1
|
Frame AA, Nist KM, Kim K, Puleo F, Moreira JD, Swaldi H, McKenna J, Wainford RD. Integrated renal and sympathetic mechanisms underlying the development of sex- and age-dependent hypertension and the salt sensitivity of blood pressure. GeroScience 2024:10.1007/s11357-024-01266-1. [PMID: 38976131 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-024-01266-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Aging is a non-modifiable understudied risk factor for hypertension. We hypothesized that sympathetically mediated activation of renal sodium reabsorption drives age-dependent hypertension and the salt sensitivity of blood pressure (BP). Using 3-, 8-, and 16-month-old male and female Sprague-Dawley rats as a model of normal aging, we assessed BP, indices of sympathetic tone, and the physiological responses to acute and chronic sodium challenge including sodium chloride cotransporter (NCC) regulation. The effects of renal nerve ablation and NCC antagonism were assessed in hypertensive male rats. We observed sex-dependent impaired renal sodium handling (24 h sodium balance (meq), male 3-month 0.36 ± 0.1 vs. 16-month 0.84 ± 0.2; sodium load excreted during 5% bodyweight isotonic saline volume expansion (%) male 3-month 77 ± 5 vs. 16-month 22 ± 8), hypertension (MAP (mmHg) male 3-month 123 ± 4 vs. 16-month 148 ± 6), and the salt sensitivity of BP in aged male, but not female, rats. Attenuated sympathoinhibitory afferent renal nerve (ARN) responses contributed to increased sympathetic tone and hypertension in male rats. Increased sympathetic tone contributes to renal sodium retention, in part through increased NCC activity via a dysfunctional with-no-lysine kinase-(WNK) STE20/SPS1-related proline/alanine-rich kinase signaling pathway, to drive hypertension and the salt sensitivity of BP in aged male rats. NCC antagonism and renal nerve ablation, which reduced WNK dysfunction and decreased NCC activity, attenuated age-dependent hypertension in male Sprague-Dawley rats. The contribution of an impaired sympathoinhibitory ARN reflex to sex- and age-dependent hypertension in an NCC-dependent manner, via an impaired WNK1/WNK4 dynamic, suggests this pathway as a mechanism-based target for the treatment of age-dependent hypertension.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alissa A Frame
- Department of Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics and the Whitaker Cardiovascular Institute, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kayla M Nist
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kiyoung Kim
- Department of Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics and the Whitaker Cardiovascular Institute, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Franco Puleo
- Department of Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics and the Whitaker Cardiovascular Institute, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jesse D Moreira
- Department of Health Sciences, Sargent College, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hailey Swaldi
- Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, 1750 Haygood Drive, Atlanta, GA, N22030322, USA
| | - James McKenna
- Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, 1750 Haygood Drive, Atlanta, GA, N22030322, USA
| | - Richard D Wainford
- Department of Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics and the Whitaker Cardiovascular Institute, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
- Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, 1750 Haygood Drive, Atlanta, GA, N22030322, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Lázaro I, Bobi J, Cofán M, Kapravelou G, Amor AJ, Surra J, Gómez-Guerrero C, Ortega E, Osada J, Dantas AP, Sala-Vila A. Walnut inclusion in a palm oil-based atherogenic diet promotes traits predicting stable atheroma plaque in Apoe-deficient mice. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1079407. [PMID: 36845063 PMCID: PMC9944036 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1079407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The lower rates of cardiovascular disease in Southern Europe could be partially explained by the low prevalence of lipid-rich atheroma plaques. Consumption of certain foods affects the progression and severity of atherosclerosis. We investigated whether the isocaloric inclusion of walnuts within an atherogenic diet prevents phenotypes predicting unstable atheroma plaque in a mouse model of accelerated atherosclerosis. Methods Apolipoprotein E-deficient male mice (10-week-old) were randomized to receive a control diet (9.6% of energy as fat, n = 14), a palm oil-based high-fat diet (43% of energy as fat, n = 15), or an isocaloric diet in which part of palm oil was replaced by walnuts in a dose equivalent to 30 g/day in humans (n = 14). All diets contained 0.2% cholesterol. Results After 15 weeks of intervention, there were no differences in size and extension in aortic atherosclerosis among groups. Compared to control diet, palm oil-diet induced features predicting unstable atheroma plaque (higher lipid content, necrosis, and calcification), and more advanced lesions (Stary score). Walnut inclusion attenuated these features. Palm oil-based diet also boosted inflammatory aortic storm (increased expression of chemokines, cytokines, inflammasome components, and M1 macrophage phenotype markers) and promoted defective efferocytosis. Such response was not observed in the walnut group. The walnut group's differential activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB; downregulated) and Nrf2 (upregulated) in the atherosclerotic lesion could explain these findings. Conclusion The isocaloric inclusion of walnuts in an unhealthy high-fat diet promotes traits predicting stable advanced atheroma plaque in mid-life mice. This contributes novel evidence for the benefits of walnuts, even in an unhealthy dietary environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iolanda Lázaro
- Cardiovascular Risk and Nutrition, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain,*Correspondence: Iolanda Lázaro,
| | - Joaquim Bobi
- Experimental Cardiology, Institut Clínic Cardiovascular, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain,Division of Experimental Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Montserrat Cofán
- CIBER de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain,Translational Research in Diabetes, Lipids and Obesity, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Garyfallia Kapravelou
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology (INyTA), Center for Biomedical Research, Center for Research in Sport and Health (IMUDS), Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Antonio J. Amor
- Endocrinology and Nutrition Department, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Joaquin Surra
- CIBER de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain,Department of Producción Animal, Escuela Politécnica Superior de Huesca, Huesca, Spain
| | - Carmen Gómez-Guerrero
- Renal, Vascular and Diabetes Research Lab, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Madrid, Spain,CIBER de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Emilio Ortega
- CIBER de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain,Translational Research in Diabetes, Lipids and Obesity, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain,Endocrinology and Nutrition Department, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jesus Osada
- CIBER de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain,Department of Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular, Facultad Veterinaria, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ana Paula Dantas
- Experimental Cardiology, Institut Clínic Cardiovascular, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Aleix Sala-Vila
- Cardiovascular Risk and Nutrition, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain,Aleix Sala-Vila,
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Stallone JN, Oloyo AK. Cardiovascular and metabolic actions of the androgens: Is testosterone a Janus-faced molecule? Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 208:115347. [PMID: 36395900 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.115347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide and in the Western world, one-third of all deaths are attributed to CVD. A conspicuous characteristic of this healthcare epidemic is that most CVD is higher in men than in age-matched premenopausal women, yet reasons for these obvious sex differences remain poorly understood. Driven by clinical case and epidemiological studies and supported by animal experiments, a strong dogma emerged early on that testosterone (TES) exerts deleterious effects on cardiovascular health and exacerbates development of CVD and metabolic dysfunctions in men. In this review, earlier and more recent clinical and experimental animal evidence of cardiovascular and metabolic effects of androgens are discussed. The more recent evidence overwhelmingly suggests that it is progressive, age-dependent declines in TES levels in men that exacerbate CVD and metabolic dysfunctions, while TES exerts beneficial systemic hypotensive effects and protects against metabolic syndrome (MetS) and type2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Recent findings reveal existence of bi-directional modulation of glucose and fat homeostasis by TES in females vs males, such that age-dependent declines in TES levels in males and abnormal increases in normally low TES levels in females both result in similar dysfunction in glucose and fat homeostasis, resulting in development of MetS and T2DM, central risk factors for development of CVD, in men as well as women. These findings suggest that the long-held view that TES is detrimental to male health should be discarded in favor of the view that, at least in men, TES is beneficial to cardiovascular and metabolic health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John N Stallone
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology and Michael E. DeBakey Institute for Comparative Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-4466, United States.
