1
|
Shen J, Hu N, Wang Z, Yang L, Chen R, Zhang L, Wang X. Ghrelin alleviates placental dysfunction by down-regulating NF-κB phosphorylation in LPS-induced rat model of preeclampsia. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 972:176569. [PMID: 38593930 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
In our previous study, we uncovered that ghrelin promotes angiogenesis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in vitro by activating the Jagged1/Notch2/VEGF pathway in preeclampsia (PE). However, the regulatory effects of ghrelin on placental dysfunction in PE are unclear. Therefore, we applied Normal pregnant Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), to establish a PE-like rat model. The hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining method and immunohistochemistry (IHC) technology were used to detect morphological features of the placenta. IHC and Western blot were applied to examine Bax and Bcl-2 expression levels. The concentrations of serum soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt1) and placental growth factor (PIGF) were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. In addition, the apoptosis rates of JEG-3 and HTR-8/SVneo trophoblast cells were determined by Annexin V-FITC/PI apoptosis detection kit. Cell migratory capacities were assessed by scratch-wound assay, and RNA-sequencing assay was used to determine the mechanism of ghrelin in regulating trophoblast apoptosis. It has been found that ghrelin significantly reduced blood pressure, urinary protein, and urine creatinine in rats with PE, at the meanwhile, ameliorated placental and fetal injuries. Second, ghrelin clearly inhibited placental Bax expression and circulating sFlt-1 as well as elevated placental Bcl-2 expression and circulating PIGF, restored apoptosis and invasion deficiency of trophoblast cells caused by LPS in vitro. Finally, transcriptomics indicated that nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) was the potential downstream pathway of ghrelin. Our findings illustrated that ghrelin supplementation significantly improved LPS-induced PE-like symptoms and adverse pregnancy outcomes in rats by alleviating placental apoptosis and promoting trophoblast migration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiayu Shen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200240, China; Department of Central Laboratory, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Ningning Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Zetian Wang
- Department of Trauma-Emergency & Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Lina Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200240, China; Department of Central Laboratory, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Rujun Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Liwen Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
| | - Xiaoqin Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Shi J, Su M. HMOX1 Participates in Pre-Eclampsia by Regulating the Proliferation, Apoptosis, and Angiogenesis Modulation Potential of Mesenchymal Stem Cells via VEGF. Biochem Genet 2024; 62:1248-1262. [PMID: 37573262 DOI: 10.1007/s10528-023-10474-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are involved in the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia (PE). Heme oxygenase (HMOX) protects against placental cytotoxic injuries associated with PE. Here, we aimed to clarify the roles of HMOX1 in MSC proliferation and apoptosis, trophoblast cell migration, and regulation of angiogenesis, and assess its involvement in the pathogenesis of PE. HMOX1 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression levels in decidual tissues and decidua-derived MSCs (dMSCs) of healthy pregnant women and patients with PE were evaluated via quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. Moreover, 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide, flow cytometry, and transwell assays were used to analyze the cell viability, apoptosis, and migration, respectively. The tube formation ability of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) was also evaluated. Compared to the healthy pregnant women, HMOX1 expression was upregulated in the decidual tissue and downregulated in the dMSCs of patients with PE. HMOX1 overexpression significantly increased dMSC proliferation, decreased cell apoptosis, and increased VEGF expression. Moreover, HMOX1-plasmid transfected dMSC culture supernatant promoted the migration of HTR-8/SVneo cells and improved angiogenesis by HUVECs. The opposite effects were observed in HMOX1-small interfering RNA-treated dMSCs cells. However, VEGF-siRNA reversed the effects of HMOX1-plasmid. HMOX1 is involved in the pathogenesis of PE by regulating the proliferation, apoptosis, and angiogenesis modulation potential of MSCs via VEGF, acting as a potential therapeutic target for PE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan Shi
- Obstetrical Department, Medical College of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Min Su
