1
|
Du D, Li J, Jiang X. Evidence of a causal relationship between blood pressure and pathological scars: a bidirectional Mendelian randomization study. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1405079. [PMID: 39114830 PMCID: PMC11303301 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1405079] [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: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Recent advancements in basic medicine and epidemiology suggest a potential influence of blood pressure on scar formation, yet the specifics of this relationship are not fully understood. This study aims to clarify the causal link between blood pressure and the development of pathological scars using Mendelian randomization (MR). Methods This study employed genetic variants closely linked to blood pressure as instrumental variables to explore the relationship between blood pressure and pathological scars. The inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was used for analysis. Results Our analysis identified a notable association where higher blood pressure was correlated with a lower risk of pathological scars. Specifically, an increase in diastolic blood pressure (odds ratio [OR] per standard deviation increase: 0.67 [95% Confidence Interval [CI], 0.49-0.99]), systolic blood pressure (OR per standard deviation increase: 0.66 [95% CI, 0.46-0.93]), and hypertension (pooled OR: 0.39 [95% CI, 0.18-0.85]) were significantly associated with a reduced risk of keloids. Similarly, a genetic predisposition to hypertension (pooled OR: 0.31 [95% CI, 0.11-0.89]) was significantly associated with a reduced risk of hypertrophic scars. Neither reverse MR analysis nor Steiger's test indicated a significant reverse causal relationship between hypertension and either keloids or hypertrophic scars. Conclusion The findings suggest a protective role of higher blood pressure against the development of pathological scars, including keloids and hypertrophic scars. However, the inconsistency observed across different MR methods warrants cautious interpretation and underscores the need for further investigation to confirm these findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dan Du
- Department of Dermatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Laboratory of Dermatology, Clinical Institute of Inflammation and Immunology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiaqi Li
- Department of Dermatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Laboratory of Dermatology, Clinical Institute of Inflammation and Immunology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xian Jiang
- Department of Dermatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Laboratory of Dermatology, Clinical Institute of Inflammation and Immunology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Samuel CS, Li Y, Wang Y, Widdop RE. Functional crosstalk between angiotensin receptors (types 1 and 2) and relaxin family peptide receptor 1 (RXFP1): Implications for the therapeutic targeting of fibrosis. Br J Pharmacol 2024; 181:2302-2318. [PMID: 36560925 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16019] [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: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Class A, rhodopsin-like, G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are by far the largest class of GPCRs and are integral membrane proteins used by various cells to convert extracellular signals into intracellular responses. Initially, class A GPCRs were believed to function as monomers, but a growing body of evidence has emerged to suggest that these receptors can function as homodimers and heterodimers and can undergo functional crosstalk to influence the actions of agonists or antagonists acting at each receptor. This review will focus on the angiotensin type 1 (AT1) and type 2 (AT2) receptors, as well as the relaxin family peptide receptor 1 (RXFP1), each of which have their unique characteristics but have been demonstrated to undergo some level of interaction when appropriately co-expressed, which influences the function of each receptor. In particular, this receptor functional crosstalk will be discussed in the context of fibrosis, the tissue scarring that results from a failed wound-healing response to injury, and which is a hallmark of chronic disease and related organ dysfunction. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue Therapeutic Targeting of G Protein-Coupled Receptors: hot topics from the Australasian Society of Clinical and Experimental Pharmacologists and Toxicologists 2021 Virtual Annual Scientific Meeting. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v181.14/issuetoc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chrishan S Samuel
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Yifang Li
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Yan Wang
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Robert E Widdop
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Afsar B, Afsar RE, Caliskan Y, Lentine KL, Edwards JC. Renin angiotensin system-induced muscle wasting: putative mechanisms and implications for clinicians. Mol Cell Biochem 2024:10.1007/s11010-024-05043-8. [PMID: 38811433 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-024-05043-8] [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: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Renin angiotensin system (RAS) alters various mechanisms related to muscle wasting. The RAS system consists of classical and non-classical pathways, which mostly function differently. Classical RAS pathway, operates through angiotensin II (AngII) and angiotensin type 1 receptors, is associated with muscle wasting and sarcopenia. On the other hand, the non-classical RAS pathway, which operates through angiotensin 1-7 and Mas receptor, is protective against sarcopenia. The classical RAS pathway might induce muscle wasting by variety of mechanisms. AngII reduces body weight, via reduction in food intake, possibly by decreasing hypothalamic expression of orexin and neuropeptide Y, insulin like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), signaling, AngII increases skeletal muscle proteolysis by forkhead box transcription factors (FOXO), caspase activation and muscle RING-finger protein-1 transcription. Furthermore, AngII infusion in skeletal muscle reduces phospho-Bad (Ser136) expression and induces apoptosis through increased cytochrome c release and DNA fragmentation. Additionally, Renin angiotensin system activation through AT1R and AngII stimulates tumor necrosis factor-α, and interleukin-6 which induces muscle wasting, Last but not least classical RAS pathway, induce oxidative stress, disturb mitochondrial energy metabolism, and muscle satellite cells which all lead to muscle wasting and decrease muscle regeneration. On the contrary, the non-classical RAS pathway functions oppositely to mitigate these mechanisms and protects against muscle wasting. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms of RAS-induced muscle wasting and putative implications for clinical practice. We also emphasize the areas of uncertainties and suggest potential research areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Baris Afsar
- Department of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Suleyman Demirel University, Isparta, Turkey.