| | - Ahmed K Oloyo
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Idi-Araba, Lagos 23401, Nigeria
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Li G, Xu K, Xing W, Yang H, Li Y, Wang X, Zhou J, An J, Dong L, Zhang X, Wang L, Li J, Gao F. Swimming Exercise Alleviates Endothelial Mitochondrial Fragmentation via Inhibiting Dynamin-Related Protein-1 to Improve Vascular Function in Hypertension. Hypertension 2022; 79:e116-e128. [PMID: 35950516 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.122.19126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Regular exercise has been recommended clinically for all individuals to protect against hypertension but the underlying mechanisms are not fully elucidated. We recently found a significant mitochondrial fragmentation in the vascular endothelium of hypertensive human subjects. In this study, we investigated whether exercise could restore endothelial mitochondrial dynamics and thus improve vascular function in hypertension. METHODS Vascular endothelial mitochondrial morphological alterations were examined in patients with hypertension and hypertensive animal models. Furthermore, swimming exercise-induced endothelial mitochondrial dynamics and vascular function changes were investigated in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). RESULTS Mitochondrial fragmentation with an elevated mitochondrial fission mediator Drp1 (dynamin-related protein-1) was observed in the mesenteric artery endothelium from hypertensive patients. A similar mitochondrial fragmentation with increased Drp1 expression were exhibited in the aortic endothelium of angiotensin II-induced hypertensive mice and SHRs. Interestingly, swimming exercise significantly reduced vascular Drp1 expression and alleviated endothelial mitochondrial fragmentation, thus improving blood pressure in SHRs. In cultured endothelial cells, angiotensin II exposure induced Drp1 upregulation, mitochondrial fragmentation and dysfunction, and reduced nitric oxide production, which was blunted by Drp1 genetic reduction or its inhibitor Mdivi-1. Mdivi-1 administration also ameliorated endothelial mitochondrial fragmentation, vascular dysfunction and blood pressure elevation in SHRs while swimming exercise plus Mdivi-1 treatment provided no additional benefits, suggesting that Drp1 inhibition may partially contribute to swimming exercise-conferred anti-hypertensive effects. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that swimming exercise alleviates endothelial mitochondrial fragmentation via inhibiting Drp1, which may contribute to exercise-induced improvement of vascular function and blood pressure in hypertension.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guohua Li
- Key Laboratory of Aerospace Medicine of the Ministry of Education, School of Aerospace Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ke Xu
- Key Laboratory of Aerospace Medicine of the Ministry of Education, School of Aerospace Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wenjuan Xing
- Key Laboratory of Aerospace Medicine of the Ministry of Education, School of Aerospace Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hongyan Yang
- Key Laboratory of Aerospace Medicine of the Ministry of Education, School of Aerospace Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Youyou Li
- Key Laboratory of Aerospace Medicine of the Ministry of Education, School of Aerospace Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xinpei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Aerospace Medicine of the Ministry of Education, School of Aerospace Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jiaheng Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Aerospace Medicine of the Ministry of Education, School of Aerospace Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jiong An
- Key Laboratory of Aerospace Medicine of the Ministry of Education, School of Aerospace Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ling Dong
- Key Laboratory of Aerospace Medicine of the Ministry of Education, School of Aerospace Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Aerospace Medicine of the Ministry of Education, School of Aerospace Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Li Wang
- Key Laboratory of Aerospace Medicine of the Ministry of Education, School of Aerospace Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jia Li
- Key Laboratory of Aerospace Medicine of the Ministry of Education, School of Aerospace Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Feng Gao
- Key Laboratory of Aerospace Medicine of the Ministry of Education, School of Aerospace Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Santos JD, Oliveira Neto JT, Barros PR, Damasceno LEA, Lautherbach N, Assis AP, Silva CAA, Sorgi CA, Faccioli LH, Kettelhut IC, Salgado HC, Carneiro FS, Alves Filho JC, Tostes RC. Th17 cells-linked mechanisms mediate vascular dysfunction induced by testosterone in a mouse model of gender-affirming hormone therapy. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2022; 323:H322-H335. [PMID: 35714175 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00182.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Clinical data point to adverse cardiovascular events elicited by testosterone replacement therapy. Testosterone is the main hormone used in gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) by transmasculine people. However, the cardiovascular impact of testosterone in experimental models of GAHT remains unknown. Sex hormones modulate T cells activation, and immune mechanisms contribute to cardiovascular risk. The present study evaluated whether testosterone negatively impacts female cardiovascular function by enhancing Th17 cells-linked effector mechanisms. Female (8 weeks-old) C57BL/6J mice received testosterone (48 mg.Kg-1.week-1) for 8 weeks. Male mice were used for phenotypical comparisons. The hormone-treatment in female mice increased circulating testosterone to levels observed in male mice. Testosterone increased lean body mass and body mass index, and decreased perigonadal fat mass, mimicking clinical findings. After 8 weeks, testosterone decreased endothelium-dependent vasodilation and increased circulating Th17 cells. After 24 weeks, testosterone increased blood pressure in female mice. Ovariectomy did not intensify phenotypical or cardiovascular effects by testosterone. Female mice lacking T and B cells [Rag1 knockout (-/-)], as well as female mice lacking IL-17 receptor (IL-17Ra-/-), did not exhibit vascular dysfunction induced by testosterone. Testosterone impaired endothelium-dependent vasodilation in female mice lacking γδ T cells, similarly to the observed in wild type female mice. Adoptive transfer of CD4+ T cells restored testosterone-induced vascular dysfunction in Rag1-/- female mice. Together, these data suggest that CD4+ T cells, most likely Th17 cells, are central to vascular dysfunction induced by testosterone in female mice, indicating that changes in immune cells balance are important in the GAHT in transmasculine people.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeimison D Santos
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - José T Oliveira Neto
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Paula R Barros
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luis Eduardo Alves Damasceno
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Natalia Lautherbach
- Biochemistry and Immunology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Ana P Assis
- Biochemistry and Immunology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Carlos A A Silva
- Department of Physiology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carlos A Sorgi
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Philosophy, Sciences and Letters at Ribeira Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lucia H Faccioli
- Department of Clinical Analyses, Toxicology and Food Science, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Isis C Kettelhut
- Biochemistry and Immunology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Helio C Salgado
- Department of Physiology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernando S Carneiro
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jose C Alves Filho
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rita C Tostes
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Butts CA, Hedderley DI, Martell S, Dinnan H, Middlemiss-Kraak S, Bunn BJ, McGhie TK, Lill RE. Influence of oral administration of kukoamine A on blood pressure in a rat hypertension model. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0267567. [PMID: 35522680 PMCID: PMC9075663 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0267567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The benefits of lowering blood pressure (BP) are well established for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. While there are a number of pharmaceuticals available for lowering BP, there is considerable interest in using dietary modifications, lifestyle and behaviour changes as alternative strategies. Kukoamines, caffeic acid derivatives of polyamines present in solanaceous plants, have been reported to reduce BP. We investigated the effect of orally administered synthetic kukoamine A on BP in the Spontaneously Hypertensive Rat (SHR) laboratory animal model of hypertension. Prior to the hypertension study, we determined the safety of the synthetic kukoamine A in a single oral dose (5 or 10 mg kg-1 bodyweight) 14-day observational study in mice. No negative effects of the oral administration of kukoamine A were observed. We subsequently investigated the effect of daily oral doses of kukoamine A (0, 5, 10 mg kg-1 bodyweight) for 35 days using the SHR rat model of hypertension. The normotensive control Wistar Kyoto (WKY) strain was used to provide a baseline for normal BP in rats. We observed no effect of orally administered synthetic kukoamine A on arterial hypertension in this laboratory animal model of hypertension.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christine A. Butts
- The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Limited, Palmerston North, New Zealand
- * E-mail:
| | - Duncan I. Hedderley
- The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Limited, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Sheridan Martell
- The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Limited, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Hannah Dinnan
- The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Limited, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | | | - Barry J. Bunn
- The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Limited, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Tony K. McGhie
- The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Limited, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Ross E. Lill
- The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Limited, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Chagari B, Shi LJ, Dao E, An A, Chen MH, Bao Y, Shi W. Genetic connection of carotid atherosclerosis with coat color and body weight in an intercross between hyperlipidemic mouse strains. Physiol Genomics 2022; 54:166-176. [PMID: 35384748 PMCID: PMC9109791 DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00006.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis in the carotid artery is a major cause of ischemic stroke and has a strong genetic component. The aim of this study was to identify genetic factors contributing to carotid atherosclerosis. One hundred fifty-four female F2 mice were generated from an intercross between LP/J and BALB/cJ Apoe-null (Apoe-/-) mice and fed 12 wk of Western diet. Atherosclerotic lesions, body weight, and coat color were measured and genotyping was performed using miniMUGA genotyping arrays. A significant quantitative trait locus (QTL) on chromosome (Chr) 7, named Cath20, and five suggestive QTL on Chr 6, 12, 13, 15, and X were identified for carotid lesions. Three significant QTL, Bwfq2, Bw1n, Bwtq6, on Chr 2, 7, and 15 were identified for body weight. Two significant QTL, Chop2 and Albc2, on Chr 4 and 7 were identified for coat color, with Tyr, encoding tyrosinase, being the causal gene of Albc2. Cath20 overlapped with or was close to QTL Bw1n and Albc2 on Chr7. Carotid lesion sizes were significantly correlated with body weight and graded coat color in F2 mice. Cath20 on Chr7 disappeared after adjustment for coat color but remained after adjustment for body weight. Tyr was abundantly expressed in atherosclerotic lesions. These results demonstrate genetic connections of carotid atherosclerosis with body weight and coat color in hyperlipidemic mice and suggest a potential role for Tyr in carotid atherosclerosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bilhan Chagari
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Lisa J Shi
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Evelyn Dao
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Alexander An
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Mei-Hua Chen
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Yongde Bao
- Department of Microbiology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Weibin Shi
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Chen J, Li K, Shao J, Lai Z, Gao R, Wang C, Song X, Guo W, Yu X, Du F, Zhu Z, Wang J, Ma J, Xu L, Zhou Y, Liu J, Shu K, Zhao H, Wang J, Liu B. Irisin Suppresses Nicotine-Mediated Atherosclerosis by Attenuating Endothelial Cell Migration, Proliferation, Cell Cycle Arrest, and Cell Senescence. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:851603. [PMID: 35463776 PMCID: PMC9023791 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.851603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerotic disease has become the major cause of death worldwide. Smoking, as a widespread independent risk factor, further strengthens the health burden of atherosclerosis. Irisin is a cytokine that increases after physical activity and shows an atheroprotective effect, while its specific mechanism in the process of atherosclerosis is little known. The reversal effect of irisin on intimal thickening induced by smoking-mediated atherosclerosis was identified in Apoe–/– mice through the integrin αVβ5 receptor. Endothelial cells treated with nicotine and irisin were further subjected to RNA-seq for further illustrating the potential mechanism of irisin in atherosclerosis, as well as the wound healing assays, CCK-8 assays, β-gal staining and cell cycle determination to confirm phenotypic alterations. Endothelial differential expressed gene enrichment showed focal adhesion for migration and proliferation, as well as the P53 signaling pathway for cell senescence and cell cycle control. Irisin exerts antagonistic effects on nicotine-mediated migration and proliferation via the integrin αVβ5/PI3K pathway. In addition, irisin inhibits nicotine-mediated endothelial senescence and cell cycle arrest in G0/G1 phase via P53/P21 pathway. This study further illustrates the molecular mechanism of irisin in atherosclerosis and stresses its potential as an anti-atherosclerotic therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junye Chen
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Kang Li
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jiang Shao
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhichao Lai
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ran Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Department of Pathophysiology, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Chaonan Wang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xitao Song
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wenjun Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Department of Pathophysiology, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoxi Yu
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Eight-Year Program of Clinical Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fenghe Du
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Four-Year Program of Clinical Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhan Zhu
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Eight-Year Program of Clinical Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jiaxian Wang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Eight-Year Program of Clinical Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jiangyu Ma
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Eight-Year Program of Clinical Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Leyin Xu
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Zhou
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Eight-Year Program of Clinical Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jianghao Liu
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Eight-Year Program of Clinical Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Keqiang Shu
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hongmei Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Department of Pathophysiology, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Hongmei Zhao,
| | - Jing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Department of Pathophysiology, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Jing Wang,
| | - Bao Liu
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Bao Liu,
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Li J, Taylor AM, Manichaikul A, Angle JF, Shi W. Reticulocalbin 2 as a Potential Biomarker and Therapeutic Target for Atherosclerosis. Cells 2022; 11:1107. [PMID: 35406670 PMCID: PMC8997427 DOI: 10.3390/cells11071107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular inflammation initiated by oxidized lipoproteins drives initiation, progression, and even rupture of atherosclerotic plaques. Yet, to date, no biomarker is directly linked to oxidized lipid-induced vascular inflammation. Reticulocalbin 2 (RCN2) is a key regulator of basal and oxidized lipid-induced cytokine production in arterial wall cells. We evaluated the potential of circulating RCN2 to identify subjects with or at risk of developing atherosclerosis. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed abundant RCN2 expression in the endothelium and adventitia of normal arteries and in atherosclerotic lesions of both humans and mice. Atherosclerosis-susceptible C57BL/6 (B6) mice had higher plasma Rcn2 levels than resistant C3H mice. High-fat diet feeding raised plasma Rcn2 levels of both strains. In humans, patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) or peripheral artery disease (PAD) showed elevated serum RCN2 levels compared to healthy controls. In a cohort of 92 CAD patients, serum RCN2 exhibited a significant inverse correlation with HDL cholesterol and K+ levels and a trend toward association with white blood cell account, Na+, statin treatment, and diastolic blood pressure. HDL treatment suppressed Rcn2 expression in endothelial cells. This study suggests that circulating RCN2 is a potential non-invasive biomarker for identifying individuals with atherosclerosis and HDL protects against atherosclerosis by downregulation of RCN2 expression in endothelial cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Li
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA; (J.L.); (J.F.A.)
