata D, Namba K, Hase K, Hiraoka M, Murata M, Kitaichi N, Foxton R, Ishida S. Involvement of Angiopoietin 2 and vascular endothelial growth factor in uveitis. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0294745. [PMID: 38015876 PMCID: PMC10683998 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0294745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Angiopoietin (Ang) 2 is released from vascular endothelial cells by the stimulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)A. Ang2 increases the expression of leukocyte adhesion molecules on endothelial cells via nuclear factor κB. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Ang2 and VEGFA on ocular autoimmune inflammation. METHODS We measured the concentrations of Ang2 and VEGFA in vitreous samples among patients with uveitis. Vitreous samples were collected from 16 patients with idiopathic uveitis (uveitis group) and 16 patients with non-inflammatory eye disease (control group). Experimental autoimmune uveoretinitis (EAU) was induced in B10.BR mice with a human interphotoreceptor retinoid-binding protein-derived peptide. The retinochoroidal tissues of the EAU mice were removed, and the mRNA levels of Ang2 and VEGFA were examined. EAU mice treated with anti-Ang2, anti-VEGFA, a combination of anti-Ang2 and anti-VEGFA, anti-Ang2/VEGFA bispecific, or IgG control antibodies were clinically and histopathologically evaluated. RESULTS The protein levels of Ang2 and VEGFA were significantly higher in the vitreous samples of patients with uveitis than in controls (P<0.05). The retinochoroidal mRNA levels of Ang2 and VEGFA were significantly upregulated in EAU mice compared to controls (n = 6, P<0.05). Although there was no significant difference, treatment with anti-VEGFA antibody reduced the clinical and histopathological scores. However, treatment with anti-Ang2 antibody reduced the clinical and histopathological scores (n = 18-20, P<0.05). Furthermore, these scores were further decreased when treated by inhibiting both Ang2 and VEGFA. CONCLUSIONS Based on these results, VEGFA and Ang2 were shown to be upregulated locally in the eye of both uveitis patients and models of uveitis. Dual inhibition of Ang2 and VEGFA is suggested to be a new therapeutic strategy for uveitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayo Suzuki
- Faculty of Medicine and Graduate School of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Daiju Iwata
- Faculty of Medicine and Graduate School of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Kenichi Namba
- Faculty of Medicine and Graduate School of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Keitaro Hase
- Faculty of Medicine and Graduate School of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Miki Hiraoka
- Department of Ophthalmology, Health Sciences University of Hokkaido, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Miyuki Murata
- Faculty of Medicine and Graduate School of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Nobuyoshi Kitaichi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Health Sciences University of Hokkaido, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Richard Foxton
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Susumu Ishida
- Faculty of Medicine and Graduate School of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
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Sun S, Xu Y, Yu N, Zhang M, Wang J, Wan D, Tian Z, Zhu H. Catalpol Alleviates Ischemic Stroke Through Promoting Angiogenesis and Facilitating Proliferation and Differentiation of Neural Stem Cells via the VEGF-A/KDR Pathway. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:6227-6247. [PMID: 37439957 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03459-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Stroke is one of the leading causes of disability and death globally with a lack of effective therapeutic strategies. Catalpol is a bioactive compound derived from the traditional Chinese medicine Rehmannia glutinosa and it has been shown to be protective against various neurological diseases. The potential roles of catalpol against ischemic stroke are still not completely clear. In this study, we examined the effect and mechanism of catalpol against ischemic stroke using in vivo rat distal middle cerebral artery occlusion (dMCAO) and in vitro oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) models. We demonstrated that catalpol indeed attenuated the neurological deficits caused by dMCAO and improved neurological function. Catalpol remarkably promoted angiogenesis, promoted proliferation and differentiation of neural stem cells (NSCs) in the subventricular zone (SVZ), and prevented neuronal loss and astrocyte activation in the ischemic cortex or hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG) in vivo. The vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (KDR, VEGFR-2) inhibitor SU5416 and VEGF-A shRNA were used to investigate the underlying mechanisms. The results showed that SU5416 administration or VEGF-A-shRNA transfection both attenuated the effects of catalpol. We also found that catalpol promoted the proliferation of cultured brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) and the proliferation and differentiation of NSCs subjected to OGD insult in vitro. Interestingly, the impact of catalpol on cultured cells was also inhibited by SU5416. Moreover, catalpol was shown to protect NSCs against OGD indirectly by promoting BMEC proliferation in the co-cultured system. Taken together, catalpol showed therapeutic potential in cerebral ischemia by promoting angiogenesis and NSC proliferation and differentiation. The protective effects of catalpol were mediated through VEGF-A/KDR pathway activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Sun