- Division of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Rengin Elsurer Afsar
- Department of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Suleyman Demirel University, Isparta, Turkey
- Division of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Yasar Caliskan
- Division of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Krista L Lentine
- Division of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - John C Edwards
- Division of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Jihu Y, Leng R, Liu M, Ren H, Xie D, Yao C, Yan H. Angiotensin (1-7) Inhibits Transforming Growth Factor-Β1-Induced Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition of Human Keratinocyte Hacat Cells in vitro. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol 2024; 17:1049-1058. [PMID: 38737946 PMCID: PMC11088851 DOI: 10.2147/ccid.s441596] [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: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Angiotensin (1-7) (Ang-(1-7)) is an emerging component of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) with effective anti-fibrosis properties and has been shown to interfere with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) by numerous studies. In recent years, EMT has been proposed as a new therapeutic target for skin fibrotic diseases such as keloids. However, the effect of Ang-(1-7) on EMT in skin is still unclear. Hence, the purpose of this study was to explore the effect of Ang-(1-7) on Transforming growth factor-β1(TGF-β1)-induced EMT of human immortalized keratinocytes HaCaT in vitro. Methods The study involved the use of the human immortalized keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT). The cells were cultured in high-glucose DMEM medium with 10% fetal bovine serum and 1% penicillin-streptomycin. Four groups were created for experimentation: control group (Group C), TGF-β1-treated group (Group T), Ang-(1-7)-treated group (Group A), and a group treated with both TGF-β1 and Ang-(1-7) (Group A + T). Various assays were conducted, including a cell proliferation assay using CCK-8 solution, a scratch wound healing assay to evaluate cell migration, and Western blotting to detect protein expressions related to cell characteristics. Additionally, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to analyze epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) related gene expression levels. The study aimed to investigate the effects of TGF-β1 and Ang-(1-7) on HaCaT cells. Results We found that Ang-(1-7) not only reduced the migration of HaCaT cells induced by TGF-β1 in vitro but also reduced the expression of α-SMA and vimentin, and restored the protein expression of E-cadherin and claudin-1. Mechanistically, Ang-(1-7) inhibits the phosphorylation levels of Smad2 and Smad3 in the TGF-β1 canonical pathway, and suppresses the expression of EMT-related transcription factors (EMT-TFs) such as SNAI2, TWIST1, and ZEB1. Discussion Taken together, our findings suggest that Ang-(1-7) inhibits TGF-β1-induced EMT in HaCaT cells in vitro by disrupting the TGF-β1-Smad canonical signaling pathway. These results may be helpful in the treatment of EMT in skin fibrotic diseases such as keloids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yueda Jihu
- Clinical College of Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Lu zhou, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Plastic and Burn Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Lu zhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ruobing Leng
- Clinical College of Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Lu zhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mengchang Liu
- Clinical College of Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Lu zhou, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Plastic and Burn Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Lu zhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hongjing Ren
- Clinical College of Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Lu zhou, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Plastic and Burn Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Lu zhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Defu Xie
- Clinical College of Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Lu zhou, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Plastic and Burn Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Lu zhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chong Yao
- Clinical College of Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Lu zhou, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Plastic and Burn Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Lu zhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hong Yan
- Clinical College of Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Lu zhou, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Plastic and Burn Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Lu zhou, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kaschina E, Lauer D, Lange C, Unger T. Angiotensin AT 2 receptors reduce inflammation and fibrosis in cardiovascular remodeling. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 222:116062. [PMID: 38369211 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116062] [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: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
The angiotensin AT2 receptor (AT2R), an important member of the "protective arm" of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), has been recently defined as a therapeutic target in different pathological conditions. The AT2R activates complex signalling pathways linked to cellular proliferation, differentiation, anti-inflammation, antifibrosis, and induction or inhibition of apoptosis. The anti-inflammatory effect of AT2R activation is commonly associated with reduced fibrosis in different models. Current discoveries demonstrated a direct impact of AT2Rs on the regulation of cytokines, transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF-beta1), matrix metalloproteases (MMPs), and synthesis of the extracellular matrix components. This review article summarizes current knowledge on the AT2R in regard to immunity, inflammation and fibrosis in the heart and blood vessels. In particular, the differential influence of the AT2R on cardiovascular remodeling in preclinical models of myocardial infarction, heart failure and aneurysm formation are discussed. Overall, these studies demonstrate that AT2R stimulation represents a promising therapeutic approach to counteract myocardial and aortic damage in cardiovascular diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Kaschina
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Max Rubner Center for Cardiovascular Metabolic Renal Research (MRC), Berlin, Germany.
| | - Dilyara Lauer
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Max Rubner Center for Cardiovascular Metabolic Renal Research (MRC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Christoph Lange
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Max Rubner Center for Cardiovascular Metabolic Renal Research (MRC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Thomas Unger
- CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Azeredo PDS, Fan D, Murphy EA, Carver WE. Potential of Plant-Derived Compounds in Preventing and Reversing Organ Fibrosis and the Underlying Mechanisms. Cells 2024; 13:421. [PMID: 38474385 PMCID: PMC10930795 DOI: 10.3390/cells13050421] [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: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Increased production of extracellular matrix is a necessary response to tissue damage and stress. In a normal healing process, the increase in extracellular matrix is transient. In some instances; however, the increase in extracellular matrix can persist as fibrosis, leading to deleterious alterations in organ structure, biomechanical properties, and function. Indeed, fibrosis is now appreciated to be an important cause of mortality and morbidity. Extensive research has illustrated that fibrosis can be slowed, arrested or even reversed; however, few drugs have been approved specifically for anti-fibrotic treatment. This is in part due to the complex pathways responsible for fibrogenesis and the undesirable side effects of drugs targeting these pathways. Natural products have been utilized for thousands of years as a major component of traditional medicine and currently account for almost one-third of drugs used clinically worldwide. A variety of plant-derived compounds have been demonstrated to have preventative or even reversal effects on fibrosis. This review will discuss the effects and the underlying mechanisms of some of the major plant-derived compounds that have been identified to impact fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia dos Santos Azeredo
- Laboratory of Atherosclerosis, Thrombosis and Cell Therapy, Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas—UNICAMP Campinas, Campinas 13083-970, Brazil;
| | - Daping Fan
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29209, USA;
| | - E. Angela Murphy
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29209, USA;
| | - Wayne E. Carver
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29209, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Abadir P, Cosarderelioglu C, Damarla M, Malinina A, Dikeman D, Marx R, Nader MM, Abadir M, Walston J, Neptune E. Unlocking the protective potential of the angiotensin type 2 receptor (AT 2R) in acute lung injury and age-related pulmonary dysfunction. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 220:115978. [PMID: 38081369 PMCID: PMC10880333 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115978] [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: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Despite its known importance in the cardiovascular system, the specific role and impact of the angiotensin type 2 receptor (AT2R) in lung physiology and pathophysiology remain largely elusive. In this study, we highlight the distinct and specialized lung-specific roles of AT2R, primarily localized to an alveolar fibroblast subpopulation, in contrast to the angiotensin type 1 receptor (AT1R), which is almost exclusively expressed in lung pericytes. Evidence from our research demonstrates that the disruption of AT2R (AT2R-/y), is associated with a surge in oxidative stress and impaired lung permeability, which were further intensified by Hyperoxic Acute Lung Injury (HALI). With aging, AT2R-/y mice show an increase in oxidative stress, premature enlargement of airspaces, as well as increased mortality when exposed to hyperoxia as compared to age-matched WT mice. Our investigation into Losartan, an AT1R blocker, suggests that its primary HALI lung-protective effects are channeled through AT2R, as its protective benefits are absent in AT2R-/y mice. Importantly, a non-peptide AT2R agonist, Compound 21 (C21), successfully reverses lung oxidative stress and TGFβ activation in wild-type (WT) mice exposed to HALI. These findings suggest a possible paradigm shift in the therapeutic approach for lung injury and age-associated pulmonary dysfunction, from targeting AT1R with angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) towards boosting the protective function of AT2R.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Abadir
- Johns Hopkins University, Division of Geriatrics Medicine and Gerontology, Department of Medicine, USA.