- Obstetrical Department, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, No. 20 Xisi Road, Nantong, 226001, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Jin X, Sun Y, Bai R, Shi J, Zhai L, Jiang Y, Jiang M, He J, Li J, Wang T, Li S, Chen W. Zhuang-Gu-Fang intervenes vasculogenic and osteogenic coupling in GK rats through Notch1/Noggin/VEGF pathway. Heliyon 2024; 10:e28014. [PMID: 38524608 PMCID: PMC10958413 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Zhuang-Gu-Fang (ZGF) has been proved to treat osteoporosis in ovariectomized rats by increasing osteogenic related factors Leptin, Ghrelin and Peptide YY(PYY). However, the mechanism of ZGF in the treatment of diabetic osteoporosis (DOP) remains unclear. The aim of this study was to explore the therapeutic effect of ZGF on DOP and its potential molecular mechanism. Methods Using GK rats as models, the pharmacodynamic effects of ZGF on bone loss were evaluated by hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining and micro-computed.tomography (micro-CT). The expression levels of CD31 and endomucin (Emcn) were detected by immunofluorescence to assess the role of ZGF in angiogenic osteogenic coupling. Finally, real-time quantitative PCR (RT-PCR) and Western Blot (WB)were used to detect the expression levels of osteogenic and angiogenesis-related genes and proteins Notch1, Noggin and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Results Administration of ZGF demonstrated a significant mitigation of bone loss attributable to elevated glucose levels. H&E staining and micro-CT showed that ZGF notably improved the integrity of the trabecular and cortical bone microarchitecture. Moreover, ZGF was found to augment the density of type H vessels within the bone tissue, alongside elevating the expression levels of Osterix, a transcription factor pivotal for bone formation. Furthermore, our findings suggest that ZGF facilitates the activation of the Notch1/Noggin/VEGF pathway, indicating a potential mechanism through which ZGF exerts its osteoprotective effects. Conclusion Our results suggest that ZGF potentially facilitates the formation of type H vessels through the Notch1/Noggin/VEGF pathway. This action not only enhances angiogenic-osteogenic coupling but also contributes to the improvement of bone structure and density. Consequently, ZGF emerges as a promising therapeutic agent for the prevention and management of DOP, offering a novel approach by leveraging angiogenesis-dependent osteogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinyan Jin
- Graduate School, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, 530001, China
| | - Yuyu Sun
- Graduate School, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, 530001, China
| | - Rui Bai
- Graduate School, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, 530001, China
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine Science, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, 530299, China
| | - Jun Shi
- School of Public Health and Management, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, 530001, China
| | - Linna Zhai
- Department of Endocrine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, 530023, China
| | - Yunxia Jiang
- Department of Endocrine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, 530023, China
| | - Mengchun Jiang
- Graduate School, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, 530001, China
| | - Jiali He
- Graduate School, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, 530001, China
| | - Junyu Li
- Graduate School, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, 530001, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Graduate School, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, 530001, China
| | - Shuanglei Li
- Department of Endocrine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, 530023, China
| | - Wenhui Chen
- Graduate School, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, 530001, China
- Department of Endocrine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, 530023, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Li R, Yao G, Zhou L, Zhang M, Yan J. The ghrelin-GHSR-1a pathway inhibits high glucose-induced retinal angiogenesis in vitro by alleviating endoplasmic reticulum stress. EYE AND VISION 2022; 9:20. [PMID: 35668539 PMCID: PMC9172001 DOI: 10.1186/s40662-022-00291-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background To investigate the effect of ghrelin, a brain-gut peptide hormone, on high glucose-induced retinal angiogenesis in vitro and explore its association with endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. Methods Human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (HRMECs) were first divided into control and high-glucose groups, and the mRNA and protein expression levels of the receptor for ghrelin [growth hormone secretin receptor 1a, (GHSR-1a)] in cells were determined. HRMECs were then treated with high glucose alone or in combination with ghrelin or siGHSR-1a, and cell viability, migration, tube formation and the expression of the ER stress-related proteins PERK, ATF4 and CHOP were detected. Finally, to clarify whether the effects of ghrelin are related to ER stress, tunicamycin, an inducer of ER stress, was used to treat HRMECs, and cell viability, cell migration, and tube formation were evaluated. Results GHSR-1a expression in HRMECs at both the mRNA and protein levels was inhibited by high-glucose treatment. Under high-glucose conditions, ghrelin promoted cell viability and inhibited migration and tube formation, which were blocked by siGHSR-1a treatment. Ghrelin inhibited the increases in the protein levels of p-PERK, ATF4 and CHOP induced by high-glucose treatment, and combination treatment with siGHSR-1a reversed this effect of ghrelin. When tunicamycin was added, the effects of ghrelin on cell viability, migration and tube formation were all weakened. Conclusions This study experimentally revealed that ghrelin can inhibit high glucose-induced retinal angiogenesis in vitro through GHSR-1a, and alleviation of ER stress may be one of the mechanisms underlying this effect.