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Yitong Xu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Ningxi Yu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Meifeng Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Jinghui Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Dong Wan
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Zhen Tian
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
| | - Huifeng Zhu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
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Bao L, Kong H, Ja Y, Wang C, Qin L, Sun H, Dai S. The relationship between cancer and biomechanics. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1273154. [PMID: 37901315 PMCID: PMC10602664 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1273154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The onset, development, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer involve intricate interactions among various factors, spanning the realms of mechanics, physics, chemistry, and biology. Within our bodies, cells are subject to a variety of forces such as gravity, magnetism, tension, compression, shear stress, and biological static force/hydrostatic pressure. These forces are perceived by mechanoreceptors as mechanical signals, which are then transmitted to cells through a process known as mechanical transduction. During tumor development, invasion and metastasis, there are significant biomechanical influences on various aspects such as tumor angiogenesis, interactions between tumor cells and the extracellular matrix (ECM), interactions between tumor cells and other cells, and interactions between tumor cells and the circulatory system and vasculature. The tumor microenvironment comprises a complex interplay of cells, ECM and vasculature, with the ECM, comprising collagen, fibronectins, integrins, laminins and matrix metalloproteinases, acting as a critical mediator of mechanical properties and a key component within the mechanical signaling pathway. The vasculature exerts appropriate shear forces on tumor cells, enabling their escape from immune surveillance, facilitating their dissemination in the bloodstream, dictating the trajectory of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and playing a pivotal role in regulating adhesion to the vessel wall. Tumor biomechanics plays a critical role in tumor progression and metastasis, as alterations in biomechanical properties throughout the malignant transformation process trigger a cascade of changes in cellular behavior and the tumor microenvironment, ultimately culminating in the malignant biological behavior of the tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liqi Bao
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Renji College, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hongru Kong
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yang Ja
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The First Clinical Medical College, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chengchao Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The First Clinical Medical College, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lei Qin
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hongwei Sun
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shengjie Dai
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
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Rodrigues EM, Giovanini AF, Ribas CAPM, Malafaia O, Roesler R, Isolan GR. The Nervous System Development Regulator Neuropilin-1 as a Potential Prognostic Marker and Therapeutic Target in Brain Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4922. [PMID: 37894289 PMCID: PMC10605093 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15204922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropilins are transmembrane glycoproteins that regulate developmental processes in the nervous system and other tissues. Overexpression of neuropilin-1 (NRP1) occurs in many solid tumor types and, in several instances, may predict patient outcome in terms of overall survival. Experimental inhibition of NRP1 activity can display antitumor effects in different cancer models. Here, we review NRP1 expression and function in adult and pediatric brain cancers, particularly glioblastomas (GBMs) and medulloblastomas, and present analyses of NRP1 transcript levels and their association with patient survival in GBMs. The case of NRP1 highlights the potential of regulators of neurodevelopment as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in brain cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Mello Rodrigues
- Graduate Program in Principles of Surgery, Mackenzie Evangelical University, Curitiba 80730-000, PR, Brazil; (E.M.R.)
- The Center for Advanced Neurology and Neurosurgery (CEANNE), Porto Alegre 90560-010, RS, Brazil
| | - Allan Fernando Giovanini
- Graduate Program in Principles of Surgery, Mackenzie Evangelical University, Curitiba 80730-000, PR, Brazil; (E.M.R.)
| | | | - Osvaldo Malafaia
- Graduate Program in Principles of Surgery, Mackenzie Evangelical University, Curitiba 80730-000, PR, Brazil; (E.M.R.)
| | - Rafael Roesler
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute for Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90035-003, RS, Brazil
- Cancer and Neurobiology Laboratory, Experimental Research Center, Clinical Hospital (CPE-HCPA), Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90035-003, RS, Brazil
- National Science and Technology Institute for Children’s Cancer Biology and Pediatric Oncology—INCT BioOncoPed, Porto Alegre 90035-003, RS, Brazil
| | - Gustavo R. Isolan
- Graduate Program in Principles of Surgery, Mackenzie Evangelical University, Curitiba 80730-000, PR, Brazil; (E.M.R.)