| | - Angela M. Taylor
- Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA;
| | - Ani Manichaikul
- Center for Public Health & Genomics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA;
| | - John F. Angle
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA; (J.L.); (J.F.A.)
| | - Weibin Shi
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA; (J.L.); (J.F.A.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Sainsily X, Coquerel D, Giguère H, Dumont L, Tran K, Noll C, Ionescu AL, Côté J, Longpré JM, Carpentier A, Marsault É, Lesur O, Sarret P, Auger-Messier M. Elabela Protects Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats From Hypertension and Cardiorenal Dysfunctions Exacerbated by Dietary High-Salt Intake. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:709467. [PMID: 34385922 PMCID: PMC8353398 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.709467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Arterial hypertension, when exacerbated by excessive dietary salt intake, worsens the morbidity and mortality rates associated with cardiovascular and renal diseases. Stimulation of the apelinergic system appears to protect against several circulatory system diseases, but it remains unknown if such beneficial effects are conserved in severe hypertension. Therefore, we aimed at determining whether continuous infusion of apelinergic ligands (i.e., Apelin-13 and Elabela) exerted cardiorenal protective effects in spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) rats receiving high-salt diet. Methods: A combination of echocardiography, binding assay, histology, and biochemical approaches were used to investigate the cardiovascular and renal effects of Apelin-13 or Elabela infusion over 6 weeks in SHR fed with normal-salt or high-salt chow. Results: High-salt intake upregulated the cardiac and renal expression of APJ receptor in SHR. Importantly, Elabela was more effective than Apelin-13 in reducing high blood pressure, cardiovascular and renal dysfunctions, fibrosis and hypertrophy in high-salt fed SHR. Unlike Apelin-13, the beneficial effects of Elabela were associated with a counter-regulatory role of the ACE/ACE2/neprilysin axis of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) in heart and kidneys of salt-loaded SHR. Interestingly, Elabela also displayed higher affinity for APJ in the presence of high salt concentration and better resistance to RAAS enzymes known to cleave Apelin-13. Conclusion: These findings highlight the protective action of the apelinergic system against salt-induced severe hypertension and cardiorenal failure. As compared with Apelin-13, Elabela displays superior pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties that warrant further investigation of its therapeutic use in cardiovascular and kidney diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xavier Sainsily
- Département de Médecine, Centre de Recherche du CHUS, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.,Département de Pharmacologie et Physiologie, Centre de Recherche du CHUS, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.,Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - David Coquerel
- Département de Médecine, Centre de Recherche du CHUS, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.,Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Hugo Giguère
- Département de Médecine, Centre de Recherche du CHUS, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.,Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Lauralyne Dumont
- Département de Médecine, Centre de Recherche du CHUS, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.,Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Kien Tran
- Département de Pharmacologie et Physiologie, Centre de Recherche du CHUS, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.,Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Christophe Noll
- Département de Médecine, Centre de Recherche du CHUS, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Andrei L Ionescu
- Département de Médecine, Centre de Recherche du CHUS, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.,Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Jérôme Côté
- Département de Pharmacologie et Physiologie, Centre de Recherche du CHUS, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.,Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Jean-Michel Longpré
- Département de Pharmacologie et Physiologie, Centre de Recherche du CHUS, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.,Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - André Carpentier
- Département de Médecine, Centre de Recherche du CHUS, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Éric Marsault
- Département de Pharmacologie et Physiologie, Centre de Recherche du CHUS, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.,Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Olivier Lesur
- Département de Médecine, Centre de Recherche du CHUS, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.,Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Philippe Sarret
- Département de Pharmacologie et Physiologie, Centre de Recherche du CHUS, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.,Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Mannix Auger-Messier
- Département de Médecine, Centre de Recherche du CHUS, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.,Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Hu R, McDonough AA, Layton AT. Sex differences in solute and water handling in the human kidney: Modeling and functional implications. iScience 2021; 24:102667. [PMID: 34169242 PMCID: PMC8209279 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.102667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The kidneys maintain homeostasis by controlling the amount of water and electrolytes in the blood. That function is accomplished by the nephrons, which transform glomerular filtrate into urine by a transport process mediated by membrane transporters. We postulate that the distribution of renal transporters along the nephron is markedly different between men and women, as recently shown in rodents. We hypothesize that the larger abundance of a renal Na+ transport in the proximal tubules in females may also better prepare them for the fluid retention adaptations required during pregnancy and lactation. Also, kidneys play a key role in blood pressure regulation, and a popular class of anti-hypertensive medications and angiotensin converting enzymes (ACE) inhibitors have been reported to be less effective in women. Model simulations suggest that the blunted natriuretic and diuretic effects of ACE inhibition in women can be attributed, in part, to their higher distal baseline transport capacity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rui Hu
- Department of Applied Mathematics, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Alicia A. McDonough
- Department of Physiology and Neuroscience, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Anita T. Layton
- Department of Applied Mathematics, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
- Department of Biology, Cheriton School of Computer Science, and School of Pharmacology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Sivasubramaniyam T, Yang J, Pollock E, Chon J, Schroer SA, Li YZ, Metherel AH, Dodington DW, Bazinet RP, Woo M. Hepatic Igf1-Deficiency Protects Against Atherosclerosis in Female Mice. Endocrinology 2021; 162:6153998. [PMID: 33647942 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is the leading cause of cardiovascular disease (CVD), with distinct sex-specific pathogenic mechanisms that are poorly understood. Aging, a major independent risk factor for atherosclerosis, correlates with a decline in circulating insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). However, the precise effects of Igf1 on atherosclerosis remain unclear. In the present study, we assessed the essential role of hepatic Igf1, the major source of circulating IGF-1, in atherogenesis. We generated hepatic Igf1-deficient atherosclerosis-prone apolipoprotein E (ApoE)-null mice (L-Igf1-/-ApoE-/-) using the Cre-loxP system driven by the Albumin promoter. Starting at 6 weeks of age, these mice and their littermate controls, separated into male and female groups, were placed on an atherogenic diet for 18 to 19 weeks. We show that hepatic Igf1-deficiency led to atheroprotection with reduced plaque macrophages in females, without significant effects in males. This protection from atherosclerosis in females was associated with increased subcutaneous adiposity and with impaired lipolysis. Moreover, this impaired lipid homeostasis was associated with disrupted adipokine secretion with reduced circulating interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels. Together, our data show that endogenous hepatic Igf1 plays a sex-specific regulatory role in atherogenesis, potentially through athero-promoting effects of adipose tissue-derived IL-6 secretion. These data provide potential novel sex-specific mechanisms in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tharini Sivasubramaniyam
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Jiaqi Yang
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Evan Pollock
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Joseph Chon
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Stephanie A Schroer
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Yu Zhe Li
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 2C4, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 2M9, Canada
| | - Adam H Metherel
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3E2, Canada
| | - David W Dodington
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Richard P Bazinet
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3E2, Canada
| | - Minna Woo
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 2C4, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 2M9, Canada
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 2M9, Canada
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University Health Network/ Sinai Health System, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 2C4, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Sierra-Ramos C, Velazquez-Garcia S, Keskus AG, Vastola-Mascolo A, Rodríguez-Rodríguez AE, Luis-Lima S, Hernández G, Navarro-González JF, Porrini E, Konu O, Alvarez de la Rosa D. Increased SGK1 activity potentiates mineralocorticoid/NaCl-induced kidney injury. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2021; 320:F628-F643. [PMID: 33586495 DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00505.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Serum and glucocorticoid-regulated kinase 1 (SGK1) stimulates aldosterone-dependent renal Na+ reabsorption and modulates blood pressure. In addition, genetic ablation or pharmacological inhibition of SGK1 limits the development of kidney inflammation and fibrosis in response to excess mineralocorticoid signaling. In this work, we tested the hypothesis that a systemic increase in SGK1 activity would potentiate mineralocorticoid/salt-induced hypertension and kidney injury. To that end, we used a transgenic mouse model with increased SGK1 activity. Mineralocorticoid/salt-induced hypertension and kidney damage was induced by unilateral nephrectomy and treatment with deoxycorticosterone acetate and NaCl in the drinking water for 6 wk. Our results show that although SGK1 activation did not induce significantly higher blood pressure, it produced a mild increase in glomerular filtration rate, increased albuminuria, and exacerbated glomerular hypertrophy and fibrosis. Transcriptomic analysis showed that extracellular matrix- and immune response-related terms were enriched in the downregulated and upregulated genes, respectively, in transgenic mice. In conclusion, we propose that systemically increased SGK1 activity is a risk factor for the development of mineralocorticoid-dependent kidney injury in the context of low renal mass and independently of blood pressure.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Increased activity of the protein kinase serum and glucocorticoid-regulated kinase 1 may be a risk factor for accelerated renal damage. Serum and glucocorticoid-regulated kinase 1 expression could be a marker for the rapid progression toward chronic kidney disease and a potential therapeutic target to slow down the process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catalina Sierra-Ramos
- Departamento de Ciencias Médicas Básicas, Universidad de La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Silvia Velazquez-Garcia
- Departamento de Ciencias Médicas Básicas, Universidad de La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain.,Instituto de Tecnologías Biomédicas, Universidad de La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Ayse G Keskus
- Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Program, Bilkent University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Arianna Vastola-Mascolo
- Departamento de Ciencias Médicas Básicas, Universidad de La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | | | - Sergio Luis-Lima
- Instituto de Tecnologías Biomédicas, Universidad de La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain.,Departamento de Medicina Interna, Universidad de La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Guadalberto Hernández
