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Tao Y, Wang W, Jin Y, Wang M, Xu J, Wang Y, Gong F. The Therapeutic Effects of EFNB2-Fc in a Cell Model of Kawasaki Disease. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16040500. [PMID: 37111257 PMCID: PMC10142267 DOI: 10.3390/ph16040500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The EphrinB2/EphB4 signaling pathway involves the regulation of vascular morphogenesis and angiogenesis. However, little is known about EphrinB2/EphB4 in the pathogenesis of Kawasaki disease (KD) and coronary artery aneurysm formation. Hence, this study aimed to explore the role of EphrinB2/EphB4 and the potential therapeutic effect of EphrinB2-Fc in the coronary arterial endothelial injury of KD. The levels of EphB4 were compared between KD patients and healthy children. Human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAECs) were stimulated with sera from acute KD patients to establish the KD cell model. The overexpression of EphB4 or treatment with EphrinB2-Fc was found to intervene in the cell model. The cell migration, angiogenesis, and proliferation ability were assessed, and the expression of inflammation-related factors was measured. Our study showed that EphB4 showed low expression in both KD patients and the cell model of KD. The EphB4 protein levels in the CECs of CAA+ KD patients were much lower than those in healthy children. EphrinB2-Fc treatment of KD sera-activated HCAECs suppressed cell proliferation, reduced the expression of inflammation-related factors (such as IL-6 and P-selectin), and elevated cell angiogenesis ability. The results reveal that EphrinB2-Fc has a protective function in endothelial cells and has promising clinical applications for protecting vascular endothelium in patients with KD.
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2
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Kaczmarek R, Gajdzis P, Gajdzis M. Eph Receptors and Ephrins in Retinal Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22126207. [PMID: 34201393 PMCID: PMC8227845 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Revised: 06/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal diseases are the leading cause of irreversible blindness. They affect people of all ages, from newborns in retinopathy of prematurity, through age-independent diabetic retinopathy and complications of retinal detachment, to age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which occurs mainly in the elderly. Generally speaking, the causes of all problems are disturbances in blood supply, hypoxia, the formation of abnormal blood vessels, and fibrosis. Although the detailed mechanisms underlying them are varied, the common point is the involvement of Eph receptors and ephrins in their pathogenesis. In our study, we briefly discussed the pathophysiology of the most common retinal diseases (diabetic retinopathy, retinopathy of prematurity, proliferative vitreoretinopathy, and choroidal neovascularization) and collected available research results on the role of Eph and ephrins. We also discussed the safety aspect of the use of drugs acting on Eph and ephrin for ophthalmic indications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radoslaw Kaczmarek
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Pawel Gajdzis
- Department of Pathomorphology and Oncological Cytology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Malgorzata Gajdzis
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +00-48-71-736-4300
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Kaczmarek R, Zimmer K, Gajdzis P, Gajdzis M. The Role of Eph Receptors and Ephrins in Corneal Physiology and Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094567. [PMID: 33925443 PMCID: PMC8123804 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The cornea, while appearing to be simple tissue, is actually an extremely complex structure. In order for it to retain its biomechanical and optical properties, perfect organization of its cells is essential. Proper regeneration is especially important after injuries and in the course of various diseases. Eph receptors and ephrin are mainly responsible for the proper organization of tissues as well as cell migration and communication. In this review, we present the current state of knowledge on the role of Eph and ephrins in corneal physiology and diseases, in particular, we focused on the functions of the epithelium and endothelium. Since the role of Eph and ephrins in the angiogenesis process has been well established, we also analyzed their influence on conditions with corneal neovascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radoslaw Kaczmarek
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (R.K.); (K.Z.)
| | - Katarzyna Zimmer
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (R.K.); (K.Z.)
| | - Pawel Gajdzis
- Department of Pathomorphology and Oncological Cytology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Malgorzata Gajdzis
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland; (R.K.); (K.Z.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-71-736-43-00
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Ephrin-A5 Is Involved in Retinal Neovascularization in a Mouse Model of Oxygen-Induced Retinopathy. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:7161027. [PMID: 33102589 PMCID: PMC7569469 DOI: 10.1155/2020/7161027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Retinal neovascularization (RNV) is an important pathological feature of vitreoretinopathy that can lead to severe vision loss. The purpose of this study was to identify the role of ephrin-A5 (Efna5) in RNV and to explore its mechanism. The expression pattern and biological significance of Efna5 were investigated in a mouse model of oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR). The expression of Efna5 and downstream signaling pathway members was determined by RT-PCR, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, and western blot analyses. shRNA was used to knockdown Efna5 in the retina of the OIR mouse model. Retinal flat mounts were performed to evaluate the impact of Efna5 silencing on the RNV process. We found that the Efna5 was greatly upregulated in the retina of OIR mice. Elevated Efna5 mainly colocalized with the retinal vessels and endothelial cells. We then showed that knockdown of Efna5 in OIR mouse retinas using lentivirus-mediated shRNA markedly decreased the expression of Efna5 and reduced the retinal neovascularization and avascular retina area. We further showed hypoxia stimulation dramatically increased both total and phosphorylation levels of ERK1/2 and the phosphorylation levels of Akt in OIR mice. More importantly, knockdown of Efna5 could inhibit the p-Akt and p-ERK signaling pathways. Our results suggested that Efna5 may regulate the RNV. This study suggests that Efna5 was significantly upregulated in the retina of OIR mice and closely involved in the pathological retinal angiogenesis.