- The Center for Advanced Neurology and Neurosurgery (CEANNE), Porto Alegre 90560-010, RS, Brazil
- National Science and Technology Institute for Children’s Cancer Biology and Pediatric Oncology—INCT BioOncoPed, Porto Alegre 90035-003, RS, Brazil
- Spalt Therapeutics, Porto Alegre 90560-010, RS, Brazil
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Pohl L, Schiessl IM. Endothelial cell plasticity in kidney fibrosis and disease. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2023; 239:e14038. [PMID: 37661749 DOI: 10.1111/apha.14038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Renal endothelial cells demonstrate an impressive remodeling potential during angiogenic sprouting, vessel repair or while transitioning into mesenchymal cells. These different processes may play important roles in both renal disease progression or regeneration while underlying signaling pathways of different endothelial cell plasticity routes partly overlap. Angiogenesis contributes to wound healing after kidney injury and pharmaceutical modulation of angiogenesis may home a great therapeutic potential. Yet, it is not clear whether any differentiated endothelial cell can proliferate or whether regenerative processes are largely controlled by resident or circulating endothelial progenitor cells. In the glomerular compartment for example, a distinct endothelial progenitor cell population may remodel the glomerular endothelium after injury. Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) in the kidney is vastly documented and often associated with endothelial dysfunction, fibrosis, and kidney disease progression. Especially the role of EndoMT in renal fibrosis is controversial. Studies on EndoMT in vivo determined possible conclusions on the pathophysiological role of EndoMT in the kidney, but whether endothelial cells really contribute to kidney fibrosis and if not what other cellular and functional outcomes derive from EndoMT in kidney disease is unclear. Sequencing data, however, suggest no participation of endothelial cells in extracellular matrix deposition. Thus, more in-depth classification of cellular markers and the fate of EndoMT cells in the kidney is needed. In this review, we describe different signaling pathways of endothelial plasticity, outline methodological approaches and evidence for functional and structural implications of angiogenesis and EndoMT in the kidney, and eventually discuss controversial aspects in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Layla Pohl
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Chan BD, Wong WY, Lee MML, Yue PYK, Dai X, Tsim KWK, Hsiao WLW, Li M, Li XY, Tai WCS. Isolation and characterization of ZK002, a novel dual function snake venom protein from Deinagkistrodon acutus with anti-angiogenic and anti-inflammatory properties. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1227962. [PMID: 37841933 PMCID: PMC10570812 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1227962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Pathological angiogenesis, the abnormal or excessive generation of blood vessels, plays an important role in many diseases including cancer, diabetic retinopathy, psoriasis, and arthritis. Additionally, increasing evidence supports the close linkage between angiogenesis and inflammation. Snake venoms are a rich natural source of biologically active molecules and carry rich potential for the discovery of anti-angiogenic and anti-inflammatory modulators. Methods: Here, we isolated and purified a novel protein, ZK002, from the venom of the snake Deinagkistrodon acutus, and investigated its anti-angiogenic and anti-inflammatory activities and mechanisms. Results: ZK002 was identified as a 30 kDa heterodimeric protein of α and β chains, which exhibited anti-angiogenic activity in various in vitro assays. Mechanistically, ZK002 inhibited activation of VEGF signaling and related mediators including eNOS, p38, LIMK, and HSP27. ZK002 also upregulated the metalloproteinase inhibitor TIMP3 and inhibited components of the VEGF-induced signaling cascade, PPP3R2 and SH2D2A. The anti-angiogenic activity of ZK002 was confirmed in multiple in vivo models. ZK002 could also inhibit the in vitro expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, as well as in vivo inflammation in the carrageenin-induced edema rat model. Conclusion: Our findings highlight the potential for further development of ZK002 as a dual function therapeutic against diseases with involvement of pathogenic angiogenesis and chronic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon Dow Chan
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wing-Yan Wong
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Magnolia Muk-Lan Lee
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Patrick Ying-Kit Yue
- Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiangrong Dai
- Lee’s Pharmaceutical (HK) Limited, Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Karl Wah-Keung Tsim
- Division of Life Science and Center for Chinese Medicine, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wen-Luan Wendy Hsiao
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Mandy Li
- Zhaoke (Hong Kong) Ophthalmology Pharmaceutical Limited, Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiao-Yi Li
- Zhaoke (Hong Kong) Ophthalmology Pharmaceutical Limited, Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - William Chi-Shing Tai