| | - Caglar Cosarderelioglu
- Johns Hopkins University, Division of Geriatrics Medicine and Gerontology, Department of Medicine, USA
| | - Mahendra Damarla
- Johns Hopkins University, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, USA
| | - Alla Malinina
- Johns Hopkins University, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, USA
| | - Dustin Dikeman
- Johns Hopkins University, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, USA
| | - Ruth Marx
- Johns Hopkins University, Division of Geriatrics Medicine and Gerontology, Department of Medicine, USA
| | - Monica M Nader
- Johns Hopkins University, Division of Geriatrics Medicine and Gerontology, Department of Medicine, USA; Urbana High School, USA
| | | | - Jeremy Walston
- Johns Hopkins University, Division of Geriatrics Medicine and Gerontology, Department of Medicine, USA
| | - Enid Neptune
- Johns Hopkins University, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Chen L, Gong P, Su Y, Meng L, Wang M, Gao W, Liu Q. Angiotensin II type 2 receptor agonist attenuates LPS-induced acute lung injury through modulating THP-1-derived macrophage reprogramming. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 397:99-108. [PMID: 37368029 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02589-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a devastating respiratory disorder, characterized by overwhelming inflammation in the alveoli without effective pharmacological treatment. We aimed to investigate the effect and mechanism of angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2R) agonist, Compound 21 (C21), on the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute lung injury (ALI) model. The protective effect of C21 was evaluated via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), Western blot (WB), real-time PCR, and fluorescence microscopy in LPS-challenged THP1-derived macrophages. Besides, the in vivo efficacy of C21 was assessed using cell counting, ELISA, protein quantification, hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining, and WB in an LPS-induced ALI mouse model. The results showed that C21 significantly inhibited the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines (CCL-2, IL-6), overproduction of intracellular ROS, and activation of inflammatory pathways (NF-κB/NLRP3, p38/MAPK) in THP-1 cell-derived macrophages stimulated by LPS. In in vivo study, intraperitoneal injection of C21 could reduce airway leukocytes accumulation and chemokine/cytokine (keratinocyte chemoattractant (KC), IL-6) generation, as well as alleviate diffuse alveolar damage induced by LPS. Conclusively, the AT2R agonist C21 significantly inhibited LPS-stimulated excess inflammatory responses and oxidative stress in macrophages. Meanwhile, C21 could effectively alleviate acute inflammation and tissue damage in the lungs of ALI mice challenged by LPS. The results of this study bring new hope for the early treatment of ALI/ARDS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liangzhi Chen
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong, 250002, People's Republic of China
| | - Ping Gong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine Shandong University, Shandong, 250033, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Su
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200120, People's Republic of China
| | - Linlin Meng
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong, 250002, People's Republic of China
| | - Muyun Wang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200120, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Gao
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200120, People's Republic of China.
| | - Qinghua Liu
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong, 250002, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200120, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Quiroga DT, Narvaéz Pardo JA, Zubiría MG, Barrales B, Muñoz MC, Giovambattista A, Dominici FP. Acute In Vivo Administration of Compound 21 Stimulates Akt and ERK1/2 Phosphorylation in Mouse Heart and Adipose Tissue. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16839. [PMID: 38069161 PMCID: PMC10706736 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The angiotensin II type 2 (AT2) receptor has a role in promoting insulin sensitivity. However, the mechanisms underlying the AT2 receptor-induced facilitation of insulin are still not completely understood. Therefore, we investigated whether acute in vivo administration of AT2 receptor agonist compound 21 (C21) could activate insulin signaling molecules in insulin-target tissues. We report that, in male C57BL/6 mice, an acute (5 min, 0.25 mg/kg; i.v.) injection of C21 induces the phosphorylation of Akt and ERK1/2 at activating residues (Ser473 and Thr202/Tyr204, respectively) in both epididymal white adipose tissue (WAT) and heart tissue. In WAT, the extent of phosphorylation (p) of Akt and ERK1/2 induced by C21 was approximately 65% of the level detected after a bolus injection of a dose of insulin known to induce maximal activation of the insulin receptor (IR). In the heart, C21 stimulated p-Akt to a lesser extent than in WAT and stimulated p-ERK1/2 to similar levels to those attained by insulin administration. C21 did not modify p-IR levels in either tissue. We conclude that in vivo injection of the AT2 receptor agonist C21 activates Akt and ERK1/2 through a mechanism that does not involve the IR, indicating the participation of these enzymes in AT2R-mediated signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diego T. Quiroga
- Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Departamento de Química Biológica and IQUIFIB (UBA-CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1113AAD, Argentina
| | - Jorge A. Narvaéz Pardo
- Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Departamento de Química Biológica and IQUIFIB (UBA-CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1113AAD, Argentina
| | - María G. Zubiría
- Laboratorio de Neuroendocrinología, Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Celular (IMBICE), CICPBA-CONICET-UNLP), La Plata B1906APO, Argentina
| | - Benjamín Barrales
- Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Departamento de Química Biológica and IQUIFIB (UBA-CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1113AAD, Argentina
| | - Marina C. Muñoz
- Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Departamento de Química Biológica and IQUIFIB (UBA-CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1113AAD, Argentina
| | - Andrés Giovambattista
- Laboratorio de Neuroendocrinología, Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Celular (IMBICE), CICPBA-CONICET-UNLP), La Plata B1906APO, Argentina
| | - Fernando P. Dominici
- Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Departamento de Química Biológica and IQUIFIB (UBA-CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1113AAD, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Young ON, Bourke JE, Widdop RE. Catch your breath: The protective role of the angiotensin AT 2 receptor for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 217:115839. [PMID: 37778444 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115839] [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: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive interstitial lung disease whereby excessive deposition of extracellular matrix proteins (ECM) ultimately leads to respiratory failure. While there have been advances in pharmacotherapies for pulmonary fibrosis, IPF remains an incurable and irreversible disease. There remains an unmet clinical need for treatments that reverse fibrosis, or at the very least have a more tolerable side effect profile than currently available treatments. Transforming growth factor β1(TGFβ1) is considered the main driver of fibrosis in IPF. However, as our understanding of the role of the pulmonary renin-angiotensin system (PRAS) in the pathogenesis of IPF increases, it is becoming clear that targeting angiotensin receptors represents a potential novel treatment strategy for IPF - in particular, via activation of the anti-fibrotic angiotensin type 2 receptor (AT2R). This review describes the current understanding of the pathophysiology of IPF and the mediators implicated in its pathogenesis; focusing on TGFβ1, angiotensin II and related peptides in the PRAS and their contribution to fibrotic processes in the lung. Preclinical and clinical assessment of currently available AT2R agonists and the development of novel, highly selective ligands for this receptor will also be described, with a focus on compound 21, currently in clinical trials for IPF. Collectively, this review provides evidence of the potential of AT2R as a novel therapeutic target for IPF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olivia N Young
- Department of Pharmacology and Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Jane E Bourke
- Department of Pharmacology and Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Robert E Widdop