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5
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Du E, Li X, He S, Li X, He S. The critical role of the interplays of EphrinB2/EphB4 and VEGF in the induction of angiogenesis. Mol Biol Rep 2020; 47:4681-4690. [PMID: 32488576 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-020-05470-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The significant role of VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) as an angiogenesis inducer is well recognized. Besides VEGF, EphrinB2/EphB4 also plays essential roles in vascular development and postnatal angiogenesis. Compared with classical proangiogenic factors, not only does EphrinB2/EphB4 promote sprouting of new vessels, it is also involved in the vessel maturation. Given their involvement in many physiologic and pathological conditions, EphB4 and EphrinB2 are increasingly recognized as attractive therapeutic targets for angiogenesis-related diseases through modulating their expression and function. Previous works mainly focused on the individual role of VEGF and EphrinB2/EphB4 in angiogenesis, respectively, but the correlation between EphrinB2/EphB4 and VEGF in angiogenesis has not been fully disclosed. Here, we summarize the structure and bidirectional signaling of EphrinB2/EphB4, provide an overview on the relationship between EphrinB2/EphB4 signaling and VEGF pathway in angiogenesis and highlight the associated potential usefulness in anti-angiogenetic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enming Du
- Henan Eye Institute, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China.,Henan Eye Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China.,People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China.,People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China.,Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China
| | - Xue Li
- Henan Eye Institute, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China.,Henan Eye Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China.,People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China.,People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China.,Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China
| | - Siyu He
- Henan Eye Institute, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China.,Henan Eye Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China.,People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China.,People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China.,Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China
| | - Xiaohua Li
- Henan Eye Institute, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China. .,Henan Eye Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China. .,Henan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China. .,People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China. .,People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China. .,Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China.
| | - Shikun He
- Henan Eye Institute, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China. .,Henan Eye Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China. .,Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China. .,Departments of Pathology and Ophthalmology, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, USC Roski Eye Institute, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA.
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6
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Su SA, Xie Y, Zhang Y, Xi Y, Cheng J, Xiang M. Essential roles of EphrinB2 in mammalian heart: from development to diseases. Cell Commun Signal 2019; 17:29. [PMID: 30909943 PMCID: PMC6434800 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-019-0337-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
EphrinB2, a membrane-tethered ligand preferentially binding to its receptor EphB4, is ubiquitously expressed in all mammals. Through the particular bidirectional signaling, EphrinB2 plays a critical role during the development of cardiovascular system, postnatal angiogenesis physiologically and pathologically, and cardiac remodeling after injuries as an emerging role. This review highlights the pivotal involvement of EphrinB2 in heart, from developmental cardiogenesis to pathological cardiac remodeling process. Further potential translational therapies will be discussed in targeting EphrinB2 signaling, to better understand the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-An Su
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Yao Xie
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Yuhao Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Yutao Xi
- Texas Heart Institute, Houston, 77030, USA.
| | - Jie Cheng
- Texas Heart Institute, Houston, 77030, USA
| | - Meixiang Xiang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China.
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7
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Du MR, Yan L, Li NS, Wang YJ, Zhou T, Jiang JL. Asymmetric dimethylarginine contributes to retinal neovascularization of diabetic retinopathy through EphrinB2 pathway. Vascul Pharmacol 2018; 108:46-56. [PMID: 29777874 DOI: 10.1016/j.vph.2018.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Revised: 04/01/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of vision loss with retinal neovascularization. This study aims to investigate whether Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) impacts the pathogenesis of DR via focusing on promoting retinal neovascularization and its underlying molecular mechanisms. Diabetic rats were induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ) for 20 weeks. ADMA levels in aqueous and the influence of hypoxia on ADMA and angiogenesis in RF/6A cells were examined. The effects and underlying molecular mechanisms of ADMA on neovascularization of RF/6A cells were further evaluated by administration of ADMA, DDAH siRNA or ephrinB2 siRNA. Results showed that ADMA levels were elevated in both aqueous from diabetic rats and culture medium in RF/6A cells pretreated with hypoxia. Administration of ADMA directly promoted proliferation, migration, adhesion and tube formation of RF/6A cells, which was further confirmed by DDAH1 siRNA or DDAH2 siRNA. In addition, ephrinB2 expression was increased under diabetic conditions, and the angiogenic effects of ADMA were blocked by ephrinB2 siRNA. In conclusion, ADMA contributes to the neovascularization of retina in diabetic mellitus, which is regulated by ephrinB2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei-Rong Du
- Department of Pharmacology, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China; Departments of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - Li Yan
- Department of Pharmacology, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China
| | - Nian-Sheng Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China
| | - Yu-Jie Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China
| | - Ting Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China
| | - Jun-Lin Jiang
- Department of Pharmacology, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China; Provincial Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Research, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China.