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- State Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine and Molecular Pharmacology (Incubation), Shenzhen Research Institute of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Shenzhen, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Li S, Sampson C, Liu C, Piao HL, Liu HX. Integrin signaling in cancer: bidirectional mechanisms and therapeutic opportunities. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:266. [PMID: 37770930 PMCID: PMC10537162 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01264-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Integrins are transmembrane receptors that possess distinct ligand-binding specificities in the extracellular domain and signaling properties in the cytoplasmic domain. While most integrins have a short cytoplasmic tail, integrin β4 has a long cytoplasmic tail that can indirectly interact with the actin cytoskeleton. Additionally, 'inside-out' signals can induce integrins to adopt a high-affinity extended conformation for their appropriate ligands. These properties enable integrins to transmit bidirectional cellular signals, making it a critical regulator of various biological processes.Integrin expression and function are tightly linked to various aspects of tumor progression, including initiation, angiogenesis, cell motility, invasion, and metastasis. Certain integrins have been shown to drive tumorigenesis or amplify oncogenic signals by interacting with corresponding receptors, while others have marginal or even suppressive effects. Additionally, different α/β subtypes of integrins can exhibit opposite effects. Integrin-mediated signaling pathways including Ras- and Rho-GTPase, TGFβ, Hippo, Wnt, Notch, and sonic hedgehog (Shh) are involved in various stages of tumorigenesis. Therefore, understanding the complex regulatory mechanisms and molecular specificities of integrins are crucial to delaying cancer progression and suppressing tumorigenesis. Furthermore, the development of integrin-based therapeutics for cancer are of great importance.This review provides an overview of integrin-dependent bidirectional signaling mechanisms in cancer that can either support or oppose tumorigenesis by interacting with various signaling pathways. Finally, we focus on the future opportunities for emergent therapeutics based on integrin agonists. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyi Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Cancer Research Institute, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shenyang, 110042, China
- Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Chibuzo Sampson
- Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Changhao Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Cancer Research Institute, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shenyang, 110042, China
| | - Hai-Long Piao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Cancer Research Institute, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shenyang, 110042, China.
- Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China.
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, China.
| | - Hong-Xu Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Cancer Research Institute, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shenyang, 110042, China.
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Wittig F, Pannenberg L, Schwarz R, Bekeschus S, Ramer R, Hinz B. Antiangiogenic Action of JZL184 on Endothelial Cells via Inhibition of VEGF Expression in Hypoxic Lung Cancer Cells. Cells 2023; 12:2332. [PMID: 37830546 PMCID: PMC10572003 DOI: 10.3390/cells12192332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
JZL184, an inhibitor of monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) and thus of the degradation of the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), mediates various anticancer effects in preclinical studies. However, studies on the effect of this or other MAGL inhibitors under hypoxia, an important factor in tumor biology and response to cancer therapy, have not yet been performed in cancer cells. In the present study, the impact of the conditioned media (CM) of A549 and H358 lung cancer cells incubated with JZL184 under hypoxic conditions on the angiogenic properties of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) was investigated. Treatment of HUVECs with CM derived from cancer cells cultured for 48 h under hypoxic conditions was associated with a substantial increase in migration and tube formation compared with unconditioned medium, which was inhibited when cancer cells were incubated with JZL184. In this process, JZL184 led to a significant increase in 2-AG levels in both cell lines. Analysis of a panel of proangiogenic factors revealed inhibition of hypoxia-induced vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression by JZL184. Antiangiogenic and VEGF-lowering effects were also demonstrated for the MAGL inhibitor MJN110. Receptor antagonist experiments suggest partial involvement of the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 in the antiangiogenic and VEGF-lowering effects induced by JZL184. The functional importance of VEGF for angiogenesis in the selected system is supported by observations showing inhibition of VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR2) phosphorylation in HUVECs by CM from hypoxic cancer cells treated with JZL184 or when hypoxic cancer cell-derived CM was spiked with a neutralizing VEGF antibody. On the other hand, JZL184 did not exert a direct effect on VEGFR2 activation induced by recombinant VEGF, so there seems to be no downstream effect on already released VEGF. In conclusion, these results reveal a novel mechanism of antiangiogenic action of JZL184 under conditions of hypoxic tumor-endothelial communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Wittig
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Center, Schillingallee 70, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (F.W.); (L.P.); (R.S.); (R.R.)