- Department of Pharmacology and Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Guilherme RF, Silva JBN, Waclawiack I, Fraga-Junior VS, Nogueira TO, Pecli C, Araújo-Silva CA, Magalhães NS, Lemos FS, Bulant CA, Blanco PJ, Serra R, Svensjö E, Scharfstein J, Moraes JA, Canetti C, Benjamim CF. Pleiotropic antifibrotic actions of aspirin-triggered resolvin D1 in the lungs. Front Immunol 2023; 14:886601. [PMID: 36960058 PMCID: PMC10030054 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.886601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Pulmonary fibrosis is a destructive, progressive disease that dramatically reduces life quality of patients, ultimately leading to death. Therapeutic regimens for pulmonary fibrosis have shown limited benefits, hence justifying the efforts to evaluate the outcome of alternative treatments. Methods Using a mouse model of bleomycin (BLM)-induced lung fibrosis, in the current work we asked whether treatment with pro-resolution molecules, such as pro-resolving lipid mediators (SPMs) could ameliorate pulmonary fibrosis. To this end, we injected aspirin-triggered resolvin D1 (7S,8R,17R-trihydroxy-4Z,9E,11E,13Z,15E19Z-docosahexaenoic acid; ATRvD1; i.v.) 7 and 10 days after BLM (intratracheal) challenge and samples were two weeks later. Results and discussion Assessment of outcome in the lung tissues revealed that ATRvD1 partially restored lung architecture, reduced leukocyte infiltration, and inhibited formation of interstitial edema. In addition, lung tissues from BLM-induced mice treated with ATRvD1 displayed reduced levels of TNF-α, MCP-1, IL-1-β, and TGF-β. Of further interest, ATRvD1 decreased lung tissue expression of MMP-9, without affecting TIMP-1. Highlighting the beneficial effects of ATRvD1, we found reduced deposition of collagen and fibronectin in the lung tissues. Congruent with the anti-fibrotic effects that ATRvD1 exerted in lung tissues, α-SMA expression was decreased, suggesting that myofibroblast differentiation was inhibited by ATRvD1. Turning to culture systems, we next showed that ATRvD1 impaired TGF-β-induced fibroblast differentiation into myofibroblast. After showing that ATRvD1 hampered extracellular vesicles (EVs) release in the supernatants from TGF-β-stimulated cultures of mouse macrophages, we verified that ATRvD1 also inhibited the release of EVs in the bronco-alveolar lavage (BAL) fluid of BLM-induced mice. Motivated by studies showing that BLM-induced lung fibrosis is linked to angiogenesis, we asked whether ATRvD1 could blunt BLM-induced angiogenesis in the hamster cheek pouch model (HCP). Indeed, our intravital microscopy studies confirmed that ATRvD1 abrogates BLM-induced angiogenesis. Collectively, our findings suggest that treatment of pulmonary fibrosis patients with ATRvD1 deserves to be explored as a therapeutic option in the clinical setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rafael F. Guilherme
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - José Bruno N.F. Silva
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia, Imunobiologia e Estudos em Saúde, Universidade Federal do Tocantins, Palmas, TO, Brazil
| | - Ingrid Waclawiack
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Vanderlei S. Fraga-Junior
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Thaís O. Nogueira
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Cyntia Pecli
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Carlla A. Araújo-Silva
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Nathalia S. Magalhães
- Laboratório de Pesquisa em Infecção Hospitalar, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Felipe S. Lemos
- Laboratório de Imunofarmacologia, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Carlos A. Bulant
- Pladema Institute, National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Tandil, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Pablo J. Blanco
- Departamento de Métodos Matemático e Computacional, Laboratório Nacional para Computação Científica, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Rafaela Serra
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Erik Svensjö
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Júlio Scharfstein
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - João A. Moraes
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Claudio Canetti
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Claudia F. Benjamim
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Claudia F. Benjamim,
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wang Y, Yodgee J, Del Borgo M, Spizzo I, Nguyen L, Aguilar MI, Denton KM, Samuel CS, Widdop RE. The Novel AT2 Receptor Agonist β-Pro7-AngIII Exerts Cardiac and Renal Anti-Fibrotic and Anti-Inflammatory Effects in High Salt-Fed Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214039. [PMID: 36430518 PMCID: PMC9696912 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A high salt (HS) diet is associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and fibrosis is a key contributor to the organ dysfunction involved in CVDs. The activation of the renin angiotensin type 2 receptor (AT2R) has been considered as organ protective in many CVDs. However, there are limited AT2R-selective agonists available. Our first reported β-substituted angiotensin III peptide, β-Pro7-AngIII, showed high selectivity for the AT2R. In the current study, we examine the potential anti-fibrotic and anti-inflammatory effects of this novel AT2R-selective peptide on HS-induced organ damage. FVB/N mice fed with a 5% HS diet for 8 weeks developed cardiac and renal fibrosis and inflammation, which were associated with increased TGF-β1 levels in heart, kidney and plasma. Four weeks' treatment (from weeks 5-8) with β-Pro7-AngIII inhibited the HS-induced cardiac and renal fibrosis and inflammation. These protective effects were accompanied by reduced local and systemic TGF-β1 as well as reduced cardiac myofibroblast differentiation. Importantly, the anti-fibrotic and anti-inflammatory effects caused by β-Pro7-AngIII were attenuated by the AT2R antagonist PD123319. These results demonstrate, for the first time, the cardio- and reno-protective roles of the AT2R-selective β-Pro7-AngIII, highlighting it as an important therapeutic that can target the AT2R to treat end-organ damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
- Departments of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Jonathan Yodgee
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
- Departments of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Mark Del Borgo
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
- Departments of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Iresha Spizzo
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
- Departments of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Levi Nguyen
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
- Departments of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Marie-Isabel Aguilar
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Kate M. Denton
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Chrishan S. Samuel
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
- Departments of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Robert E. Widdop
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
- Departments of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Steckelings UM, Widdop RE, Sturrock ED, Lubbe L, Hussain T, Kaschina E, Unger T, Hallberg A, Carey RM, Sumners C. The Angiotensin AT 2 Receptor: From a Binding Site to a Novel Therapeutic Target. Pharmacol Rev 2022; 74:1051-1135. [PMID: 36180112 PMCID: PMC9553111 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.120.000281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Discovered more than 30 years ago, the angiotensin AT2 receptor (AT2R) has evolved from a binding site with unknown function to a firmly established major effector within the protective arm of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and a target for new drugs in development. The AT2R represents an endogenous protective mechanism that can be manipulated in the majority of preclinical models to alleviate lung, renal, cardiovascular, metabolic, cutaneous, and neural diseases as well as cancer. This article is a comprehensive review summarizing our current knowledge of the AT2R, from its discovery to its position within the RAS and its overall functions. This is followed by an in-depth look at the characteristics of the AT2R, including its structure, intracellular signaling, homo- and heterodimerization, and expression. AT2R-selective ligands, from endogenous peptides to synthetic peptides and nonpeptide molecules that are used as research tools, are discussed. Finally, we summarize the known physiological roles of the AT2R and its abundant protective effects in multiple experimental disease models and expound on AT2R ligands that are undergoing development for clinical use. The present review highlights the controversial aspects and gaps in our knowledge of this receptor and illuminates future perspectives for AT2R research. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: The angiotensin AT2 receptor (AT2R) is now regarded as a fully functional and important component of the renin-angiotensin system, with the potential of exerting protective actions in a variety of diseases. This review provides an in-depth view of the AT2R, which has progressed from being an enigma to becoming a therapeutic target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- U Muscha Steckelings
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| | - Robert E Widdop
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| | - Edward D Sturrock
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| | - Lizelle Lubbe
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| | - Tahir Hussain
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| | - Elena Kaschina
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| | - Thomas Unger
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| | - Anders Hallberg
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| | - Robert M Carey
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| | - Colin Sumners
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Yue T, Xiong S, Zheng D, Wang Y, Long P, Yang J, Danzeng D, Gao H, Wen X, Li X, Hou J. Multifunctional biomaterial platforms for blocking the fibrosis process and promoting cellular restoring effects in myocardial fibrosis therapy. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:988683. [PMID: 36185428 PMCID: PMC9520723 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.988683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Myocardial fibrosis is the result of abnormal healing after acute and chronic myocardial damage and is a direct cause of heart failure and cardiac insufficiency. The clinical approach is to preserve cardiac function and inhibit fibrosis through surgery aimed at dredging blood vessels. However, this strategy does not adequately address the deterioration of fibrosis and cardiac function recovery. Therefore, numerous biomaterial platforms have been developed to address the above issues. In this review, we summarize the existing biomaterial delivery and restoring platforms, In addition, we also clarify the therapeutic strategies based on biomaterial platforms, including general strategies to block the fibrosis process and new strategies to promote cellular restoring effects. The development of structures with the ability to block further fibrosis progression as well as to promote cardiomyocytes viability should be the main research interests in myocardial fibrosis, and the reestablishment of structures necessary for normal cardiac function is central to the treatment of myocardial fibrosis. Finally, the future application of biomaterials for myocardial fibrosis is also highlighted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tian Yue