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8
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Zheng LC, Wang XQ, Lu K, Deng XL, Zhang CW, Luo H, Xu XD, Chen XM, Yan L, Wang YQ, Shi SL. Ephrin-B2/Fc promotes proliferation and migration, and suppresses apoptosis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Oncotarget 2018; 8:41348-41363. [PMID: 28489586 PMCID: PMC5522204 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.17298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2016] [Accepted: 04/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor growth and metastasis are angiogenesis dependent. Angiogenic growth involves endothelial cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Ephrin-B2 is a ligand for Eph receptor tyrosine kinases and is an important mediator in vascular endothelial growth factor-mediated angiogenesis. However, research offer controversial information regarding effects of ephrin-B2 on vascular endothelial cells. In this paper, proteome analyses showed that ephrin-B2/Fc significantly activates multiple signaling pathways related to cell proliferation, survival, and migration and suppresses apoptosis and cell death. Cytological experiments further confirm that ephrin-B2/Fc stimulates endothelial cell proliferation, triggers dose-dependent migration, and suppresses cell apoptosis. Results demonstrate that soluble dose-dependent ephrinB2 can promote proliferation and migration and inhibit apoptosis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells. These results also suggest that ephrinB2 prevents ischemic disease and can potentially be a new therapeutic target for treating angiogenesis-related diseases and tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Chun Zheng
- Medical College of Xiamen University, Jinshan Community Health Service Center, Xiamen Traditional Chinese Medical Hospital, Xiamen 361000, P.R. China.,Xiamen Heart Center, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen 361000, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Qing Wang
- Xiamen Heart Center, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen 361000, P.R. China
| | - Kun Lu
- Department of Basic Medicine, Medical College of Xiamen University, Cancer Research Center of Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Ling Deng
- Department of Basic Medicine, Medical College of Xiamen University, Cancer Research Center of Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, P.R. China
| | - Cheng-Wei Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Dongnan Hospital of Xiamen University, Zhangzhou 363000, P.R. China
| | - Hong Luo
- Xiamen Heart Center, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen 361000, P.R. China
| | - Xu-Dong Xu
- Xiamen Heart Center, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen 361000, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Man Chen
- Xiamen Heart Center, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen 361000, P.R. China
| | - Lu Yan
- Department of Basic Medicine, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, P.R. China
| | - Yi-Qing Wang
- Xiamen Heart Center, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen 361000, P.R. China
| | - Song-Lin Shi
- Department of Basic Medicine, Medical College of Xiamen University, Cancer Research Center of Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, P.R. China
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Joyal JS, Gantner ML, Smith LEH. Retinal energy demands control vascular supply of the retina in development and disease: The role of neuronal lipid and glucose metabolism. Prog Retin Eye Res 2017; 64:131-156. [PMID: 29175509 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2017.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2017] [Revised: 11/11/2017] [Accepted: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Sébastien Joyal
- Department of Pediatrics, Pharmacology and Ophthalmology, CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Qc, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Qc, Canada.
| | - Marin L Gantner
- The Lowy Medical Research Institute, La Jolla, United States
| | - Lois E H Smith
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston Children's Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston MA 02115, United States.
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10
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Wang JD, An Y, Zhang JS, Wan XH, Jonas JB, Xu L, Zhang W. Human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells for retinal vascular injury. Acta Ophthalmol 2017; 95:e453-e461. [PMID: 27807930 DOI: 10.1111/aos.13154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine the potential of intravitreally implanted human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) to affect vascular repair and the blood-retina barrier in mice and rats with oxygen-induced retinopathy, diabetic retinopathy or retinal ischaemia-reperfusion damage. METHODS Three study groups (oxygen-induced retinopathy group: 18 C57BL/6J mice; diabetic retinopathy group: 15 rats; retinal ischaemia-reperfusion model: 18 rats) received BMSCs injected intravitreally. Control groups (oxygen-induced retinopathy group: 12 C57BL/6J mice; diabetic retinopathy group: 15 rats; retinal ischaemia-reperfusion model: 18 rats) received an intravitreal injection of phosphate-buffered saline. We applied immunohistological techniques to measure retinal vascularization, spectroscopic measurements of intraretinally extravasated fluorescein-conjugated dextran to quantify the blood-retina barrier breakdown, and histomorphometry to assess retinal thickness and retinal ganglion cell count. RESULTS In the oxygen-induced retinopathy model, the study group with intravitreally injected BMSCs as compared with the control group showed a significantly (p = 0.001) smaller area of retinal neovascularization. In the diabetic retinopathy model, study group and control group did not differ significantly in the amount of intraretinally extravasated dextran. In the retinal ischaemia-reperfusion model, on the 7th day after retina injury, the retina was significantly thicker in the study group than in the control group (p = 0.02), with no significant difference in the retinal ganglion cell count (p = 0.36). CONCLUSIONS Intravitreally implanted human BMSCs were associated with a reduced retinal neovascularization in the oxygen-induced retinopathy model and with a potentially cell preserving effect in the retinal ischaemia-reperfusion model. Intravitreal BMSCs may be of potential interest for the therapy of retinal vascular disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Da Wang