- Departamento de Ciencias Médicas Básicas, Universidad de La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain.,Instituto de Tecnologías Biomédicas, Universidad de La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Juan F Navarro-González
- Instituto de Tecnologías Biomédicas, Universidad de La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain.,Unidad de Investigación y Servicio de Nefrología, Hospital Universitario Nuestra Señora de Candelaria, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Esteban Porrini
- Instituto de Tecnologías Biomédicas, Universidad de La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain.,Departamento de Medicina Interna, Universidad de La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Ozlen Konu
- Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Program, Bilkent University, Ankara, Turkey.,Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Science, Bilkent University, Ankara, Turkey.,UNAM-Institute of Materials Science and Nanotechnology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Diego Alvarez de la Rosa
- Departamento de Ciencias Médicas Básicas, Universidad de La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain.,Instituto de Tecnologías Biomédicas, Universidad de La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Chen SY, Chen YZ, Lee YJ, Jiang CL, Lu SC, Lin FJ. Maternal hypercholesterolemia exacerbates atherosclerosis lesions in female offspring through potentiating macrophage polarization toward an inflammatory M1 phenotype. J Nutr Biochem 2020; 90:108575. [PMID: 33387610 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2020.108575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Maternal hypercholesterolemia induces early onset of cardiovascular diseases in offspring; however, its underlying mechanism remains poorly understood. We hypothesized that maternal hypercholesterolemia increases offspring susceptibility to atherosclerosis in adulthood through developmental modifications of macrophages. Female apolipoprotein E (ApoE)-deficient mice were fed a Western-type diet (WD) or a control diet (CD) prior to and throughout gestation and lactation. The offspring were all fed a WD after weaning. Sixteen-week-old female offspring of WD-fed dams showed a significant increase in atherosclerotic lesions of the aorta and aortic root compared with those of CD-fed dams. This effect was associated with increased macrophage accumulation within lesions, macrophage inflammation and an increase in circulating Ly6Chigh monocyte and F4/80 macrophage counts. We further evidenced that in utero WD exposure promoted macrophage polarization toward the M1 phenotype by elevating M1 markers (Cd86, Inos/Nos2) without affecting M2 markers (Cd206, Arg1). Proinflammatory cytokine synthesis was also enhanced in response to LPS. Finally, maternal WD intake strongly inhibited the macrophage expression of Pparg and Lxra, which was associated with aberrant DNA methylation of Lxra promoter. Our findings demonstrate that maternal hypercholesterolemia exacerbates atherosclerosis, in part by altering the epigenetic state of the macrophage genome of the offspring, imprinting gene expression, and changing macrophage polarization, which ultimately contributes to plaque macrophage burden.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sin-Yu Chen
- Department of Biochemical Science and Technology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Zhen Chen
- Department of Biochemical Science and Technology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Jing Lee
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Lin Jiang
- Department of Biochemical Science and Technology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shao-Chun Lu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Fu-Jung Lin
- Department of Biochemical Science and Technology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan; Research Center for Development Biology and Regenerative Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Lima‐Posada I, Bobadilla NA. Understanding the opposite effects of sex hormones in mediating renal injury. Nephrology (Carlton) 2020; 26:217-226. [DOI: 10.1111/nep.13806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ixchel Lima‐Posada
- Molecular Physiology Unit Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico Mexico City Mexico
- Department of Nephrology and Mineral Metabolism Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán Mexico City Mexico
| | - Norma A. Bobadilla
- Molecular Physiology Unit Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico Mexico City Mexico
- Department of Nephrology and Mineral Metabolism Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán Mexico City Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Hanson AE, Perusquia M, Stallone JN. Hypogonadal hypertension in male Sprague-Dawley rats is renin-angiotensin system-dependent: role of endogenous androgens. Biol Sex Differ 2020; 11:48. [PMID: 32843085 PMCID: PMC7448502 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-020-00324-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Acutely, testosterone (TES) and other androgens are efficacious vasodilators, both in vitro and in vivo; however, their long-term effects on arterial blood pressure (BP) remain unclear. It was hypothesized that endogenous androgens exert long-term anti-hypertensive effects on systemic BP through a combination of genomic and nongenomic effects to enhance vasodilation of the systemic vasculature. Methods The long-term effects of endogenous TES and exogenous TES replacement therapy (TRT) on BP were studied in intact (InT) and castrated (CsX) male Sprague-Dawley (SD) and testicular-feminized male (Tfm, androgen receptor defective) rats (12 weeks old). Systolic BP (tail-cuff plethysmography) was determined weekly for 15 weeks in InT-control and CsX rats. Some CsX-SD rats received androgen replacement therapy at 10-15 weeks with TES-enanthate (TRT; 1.75 mg/kg, 2x/week) or DHT-enanthate (DRT; 1.00 mg/kg. 2x/week) and a separate group of CsX-SD rats received losartan-potassium in drinking water (LST, 250 mg/L) for the entire 15 week period. Expression of renin, angiotensinogen (Agt), angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), and angiotensin II type I receptor (AT1R) mRNA in kidney and aorta were determined by real-time PCR (rt-PCR) and plasma renin levels were determined by radioimmunoassay. Results There was a progressive rise in BP over 10 weeks in CsX (109 ± 3.3 vs. 143 ± 3.5 mmHg), while BP remained stable in InT-control (109 ± 3.0 vs. 113 ± 0.3). BP gradually declined to normal in CsX-TRT rats (113 ± 1.3), while BP remained elevated in CsX (140 ± 1.2) and normal in InT-control (113 ± 0.3). LST prevented the development of hypertension in CsX at 10 weeks (100 ± 1.5 in CsX + LST vs. 143 ± 3.5 in CsX). During the next 5 weeks with TES-RT, BP declined in CsX-TRT (113 ± 1.3) and remained lower in CsX + LST (99 ± 0.4). DHT-RT reduced BP in CxS to a similar extent. In Tfm, CsX resulted in a similar rise in BP (109 ± 0.7 vs. 139 ± 0.4 mmHg), but TRT reduced BP more rapidly and to a greater extent (106 ± 2.8). rt-PCR of the kidney revealed that CsX increased expression of mRNA for renin (92%), ACE (58%), and AT1R (80%) compared to InT, while TES RT normalized expression of renin, AT1R, and ACE mRNA to levels of InT rats. Plasma renin levels exhibited changes similar to those observed for renin mRNA expression. Conclusions This is the first study to examine the long-term effects of endogenous and exogenous androgens on BP in male SD and Tfm rats. These data reveal that endogenous androgens (TES) exert anti-hypertensive effects that appear to involve non-genomic and possibly genomic mechanism(s), resulting in reductions in RAS expression in the kidney and enhanced systemic vasodilation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea E Hanson
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843-4466, USA
| | - Mercedes Perusquia
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Fisiología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 04510, México D.F, Mexico
| | - John N Stallone
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843-4466, USA. .,Michael E. DeBakey Institute For Comparative Cardiovascular Sciences, Women's Health Division, College of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843-4466, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ramirez LA, Gillis EE, Musall JB, Mohamed R, Snyder E, El-Marakby A, Sullivan JC. Hypertensive female Sprague-Dawley rats require an intact nitric oxide synthase system for compensatory increases in renal regulatory T cells. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2020; 319:F192-F201. [PMID: 32597687 DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00228.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
We have previously shown that hypertensive female rats have more regulatory T cells (Tregs), which contribute more to blood pressure (BP) control in female versus male rats. Based on known protective properties of Tregs, the goal of the present study was to investigate the mechanisms by which female rats maintain Tregs. The present study was designed to 1) compare the impact of three hypertension models on the percentage of renal Tregs and 2) test the hypothesis that nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibition prevents increases in renal Tregs and exacerbates renal damage in female Sprague-Dawley rats. Rats (11-14 wk old) were randomized to one of the following four groups: control, norepinephrine (NE) infusion, angiotensin II infusion, or the NOS inhibitor Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME) in drinking water. BP was measured via tail cuff. After 2 wk of treatment, kidneys were isolated and processed to measure Tregs via flow cytometric analysis and renal injury via urinary albumin excretion, plasma creatinine, and histological analyses. Hypertensive treatments increased BP in all experimental animals. Increases in BP in norepinephrine-and angiotensin II-treated rats were associated with increases in renal Tregs versus control. In contrast, l-NAME treatment decreased Tregs compared with all groups. l-NAME treatment modestly increased albumin excretion. However, plasma creatinine was comparable among the groups, and there was no histological evidence of glomerular or tubular injury. This study provides insights into the mechanisms regulating renal Tregs and supports that an intact NOS system is crucial for female rats to have BP-related increases in renal Tregs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey A Ramirez
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia
| | - Ellen E Gillis
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia
| | - Jacqueline B Musall
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia
| | - Riyaz Mohamed
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia
| | - Elizabeth Snyder
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia
| | - Ahmed El-Marakby
- Dental College of Georgia, Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia
| | - Jennifer C Sullivan
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Monslow J, Todd L, Chojnowski JE, Govindaraju PK, Assoian RK, Puré E. Fibroblast Activation Protein Regulates Lesion Burden and the Fibroinflammatory Response in Apoe-Deficient Mice in a Sexually Dimorphic Manner. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2020; 190:1118-1136. [PMID: 32084369 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2020.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Revised: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Fibroblast activation protein (FAP) has been established as an inducible and mesenchymal cell-specific mediator of disease progression in cancer and fibrosis. Atherosclerosis is a fibroinflammatory disease, and FAP was previously reported to be up-regulated in human atherosclerotic plaques compared with normal vessel. We investigated the spatial and temporal distribution of Fap-expressing cells in a murine model of atherosclerosis and used a genetic approach to determine if and how Fap affected disease progression. Fap was found to be expressed predominantly on vascular smooth muscle cells in lesions of athero-prone Apoe-/- mice. Global deletion of Fap (Fap-/-) in Apoe-/- mice accelerated atherosclerotic disease progression in both males and females, with the effect observed earlier in males. Sex-specific effects on lesion morphology were observed. Relative levels of extracellular matrix, fibrotic, and inflammatory cell content were comparable in lesions in male mice regardless of Fap status. In contrast, lesions in Fap-/- female mice were characterized by a more fibrotic composition due to a reduction in inflammation, specifically a reduction in Mox macrophages. Combined, these data suggest that Fap restrains the progression of atherosclerosis and may contribute to the sexually dimorphic susceptibility to atherosclerosis by regulating the balance between inflammation (an indicator of vulnerability to plaque rupture) and fibrosis (an indicator of plaque stability).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James Monslow
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia Pennsylvania.