Collapse
|
5
|
Laschke MW, Gu Y, Menger MD. Replacement in angiogenesis research: Studying mechanisms of blood vessel development by animal-free in vitro, in vivo and in silico approaches. Front Physiol 2022; 13:981161. [PMID: 36060683 PMCID: PMC9428454 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.981161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis, the development of new blood vessels from pre-existing ones, is an essential process determining numerous physiological and pathological conditions. Accordingly, there is a high demand for research approaches allowing the investigation of angiogenic mechanisms and the assessment of pro- and anti-angiogenic therapeutics. The present review provides a selective overview and critical discussion of such approaches, which, in line with the 3R principle, all share the common feature that they are not based on animal experiments. They include in vitro assays to study the viability, proliferation, migration, tube formation and sprouting activity of endothelial cells in two- and three-dimensional environments, the degradation of extracellular matrix compounds as well as the impact of hemodynamic forces on blood vessel formation. These assays can be complemented by in vivo analyses of microvascular network formation in the chorioallantoic membrane assay and early stages of zebrafish larvae. In addition, the combination of experimental data and physical laws enables the mathematical modeling of tissue-specific vascularization, blood flow patterns, interstitial fluid flow as well as oxygen, nutrient and drug distribution. All these animal-free approaches markedly contribute to an improved understanding of fundamental biological mechanisms underlying angiogenesis. Hence, they do not only represent essential tools in basic science but also in early stages of drug development. Moreover, their advancement bears the great potential to analyze angiogenesis in all its complexity and, thus, to make animal experiments superfluous in the future.
Collapse
|
6
|
Sato T, Ida T, Shiimura Y, Matsui K, Oishi K, Kojima M. Insights Into the Regulation of Offspring Growth by Maternally Derived Ghrelin. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:852636. [PMID: 35250893 PMCID: PMC8894672 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.852636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The regulation of fetal development by bioactive substances such as hormones and neuropeptides derived from the gestational mother is considered to be essential for the development of the fetus. On the other hand, it has been suggested that changes in the physiological state of the pregnant mother due to various factors may alter the secretion of these bioactive substances and induce metabolic changes in the offspring, such as obesity, overeating, and inflammation, thereby affecting postnatal growth and health. However, our knowledge of how gestational maternal bioactive substances modulate offspring physiology remains fragmented and lacks a systematic understanding. In this mini-review, we focus on ghrelin, which regulates growth and energy metabolism, to advance our understanding of the mechanisms by which maternally derived ghrelin regulates the growth and health of the offspring. Understanding the regulation of offspring growth by maternally-derived ghrelin is expected to clarify the fetal onset of metabolic abnormalities and lead to a better understanding of lifelong health in the next generation of offspring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Sato
- Division of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Life Science, Kurume University, Kurume, Japan
- *Correspondence: Takahiro Sato, ; Masayasu Kojima,
| | - Takanori Ida
- Division for Identification and Analysis of Bioactive Peptides, Department of Bioactive Peptides, Frontier Science Research Center, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Yuki Shiimura
- Division of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Life Science, Kurume University, Kurume, Japan
- Department of Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Kazuma Matsui
- Division of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Life Science, Kurume University, Kurume, Japan
| | - Kanae Oishi
- Division of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Life Science, Kurume University, Kurume, Japan
| | - Masayasu Kojima
- Division of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Life Science, Kurume University, Kurume, Japan
- *Correspondence: Takahiro Sato, ; Masayasu Kojima,
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
The Role of the Gastric Hormones Ghrelin and Nesfatin-1 in Reproduction. Int J Mol Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/ijms222011059
expr 982648605 + 846360072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Ghrelin and nesfatin-1 are enteroendocrine peptide hormones expressed in rat X/A-like and human P/D1cells of the gastric mucosa. Besides their effect on food intake, both peptides are also implicated in various other physiological systems. One of these is the reproductive system. This present review illustrates the distribution of ghrelin and nesfatin-1 along the hypothalamus–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis, their modulation by reproductive hormones, and effects on reproductive functions as well as highlighting gaps in current knowledge to foster further research.