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology; Beijing Tongren Eye Center; Beijing Tongren Hospital of Capital Medical University; Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences; Beijing China
| | - Ying An
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology; Beijing Tongren Eye Center; Beijing Tongren Hospital of Capital Medical University; Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences; Beijing China
| | - Jing-Shang Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology; Beijing Tongren Eye Center; Beijing Tongren Hospital of Capital Medical University; Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences; Beijing China
| | - Xiu-Hua Wan
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology; Beijing Tongren Eye Center; Beijing Tongren Hospital of Capital Medical University; Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences; Beijing China
| | - Jost B. Jonas
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology; Beijing Tongren Eye Center; Beijing Tongren Hospital of Capital Medical University; Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences; Beijing China
- Department of Ophthalmology; Medical Faculty Mannheim of the Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg; Seegartenklinik; Heidelberg Germany
| | - Liang Xu
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology; Beijing Tongren Eye Center; Beijing Tongren Hospital of Capital Medical University; Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences; Beijing China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology; Beijing Tongren Eye Center; Beijing Tongren Hospital of Capital Medical University; Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences; Beijing China
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11
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Ntumba K, Akla N, Oh SP, Eichmann A, Larrivée B. BMP9/ALK1 inhibits neovascularization in mouse models of age-related macular degeneration. Oncotarget 2016; 7:55957-55969. [PMID: 27517154 PMCID: PMC5302889 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.11182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2016] [Accepted: 07/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in aging populations of industrialized countries. The drawbacks of inhibitors of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGFs) currently used for the treatment of AMD, which include resistance and potential serious side-effects, require the identification of new therapeutic targets to modulate angiogenesis. BMP9 signaling through the endothelial Alk1 serine-threonine kinase receptor modulates the response of endothelial cells to VEGF and promotes vessel quiescence and maturation during development. Here, we show that BMP9/Alk1 signaling inhibits neovessel formation in mouse models of pathological ocular angiogenesis relevant to AMD. Activating Alk1 signaling in laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) and oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) inhibited neovascularization and reduced the volume of vascular lesions. Alk1 signaling was also found to interfere with VEGF signaling in endothelial cells whereas BMP9 potentiated the inhibitory effects of VEGFR2 signaling blockade, both in OIR and laser-induced CNV. Together, our data show that targeting BMP9/Alk1 efficiently prevents the growth of neovessels in AMD models and introduce a new approach to improve conventional anti-VEGF therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalonji Ntumba
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Naoufal Akla
- Department of Biochemistry, Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - S. Paul Oh
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Anne Eichmann
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, New Haven, CT, USA
- Inserm U970, Paris Cardiovascular Research Center, Paris, France
| | - Bruno Larrivée
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Molecular Biology, Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology, Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Biological Sciences, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
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12
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Zhu L, Qian L, Wang S, Wang T, Jiang L. Expression of ephrinB2 and EphB4 in a neonatal rat model of periventricular white matter damage. J Perinat Med 2015; 43:367-71. [PMID: 25222588 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2014-0096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2014] [Accepted: 08/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Periventricular white matter damage (PWMD), also termed periventricular leukomalacia, is the predominant neurologic lesion in preterm infants. It appears to relate in part to the development of the vascular supply to the cerebral white matter. We investigated whether, in case of severe hypoxia-ischemia, the vascular system would be subject to severe damage or remodeled. AIMS To evaluate microvessel density (MVD) and the use of ephrinB2 and its receptor EphB4 to mark arterioles and venules to establish the correct anatomic assignment of the remodeled vessels in a hypoxia-induced PWMD rat model. METHODS Postnatal day 3 rats underwent permanent ligation of the right common carotid artery followed by 6% O2 for 4 h (hypoxia-ischemia) or sham operation and normoxic exposure (sham). MVD and levels of ephrinB2 and EphB4, which are respectively regarded as relatively specific molecular markers of arteries and veins, were determined at postnatal day 7. RESULTS Compared with sham rats, MVD, ephrinB2 and EphB4 levels were higher in the brains of hypoxic-ischemic rats. Similar percentages of vessels expressed ephrinB2 and EphB4 in sham rats, but expression of ephrinB2 was greater in brains injured by hypoxia-ischemia. CONCLUSIONS Following hypoxic-ischemic injury to the rat brain, microvessels were remodeled and more arterioles than venules were acquired.