| | - Liza Pannenberg
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Center, Schillingallee 70, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (F.W.); (L.P.); (R.S.); (R.R.)
| | - Rico Schwarz
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Center, Schillingallee 70, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (F.W.); (L.P.); (R.S.); (R.R.)
| | - Sander Bekeschus
- ZIK plasmatis, Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 2, 17489 Greifswald, Germany;
| | - Robert Ramer
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Center, Schillingallee 70, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (F.W.); (L.P.); (R.S.); (R.R.)
| | - Burkhard Hinz
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rostock University Medical Center, Schillingallee 70, 18057 Rostock, Germany; (F.W.); (L.P.); (R.S.); (R.R.)
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Otsu S, Hironaka S. Current Status of Angiogenesis Inhibitors as Second-Line Treatment for Unresectable Colorectal Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4564. [PMID: 37760533 PMCID: PMC10526327 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15184564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer is the third most common disease and the second most common cause of death around the world. The drug for second-line treatment depends on the drugs used in first-line treatment and the biomarker status. As biomarkers, the RAS gene, BRAF gene, and dMMR/MSI-H, TMB-H, and HER2 statuses have been established in clinical practice, and the corresponding molecularly targeted therapeutic agents are selected based on the biomarker status. Given the frequency of biomarkers, it is assumed that when patients move on to second-line treatment, an angiogenesis inhibitor is selected in many cases. For second-line treatment, three angiogenesis inhibitors, bevacizumab (BEV), ramucirumab (RAM), and aflibercept (AFL), are available, and one of them is combined with cytotoxic agents. These three angiogenesis inhibitors are known to inhibit angiogenesis through different mechanisms of action. Although no useful biomarkers have been established for the selection of angiogenesis inhibitors, previous biomarker studies have suggested that angiogenesis-related factors such as VEGF-A and VEGF-D might be predictors of the therapeutic efficacy of angiogenesis inhibitors. These biomarkers are measured as protein levels in plasma and are considered to be promising biomarkers. We consider that the rationale for selecting among these three angiogenesis inhibitors should be clarified to benefit patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Otsu
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Oita University Faculty of Medicine, 1-1, Idaigaoka, Hasama-machi, Yufu City 879-5593, Oita, Japan
| | - Shuichi Hironaka
- Department of Medical Oncology, Kyorin University Faculty of Medicine, 6-20-2 Shinkawa, Mitaka-shi 181-8611, Tokyo, Japan
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Zhao ZA, Yan L, Wen J, Satyanarayanan SK, Yu F, Lu J, Liu YU, Su H. Cellular and molecular mechanisms in vascular repair after traumatic brain injury: a narrative review. BURNS & TRAUMA 2023; 11:tkad033. [PMID: 37675267 PMCID: PMC10478165 DOI: 10.1093/burnst/tkad033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) disrupts normal brain function and is associated with high morbidity and fatality rates. TBI is characterized as mild, moderate or severe depending on its severity. The damage may be transient and limited to the dura matter, with only subtle changes in cerebral parenchyma, or life-threatening with obvious focal contusions, hematomas and edema. Blood vessels are often injured in TBI. Even in mild TBI, dysfunctional cerebral vascular repair may result in prolonged symptoms and poor outcomes. Various distinct types of cells participate in vascular repair after TBI. A better understanding of the cellular response and function in vascular repair can facilitate the development of new therapeutic strategies. In this review, we analyzed the mechanism of cerebrovascular impairment and the repercussions following various forms of TBI. We then discussed the role of distinct cell types in the repair of meningeal and parenchyma vasculature following TBI, including endothelial cells, endothelial progenitor cells, pericytes, glial cells (astrocytes and microglia), neurons, myeloid cells (macrophages and monocytes) and meningeal lymphatic endothelial cells. Finally, possible treatment techniques targeting these unique cell types for vascular repair after TBI are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Ai Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, Macau 999078, China
- Department of Neurology, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, 83# Wen-Hua Road, Shenyang 110840, China
| | - Lingli Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, Macau 999078, China
| | - Jing Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, Macau 999078, China
| | - Senthil Kumaran Satyanarayanan
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, Macau 999078, China
| | - Feng Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, Macau 999078, China
| | - Jiahong Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, Macau 999078, China
| | - Yong U Liu
- Laboratory of Neuroimmunology in Health and Disease Institute, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Panyu District, Guangzhou 511400, China
| | - Huanxing Su
