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Schumacher JA, Wright ZA, Rufin Florat D, Anand SK, Dasyani M, Batta SPR, Laverde V, Ferrari K, Klimkaite L, Bredemeier NO, Gurung S, Koller GM, Aguera KN, Chadwick GP, Johnson RD, Davis GE, Sumanas S. SH2 domain protein E and ABL signaling regulate blood vessel size. PLoS Genet 2024; 20:e1010851. [PMID: 38190417 PMCID: PMC10798624 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Blood vessels in different vascular beds vary in size, which is essential for their function and fluid flow along the vascular network. Molecular mechanisms involved in the formation of a vascular lumen of appropriate size, or tubulogenesis, are still only partially understood. Src homology 2 domain containing E (She) protein was previously identified in a screen for proteins that interact with Abelson (Abl)-kinase. However, its biological role has remained unknown. Here we demonstrate that She and Abl signaling regulate vessel size in zebrafish embryos and human endothelial cell culture. Zebrafish she mutants displayed increased endothelial cell number and enlarged lumen size of the dorsal aorta (DA) and defects in blood flow, eventually leading to the DA collapse. Vascular endothelial specific overexpression of she resulted in a reduced diameter of the DA, which correlated with the reduced arterial cell number and lower endothelial cell proliferation. Chemical inhibition of Abl signaling in zebrafish embryos caused a similar reduction in the DA diameter and alleviated the she mutant phenotype, suggesting that She acts as a negative regulator of Abl signaling. Enlargement of the DA size in she mutants correlated with an increased endothelial expression of claudin 5a (cldn5a), which encodes a protein enriched in tight junctions. Inhibition of cldn5a expression partially rescued the enlarged DA in she mutants, suggesting that She regulates DA size, in part, by promoting cldn5a expression. SHE knockdown in human endothelial umbilical vein cells resulted in a similar increase in the diameter of vascular tubes, and also increased phosphorylation of a known ABL downstream effector CRKL. These results argue that SHE functions as an evolutionarily conserved inhibitor of ABL signaling and regulates vessel and lumen size during vascular tubulogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A. Schumacher
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
- University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
- Department of Biological Sciences, Miami University, Hamilton, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Zoë A. Wright
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Diandra Rufin Florat
- University of South Florida, Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, USF Health Heart Institute, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
| | - Surendra K. Anand
- University of South Florida, Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, USF Health Heart Institute, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
| | - Manish Dasyani
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
- University of South Florida, Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, USF Health Heart Institute, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
| | - Surya Prakash Rao Batta
- University of South Florida, Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, USF Health Heart Institute, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
| | - Valentina Laverde
- University of South Florida, Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, USF Health Heart Institute, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
| | - Kaitlin Ferrari
- University of South Florida, Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, USF Health Heart Institute, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
| | - Laurita Klimkaite
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Nina O. Bredemeier
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Suman Gurung
- University of South Florida, Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, USF Health Heart Institute, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
| | - Gretchen M. Koller
- University of South Florida, Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
| | - Kalia N. Aguera
- University of South Florida, Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
| | - Griffin P. Chadwick
- Department of Biological Sciences, Miami University, Hamilton, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Riley D. Johnson
- Department of Biological Sciences, Miami University, Hamilton, Ohio, United States of America
| | - George E. Davis
- University of South Florida, Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
| | - Saulius Sumanas
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
- University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
- University of South Florida, Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, USF Health Heart Institute, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
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Schumacher JA, Wright ZA, Florat DR, Anand SK, Dasyani M, Klimkaite L, Bredemeier NO, Gurung S, Koller GM, Aguera KN, Chadwick GP, Johnson RD, Davis GE, Sumanas S. SH2 domain protein E (SHE) and ABL signaling regulate blood vessel size. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.03.547455. [PMID: 37461480 PMCID: PMC10349984 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.03.547455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Blood vessels in different vascular beds vary in lumen diameter, which is essential for their function and fluid flow along the vascular network. Molecular mechanisms involved in the formation of a vascular lumen of appropriate size, or tubulogenesis, are still only partially understood. Src homology 2 domain containing E (She) protein was previously identified in a screen for proteins that interact with Abelson (Abl)-kinase. However, its biological role has remained unknown. Here we demonstrate that She and Abl signaling regulate vascular lumen size in zebrafish embryos and human endothelial cell culture. Zebrafish she mutants displayed increased endothelial cell number and enlarged lumen size of the dorsal aorta (DA) and defects in blood flow. Vascular endothelial specific overexpression of she resulted in a reduced diameter of the DA lumen, which correlated with the reduced arterial cell number and lower endothelial cell proliferation. Chemical inhibition of Abl signaling in zebrafish embryos caused a similar reduction in the DA diameter and alleviated the she mutant phenotype, suggesting that She acts as a negative regulator of Abl signaling. Enlargement of the DA lumen in she mutants correlated with an increased endothelial expression of claudin 5a and 5b (cldn5a / cldn5b), which encode proteins enriched in tight junctions. Inhibition of cldn5a expression partially rescued the enlarged DA in she mutants, suggesting that She regulates DA lumen size, in part, by promoting cldn5a expression. SHE knockdown in human endothelial umbilical vein cells resulted in a similar increase in the diameter of vascular tubes, and also increased phosphorylation of a known ABL downstream effector CRKL. These results argue that SHE functions as an evolutionarily conserved inhibitor of ABL signaling and regulates lumen size during vascular tubulogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A. Schumacher
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Miami University, Hamilton, OH 45011, USA
| | - Zoë A. Wright
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Diandra Rufin Florat
- University of South Florida, Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, USF Health Heart Institute, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
| | - Surendra K. Anand
- University of South Florida, Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, USF Health Heart Institute, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
| | - Manish Dasyani
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- University of South Florida, Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, USF Health Heart Institute, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
| | - Laurita Klimkaite
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Nina O. Bredemeier
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Suman Gurung
- University of South Florida, Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, USF Health Heart Institute, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
| | - Gretchen M. Koller
- University of South Florida, Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Kalia N. Aguera
- University of South Florida, Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Griffin P. Chadwick
- Department of Biological Sciences, Miami University, Hamilton, OH 45011, USA
| | - Riley D. Johnson
- Department of Biological Sciences, Miami University, Hamilton, OH 45011, USA
| | - George E. Davis
- University of South Florida, Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Saulius Sumanas
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
- University of South Florida, Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, USF Health Heart Institute, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
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Wang Y, Liao G, Wu Y, Wang R, Tang DD. The intermediate filament protein nestin serves as a molecular hub for smooth muscle cytoskeletal signaling. Respir Res 2023; 24:157. [PMID: 37316833 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-023-02473-8] [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: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The recruitment of the actin-regulatory proteins cortactin and profilin-1 (Pfn-1) to the membrane is important for the regulation of actin cytoskeletal reorganization and smooth muscle contraction. Polo-like kinase 1 (Plk1) and the type III intermediate filament protein vimentin are involved in smooth muscle contraction. Regulation of complex cytoskeletal signaling is not entirely elucidated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of nestin (a type VI intermediate filament protein) in cytoskeletal signaling in airway smooth muscle. METHODS Nestin expression in human airway smooth muscle (HASM) was knocked down by specific shRNA or siRNA. The effects of nestin knockdown (KD) on the recruitment of cortactin and Pfn-1, actin polymerization, myosin light chain (MLC) phosphorylation, and contraction were evaluated by cellular and physiological approaches. Moreover, we assessed the effects of non-phosphorylatable nestin mutant on these biological processes. RESULTS Nestin KD reduced the recruitment of cortactin and Pfn-1, actin polymerization, and HASM contraction without affecting MLC phosphorylation. Moreover, contractile stimulation enhanced nestin phosphorylation at Thr-315 and the interaction of nestin with Plk1. Nestin KD also diminished phosphorylation of Plk1 and vimentin. The expression of T315A nestin mutant (alanine substitution at Thr-315) reduced the recruitment of cortactin and Pfn-1, actin polymerization, and HASM contraction without affecting MLC phosphorylation. Furthermore, Plk1 KD diminished nestin phosphorylation at this residue. CONCLUSIONS Nestin is an essential macromolecule that regulates actin cytoskeletal signaling via Plk1 in smooth muscle. Plk1 and nestin form an activation loop during contractile stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinna Wang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Avenue, MC-8, Albany, NY, 12208, USA
| | - Guoning Liao
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Avenue, MC-8, Albany, NY, 12208, USA
| | - Yidi Wu
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Avenue, MC-8, Albany, NY, 12208, USA
| | - Ruping Wang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Avenue, MC-8, Albany, NY, 12208, USA
| | - Dale D Tang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Avenue, MC-8, Albany, NY, 12208, USA.