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Jiaotong University, The Third People’s Hospital of Chengdu, Cardiovascular Disease Research Institute of Chengdu, Chengdu, China
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shiqiang Xiong
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Jiaotong University, The Third People’s Hospital of Chengdu, Cardiovascular Disease Research Institute of Chengdu, Chengdu, China
| | - Dezhi Zheng
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The 960th Hospital of the PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Jinan, China
| | - Yi Wang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Pan Long
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiali Yang
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Jiaotong University, The Third People’s Hospital of Chengdu, Cardiovascular Disease Research Institute of Chengdu, Chengdu, China
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Dunzhu Danzeng
- Department of Basic Medicine, Medical College, Tibet University, Lhasa, China
| | - Han Gao
- Department of Basic Medicine, Medical College, Tibet University, Lhasa, China
| | - Xudong Wen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Chengdu First People’s Hospital, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Xudong Wen, ; Xin Li, ; Jun Hou,
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Jiaotong University, The Third People’s Hospital of Chengdu, Cardiovascular Disease Research Institute of Chengdu, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Xudong Wen, ; Xin Li, ; Jun Hou,
| | - Jun Hou
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Jiaotong University, The Third People’s Hospital of Chengdu, Cardiovascular Disease Research Institute of Chengdu, Chengdu, China
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Xudong Wen, ; Xin Li, ; Jun Hou,
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Mazurara GR, Dallagnol JCC, Chatenet D, Allen BG, Hébert TE. The complicated lives of GPCRs in cardiac fibroblasts. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2022; 323:C813-C822. [PMID: 35938678 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00120.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The role of different G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) in the cardiovascular system is well understood in cardiomyocytes and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). In the former, stimulation of Gs-coupled receptors leads to increases in contractility, while stimulation of Gq-coupled receptors modulates cellular survival and hypertrophic responses. In VSMCs, stimulation of GPCRs also modulates contractile and cell growth phenotypes. Here, we will focus on the relatively less well studied effects of GPCRs in cardiac fibroblasts, focusing on key signalling events involved in the activation and differentiation of these cells. We also review the hierarchy of signalling events driving the fibrotic response and the communications between fibroblasts and other cells in the heart. We discuss how such events may be distinct depending on where the GPCRs and their associated signalling machinery are localized in these cells with an emphasis on nuclear membrane-localized receptors. Finally, we explore what such connections between cell surface and nuclear GPCR signalling might mean for cardiac fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Grace R Mazurara
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Juliana C C Dallagnol
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada.,Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Groupe de Recherche en Ingénierie des Peptides et en Pharmacothérapie (GRIPP), Université du Québec, Laval, Québec, Canada.,Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - David Chatenet
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Groupe de Recherche en Ingénierie des Peptides et en Pharmacothérapie (GRIPP), Université du Québec, Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Bruce G Allen
- Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Terence E Hébert
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Advances in the Treatment Strategies in Hypertension: Present and Future. J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2022; 9:jcdd9030072. [PMID: 35323620 PMCID: PMC8949859 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd9030072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypertension is the most frequent chronic and non-communicable disease all over the world, with about 1.5 billion affected individuals worldwide. Its impact is currently growing, particularly in low-income countries. Even in high-income countries, hypertension remains largely underdiagnosed and undertreated, with consequent low rates of blood pressure (BP) control. Notwithstanding the large number of clinical observational studies and randomized trials over the past four decades, it is sad to note that in the last few years there has been an impressive paucity of innovative studies. Research focused on BP mechanisms and novel antihypertensive drugs is slowing dramatically. The present review discusses some advances in the management of hypertensive patients, and could play a clinical role in the years to come. First, digital/health technology is expected to be increasingly used, although some crucial points remain (development of non-intrusive and clinically validated devices for ambulatory BP measurement, robust storing systems enabling rapid analysis of accrued data, physician-patient interactions, etc.). Second, several areas should be better outlined with regard to BP diagnosis and treatment targets. Third, from a therapeutic standpoint, existing antihypertensive drugs, which are generally effective and well tolerated, should be better used by exploiting available and novel free and fixed combinations. In particular, spironolactone and other mineral-corticoid receptor antagonists should be used more frequently to improve BP control. In particular, some drugs initially developed for conditions different from hypertension including heart failure and diabetes have demonstrated to lower BP significantly and should therefore be considered. Finally, renal artery denervation is another procedure that has proven effective in the management of hypertension.
Collapse
|
17
|
Castoldi G, Carletti R, Ippolito S, Stella A, Zerbini G, Pelucchi S, Zatti G, di Gioia CRT. Angiotensin Type 2 and Mas Receptor Activation Prevents Myocardial Fibrosis and Hypertrophy through the Reduction of Inflammatory Cell Infiltration and Local Sympathetic Activity in Angiotensin II-Dependent Hypertension. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222413678. [PMID: 34948475 PMCID: PMC8708804 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Compound 21 (C21), an AT2 receptor agonist, and Angiotensin 1-7 (Ang 1-7), through Mas receptor, play an important role in the modulation of the protective arm of the renin-angiotensin system. The aim of this study was to investigate in an experimental model of angiotensin II-dependent hypertension whether the activation of the potentially protective arm of the renin-angiotensin system, through AT2 or Mas receptor stimulation, counteracts the onset of myocardial fibrosis and hypertrophy, and whether these effects are mediated by inflammatory mechanism and/or sympathetic activation. Sprague Dawley rats (n = 67) were treated for 1 (n = 25) and 4 (n = 42) weeks and divided in the following groups: (a) Angiotensin II (Ang II, 200 ng/kg/min, osmotic minipumps, sub cutis); (b) Ang II+Compound 21 (C21, 0.3 mg/kg/day, intraperitoneal); (c) Ang II+Ang 1-7 (576 µg/kg/day, intraperitoneal); (d) Ang II+Losartan (50 mg/kg/day, per os); (e) control group (physiological saline, sub cutis). Systolic blood pressure was measured by tail cuff method and, at the end of the experimental period, the rats were euthanized and the heart was excised to evaluate myocardial fibrosis, hypertrophy, inflammatory cell infiltration and tyrosine hydroxylase expression, used as marker of sympathetic activity. Ang II caused a significant increase of blood pressure, myocardial interstitial and perivascular fibrosis and myocardial hypertrophy, as compared to control groups. C21 or Ang 1-7 administration did not modify the increase in blood pressure in Ang II treated rats, but both prevented the development of myocardial fibrosis and hypertrophy. Treatment with losartan blocked the onset of hypertension and myocardial fibrosis and hypertrophy in Ang II treated rats. Activation of AT2 receptors or Mas receptors prevents the onset of myocardial fibrosis and hypertrophy in Ang II-dependent hypertension through the reduction of myocardial inflammatory cell infiltration and tyrosine hydroxylase expression. Unlike what happens in case of treatment with losartan, the antifibrotic and antihypertrophic effects that follow the activation of the AT2 or Mas receptors are independent on the modulation of blood pressure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Castoldi
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy; (A.S.); (S.P.); (G.Z.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-2-64488058
| | - Raffaella Carletti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Traslazionale e di Precisione, Sapienza Universita’ di Roma, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Silvia Ippolito
- Laboratorio Analisi Chimico Cliniche, Ospedale San Gerardo, ASST Monza, 20900 Monza, Italy;
| | - Andrea Stella
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy; (A.S.); (S.P.); (G.Z.)
| | - Gianpaolo Zerbini
- Unita Complicanze del Diabete, IRCCS Istituto Scientifico San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy;
| | - Sara Pelucchi
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy; (A.S.); (S.P.); (G.Z.)
| | - Giovanni Zatti
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy; (A.S.); (S.P.); (G.Z.)