Collapse
|
8
|
The Role of the Gastric Hormones Ghrelin and Nesfatin-1 in Reproduction. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11059. [PMID: 34681721 PMCID: PMC8539660 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222011059&set/a 934136356+984013925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Ghrelin and nesfatin-1 are enteroendocrine peptide hormones expressed in rat X/A-like and human P/D1cells of the gastric mucosa. Besides their effect on food intake, both peptides are also implicated in various other physiological systems. One of these is the reproductive system. This present review illustrates the distribution of ghrelin and nesfatin-1 along the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, their modulation by reproductive hormones, and effects on reproductive functions as well as highlighting gaps in current knowledge to foster further research.
Collapse
|
9
|
Schalla MA, Stengel A. The Role of the Gastric Hormones Ghrelin and Nesfatin-1 in Reproduction. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222011059. [PMID: 34681721 PMCID: PMC8539660 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222011059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Ghrelin and nesfatin-1 are enteroendocrine peptide hormones expressed in rat X/A-like and human P/D1cells of the gastric mucosa. Besides their effect on food intake, both peptides are also implicated in various other physiological systems. One of these is the reproductive system. This present review illustrates the distribution of ghrelin and nesfatin-1 along the hypothalamus–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis, their modulation by reproductive hormones, and effects on reproductive functions as well as highlighting gaps in current knowledge to foster further research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martha A. Schalla
- Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Department for Psychosomatic Medicine, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 12203 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Andreas Stengel
- Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Department for Psychosomatic Medicine, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 12203 Berlin, Germany;
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Medical University Hospital Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Shu C, Han S, Xu P, Wang Y, Cheng T, Hu C. Estrogen and Preeclampsia: Potential of Estrogens as Therapeutic Agents in Preeclampsia. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2021; 15:2543-2550. [PMID: 34163140 PMCID: PMC8214522 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s304316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
There is a significant decline in the estrogen levels in preeclampsia, and exogenous administration of estradiol normalizes blood pressure and other associated symptoms of preeclampsia. The decrease in estrogen levels may be due to changes in enzyme activities of hydroxysteroid (17-β) dehydrogenase 1, aromatase, and COMT. There is also a decrease in the novel, estrogenic G-protein-coupled receptor 30 (GPR30) in the placental trophoblast cells in preeclampsia. The activation of GPR30 protects the placenta from hypoxia-reoxygenation injury, decreases apoptosis and increases proliferation through eNOS and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways. Estrogens may also increase Ca2+-activated K+ channel function, decrease the release of inflammatory cytokines, and oxidative stress to improve placental perfusion. Both preclinical and clinical studies show the decrease in the 2-methoxyestradiol levels in preeclampsia, which may be due to a decrease in estradiol itself along with a decrease in the enzymatic actions of the COMT enzyme. 2-Methoxyestradiol activates HIF1α and vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFR-2) to maintain placental perfusion by increasing angiogenesis. The present review discusses the preclinical and clinical studies describing the role of estrogen in preeclampsia along with possible mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chang Shu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130061, People's Republic of China
| | - Shumei Han
- Department of Medical Administration, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130021, People's Republic of China
| | - Peng Xu
- Department of Sports Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130021, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130061, People's Republic of China
| | - Tingting Cheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130061, People's Republic of China
| | - Cong Hu
- Reproductive Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130021, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|