| | - Leslie Todd
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia Pennsylvania
| | - John E Chojnowski
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia Pennsylvania
| | - Priya K Govindaraju
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia Pennsylvania
| | - Richard K Assoian
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia Pennsylvania
| | - Ellen Puré
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia Pennsylvania.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Li G, Wang X, Yang H, Zhang P, Wu F, Li Y, Zhou Y, Zhang X, Ma H, Zhang W, Li J. α-Linolenic acid but not linolenic acid protects against hypertension: critical role of SIRT3 and autophagic flux. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:83. [PMID: 32015327 PMCID: PMC6997421 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-2277-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Although dietary α-linolenic acid (ALA) or linolenic acid (LA) intake was reported to be epidemiologically associated with a lower prevalence of hypertension, recent clinical trials have yielded conflicting results. Comparable experimental evidence for the roles of these two different fatty acids is still lacking and the underlying mechanisms need to be further elucidated. Our data showed that ALA but not LA supplementation alleviated systolic blood pressure elevation and improved ACh-induced, endothelium-dependent vasodilation in both spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) and AngII-induced hypertensive mice. In addition, SHRs displayed reduced vascular Sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) expression, subsequent superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) hyperacetylation and mitochondrial ROS overproduction, all of which were ameliorated by ALA but not LA supplementation. In primary cultured endothelial cells, ALA treatment directly inhibited SIRT3 reduction, SOD2 hyperacetylation, mitochondrial ROS overproduction and alleviated autophagic flux impairment induced by AngII plus TNFα treatment. However, these beneficial effects of ALA were completely blocked by silencing SIRT3. Restoration of autophagic flux by rapamycin also inhibited mitochondrial ROS overproduction in endothelial cells exposed to AngII plus TNFα. More interestingly, SIRT3 KO mice developed severe hypertension in response to a low dose of AngII infusion, while ALA supplementation lost its anti-hypertensive and endothelium-protective effects on these mice. Our findings suggest that ALA but not LA supplementation improves endothelial dysfunction and diminishes experimental hypertension by rescuing SIRT3 impairment to restore autophagic flux and mitochondrial redox balance in endothelial cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guohua Li
- School of Aerospace Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Xinpei Wang
- School of Aerospace Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Hongyan Yang
- School of Aerospace Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- School of Aerospace Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Fangqin Wu
- School of Aerospace Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Yunchu Li
- School of Aerospace Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Yingjie Zhou
- School of Aerospace Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Xing Zhang
- School of Aerospace Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Heng Ma
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Science, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
| | - Jia Li
- School of Aerospace Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Moss ME, Lu Q, Iyer SL, Engelbertsen D, Marzolla V, Caprio M, Lichtman AH, Jaffe IZ. Endothelial Mineralocorticoid Receptors Contribute to Vascular Inflammation in Atherosclerosis in a Sex-Specific Manner. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2019; 39:1588-1601. [PMID: 31294624 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.119.312954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE MR (mineralocorticoid receptor) activation is associated with cardiovascular ischemia in humans. This study explores the role of the MR in atherosclerotic mice of both sexes and identifies a sex-specific role for endothelial cell (EC)-MR in vascular inflammation. Approach and Results: In the AAV-PCSK9 (adeno-associated virus-proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9) mouse atherosclerosis model, MR inhibition attenuated vascular inflammation in males but not females. Further studies comparing male and female littermates with intact MR or EC-MR deletion revealed that although EC-MR deletion did not affect plaque size in either sex, it reduced aortic arch inflammation specifically in male mice as measured by flow cytometry. Moreover, MR-intact females had larger plaques but were protected from vascular inflammation compared with males. Intravital microscopy of the mesenteric vasculature demonstrated that EC-MR deletion attenuated TNFα (tumor necrosis factor α)-induced leukocyte slow rolling and adhesion in males, while females exhibited fewer leukocyte-endothelial interactions with no additional effect of EC-MR deletion. These effects corresponded with decreased TNFα-induced expression of the endothelial adhesion molecules ICAM-1 (intercellular adhesion molecule-1) and E-selectin in males with EC-MR deletion compared with MR-intact males and females of both genotypes. These observations were also consistent with MR and estrogen regulation of ICAM-1 transcription and E-selectin expression in primary cultured mouse ECs and human umbilical vein ECs. CONCLUSIONS In male mice, EC-MR deletion attenuates leukocyte-endothelial interactions, plaque inflammation, and expression of E-selectin and ICAM-1, providing a potential mechanism by which the MR promotes vascular inflammation. In females, plaque inflammation and leukocyte-endothelial interactions are decreased relative to males and EC-MR deletion is not protective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Elizabeth Moss
- From the Molecular Cardiology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA (M.E.M., Q.L., S.L.I., I.Z.J.)
- Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA (M.E.M., I.Z.J.)
| | - Qing Lu
- From the Molecular Cardiology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA (M.E.M., Q.L., S.L.I., I.Z.J.)
| | - Surabhi L Iyer
- From the Molecular Cardiology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA (M.E.M., Q.L., S.L.I., I.Z.J.)
| | - Daniel Engelbertsen
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA (D.E., A.H.L.)
| | - Vincenzo Marzolla
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Rome, Italy (V.M., M.C.)
| | - Massimiliano Caprio
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Rome, Italy (V.M., M.C.)
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Roma Open University, Rome, Italy (M.C.)
| | - Andrew H Lichtman
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA (D.E., A.H.L.)
| | - Iris Z Jaffe
- From the Molecular Cardiology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA (M.E.M., Q.L., S.L.I., I.Z.J.)
- Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA (M.E.M., I.Z.J.)
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Echem C, Costa TJD, Oliveira V, Giglio Colli L, Landgraf MA, Rodrigues SF, Franco MDCP, Landgraf RG, Santos-Eichler RA, Bomfim GF, Akamine EH, de Carvalho MHC. Mitochondrial DNA: A new driver for sex differences in spontaneous hypertension. Pharmacol Res 2019; 144:142-150. [PMID: 30965087 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2019.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2018] [Revised: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of arterial hypertension (AH) is higher in men than in premenopausal women of the same age. AH has been characterized as a chronic inflammatory disease and activation of Toll-like receptors (TLR) by damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) is involved. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) may be released by end-organ damage, which is recognized and activates TLR9. The serum level of mtDNA is increased in AH. The aim of this study was to compare the serum mtDNA levels between male and female spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and to evaluate the sex differences in the effect of mtDNA on the function, inflammation and signaling pathway related to TLR9 in the vasculature. Male and female 15-week-old SHR and Wistar rats were used to evaluate the arterial blood pressure, serum mtDNA, contractile response, inflammatory markers and signaling pathway related to TLR9. Male SHR had higher arterial blood pressure values and serum mtDNA compared to female SHR and to male and female normotensive Wistar rats. In male SHR aorta, mtDNA incubation increased the contractile response to phenylephrine, which was blunted by inhibition of TLR9, and also increased pro-inflammatory molecules IL-6 and TNF-α. However, in female SHR aorta, mtDNA incubation did not change the contractile response, reduced pro-inflammatory molecules and prevented oxidative stress. mtDNA incubation did not change the expression of TLR9, MyD88 and eNOS neither in male nor in female SHR aorta, but it increased the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 in male and reduced in female SHR aorta. The mtDNA differential modulation of vascular response in male and female SHR might contribute to sex differences in AH. This study contributes to the understanding of a need for more personalized therapeutic strategies for men and women with hypertension. Keywords: Sex differences, Arterial hypertension, Mitochondrial DNA, Toll-Like receptor 9.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cinthya Echem
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | | | - Vanessa Oliveira
- Department of Medicine, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Lucas Giglio Colli
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | | | | | | | - Richardt Gama Landgraf
- Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University of São Paulo, Diadema, SP, Brazil.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Ahmed S, Hu R, Leete J, Layton AT. Understanding sex differences in long-term blood pressure regulation: insights from experimental studies and computational modeling. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2019; 316:H1113-H1123. [PMID: 30875261 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00035.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Sex differences in blood pressure and the prevalence of hypertension are found in humans and animal models. Moreover, there has been a recent explosion of data concerning sex differences in nitric oxide, the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, inflammation, and kidney function. These data have the potential to reveal the mechanisms underlying male-female differences in blood pressure control. To elucidate the interactions among the multitude of physiological processes involved, one may apply computational models. In this review, we describe published computational models that represent key players in blood pressure regulation, and highlight sex-specific models and their findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sameed Ahmed
- Department of Applied Mathematics, University of Waterloo , Waterloo, Ontario , Canada
| | - Rui Hu
- Department of Applied Mathematics, University of Waterloo , Waterloo, Ontario , Canada
| | - Jessica Leete
- Computational Biology and Bioinformatics Program, Duke University , Durham, North Carolina
| | - Anita T Layton
- Department of Applied Mathematics, University of Waterloo , Waterloo, Ontario , Canada.,School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo , Waterloo, Ontario , Canada.,Departments of Mathematics, Biomedical Engineering, and Medicine, Duke University , Durham, North Carolina
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Huang Y, Ting PY, Yao TM, Homma T, Brooks D, Katayama Rangel I, Adler GK, Romero JR, Williams JS, Pojoga LH, Williams GH. Histone demethylase LSD1 deficiency and biological sex: impact on blood pressure and aldosterone production. J Endocrinol 2019; 240:111-122. [PMID: 30400034 PMCID: PMC6824586 DOI: 10.1530/joe-18-0247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 10/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Human risk allele carriers of lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) and LSD1-deficient mice have salt-sensitive hypertension for unclear reasons. We hypothesized that LSD1 deficiency causes dysregulation of aldosterone's response to salt intake resulting in increased cardiovascular risk factors (blood pressure and microalbumin). Furthermore, we determined the effect of biological sex on these potential abnormalities. To test our hypotheses, LSD1 male and female heterozygote-knockout (LSD1+/-) and WT mice were assigned to two age groups: 18 weeks and 36 weeks. Plasma aldosterone levels and aldosterone production from zona glomerulosa cells studied ex vivo were greater in both male and female LSD1+/- mice consuming a liberal salt diet as compared to WT mice consuming the same diet. However, salt-sensitive blood pressure elevation and increased microalbuminuria were only observed in male LSD1+/- mice. These data suggest that LSD1 interacts with aldosterone's secretory response to salt intake. Lack of LSD1 causes inappropriate aldosterone production on a liberal salt diet; males appear to be more sensitive to this aldosterone increase as males, but not females, develop salt sensitivity of blood pressure and increased microalbuminuria. The mechanism responsible for the cardiovascular protective effect in females is uncertain but may be related to estrogen modulating the effect of mineralocorticoid receptor activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuefei Huang
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Pei Yee Ting
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Tham M Yao
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Tsuyoshi Homma
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Danielle Brooks
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Isis Katayama Rangel
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Gail K Adler
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jose R Romero
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jonathan S Williams