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, Macau 999078, China
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Abakumova T, Kuzkina A, Koshkin P, Pozdeeva D, Abakumov M, Melnikov P, Ionova K, Gubskii I, Gurina O, Nukolova N, Chekhonin V. Localized Increased Permeability of Blood-Brain Barrier for Antibody Conjugates in the Cuprizone Model of Demyelination. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12688. [PMID: 37628867 PMCID: PMC10454543 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of new neurotherapeutics depends on appropriate animal models being chosen in preclinical studies. The cuprizone model is an effective tool for studying demyelination and remyelination processes in the brain, but blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity in the cuprizone model is still a topic for debate. Several publications claim that the BBB remains intact during cuprizone-induced demyelination; others demonstrate results that could explain the increased BBB permeability. In this study, we aim to analyze the permeability of the BBB for different macromolecules, particularly antibody conjugates, in a cuprizone-induced model of demyelination. We compared the traditional approach using Evans blue injection with subsequent dye extraction and detection of antibody conjugates using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and confocal microscopy to analyze BBB permeability in the cuprizone model. First, we validated our model of demyelination by performing T2-weighted MRI, diffusion tensor imaging, quantitative rt-PCR to detect changes in mRNA expression of myelin basic protein and proteolipid protein, and Luxol fast blue histological staining of myelin. Intraperitoneal injection of Evans blue did not result in any differences between the fluorescent signal in the brain of healthy and cuprizone-treated mice (IVIS analysis with subsequent dye extraction). In contrast, intravenous injection of antibody conjugates (anti-GFAP or non-specific IgG) after 4 weeks of a cuprizone diet demonstrated accumulation in the corpus callosum of cuprizone-treated mice both by contrast-enhanced MRI (for gadolinium-labeled antibodies) and by fluorescence microscopy (for Alexa488-labeled antibodies). Our results suggest that the methods with better sensitivity could detect the accumulation of macromolecules (such as fluorescent-labeled or gadolinium-labeled antibody conjugates) in the brain, suggesting a local BBB disruption in the demyelinating area. These findings support previous investigations that questioned BBB integrity in the cuprizone model and demonstrate the possibility of delivering antibody conjugates to the corpus callosum of cuprizone-treated mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Abakumova
- Department of Synthetic Neurotechnology, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Anastasia Kuzkina
- Faculty of Medicine, Sechenov First Medical University, Moscow 119991, Russia
- Department of Immunochemistry, V. Serbsky National Medical Research Center for Psychiatry and Narcology, Moscow 119034, Russia
| | - Philipp Koshkin
- Department of Medicine and Biology, Chair of Medical Nanotechnology, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Daria Pozdeeva
- Faculty of Medicine, Sechenov First Medical University, Moscow 119991, Russia
- Department of Immunochemistry, V. Serbsky National Medical Research Center for Psychiatry and Narcology, Moscow 119034, Russia
| | - Maxim Abakumov
- Department of Medicine and Biology, Chair of Medical Nanotechnology, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow 117997, Russia
- Laboratory of Biomedical Nanomaterials, National University of Science and Technology MISIS, Moscow 119049, Russia
| | - Pavel Melnikov
- Department of Immunochemistry, V. Serbsky National Medical Research Center for Psychiatry and Narcology, Moscow 119034, Russia
| | - Klavdia Ionova
- Department of Immunochemistry, V. Serbsky National Medical Research Center for Psychiatry and Narcology, Moscow 119034, Russia
| | - Ilia Gubskii
- Department of Medicine and Biology, Chair of Medical Nanotechnology, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Olga Gurina
- Department of Immunochemistry, V. Serbsky National Medical Research Center for Psychiatry and Narcology, Moscow 119034, Russia
| | - Natalia Nukolova
- Department of Immunochemistry, V. Serbsky National Medical Research Center for Psychiatry and Narcology, Moscow 119034, Russia
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Vladimir Chekhonin
- Department of Immunochemistry, V. Serbsky National Medical Research Center for Psychiatry and Narcology, Moscow 119034, Russia
- Department of Medicine and Biology, Chair of Medical Nanotechnology, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow 117997, Russia