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13
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Saab S, Buteau B, Leclère L, Bron AM, Creuzot-Garcher CP, Bretillon L, Acar N. Involvement of plasmalogens in post-natal retinal vascular development. PLoS One 2014; 9:e101076. [PMID: 24963632 PMCID: PMC4071069 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0101076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2014] [Accepted: 06/03/2014] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Proper development of retinal blood vessels is essential to ensure sufficient oxygen and nutrient supplies to the retina. It was shown that polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) could modulate factors involved in tissue vascularization. A congenital deficiency in ether-phospholipids, also termed “plasmalogens”, was shown to lead to abnormal ocular vascularization. Because plasmalogens are considered to be reservoirs of PUFAs, we wished to improve our understanding of the mechanisms by which plasmalogens regulate retinal vascular development and whether the release of PUFAs by calcium-independent phospholipase A2 (iPLA2) could be involved. Methods and Results By characterizing the cellular and molecular steps of retinal vascular development in a mouse model of plasmalogen deficiency, we demonstrated that plasmalogens modulate angiogenic processes during the early phases of retinal vascularization. They influence glial activity and primary astrocyte template formation, endothelial cell proliferation and retinal vessel outgrowth, and impact the expression of the genes involved in angiogenesis in the retina. These early defects led to a disorganized and dysfunctional retinal vascular network at adult age. By comparing these data to those obtained on a mouse model of retinal iPLA2 inhibition, we suggest that these processes may be mediated by PUFAs released from plasmalogens and further signalling through the angiopoietin/tie pathways. Conclusions These data suggest that plasmalogens play a crucial role in retinal vascularization processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Saab
- CNRS, UMR6265 Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l’Alimentation, Dijon, France
- INRA, UMR1324 Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l’Alimentation, Dijon, France
- Université de Bourgogne, UMR Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l’Alimentation, Dijon, France
| | - Bénédicte Buteau
- CNRS, UMR6265 Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l’Alimentation, Dijon, France
- INRA, UMR1324 Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l’Alimentation, Dijon, France
- Université de Bourgogne, UMR Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l’Alimentation, Dijon, France
| | - Laurent Leclère
- CNRS, UMR6265 Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l’Alimentation, Dijon, France
- INRA, UMR1324 Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l’Alimentation, Dijon, France
- Université de Bourgogne, UMR Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l’Alimentation, Dijon, France
| | - Alain M. Bron
- CNRS, UMR6265 Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l’Alimentation, Dijon, France
- INRA, UMR1324 Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l’Alimentation, Dijon, France
- Université de Bourgogne, UMR Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l’Alimentation, Dijon, France
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital, Dijon, France
| | - Catherine P. Creuzot-Garcher
- CNRS, UMR6265 Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l’Alimentation, Dijon, France
- INRA, UMR1324 Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l’Alimentation, Dijon, France
- Université de Bourgogne, UMR Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l’Alimentation, Dijon, France
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital, Dijon, France
| | - Lionel Bretillon
- CNRS, UMR6265 Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l’Alimentation, Dijon, France
- INRA, UMR1324 Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l’Alimentation, Dijon, France
- Université de Bourgogne, UMR Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l’Alimentation, Dijon, France
| | - Niyazi Acar
- CNRS, UMR6265 Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l’Alimentation, Dijon, France
- INRA, UMR1324 Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l’Alimentation, Dijon, France
- Université de Bourgogne, UMR Centre des Sciences du Goût et de l’Alimentation, Dijon, France
- * E-mail:
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Kyosseva SV, Chen L, Seal S, McGinnis JF. Nanoceria inhibit expression of genes associated with inflammation and angiogenesis in the retina of Vldlr null mice. Exp Eye Res 2013; 116:63-74. [PMID: 23978600 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2013.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2013] [Revised: 07/02/2013] [Accepted: 08/06/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress and inflammation are important pathological mechanisms in many neurodegenerative diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The very low-density lipoprotein receptor knockout mouse (Vldlr-/-) has been identified as a model for AMD and in particular for retinal angiomatous proliferation (RAP). In this study we examined the effect of cerium oxide nanoparticles (nanoceria) that have been shown to have catalytic antioxidant activity, on expression of 88 major cytokines in the retinas of Vldlr-/- mice using a PCR array. A single intravitreal injection of nanoceria at P28 caused inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines and pro-angiogenic growth factors including Tslp, Lif, Il3, Il7, Vegfa, Fgf1, Fgf2, Fgf7, Egf, Efna3, Lep, and up-regulation of several cytokines and anti-angiogenic genes in the Vldlr-/- retina within one week. We used the Ingenuity Pathway Analysis software to search for biological functions, pathways, and interrelationships between gene networks. Many of the genes whose activities were affected are involved in cell signaling, cellular development, growth and proliferation, and tissue development. Western blot analysis revealed that nanoceria inhibit the activation of ERK 1/2, JNK, p38 MAP kinase, and Akt. These data suggest that nanoceria may represent a novel therapeutic strategy to treat AMD, RAP, and other neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svetlana V Kyosseva
- Department of Ophthalmology/Dean McGee Eye Institute, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
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15
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Wehrman T, Nguyen M, Feng W, Bader B. EphB4 cellular kinase activity assayed using an enzymatic protein interaction system. Assay Drug Dev Technol 2013; 11:237-43. [PMID: 23557019 DOI: 10.1089/adt.2012.490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are important players in various cellular processes, including proliferation, migration, metabolism, and neuronal development. EphB4 RTK is essential for the development of a functional arterial-venous network in embryonic and adult neoangiogenesis. To develop novel inhibitors of EphB4 that might have applications in severe diseases like cancer and retinopathies, assays need to be in place that resemble, in a most physiological fashion, the activation and downstream function of the kinase. In addition, such assays need to be amenable to high-throughput screening to serve efficiently the modern drug discovery processes in the pharmaceutical industry. The authors have developed an enzyme fragment complementation assay that measures the interaction of a downstream docking protein to the activated and phosphorylated full-length EphB4 kinase in cells. The assay is specific, robust, and amenable to miniaturization and high-throughput screening. It covers most steps in the activation process of EphB4, including ligand binding, autophosphorylation, and docking of a downstream interactor. This assay format can be transferred to other RTKs and adds an important cell-based kinase assay option to researchers in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Wehrman
- DiscoveRx Corporation, Fremont, California 94538, USA.