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Luminita H Pojoga
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Gordon H Williams
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Leete J, Gurley S, Layton A. Modeling Sex Differences in the Renin Angiotensin System and the Efficacy of Antihypertensive Therapies. Comput Chem Eng 2018; 112:253-264. [PMID: 30555192 DOI: 10.1016/j.compchemeng.2018.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The renin angiotensin system is a major regulator of blood pressure and a target for many anti-hypertensive therapies; yet the efficacy of these treatments varies between the sexes. We use published data for systemic RAS hormones to build separate models for four groups of rats: male normotensive, male hypertensive, female normotensive, and female hypertensive rats. We found that plasma renin activity, angiotensinogen production rate, angiotensin converting enzyme activity, and neutral endopeptidase activity differ significantly among the four groups of rats. Model results indicate that angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers induce similar percentage decreases in angiotensin I and II between groups, but substantially different absolute decreases. We further propose that a major difference between the male and female RAS may be the strength of the feedback mechanism, by which receptor bound angiotensin II impacts the production of renin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Leete
- Computational Biology & Bioinformatics Program, Duke University, Box 90320
| | - Susan Gurley
- Department of Medicine, Duke University, Box 90320
| | - Anita Layton
- Department of Mathematics, Duke University, Box 90320
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Influence of the selective COX-2 inhibitor celecoxib on sex differences in blood pressure and albuminuria in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat 2018; 135:16-20. [PMID: 29425800 DOI: 10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2018.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2017] [Revised: 02/05/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
We previously reported that female spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) have greater cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression in the renal medulla and enhanced urinary excretion of prostaglandin (PG) E2 (PGE2) metabolites compared to male SHR. Based on the role of COX-2-derived prostanoids in the regulation of cardiovascular health, the aim of the current study was to test the hypothesis that blood pressure (BP) in female SHR is more sensitive to COX-2 inhibition than in males. Seven week old male and female SHR were implanted with telemetry transmitters for continuous BP recording. After one week of baseline BP recording, male and female SHR were randomized to receive the selective COX-2 inhibitor celecoxib (10 mg/kg/day) or vehicle for six weeks (from 9 to 14 weeks of age). Female SHR had lower BP and albuminuria compared to male SHR as well as enhanced urinary excretion of PGE metabolite (PGEM), 6-keto PGF1α and thromboxane B2, indicators of PGE2, PGI2 and TXA2, respectively. Treatment with celecoxib did not significantly alter BP or albuminuria in either female or male SHR. Celecoxib did not change PGs metabolites excretion in male SHR; however, excretion levels of PGEM and 6-keto PGF1α were reduced in female SHR. COX-2 derived PG can also induce oxidative stress. Markers of oxidative stress (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARs) and H2O2 excretion) were lesser in female SHR versus male SHR. Celecoxib treatment did not significantly change markers of oxidative stress in female SHR, however, urinary TBARs excretion was significantly reduced in male SHR after 6 weeks of treatment with celecoxib. Therefore, although celecoxib treatment appears to have distinct effects on prostanoids levels in female SHR vs. males, it is unlikely that COX-2 contributes to established sex differences in BP in SHR.
Collapse
|
26
|
Ahmad AA, Randall MD, Roberts RE. Sex differences in the role of phospholipase A 2 -dependent arachidonic acid pathway in the perivascular adipose tissue function in pigs. J Physiol 2017; 595:6623-6634. [PMID: 28877347 DOI: 10.1113/jp274831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS The fat surrounding blood vessels (perivascular adipose tissue or PVAT) releases vasoactive compounds that regulate vascular smooth muscle tone. There are sex differences in the regulation of vascular tone, but, to date, no study has investigated whether there are sex differences in the regulation of blood vessel tone by PVAT. This study has identified that the cyclooxygenase products thromboxane and PGF2α are released from coronary artery PVAT from pigs. Thromboxane appears to mediate the PVAT-induced contraction in arteries from females, whereas PGF2α appears to mediate the contraction in arteries from males. These sex differences in the role of these prostanoids in the PVAT-induced contraction can be explained by a greater release of thromboxane from PVAT from female animals and greater sensitivity to PGF2α in the porcine coronary artery from males. ABSTRACT Previous studies have demonstrated that perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) causes vasoconstriction. In this present study, we determined the role of cyclooxygenase-derived prostanoids in this contractile response and determined whether there were any sex differences in the regulation of vascular tone by PVAT. Contractions in isolated segments of coronary arteries were determined using isolated tissue baths and isometric tension recording. Segments were initially cleaned of PVAT, which was then re-added to the tissue bath and changes in tone measured over 1 h. Levels of PGF2α and thromboxane B2 (TXB2 ) were quantified by ELISA, and PGF2α (FP) and thromboxane A2 (TP) receptor expression determined by Western blotting. In arteries from both male and female pigs, re-addition of PVAT caused a contraction, which was partially inhibited by the cyclooxygenase inhibitors indomethacin and flurbiprofen. The FP receptor antagonist AL8810 attenuated the PVAT-induced contraction in arteries from males, whereas the TP receptor antagonist GR32191B inhibited the PVAT-induced contraction in arteries from females. Although there was no difference in PGF2α levels in PVAT between females and males, PGF2α produced a larger contraction in arteries from males, correlating with a higher FP receptor expression. In contrast, release of TXB2 from PVAT from females was greater than from males, but there was no difference in the contraction by the TXA2 agonist U46619, or TP receptor expression in arteries from different sexes. These findings demonstrate clear sex differences in PVAT function in which PGF2α and TXA2 antagonists can inhibit the PVAT-induced vasoconstriction in male and female PCAs, respectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdulla A Ahmad
- Cell Signalling and Pharmacology Research Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham Medical School, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Michael D Randall
- Cell Signalling and Pharmacology Research Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham Medical School, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Richard E Roberts
- Cell Signalling and Pharmacology Research Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham Medical School, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Rathod KS, Kapil V, Velmurugan S, Khambata RS, Siddique U, Khan S, Van Eijl S, Gee LC, Bansal J, Pitrola K, Shaw C, D’Acquisto F, Colas RA, Marelli-Berg F, Dalli J, Ahluwalia A. Accelerated resolution of inflammation underlies sex differences in inflammatory responses in humans. J Clin Invest 2017; 127:169-182. [PMID: 27893465 PMCID: PMC5199722 DOI: 10.1172/jci89429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2016] [Accepted: 10/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiovascular disease occurs at lower incidence in premenopausal females compared with age-matched males. This variation may be linked to sex differences in inflammation. We prospectively investigated whether inflammation and components of the inflammatory response are altered in females compared with males. METHODS We performed 2 clinical studies in healthy volunteers. In 12 men and 12 women, we assessed systemic inflammatory markers and vascular function using brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD). In a further 8 volunteers of each sex, we assessed FMD response to glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) at baseline and at 8 hours and 32 hours after typhoid vaccine. In a separate study in 16 men and 16 women, we measured inflammatory exudate mediators and cellular recruitment in cantharidin-induced skin blisters at 24 and 72 hours. RESULTS Typhoid vaccine induced mild systemic inflammation at 8 hours, reflected by increased white cell count in both sexes. Although neutrophil numbers at baseline and 8 hours were greater in females, the neutrophils were less activated. Systemic inflammation caused a decrease in FMD in males, but an increase in females, at 8 hours. In contrast, GTN response was not altered in either sex after vaccine. At 24 hours, cantharidin formed blisters of similar volume in both sexes; however, at 72 hours, blisters had only resolved in females. Monocyte and leukocyte counts were reduced, and the activation state of all major leukocytes was lower, in blisters of females. This was associated with enhanced levels of the resolving lipids, particularly D-resolvin. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that female sex protects against systemic inflammation-induced endothelial dysfunction. This effect is likely due to accelerated resolution of inflammation compared with males, specifically via neutrophils, mediated by an elevation of the D-resolvin pathway. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01582321 and NRES: City Road and Hampstead Ethics Committee: 11/LO/2038. FUNDING The authors were funded by multiple sources, including the National Institute for Health Research, the British Heart Foundation, and the European Research Council.
Collapse
|
28
|
Mishra JS, Hankins GD, Kumar S. Testosterone downregulates angiotensin II type-2 receptor via androgen receptor-mediated ERK1/2 MAP kinase pathway in rat aorta. J Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone Syst 2016; 17:17/4/1470320316674875. [PMID: 27765882 PMCID: PMC5465964 DOI: 10.1177/1470320316674875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2016] [Accepted: 09/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Blood pressure is lower in females than males. Angiotensin II type-2 receptor (AT2R) induces vasodilation. This study determined whether sex differences in vascular AT2R expression occur and if androgens exert control on AT2R expression in the vasculature. Methods: AT2Rs in the aorta of male and female Sprague-Dawley rats were examined following alteration in androgen levels by gonadectomy or hormone supplementation. Results: AT2R mRNA and protein expression levels were lower in the aortas of males than females. In males, testosterone withdrawal by castration significantly elevated AT2R mRNA and protein levels and testosterone replacement restored them. In females, increasing androgen levels decreased AT2R mRNA and protein expression and this was attenuated by androgen receptor blocker flutamide. Ex vivo, dihydrotestosterone downregulated AT2R in endothelium-intact but not endothelium-denuded aorta. Dihydrotestosterone-induced AT2R downregulation in isolated aorta was blocked by an androgen receptor antagonist. Furthermore, blockade of ERK1/2 but not p38 MAP kinase or TGFβ signaling with specific inhibitors abolished dihydrotestosterone-induced AT2R downregulation. Conclusion: Androgens downregulate AT2R expression levels in aorta, in vivo and ex vivo. The androgen receptor-mediated ERK1/2 MAP kinase-signaling pathway may be a key mechanism by which testosterone downregulates AT2R expression, implicating androgens’ contributing role to gender differences in vascular AT2R expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jay S Mishra
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Gary D Hankins
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Sathish Kumar
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Birocale AM, Medeiros ARS, Ruffoni LDG, Takayama L, de Oliveira JM, Nonaka KO, Pereira RMR, Bissoli NS. Bone mineral density is reduced by telmisartan in male spontaneously hypertensive rats. Pharmacol Rep 2016; 68:1149-1153. [PMID: 27607362 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharep.2016.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2016] [Revised: 06/02/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telmisartan, an angiotensin AT1 receptor blocker, and treadmill running were compared for their effects on bone mineral density (BMD) and biomechanical properties of male spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). It was hypothesized that running (18m/min/60min/d) and telmisartan (5mg/kg/d) would have a positive effect on bone parameters. METHODS Three-month-old male SHRs were divided into three groups: sedentary (S), telmisartan (T), and exercise (E). At the end of an 8-week protocol, femur and lumbar vertebrae were analyzed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) for bone mineral density and by the three-point bending test for biomechanical properties. Blood pressure in all groups was measured by a tail-cuff manometer. RESULTS Telmisartan and treadmill running reduced blood pressure when compared to the sedentary group; however, telmisartan did not improve bone characteristics. Instead, it reduced BMD of femur total and lumbar vertebrae and worsened bone biomechanic properties. Treadmill running maintained bone characteristics and hence was effective in maintaining bone health. CONCLUSION Results showed that telmisartan negatively affected bones suggesting that caution should be taken in possible therapeutic applications for protecting bone health in hypertensive conditions. More studies are necessary to clarify the mechanisms through which telmisartan favors bone loss in this model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Marcos Birocale
- Department of Health Integrated Education, Federal University of Espirito Santo,Vitória, Brazil.