- Clinica Ortopedica, Ospedale San Gerardo, ASST Monza, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Cira R. T. di Gioia
- Dipartimento di Scienze Radiologiche, Oncologiche e Anatomopatologiche, Istituto di Anatomia Patologica, Sapienza Universita’ di Roma, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Tornling G, Batta R, Porter JC, Williams B, Bengtsson T, Parmar K, Kashiva R, Hallberg A, Cohrt AK, Westergaard K, Dalsgaard CJ, Raud J. Seven days treatment with the angiotensin II type 2 receptor agonist C21 in hospitalized COVID-19 patients; a placebo-controlled randomised multi-centre double-blind phase 2 trial. EClinicalMedicine 2021; 41:101152. [PMID: 34723163 PMCID: PMC8542174 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2021.101152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 morbidity and mortality remains high and the need for safe and effective drugs continues despite vaccines. METHODS Double-blind, placebo-controlled, multi-centre, randomised, parallel group phase 2 trial to evaluate safety and efficacy of oral angiotensin II type 2 receptor agonist C21 in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 and CRP ≥ 50-150 mg/L conducted at eight sites in India (NCT04452435). Patients were randomly assigned 100 mg C21 bid or placebo for 7 days in addition to standard of care. Primary endpoint: reduction in CRP. The study period was 21 July to 13 October 2020. FINDINGS 106 patients were randomised and included in the analysis (51 C21, 55 placebo). There was no significant group difference in reduction of CRP, 81% and 78% in the C21 and placebo groups, respectively, with a treatment effect ratio of 0.85 [90% CI 0.57, 1.26]. In a secondary analysis in patients requiring supplemental oxygen at randomisation, CRP was reduced in the C21 group compared to placebo. At the end of the 7-day treatment, 37 (72.5%) and 30 (54.5%) of the patients did not require supplemental oxygen in the C21 and placebo group, respectively (OR 2.20 [90% CI 1.12, 4.41]). A post hoc analysis showed that at day 14, the proportion of patients not requiring supplemental oxygen was 98% and 80% in the C21 group compared to placebo (OR 12.5 [90% CI 2.9, 126]). Fewer patients required mechanical ventilation (one C21 patient; four placebo patients), and C21 was associated with a numerical reduction in the mortality rate (one vs three in the C21 and placebo group, respectively). Treatment with C21 was safe and well tolerated. INTERPRETATION Among hospitalised patients with COVID-19 receiving C21 for 7 days there was no reduction in CRP compared to placebo. However, a post-hoc analysis indicated a marked reduction of requirement for oxygen at day 14. The day 14 results from this study justify further evaluation in a Phase 3 study and such a trial is currently underway. FUNDING Vicore Pharma AB and LifeArc, UK.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Göran Tornling
- Respiratory Medicine Division, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Joanna C. Porter
- UCL Respiratory, Univeristy College London and Department of Thoracic Medicine, University College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Bryan Williams
- Institute of Cardiovascular Science, University College London and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
| | | | - Kartikeya Parmar
- B J Medical College and Department of Medicine, Civil Hospital, Asarwa, Ahmedabad Gujarat, India
| | - Reema Kashiva
- Department of Medicine, Noble Hospitals Pvt. Ltd, Hadapsar, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Anders Hallberg
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | | | - Carl-Johan Dalsgaard
- Vicore Pharma AB, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Correspondence to: Dr Carl-Johan Dalsgaard, Vicore Pharma AB, Kronhusgatan 11, SE-411 05 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Johan Raud
- Vicore Pharma AB, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Ekholm M, Kahan T. The Impact of the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System on Inflammation, Coagulation, and Atherothrombotic Complications, and to Aggravated COVID-19. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:640185. [PMID: 34220496 PMCID: PMC8245685 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.640185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is considered a disease caused by a chronic inflammation, associated with endothelial dysfunction, and several mediators of inflammation are up-regulated in subjects with atherosclerotic disease. Healthy, intact endothelium exhibits an antithrombotic, protective surface between the vascular lumen and vascular smooth muscle cells in the vessel wall. Oxidative stress is an imbalance between anti- and prooxidants, with a subsequent increase of reactive oxygen species, leading to tissue damage. The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system is of vital importance in the pathobiology of vascular disease. Convincing data indicate that angiotensin II accelerates hypertension and augments the production of reactive oxygen species. This leads to the generation of a proinflammatory phenotype in human endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells by the up-regulation of adhesion molecules, chemokines and cytokines. In addition, angiotensin II also seems to increase thrombin generation, possibly via a direct impact on tissue factor. However, the mechanism of cross-talk between inflammation and haemostasis can also contribute to prothrombotic states in inflammatory environments. Thus, blocking of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system might be an approach to reduce both inflammatory and thrombotic complications in high-risk patients. During COVID-19, the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system may be activated. The levels of angiotensin II could contribute to the ongoing inflammation, which might result in a cytokine storm, a complication that significantly impairs prognosis. At the outbreak of COVID-19 concerns were raised about the use of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blocker drugs in patients with COVID-19 and hypertension or other cardiovascular comorbidities. However, the present evidence is in favor of continuing to use of these drugs. Based on experimental evidence, blocking the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system might even exert a potentially protective influence in the setting of COVID-19.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Ekholm
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Clinical Sciences, Danderyd Hospital, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - T Kahan
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Clinical Sciences, Danderyd Hospital, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Brain angiotensin converting enzyme-2 in central cardiovascular regulation. Clin Sci (Lond) 2021; 134:2535-2547. [PMID: 33016313 DOI: 10.1042/cs20200483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The brain renin-angiotensin system (RAS) plays an important role in the regulation of autonomic and neuroendocrine functions, and maintains cardiovascular homeostasis. Ang-II is the major effector molecule of RAS and exerts most of its physiological functions, including blood pressure (BP) regulation, via activation of AT1 receptors. Dysregulation of brain RAS in the central nervous system results in increased Ang-II synthesis that leads to sympathetic outflow and hypertension. Brain angiotensin (Ang) converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) was discovered two decades ago as an RAS component, exhibiting a counter-regulatory role and opposing the adverse cardiovascular effects produced by Ang-II. Studies using synthetic compounds that can sustain the elevation of ACE2 activity or genetically overexpressed ACE2 in specific brain regions found various beneficial effects on cardiovascular function. More recently, ACE2 has been shown to play critical roles in neuro-inflammation, gut dysbiosis and the regulation of stress and anxiety-like behaviors. In the present review, we aim to highlight the anatomical locations and functional implication of brain ACE2 related to its BP regulation via modulation of the sympathetic nervous system and discuss the recent developments and future directions in the ACE2-mediated central cardiovascular regulation.