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16
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Du J, Zhao W, Wang Y, Cai Y. Lentivirus vector-mediated knockdown of erythropoietin-producing hepatocellular carcinoma receptors B4 inhibits laser-induced choroidal neovascularization. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2012; 29:14-22. [PMID: 23035975 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2012.0077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the efficacy of erythropoietin-producing hepatocellular carcinoma receptors B4 (EphB4) knockdown on the development of laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in vivo. METHODS We constructed recombinant lentiviral vectors (Lv) Lv-shRNA-EphB4 to specifically knock down the expression of EphB4. The mRNA and protein expression of EphB4 was investigated by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and western blot. CNV was induced by laser photocoagulation in C57BL/6 mice. The mice were then randomly assigned to be intravitreally injected with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), Lv-shRNA-EphB4 recombinant lentivirus, or an unrelated shRNA recombinant lentivirus (pFU LV-shRNA-NC). An uninjected group was used as the control. Fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA), histologic analysis, and choroidal flat mounts analysis were applied to evaluate the inhibition of CNV after an intravitreal injection. RESULTS Transfection of Lv-shRNA-EphB4 led to the knockdown of EphB4, and EphB4 mRNA was down-regulated by about 80%. FFA and histologic analysis revealed that the leakage areas and the mean thickness of CNV were much smaller in the Lv-shRNA-EphB4 group than in the PBS-treated, pFU Lv-shRNA-NC group and the non-injection group. Choroidal flat mounts showed significantly less leakage and smaller leakage areas in the Lv-shRNA-EphB4 group than those in other groups. CONCLUSION Knocking down the expression of EphB4 exerts an inhibitory effect on CNV in vivo. It may provide a potential strategy for the treatment of CNV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Du
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xijing Hospital, Eye Institute of Chinese PLA, Fourth Military Medical University , Xi'an, People's Republic of China
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17
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Zozulya SA, Udovichenko IP. [Eph family receptors as therapeutic targets]. RUSSIAN JOURNAL OF BIOORGANIC CHEMISTRY 2012; 38:267-79. [PMID: 22997698 DOI: 10.1134/s106816201203017x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Anti-angiogenic therapy is currently a commonly accepted and rapidly developing approach in oncology and other pathologies linked to aberrant neovascularization. Discovery and validation of additional molecular targets in angiogenesis is needed due to the limitations of the existing clinical therapeutics inhibiting activity of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptors. A brief review of normal and pathological biological functions of the Eph family of receptor tyrosine kinases and their ephrin ligands is presented, and the approaches to developing therapeutics with anti- and pro-angiogenic and anti-tumor activity based on selective molecular modulation of Eph-ephrin signaling pairs are discussed. Functional roles of Eph-kinases and ephrins in such mechanisms of cancerogenesis as cell proliferation and invasion are also addressed.
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Taylor AC, Mendel TA, Mason KE, Degen KE, Yates PA, Peirce SM. Attenuation of ephrinB2 reverse signaling decreases vascularized area and preretinal vascular tuft formation in the murine model of oxygen-induced retinopathy. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2012; 53:5462-70. [PMID: 22789927 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.11-8599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE EphB4 and ephrinB2 are known key regulators of retinal vascular development, but due to their capacity for bidirectional signaling, delineation of their individual roles in this process remains unclear. To better dissect out individual contributions, a model of proliferative retinopathy in mice with attenuated ephrinB2 reverse signaling was studied. It was hypothesized that endothelial ephrinB2 reverse signaling regulates hypoxia-induced capillary sprouting, as well as the pathologic formation of neovascular tufts in postnatal retinal microvascular networks. METHODS Genetically manipulated mice with attenuated ephrinB2 reverse signaling (ephrinB2(lacZ/+)), along with wild-type (WT) controls, were exposed to oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR), a postnatal model of proliferative retinopathy. At peak disease (postnatal day 18), microvascular networks were analyzed to examine intraretinal revascularization, capillary sprouting, and pathologic neovascularization responses. EphB4 and phosphorylated ephrinB protein expression patterns along retinal microvessels were also assessed. RESULTS EphrinB2(lacZ/+) mice exhibited reduced hypoxia-induced revascularization (P ≤ 0.04) and reduced formation of neovascular tufts (P < 0.001), as compared with WT controls. Corresponding to the observed inhibition of retinal angiogenesis, ephrinB2(lacZ/+) retinas displayed an increased number of blind-ended capillary sprout tips (P < 0.02) and endothelial filopodial processes (P = 0.001). In WT and ephrinB2(lacZ/+) OIR-exposed retinas, ephrinB was confined to endothelial cells, with expression detected along angiogenic vascular processes including neovascular tufts and blind-ended capillary sprouts. CONCLUSIONS EphrinB2 reverse signaling is a regulator of key processes during retinal vascularization and controls pathologic retinal angiogenesis through direct effects on capillary sprouting and endothelial filopodia formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa C Taylor
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