| | | | | | - Liliam Takayama
- Department of Medical Clinic, Medicine College, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Keico Okino Nonaka
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil
| | | | - Nazaré Souza Bissoli
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitória, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Quinn MA, Cidlowski JA. Endogenous hepatic glucocorticoid receptor signaling coordinates sex-biased inflammatory gene expression. FASEB J 2015; 30:971-82. [PMID: 26581598 DOI: 10.1096/fj.15-278309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Accepted: 10/28/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
An individual's sex affects gene expression and many inflammatory diseases present in a sex-biased manner. Glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) are regulators of inflammatory genes, but their role in sex-specific responses is unclear. Our goal was to evaluate whether GR differentially regulates inflammatory gene expression in male and female mouse liver. Twenty-five percent of the 251 genes assayed by nanostring analysis were influenced by sex. Of these baseline sexually dimorphic inflammatory genes, 82% was expressed higher in female liver. Pathway analyses defined pattern-recognition receptors as the most sexually dimorphic pathway. We next exposed male and female mice to the proinflammatory stimulus LPS. Female mice had 177 genes regulated by treatment with LPS, whereas males had 149, with only 66% of LPS-regulated genes common between the sexes. To determine the contribution of GR to sexually dimorphic inflammatory genes we performed nanostring analysis on liver-specific GR knockout (LGRKO) mice in the presence or absence of LPS. Comparing LGRKO to GR(flox/flox) revealed that 36 genes required GR for sexually dimorphic expression, whereas 24 genes became sexually dimorphic in LGRKO. Fifteen percent of LPS-regulated genes in GR(flox/flox) were not regulated in male and female LGRKO mice treated with LPS. Thus, GR action is influenced by sex to regulate inflammatory gene expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew A Quinn
- Signal Transduction Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - John A Cidlowski
- Signal Transduction Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Matsumoto T, Goulopoulou S, Taguchi K, Tostes RC, Kobayashi T. Constrictor prostanoids and uridine adenosine tetraphosphate: vascular mediators and therapeutic targets in hypertension and diabetes. Br J Pharmacol 2015; 172:3980-4001. [PMID: 26031319 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2015] [Revised: 04/16/2015] [Accepted: 05/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular dysfunction plays a pivotal role in the development of systemic complications associated with arterial hypertension and diabetes. The endothelium, or more specifically, various factors derived from endothelial cells tightly regulate vascular function, including vascular tone. In physiological conditions, there is a balance between endothelium-derived factors, that is, relaxing factors (endothelium-derived relaxing factors; EDRFs) and contracting factors (endothelium-derived contracting factors; EDCFs), which mediate vascular homeostasis. However, in disease states, such as diabetes and arterial hypertension, there is an imbalance between EDRF and EDCF, with a reduction of EDRF signalling and an increase of EDCF signalling. Among EDCFs, COX-derived vasoconstrictor prostanoids play an important role in the development of vascular dysfunction associated with hypertension and diabetes. Moreover, uridine adenosine tetraphosphate (Up4 A), identified as an EDCF in 2005, also modulates vascular function. However, the role of Up4 A in hypertension- and diabetes-associated vascular dysfunction is unclear. In the present review, we focused on experimental and clinical evidence that implicate these two EDCFs (vasoconstrictor prostanoids and Up4 A) in vascular dysfunction associated with hypertension and diabetes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takayuki Matsumoto
- Department of Physiology and Morphology, Institute of Medicinal Chemistry, Hoshi University, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Styliani Goulopoulou
- Department of Integrative Physiology and Anatomy, Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, USA
| | - Kumiko Taguchi
- Department of Physiology and Morphology, Institute of Medicinal Chemistry, Hoshi University, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Rita C Tostes
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Tsuneo Kobayashi
- Department of Physiology and Morphology, Institute of Medicinal Chemistry, Hoshi University, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Tower J. Mitochondrial maintenance failure in aging and role of sexual dimorphism. Arch Biochem Biophys 2015; 576:17-31. [PMID: 25447815 PMCID: PMC4409928 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2014.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2014] [Revised: 10/08/2014] [Accepted: 10/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Gene expression changes during aging are partly conserved across species, and suggest that oxidative stress, inflammation and proteotoxicity result from mitochondrial malfunction and abnormal mitochondrial-nuclear signaling. Mitochondrial maintenance failure may result from trade-offs between mitochondrial turnover versus growth and reproduction, sexual antagonistic pleiotropy and genetic conflicts resulting from uni-parental mitochondrial transmission, as well as mitochondrial and nuclear mutations and loss of epigenetic regulation. Aging phenotypes and interventions are often sex-specific, indicating that both male and female sexual differentiation promote mitochondrial failure and aging. Studies in mammals and invertebrates implicate autophagy, apoptosis, AKT, PARP, p53 and FOXO in mediating sex-specific differences in stress resistance and aging. The data support a model where the genes Sxl in Drosophila, sdc-2 in Caenorhabditis elegans, and Xist in mammals regulate mitochondrial maintenance across generations and in aging. Several interventions that increase life span cause a mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt), and UPRmt is also observed during normal aging, indicating hormesis. The UPRmt may increase life span by stimulating mitochondrial turnover through autophagy, and/or by inhibiting the production of hormones and toxic metabolites. The data suggest that metazoan life span interventions may act through a common hormesis mechanism involving liver UPRmt, mitochondrial maintenance and sexual differentiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John Tower
- Molecular and Computational Biology Program, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089-2910, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Bowden MA, Tesch GH, Julius TL, Rosli S, Love JE, Ritchie RH. Earlier onset of diabesity-Induced adverse cardiac remodeling in female compared to male mice. Obesity (Silver Spring) 2015; 23:1166-77. [PMID: 25959739 DOI: 10.1002/oby.21072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2014] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Emerging evidence suggests female type 2 diabetes (T2DM) patients may fare worse than males with respect to cardiovascular complications. Hence the impact of sex on relative progression of left ventricular (LV) remodeling in obese db/db mice was characterized. METHODS The changes in parameters of LV hypertrophy (heart weight, pro-hypertrophic gene expression, cardiomyocyte size) and fibrosis (LV collagen deposition and oxidative stress), in parallel with body weight and blood glucose and lipid profiles, in male and female db/db T2DM mice, at 10, 14, and 18 weeks of age, were determined. RESULTS Diabesity-induced cardiac remodeling was at least comparable in female (compared to male) mice. Females exhibited enhanced systemic oxidative stress and nonesterified fatty acid levels. Progression of LV pro-hypertrophic (β-myosin heavy chain, B-type natriuretic peptide) and pro-oxidant gene expression (NADPH oxidase subunit Nox2, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 PAI-I) was, however, exaggerated in females when expressed relative to 10-week-old db/db mice. Increased cardiomyocyte width was also evident earlier in db/db females than males. No other gender differences were observed. CONCLUSIONS Progressive, age-dependent development of cardiac remodeling in db/db mice parallels impairments in glucose handling and oxidative stress. Certain aspects of the T2DM-induced LV remodeling response may have an earlier and/or exaggerated onset in diabetic females.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marissa A Bowden
- Heart Failure Pharmacology, Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Greg H Tesch
- Department of Nephrology, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tracey L Julius
- Heart Failure Pharmacology, Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sarah Rosli
- Heart Failure Pharmacology, Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jane E Love
- Heart Failure Pharmacology, Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Rebecca H Ritchie
- Heart Failure Pharmacology, Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Dalpiaz PLM, Lamas AZ, Caliman IF, Ribeiro RF, Abreu GR, Moyses MR, Andrade TU, Gouvea SA, Alves MF, Carmona AK, Bissoli NS. Sex Hormones Promote Opposite Effects on ACE and ACE2 Activity, Hypertrophy and Cardiac Contractility in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0127515. [PMID: 26010093 PMCID: PMC4444272 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0127515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2014] [Accepted: 04/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is growing interest in sex differences and RAS components. However, whether gender influences cardiac angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) activity is still unknown. In the present work, we determined the relationship between ACE and ACE2 activity, left ventricular function and gender in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). Methodology / Principal Findings Twelve-week-old female (F) and male (M) SHRs were divided into 2 experimental groups (n = 7 in each group): sham (S) and gonadectomized (G). Fifty days after gonadectomy, we measured positive and negative first derivatives (dP/dt maximum left ventricle (LV) and dP/dt minimum LV, respectively), hypertrophy (morphometric analysis) and ACE and ACE2 catalytic activity (fluorimetrically). Expression of calcium handling proteins was measured by western blot. Male rats exhibited higher cardiac ACE and ACE2 activity as well as hypertrophy compared to female rats. Orchiectomy decreased the activity of these enzymes and hypertrophy, while ovariectomy increased hypertrophy and ACE2, but did not change ACE activity. For cardiac function, the male sham group had a lower +dP/dt than the female sham group. After gonadectomy, the +dP/dt increased in males and reduced in females. The male sham group had a lower -dP/dt than the female group. After gonadectomy, the -dP/dt increased in the male and decreased in the female groups when compared to the sham group. No difference was observed among the groups in SERCA2a protein expression. Gonadectomy increased protein expression of PLB (phospholamban) and the PLB to SERCA2a ratio in female rats, but did not change in male rats. Conclusion Ovariectomy leads to increased cardiac hypertrophy, ACE2 activity, PLB expression and PLB to SERCA2a ratio, and worsening of hemodynamic variables, whereas in males the removal of testosterone has the opposite effects on RAS components.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P. L. M. Dalpiaz
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitória, Espirito Santo, Brazil
- * E-mail:
| | - A. Z. Lamas
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitória, Espirito Santo, Brazil
| | - I. F. Caliman
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitória, Espirito Santo, Brazil
| | - R. F. Ribeiro
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitória, Espirito Santo, Brazil
| | - G. R. Abreu
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitória, Espirito Santo, Brazil
| | - M. R. Moyses
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitória, Espirito Santo, Brazil
| | - T. U. Andrade
- Department of Pharmacy, University Vila Velha, Vila Velha, Espirito Santo, Brazil
| | - S. A. Gouvea
- Nucleus of Biotechnology, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitória, Espirito Santo, Brazil
| | - M. F. Alves
- Department of Biophysics, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - A. K. Carmona
- Department of Biophysics, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - N. S. Bissoli
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitória, Espirito Santo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Franconi F, Rosano G, Campesi I. Need for gender-specific pre-analytical testing: the dark side of the moon in laboratory testing. Int J Cardiol 2014; 179:514-35. [PMID: 25465806 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2014.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2014] [Revised: 10/27/2014] [Accepted: 11/03/2014] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Many international organisations encourage studies in a sex-gender perspective. However, research with a gender perspective presents a high degree of complexity, and the inclusion of sex-gender variable in experiments presents many methodological questions, the majority of which are still neglected. Overcoming these issues is fundamental to avoid erroneous results. Here, pre-analytical aspects of the research, such as study design, choice of utilised specimens, sample collection and processing, animal models of diseases, and the observer's role, are discussed. Artefacts in this stage of research could affect the predictive value of all analyses. Furthermore, the standardisation of research subjects according to their lifestyles and, if female, to their life phase and menses or oestrous cycle, is urgent to harmonise research worldwide. A sex-gender-specific attention to pre-analytical aspects could produce a decrease in the time for translation from the bench to bedside. Furthermore, sex-gender-specific pre-clinical pharmacological testing will enable adequate assessment of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic actions of drugs and will enable, where appropriate, an adequate gender-specific clinical development plan. Therefore, sex-gender-specific pre-clinical research will increase the gender equity of care and will produce more evidence-based medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Franconi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, National Laboratory of Gender Medicine of the National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Osilo, Sassari, Italy; Vicepresident of Basilicata Region.