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Xu C, Zhong W, Zhang H, Jiang J, Zhou H. Gap26 inhibited angiogenesis through the β-catenin-VE-cadherin-VEGFR2-Erk signaling pathway. Life Sci 2023:121836. [PMID: 37295713 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the effect of connexin 43 (Cx43) on corneal neovascularization and its regulation of VEGFR2 on vascular endothelial cells. METHODS In vivo, we used mouse corneal suture model to induce corneal neovascularization and discovered the function of gap26 in corneal neovascularization. In vitro, the effect of gap26 on HUVEC was observed by cell proliferation, tube formation and scratch experiments. WB and PCR detected the changes in angiogenic protein and mRNA expression. Knockdown of key mRNA in neovascularization using siRNA confirmed that Cx43 regulates neovascularization through the β-catenin-VE-cadherin-VEGFR2-Erk signaling pathway. RESULTS In vivo, gap26 can reduce mouse corneal neovascularization. In vitro, we show that Cx43 expression is increased in the presence of VEGFA stimulation, and when we use gap26 to inhibit Cx43 can reduce vascular endothelial cell proliferation, tube formation and migration. We found that the expression of pVEGFR2 and pErk increased in response to VEGFA, while they decreased after using gap26. And the expression of β-catenin and VE-cadherin decreased in response to VEGFA, while they increased after using gap26. Furthermore, we found that Cx43 regulates angiogenesis through the β-catenin-VE-cadherin-VEGFR2-Erk pathway. CONCLUSIONS Gap26 can downregulate VEGFR2 phosphorylation by stabilizing the expression of β-catenin and VE-cadherin on the cell membrane, thereby inhibiting VEGFA-induced HUVECs proliferation, migration and tube formation and inhibiting corneal neovascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuyang Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Wei Zhong
- Department of Ophthalmology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Jinlan Jiang
- Scientific Research Center, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.
| | - Hongyan Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.
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48
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Seto M, Dumitrescu L, Mahoney ER, Sclafani AM, De Jager PL, Menon V, Koran MEI, Robinson RA, Ruderfer DM, Cox NJ, Seyfried NT, Jefferson AL, Schneider JA, Bennett DA, Petyuk VA, Hohman TJ. Multi-omic characterization of brain changes in the vascular endothelial growth factor family during aging and Alzheimer's disease. Neurobiol Aging 2023; 126:25-33. [PMID: 36905877 PMCID: PMC10106439 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2023.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling family has been implicated in neuroprotection and clinical progression in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Previous work in postmortem human dorsolateral prefrontal cortex demonstrated that higher transcript levels of VEGFB, PGF, FLT1, and FLT4 are associated with AD dementia, worse cognitive outcomes, and higher AD neuropathology. To expand prior work, we leveraged bulk RNA sequencing data, single nucleus RNA (snRNA) sequencing, and both tandem mass tag and selected reaction monitoring mass spectrometry proteomic measures from the post-mortem brain. Outcomes included AD diagnosis, cognition, and AD neuropathology. We replicated previously reported VEGFB and FLT1 results, whereby higher expression was associated with worse outcomes, and snRNA results suggest microglia, oligodendrocytes, and endothelia may play a central role in these associations. Additionally, FLT4 and NRP2 expression were associated with better cognitive outcomes. This study provides a comprehensive molecular picture of the VEGF signaling family in cognitive aging and AD and critical insight towards the biomarker and therapeutic potential of VEGF family members in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mabel Seto
- Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer's Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Logan Dumitrescu
- Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer's Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Emily R Mahoney
- Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer's Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Annah M Sclafani
- Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer's Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Philip L De Jager
- Center for Translational & Computational Neuroimmunology, Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Vilas Menon
- Center for Translational & Computational Neuroimmunology, Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mary E I Koran
- Department of Radiology, Stanford Hospital, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Renã A Robinson
- Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer's Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA; Department of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Douglas M Ruderfer
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Nancy J Cox
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Nicholas T Seyfried
- Goizueta Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Angela L Jefferson
- Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer's Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Julie A Schneider
- Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - David A Bennett
- Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Vladislav A Petyuk
- Biological Sciences Division, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA, USA
| | - Timothy J Hohman
- Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer's Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