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Joyal JS, Omri S, Sitaras N, Rivera JC, Sapieha P, Chemtob S. Neovascularization in retinopathy of prematurity: opposing actions of neuronal factors GPR91 and semaphorins 3A. Acta Paediatr 2012; 101:819-26. [PMID: 22497252 DOI: 10.1111/j.1651-2227.2012.02692.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a major cause of severe visual deficits in children. This review focuses on the role of newly identified factors from retinal neurons, which through their opposing actions on vascular development contribute to ROP. These hypoxia-generated mediators include the Krebs cycle intermediate, succinate acting via GPR91, and the neuronal guidance molecule Semaphorin 3A. CONCLUSION Neuron-derived factors guide retinal vascularization and are major contributors to the pathogenesis of ROP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Sébastien Joyal
- Departments of Pediatrics, Ophthalmology, and Pharmacology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Ste-Justine Research Center, Montréal, QC, Canada
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20
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Inhibition of Eph receptor-ephrin ligand interaction by tea polyphenols. Pharmacol Res 2012; 66:363-73. [PMID: 22750215 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2012.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2012] [Revised: 05/29/2012] [Accepted: 05/29/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Tea contains a variety of bioactive chemicals, such as catechins and other polyphenols. These compounds are thought to be responsible for the health benefits of tea consumption by affecting the function of many cellular targets, not all of which have been identified. In a high-throughput screen for small molecule antagonists of the EphA4 receptor tyrosine kinase, we identified five tea polyphenols that substantially inhibit EphA4 binding to a synthetic peptide ligand. Further characterization of theaflavin monogallates from black tea and epigallocatechin-3,5-digallate from green tea revealed that these compounds at low micromolar concentrations also inhibit binding of the natural ephrin ligands to EphA4 and several other Eph receptors in in vitro assays. The compounds behave as competitive EphA4 antagonists, and their inhibitory activity is affected by amino acid mutations within the ephrin binding pocket of EphA4. In contrast, the major green tea catechin, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), does not appear to be an effective Eph receptor antagonist. In cell culture assays, theaflavin monogallates and epigallocatechin-3,5-digallate inhibit ephrin-induced tyrosine phosphorylation (activation) of Eph receptors and endothelial capillary-like tube formation. However, the wider spectrum of Eph receptors affected by the tea derivatives in cells suggests additional mechanisms of inhibition besides interfering with ephrin binding. These results show that tea polyphenols derived from both black and green tea can suppress the biological activities of Eph receptors. Thus, the Eph receptor tyrosine kinase family represents an important class of targets for tea-derived phytochemicals.
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21
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Noberini R, Mitra S, Salvucci O, Valencia F, Duggineni S, Prigozhina N, Wei K, Tosato G, Huang Z, Pasquale EB. PEGylation potentiates the effectiveness of an antagonistic peptide that targets the EphB4 receptor with nanomolar affinity. PLoS One 2011; 6:e28611. [PMID: 22194865 PMCID: PMC3237458 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0028611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2011] [Accepted: 11/11/2011] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The EphB4 receptor tyrosine kinase together with its preferred ligand, ephrin-B2, regulates a variety of physiological and pathological processes, including tumor progression, pathological forms of angiogenesis, cardiomyocyte differentiation and bone remodeling. We previously reported the identification of TNYL-RAW, a 15 amino acid-long peptide that binds to the ephrin-binding pocked of EphB4 with low nanomolar affinity and inhibits ephrin-B2 binding. Although ephrin-B2 interacts promiscuously with all the EphB receptors, the TNYL-RAW peptide is remarkably selective and only binds to EphB4. Therefore, this peptide is a useful tool for studying the biological functions of EphB4 and for imaging EphB4-expressing tumors. Furthermore, TNYL-RAW could be useful for treating pathologies involving EphB4-ephrin-B2 interaction. However, the peptide has a very short half-life in cell culture and in the mouse blood circulation due to proteolytic degradation and clearance by the kidneys and reticuloendothelial system. To overcome these limitations, we have modified TNYL-RAW by fusion with the Fc portion of human IgG1, complexation with streptavidin or covalent coupling to a 40 KDa branched polyethylene glycol (PEG) polymer. These modified forms of TNYL-RAW all have greatly increased stability in cell culture, while retaining high binding affinity for EphB4. Furthermore, PEGylation most effectively increases peptide half-life in vivo. Consistent with increased stability, submicromolar concentrations of PEGylated TNYL-RAW effectively impair EphB4 activation by ephrin-B2 in cultured B16 melanoma cells as well as capillary-like tube formation and capillary sprouting in co-cultures of endothelial and epicardial mesothelial cells. Therefore, PEGylated TNYL-RAW may be useful for inhibiting pathological forms of angiogenesis through a novel mechanism involving disruption of EphB4-ephrin-B2 interactions between endothelial cells and supporting perivascular mesenchymal cells. Furthermore, the PEGylated peptide is suitable for other cell culture and in vivo applications requiring prolonged EphB4 receptor targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Noberini
- Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Sayantan Mitra
- Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Ombretta Salvucci
- Laboratory of Cellular Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Fatima Valencia
- Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Srinivas Duggineni
- Department of Pharmacology, State University of New York Upstate Cancer Research Institute, State University of New York, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