Collapse
|
21
|
Pulakat L, Sumners C. Angiotensin Type 2 Receptors: Painful, or Not? Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:571994. [PMID: 33424587 PMCID: PMC7785813 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.571994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Pain in response to various types of acute injury can be a protective stimulus to prevent the organism from using the injured part and allow tissue repair and healing. On the other hand, neuropathic pain, defined as ‘pain caused by a lesion or disease of the somatosensory nervous system’, is a debilitating pathology. The TRPA1 neurons in the Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) respond to reactive oxygen species (ROS) and induce pain. In acute nerve injury and inflammation, macrophages infiltrating the site of injury undergo an oxidative burst, and generate ROS that promote tissue repair and induce pain via TRPA1. The latter discourages using the injured limb, with a lack of movement helping wound healing. In chronic inflammation caused by diabetes, cancer etc., ROS levels increase systemically and modulate TRPA1 neuronal functions and cause debilitating neuropathic pain. It is important to distinguish between drug targets that elicit protective vs. debilitating pain when developing effective drugs for neuropathic pain. In this context, the connection of the Angiotensin type 2 receptor (AT2R) to neuropathic pain presents an interesting dilemma. Several lines of evidence show that AT2R activation promotes anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive signaling, tissue repair, and suppresses ROS in chronic inflammatory models. Conversely, some studies suggest that AT2R antagonists are anti-nociceptive and therefore AT2R is a drug target for neuropathic pain. However, AT2R expression in nociceptive neurons is lacking, indicating that neuronal AT2R is not involved in neuropathic pain. It is also important to consider that Novartis terminated their phase II clinical trial (EMPHENE) to validate that AT2R antagonist EMA401 mitigates post-herpetic neuralgia. This trial, conducted in Australia, United Kingdom, and a number of European and Asian countries in 2019, was discontinued due to pre-clinical drug toxicity data. Moreover, early data from the trial did not show statistically significant positive outcomes. These facts suggest that may AT2R not be the proper drug target for neuropathic pain in humans and its inhibition can be harmful.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lakshmi Pulakat
- Molecular Cardiology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Colin Sumners
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Zoja C, Xinaris C, Macconi D. Diabetic Nephropathy: Novel Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Targets. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:586892. [PMID: 33519447 PMCID: PMC7845653 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.586892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the major microvascular complications of diabetes mellitus and the leading cause of end-stage kidney disease. The standard treatments for diabetic patients are glucose and blood pressure control, lipid lowering, and renin-angiotensin system blockade; however, these therapeutic approaches can provide only partial renoprotection if started late in the course of the disease. One major limitation in developing efficient therapies for DN is the complex pathobiology of the diabetic kidney, which undergoes a set of profound structural, metabolic and functional changes. Despite these difficulties, experimental models of diabetes have revealed promising therapeutic targets by identifying pathways that modulate key functions of podocytes and glomerular endothelial cells. In this review we will describe recent advances in the field, analyze key molecular pathways that contribute to the pathogenesis of the disease, and discuss how they could be modulated to prevent or reverse DN.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlamaria Zoja
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Centro Anna Maria Astori, Science and Technology Park Kilometro Rosso, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Christodoulos Xinaris
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Centro Anna Maria Astori, Science and Technology Park Kilometro Rosso, Bergamo, Italy.,University of Nicosia Medical School, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Daniela Macconi
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Centro Anna Maria Astori, Science and Technology Park Kilometro Rosso, Bergamo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
ACE2 in the renin-angiotensin system. Clin Sci (Lond) 2020; 134:3063-3078. [PMID: 33264412 DOI: 10.1042/cs20200478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
In 2020 we are celebrating the 20th anniversary of the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) discovery. This event was a landmark that shaped the way that we see the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) today. ACE2 is an important molecular hub that connects the RAS classical arm, formed mainly by the octapeptide angiotensin II (Ang II) and its receptor AT1, with the RAS alternative or protective arm, formed mainly by the heptapeptides Ang-(1-7) and alamandine, and their receptors, Mas and MrgD, respectively. In this work we reviewed classical and modern literature to describe how ACE2 is a critical component of the protective arm, particularly in the context of the cardiac function, coagulation homeostasis and immune system. We also review recent literature to present a critical view of the role of ACE2 and RAS in the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.
Collapse
|
24
|
Correcting the imbalanced protective RAS in COVID-19 with angiotensin AT2-receptor agonists. Clin Sci (Lond) 2020; 134:2987-3006. [PMID: 33210709 DOI: 10.1042/cs20200922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that is responsible for the global corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic enters host cells via a mechanism that includes binding to angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) 2 (ACE2). Membrane-bound ACE2 is depleted as a result of this entry mechanism. The consequence is that the protective renin-angiotensin system (RAS), of which ACE2 is an essential component, is compromised through lack of production of the protective peptides angiotensin-(1-7) and angiotensin-(1-9), and therefore decreased stimulation of Mas (receptor Mas) and angiotensin AT2-receptors (AT2Rs), while angiotensin AT1-receptors (AT1Rs) are overstimulated due to less degradation of angiotensin II (Ang II) by ACE2. The protective RAS has numerous beneficial actions, including anti-inflammatory, anti-coagulative, anti-fibrotic effects along with endothelial and neural protection; opposite to the deleterious effects caused by heightened stimulation of angiotensin AT1R. Given that patients with severe COVID-19 exhibit an excessive immune response, endothelial dysfunction, increased clotting, thromboses and stroke, enhancing the activity of the protective RAS is likely beneficial. In this article, we discuss the evidence for a dysfunctional protective RAS in COVID and develop a rationale that the protective RAS imbalance in COVID-19 may be corrected by using AT2R agonists. We further review preclinical studies with AT2R agonists which suggest that AT2R stimulation may be therapeutically effective to treat COVID-19-induced disorders of various organ systems such as lung, vasculature, or the brain. Finally, we provide information on the design of a clinical trial in which patients with COVID-19 were treated with the AT2R agonist Compound 21 (C21). This trial has been completed, but results have not yet been reported.