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Macedo AG, Miotto DS, Tardelli LP, Santos CF, Amaral SL. Exercise-induced angiogenesis is attenuated by captopril but maintained under perindopril treatment in hypertensive rats. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1147525. [PMID: 37284543 PMCID: PMC10239938 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1147525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis is an important exercise-induced response to improve blood flow and decrease vascular resistance in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), but some antihypertensive drugs attenuate this effect. This study compared the effects of captopril and perindopril on exercise-induced cardiac and skeletal muscle angiogenesis. Forty-eight Wistar rats and 48 SHR underwent 60 days of aerobic training or were kept sedentary. During the last 45 days, rats were treated with captopril, perindopril or water (Control). Blood pressure (BP) measurements were taken and histological samples from the tibialis anterior (TA) and left ventricle (LV) muscles were analyzed for capillary density (CD) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), VEGF receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) protein level. Exercise increased vessel density in Wistar rats due to higher VEGFR-2 (+17%) and eNOS (+31%) protein level. Captopril and perindopril attenuated exercise-induced angiogenesis in Wistar rats, but the attenuation was small in the perindopril group, and this response was mediated by higher eNOS levels in the Per group compared to the Cap group. Exercise increased myocardial CD in Wistar rats in all groups and treatment did not attenuate it. Both exercise and pharmacological treatment reduced BP of SHR similarly. Rarefaction was found in TA of SHR compared to Wistar, due to lower levels of VEGF (-26%) and eNOS (-27%) and treatment did not avoid this response. Exercise prevented these reductions in control SHR. While rats treated with perindopril showed angiogenesis in the TA muscle after training, those rats treated with captopril showed attenuated angiogenesis (-18%). This response was also mediated by lower eNOS levels in Cap group compared with Per and control group. Myocardial CD was reduced in all sedentary hypertensive compared with Wistar and training restored the number of vessels compared with sedentary SHR. In conclusion, taken into account only the aspect of vessel growth, since both pharmacological treatments reduced BP in SHR, the result of the present study suggests that perindopril could be a drug of choice over captopril for hypertensive practitioners of aerobic physical exercises, especially considering that it does not attenuate angiogenesis induced by aerobic physical training in skeletal and cardiac muscles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anderson G. Macedo
- Department of Physical Education, School of Sciences, São Paulo State University, Bauru, Brazil
- Joint Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences (PIPGCF), Federal University of São Carlos and São Paulo State University, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Danyelle S. Miotto
- Department of Physical Education, School of Sciences, São Paulo State University, Bauru, Brazil
- Joint Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences (PIPGCF), Federal University of São Carlos and São Paulo State University, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Lidieli P. Tardelli
- Department of Physical Education, School of Sciences, São Paulo State University, Bauru, Brazil
- Joint Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences (PIPGCF), Federal University of São Carlos and São Paulo State University, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Carlos F. Santos
- Department of Biological Sciences, Bauru School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo (USP), Bauru, Brazil
| | - Sandra L. Amaral
- Department of Physical Education, School of Sciences, São Paulo State University, Bauru, Brazil
- Joint Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences (PIPGCF), Federal University of São Carlos and São Paulo State University, São Carlos, Brazil
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50
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Lin WH, Cooper LM, Anastasiadis PZ. Cadherins and catenins in cancer: connecting cancer pathways and tumor microenvironment. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1137013. [PMID: 37255594 PMCID: PMC10225604 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1137013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cadherin-catenin complexes are integral components of the adherens junctions crucial for cell-cell adhesion and tissue homeostasis. Dysregulation of these complexes is linked to cancer development via alteration of cell-autonomous oncogenic signaling pathways and extrinsic tumor microenvironment. Advances in multiomics have uncovered key signaling events in multiple cancer types, creating a need for a better understanding of the crosstalk between cadherin-catenin complexes and oncogenic pathways. In this review, we focus on the biological functions of classical cadherins and associated catenins, describe how their dysregulation influences major cancer pathways, and discuss feedback regulation mechanisms between cadherin complexes and cellular signaling. We discuss evidence of cross regulation in the following contexts: Hippo-Yap/Taz and receptor tyrosine kinase signaling, key pathways involved in cell proliferation and growth; Wnt, Notch, and hedgehog signaling, key developmental pathways involved in human cancer; as well as TGFβ and the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition program, an important process for cancer cell plasticity. Moreover, we briefly explore the role of cadherins and catenins in mechanotransduction and the immune tumor microenvironment.
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