| | - Natalie Prigozhina
- Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States of America
- Biology Department, University of San Diego, San Diego, California, United States of America
| | - Ke Wei
- Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Giovanna Tosato
- Laboratory of Cellular Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Ziwei Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, State University of New York Upstate Cancer Research Institute, State University of New York, Syracuse, New York, United States of America
| | - Elena B. Pasquale
- Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States of America
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Fischer F, Martin G, Agostini HT. Activation of retinal microglia rather than microglial cell density correlates with retinal neovascularization in the mouse model of oxygen-induced retinopathy. J Neuroinflammation 2011; 8:120. [PMID: 21943408 PMCID: PMC3190350 DOI: 10.1186/1742-2094-8-120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2011] [Accepted: 09/23/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Retinal neovascularization has been intensively investigated in the mouse model of oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR). Here, we studied the contribution of microglial cells to vascular regression during the hyperoxic phase and to retinal neovascularization during the hypoxic phase. METHODS Mice expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP) under the Cx3cr1 promoter labeling microglial cells were kept in 75% oxygen from postnatal day 7 (P7) to P12. Microglial cell density was quantified at different time points and at different retinal positions in retinal flat mounts. Microglial activation was determined by the switch from ramified to amoeboid cell morphology which correlated with the switch from lectin negative to lectin positive staining of GFP positive cells. RESULTS Microglial cell density was constant in the peripheral region of the retina. In the deep vascular layer of the central region, however, it declined 14 fold from P12 to P14 and recovered afterwards. Activated microglial cells were found in the superficial layer of the central avascular zone from P8 to P12 and from P16 to P18. In addition, hyalocytes were found in the vitreal layer in the central region and their cell density decreased over time. CONCLUSION Density of microglial cells does not correlate with vascular obliteration or revascularization. But the time course of the activation of microglia indicates that they may be involved in retinal neovascularization during the hypoxic phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Fischer
- Augenklinik, Universitätsklinikum Freiburg, Killianstr, 5, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
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Noberini R, De SK, Zhang Z, Wu B, Raveendra-Panickar D, Chen V, Vazquez J, Qin H, Song J, Cosford NDP, Pellecchia M, Pasquale EB. A disalicylic acid-furanyl derivative inhibits ephrin binding to a subset of Eph receptors. Chem Biol Drug Des 2011; 78:667-78. [PMID: 21791013 DOI: 10.1111/j.1747-0285.2011.01199.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Eph receptor tyrosine kinases and ephrin ligands control many physiological and pathological processes, and molecules interfering with their interaction are useful probes to elucidate their complex biological functions. Moreover, targeting Eph receptors might enable new strategies to inhibit cancer progression and pathological angiogenesis as well as promote nerve regeneration. Because our previous work suggested the importance of the salicylic acid group in antagonistic small molecules targeting Eph receptors, we screened a series of salicylic acid derivatives to identify novel Eph receptor antagonists. This identified a disalicylic acid-furanyl derivative that inhibits ephrin-A5 binding to EphA4 with an IC(50) of 3 μm in ELISAs. This compound, which appears to bind to the ephrin-binding pocket of EphA4, also targets several other Eph receptors. Furthermore, it inhibits EphA2 and EphA4 tyrosine phosphorylation in cells stimulated with ephrin while not affecting phosphorylation of EphB2, which is not a target receptor. In endothelial cells, the disalicylic acid-furanyl derivative inhibits EphA2 phosphorylation in response to TNFα and capillary-like tube formation on Matrigel, two effects that depend on EphA2 interaction with endogenous ephrin-A1. These findings suggest that salicylic acid derivatives could be used as starting points to design new small molecule antagonists of Eph receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Noberini
- Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
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Davies MH, Stempel AJ, Hubert KE, Powers MR. Altered vascular expression of EphrinB2 and EphB4 in a model of oxygen-induced retinopathy. Dev Dyn 2010; 239:1695-707. [PMID: 20503366 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.22306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
EphrinB2 ligands and EphB4 receptors are expressed on endothelial cells (EC) of arteries and veins, respectively, and are essential for vascular development. To understand how these molecules regulate retinal neovascularization (NV), we evaluated their expression in a model of oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR). EphrinB2 and EphB4 were expressed on arterial and venous trunks, respectively, and on a subset of deep capillary vessels. EphB4 expression was reduced following hyperoxia, while ephrinB2 expression remained unaltered. In addition, a subset of EphB4-positive veins regressed in a caspase-3-dependent manner during hyperoxia. Arteriovenous malformations were also observed with loss of arterial-venous boundaries. Finally, both ephrinB2 and EphB4 were expressed on a subset of neovascular tufts following hyperoxia. These data confirm the contribution of ECs from both venous and arterial origins to the development of retinal NV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael H Davies
- Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
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