Collapse
|
25
|
Silva IMS, Assersen KB, Willadsen NN, Jepsen J, Artuc M, Steckelings UM. The role of the renin‐angiotensin system in skin physiology and pathophysiology. Exp Dermatol 2020; 29:891-901. [DOI: 10.1111/exd.14159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Igor Maciel Souza Silva
- Institute of Molecular Medicine Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research University of Southern Denmark Odense C Denmark
| | - Kasper Bostlund Assersen
- Institute of Molecular Medicine Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research University of Southern Denmark Odense C Denmark
| | - Natalie Nanette Willadsen
- Institute of Molecular Medicine Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research University of Southern Denmark Odense C Denmark
| | - Julie Jepsen
- Institute of Molecular Medicine Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research University of Southern Denmark Odense C Denmark
| | - Metin Artuc
- Department of Dermatology Charité – Medical Faculty Berlin Berlin Germany
| | - Ulrike Muscha Steckelings
- Institute of Molecular Medicine Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research University of Southern Denmark Odense C Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Namsolleck P, Moll GN. Does activation of the protective Renin-Angiotensin System have therapeutic potential in COVID-19? Mol Med 2020; 26:80. [PMID: 32807075 PMCID: PMC7430134 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-020-00211-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Infection of lung cells by the corona virus results in a loss of the balance between, on the one hand, angiotensin II-mediated stimulation of the angiotensin II type 1 receptor and, on the other hand, stimulation of the angiotensin II type 2 receptor and/or the Mas receptor. The unbalanced enhanced stimulation of the angiotensin II type 1 receptor causes inflammation, edema and contributes to the pathogenesis of severe acute respiratory distress syndrome. Here we hypothesize that stable, receptor-specific agonists of the angiotensin II type 2 receptor and of the Mas receptor are molecular medicines to treat COVID-19 patients. These agonists have therapeutic potential in the acute disease but in addition may reduce COVID-19-associated long-term pulmonary dysfunction and overall end-organ damage of this disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pawel Namsolleck
- Lanthio Pharma, a MorphoSys AG company, Rozenburglaan 13B, 9727 DL, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Gert N Moll
- Lanthio Pharma, a MorphoSys AG company, Rozenburglaan 13B, 9727 DL, Groningen, the Netherlands. .,Department of Molecular Genetics, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 7, 9747 AG, Groningen, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Hedayatyanfard K, Haddadi N, Ziai SA, Karim H, Niazi F, Steckelings UM, Habibi B, Modarressi A, Dehpour A. The renin‐angiotensin system in cutaneous hypertrophic scar and keloid formation. Exp Dermatol 2020; 29:902-909. [DOI: 10.1111/exd.14154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Revised: 06/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Keshvad Hedayatyanfard
- Evidence‐Based Phytotherapy and Complementary Medicine Research Center Alborz University of Medical Sciences Karaj Iran
- Cardiovascular Research Center Alborz University of Medical Sciences Karaj Iran
| | - Nazgol‐Sadat Haddadi
- Cardiovascular Research Center Alborz University of Medical Sciences Karaj Iran
- Experimental Medicine Research Center Tehran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| | - Seyed Ali Ziai
- Department of Pharmacology School of Medicine Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences
| | - Hossein Karim
- Cardiovascular Research Center Alborz University of Medical Sciences Karaj Iran
| | - Feizollah Niazi
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| | - Ulrike Muscha Steckelings
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research University of Southern Denmark Odense Denmark
| | - Behnam Habibi
- Department of Pharmacology School of Medicine Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences
| | - Ali Modarressi
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Geneva University Hospitals Faculty of Medicine University of Geneva Switzerland
| | - Ahmad‐Reza Dehpour
- Experimental Medicine Research Center Tehran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Wang C, Pinar AA, Widdop RE, Hossain MA, Bathgate RAD, Denton KM, Kemp-Harper BK, Samuel CS. The anti-fibrotic actions of relaxin are mediated through AT 2 R-associated protein phosphatases via RXFP1-AT 2 R functional crosstalk in human cardiac myofibroblasts. FASEB J 2020; 34:8217-8233. [PMID: 32297670 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201902506r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Fibrosis is a hallmark of several cardiovascular diseases. The relaxin family peptide receptor 1 (RXFP1) agonist, relaxin, has rapidly occurring anti-fibrotic actions which are mediated through RXFP1 and angiotensin II receptor crosstalk on renal and cardiac myofibroblasts. Here, we investigated whether this would allow relaxin to indirectly activate angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2 R)-specific signal transduction in primary human cardiac myofibroblasts (HCMFs). The anti-fibrotic effects of recombinant human relaxin (RLX; 16.8 nM) or the AT2 R-agonist, Compound 21 (C21; 1 μM), were evaluated in TGF-β1-stimulated HCMFs, in the absence or presence of an RXFP1 antagonist (1 μM) or AT2 R antagonist (0.1 μM) to confirm RXFP1-AT2 R crosstalk. Competition binding for RXFP1 was determined. Western blotting was performed to determine which AT2 R-specific protein phosphatases were expressed by HCMFs; then, the anti-fibrotic effects of RLX and/or C21 were evaluated in the absence or presence of pharmacological inhibition (NSC95397 (1 μM) for MKP-1; okadaic acid (10 nM) for PP2A) or siRNA-knockdown of these phosphatases after 72 hours. The RLX- or C21-induced increase in ERK1/2 and nNOS phosphorylation, and decrease in α-SMA (myofibroblast differentiation) and collagen-I expression by HCMFs was abrogated by pharmacological blockade of RXFP1 or the AT2 R, confirming RXFP1-AT2 R crosstalk in these cells. HCMFs were found to express AT2 R-dependent MKP-1 and PP2A phosphatases, while pharmacological blockade or siRNA-knockdown of either phosphatase also abolished RLX and/or C21 signal transduction in HCMFs (all P < .05 vs RLX or C21 alone). These findings demonstrated that RLX can indirectly activate AT2 R-dependent phosphatase activity in HCMFs by signaling through RXFP1-AT2 R crosstalk, which have important therapeutic implications for its anti-fibrotic actions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chao Wang
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Anita A Pinar
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Robert E Widdop
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Mohammed A Hossain
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Ross A D Bathgate
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Kate M Denton
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Barbara K Kemp-Harper
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Chrishan S Samuel
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Verma A, Zhu P, de Kloet A, Krause E, Sumners C, Li Q. Angiotensin receptor expression revealed by reporter mice and beneficial effects of AT2R agonist in retinal cells. Exp Eye Res 2019; 187:107770. [PMID: 31449794 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2019.107770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) plays a vital role in cardiovascular physiology and body homeostasis. In addition to circulating RAS, a local RAS exists in the retina. Dysfunction of local RAS, resulting in increased levels of Angiotensin II (Ang II) and activation of AT1R-mediated signaling pathways, contributes to tissue pathophysiology and end-organ damage. Activation of AT2R on other hand is known to counteract the effects of AT1R activation and produce anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects. We examined the expression of angiotensin receptors in the retina by using transgenic dual reporter mice and by real-time RT-PCR. We further evaluated the effects of C21, a selective agonist of AT2R, in reducing Ang II, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and hydrogen peroxide induced oxidative stress and inflammatory responses in cultured human ARPE-19 cells. We showed that both AT1Ra and AT2R positive cells are detected in different cell types of the eye, including the RPE/choroid complex, ciliary body/iris, and neural retina. AT1Ra is more abundantly expressed than AT2R in mouse retina, consistent with previous reports. In the neural retina, AT1Ra are also detected in photoreceptors whereas AT2R are mostly expressed in the inner retinal neurons and RGCs. In cultured human RPE cells, activation of AT2R with C21 significantly blocked Ang II, LPS and hydrogen peroxide -induced NF-κB activation and inflammatory cytokine expression; Ang II and hydrogen peroxide-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and MG132-induced apoptosis, comparable to the effects of Angiotensin-(1-7) (Ang-(1-7)), another protective component of the RAS, although C21 is more potent in reducing some of the effects induced by Ang II, whereas Ang-(1-7) is more effective in reducing some of the LPS and hydrogen peroxide-induced effects. These results suggest that activation of AT2R may represent a new therapeutic approach for retinal diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amrisha Verma
- Departments of Ophthalmology, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Ping Zhu
- Departments of Ophthalmology, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Annette de Kloet
- Physiology & Functional Genomics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Eric Krause
- College of Medicine, Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Colin Sumners
- Physiology & Functional Genomics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Qiuhong Li
- Departments of Ophthalmology, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA.
| |
Collapse
|