| | - Giuseppe Rosano
- Cardiovascular and Cell Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London, United Kingdom
| | - Ilaria Campesi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, National Laboratory of Gender Medicine of the National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Osilo, Sassari, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Fazal L, Azibani F, Vodovar N, Cohen Solal A, Delcayre C, Samuel JL. Effects of biological sex on the pathophysiology of the heart. Br J Pharmacol 2014; 171:555-66. [PMID: 23763376 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2013] [Revised: 05/15/2013] [Accepted: 06/02/2013] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading causes of death in men and women in industrialized countries. While the effects of biological sex on cardiovascular pathophysiology have long been known, the sex-specific mechanisms mediating these processes have been further elucidated over recent years. This review aims at analysing the sex-based differences in cardiac structure and function in adult mammals, and the sex-based differences in the main molecular mechanisms involved in the response of the heart to pathological situations. It emerged from this review that the sex-based difference is a variable that should be dealt with, not only in basic science or clinical research, but also with regards to therapeutic approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Loubina Fazal
- UMR-S 942, Inserm, Paris, France; University Paris-Diderot, Paris, France
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Potje SR, Hildebrand MC, Munhoz FC, Troiano JA, Pereira AAF, Nakamune ACMS, da Silva RS, Bendhack LM, Antoniali C. The hypotensive effect of the ruthenium complex [Ru(terpy)(bdq)NO]3+ is higher in male than in female spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2014; 387:1045-51. [DOI: 10.1007/s00210-014-1020-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2014] [Accepted: 07/08/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
|
38
|
Quinn M, Ramamoorthy S, Cidlowski JA. Sexually dimorphic actions of glucocorticoids: beyond chromosomes and sex hormones. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2014; 1317:1-6. [PMID: 24739020 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.12425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Sexual dimorphism is a well-documented phenomenon that is observed at all levels of the animal kingdom. Historically, sex hormones (testosterone and estrogen) have been implicated as key players in a wide array of pathologies displaying sexual dimorphism in their etiology and progression. While these hormones clearly contribute to sexually dimorphic diseases, other factors may be involved in this phenomenon as well. In particular, the stress hormone cortisol exerts differential effects in both males and females. The underlying molecular basis for the sexually dimorphic actions of glucocorticoids is unknown but clearly important to understand, since synthetic glucocorticoids are the most widely prescribed medication for the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases and hematological cancers in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Quinn
- Laboratory of Signal Transduction, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, U. S. Department of Health and Human Services, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
McDermott BJ, Gray GA. Biological sex themed section: incorporating the female dimension into cardiovascular pharmacology. Br J Pharmacol 2014; 171:537-40. [PMID: 24490855 PMCID: PMC3969070 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Linked ArticlesThis article is part of a themed section on ‘Biological Sex and Cardiovascular Pharmacology’.To view the other articles in this section, see Fazal et al. (2013) DOI: 10.1111/bph.12279, Franconi and Campesi (2013) DOI: 10.1111/bph.12362, Mair et al. (2013) DOI: 10.1111/bph.12281, Ostadal and Ostadal (2013): DOI: 10.1111/bph.12270.Previous linked articles are: Bubb et al. (2012) DOI: 10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2012.02036.x, Chan et al. (2012) DOI: 10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2012.02012.x, Fattore and Fratta (2010) DOI: 10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2010.00776.x, Kittikulsuth et al. (2013) DOI: 10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2012.01922.x, Nilsson et al. (2011) DOI: 10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2011.01235.x, Thangavel et al. (2013) DOI: 10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2012.02222.x, Varro and Baczko (2011) DOI: 10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2011.01367.x.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara J McDermott
- School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast
| | - Gillian A Gray
- Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Abstract
Hypertension is a complex and multifaceted disease, and there are well established sex differences in many aspects of blood pressure (BP) control. The intent of this review is to highlight recent work examining sex differences in the molecular mechanisms of BP control in hypertension to assess whether the "one-size-fits-all" approach to BP control is appropriate with regard to sex.
Collapse
|
41
|
Gürgen D, Kusch A, Klewitz R, Hoff U, Catar R, Hegner B, Kintscher U, Luft FC, Dragun D. Sex-specific mTOR signaling determines sexual dimorphism in myocardial adaptation in normotensive DOCA-salt model. Hypertension 2013; 61:730-6. [PMID: 23339165 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.111.00276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA)-salt mouse model exhibits adverse cardiac remodeling in male mice and cardiac protection in female mice, even when blood pressure is normalized. We hypothesized that intact mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling is necessary for cardiac protection in females. We first tested sex differences and intracellular signaling after mTOR targeting with rapamycin in wild-type mice. Radio-telemetric blood pressure was maintained at normal for 6 weeks. Rapamycin significantly reduced left ventricular hypertrophy, preserved ejection fraction, inhibited fibrosis, and maintained capillary structure in male mice. Decreased mTORC1 and increased mTORC2 activity were detected in rapamycin-treated male mice compared with vehicle controls. In contrast, female mice developed dilative left ventricular hypertrophy, cardiac fibrosis, and capillary loss similar to DOCA-salt females lacking the estrogen receptor β (ERβ(-/-)) that we described earlier. Because rapamycin downregulated ERβ in female mice, we next studied ERβ(-/-) normotensive DOCA-salt females. Vehicle-treated wild-type females maintained their high constitutive mTORC1 and mTORC2 in response to DOCA-salt. In contrast to males, both mTORCs were decreased by rapamycin, in particular mTORC2 by 60%. ERβ(-/-) DOCA-salt females showed similar mTORC1 and mTORC2 response patterns. We suggest that ERβ-dependent regulation involves sex-specific use of mTOR signaling branches. Maintenance of both mTORC1 and mTORC2 signaling seems to be essential for adaptive cardiac remodeling in females and supports a rationale for sex-specific therapeutic strategies in left ventricular hypertrophy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Gürgen
- Department of Nephrology and Intensive Care Medicine, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Alvine T, Rhen T, Crossley DA. Temperature-dependent sex determination modulates cardiovascular maturation in embryonic snapping turtles Chelydra serpentina. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 216:751-8. [PMID: 23125337 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.074609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
We investigated sex differences in cardiovascular maturation in embryos of the snapping turtle Chelydra serpentina, a species with temperature-dependent sex determination. One group of eggs was incubated at 26.5°C to produce males. Another group of eggs was incubated at 26.5°C until embryos reached stage 17; eggs were then shifted to 31°C for 6 days to produce females, and returned to 26.5°C for the rest of embryogenesis. Thus, males and females were at the same temperature when autonomic tone was determined and for most of development. Cholinergic blockade increased resting blood pressure (P(m)) and heart rate (f(H)) in both sexes at 75% and 90% of incubation. However, the magnitude of the f(H) response was enhanced in males compared with females at 90% of incubation. β-adrenergic blockade increased P(m) at 75% of incubation in both sexes but had no effect at 90% of incubation. β-adrenergic blockade reduced f(H) at both time points but produced a stronger response at 90% versus 75% of incubation. We found that α-adrenergic blockade decreased P(m) in both sexes at 75% and 90% of incubation and decreased f(H) at 75% of incubation in both sexes. At 90% of incubation, f(H) decreased in females but not males. Although these data clearly demonstrate sexual dimorphism in the autonomic regulation of cardiovascular physiology in embryos, further studies are needed to test whether differences are caused by endocrine signals from gonads or by a hormone-independent temperature effect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Travis Alvine
- University of North Dakota Research Foundation, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|