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Gros K, Matkovič U, Parato G, Miš K, Luin E, Bernareggi A, Sciancalepore M, Marš T, Lorenzon P, Pirkmajer S. Neuronal Agrin Promotes Proliferation of Primary Human Myoblasts in an Age-Dependent Manner. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911784. [PMID: 36233091 PMCID: PMC9570459 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911784] [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: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuronal agrin, a heparan sulphate proteoglycan secreted by the α-motor neurons, promotes the formation and maintenance of the neuromuscular junction by binding to Lrp4 and activating muscle-specific kinase (MuSK). Neuronal agrin also promotes myogenesis by enhancing differentiation and maturation of myotubes, but its effect on proliferating human myoblasts, which are often considered to be unresponsive to agrin, remains unclear. Using primary human myoblasts, we determined that neuronal agrin induced transient dephosphorylation of ERK1/2, while c-Abl, STAT3, and focal adhesion kinase were unresponsive. Gene silencing of Lrp4 and MuSK markedly reduced the BrdU incorporation, suggesting the functional importance of the Lrp4/MuSK complex for myoblast proliferation. Acute and chronic treatments with neuronal agrin increased the proliferation of human myoblasts in old donors, but they did not affect the proliferation of myoblasts in young donors. The C-terminal fragment of agrin which lacks the Lrp4-binding site and cannot activate MuSK had a similar age-dependent effect, indicating that the age-dependent signalling pathways activated by neuronal agrin involve the Lrp4/MuSK receptor complex as well as an Lrp4/MuSK-independent pathway which remained unknown. Collectively, our results highlight an age-dependent role for neuronal agrin in promoting the proliferation of human myoblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarina Gros
- Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Urška Matkovič
- Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Giulia Parato
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
- The B.R.A.I.N. Centre for Neuroscience, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Katarina Miš
- Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Elisa Luin
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
- The B.R.A.I.N. Centre for Neuroscience, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Annalisa Bernareggi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
- The B.R.A.I.N. Centre for Neuroscience, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Marina Sciancalepore
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
- The B.R.A.I.N. Centre for Neuroscience, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Tomaž Marš
- Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Paola Lorenzon
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
- The B.R.A.I.N. Centre for Neuroscience, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
- Correspondence: (P.L.); (S.P.)
| | - Sergej Pirkmajer
- Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Correspondence: (P.L.); (S.P.)
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Wang R, Khan S, Liao G, Wu Y, Tang DD. Nestin Modulates Airway Smooth Muscle Cell Migration by Affecting Spatial Rearrangement of Vimentin Network and Focal Adhesion Assembly. Cells 2022; 11:cells11193047. [PMID: 36231009 PMCID: PMC9562664 DOI: 10.3390/cells11193047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Airway smooth muscle cell migration plays a role in the progression of airway remodeling, a hallmark of allergic asthma. However, the mechanisms that regulate cell migration are not yet entirely understood. Nestin is a class VI intermediate filament protein that is involved in the proliferation/regeneration of neurons, cancer cells, and skeletal muscle. Its role in cell migration is not fully understood. Here, nestin knockdown (KD) inhibited the migration of human airway smooth muscle cells. Using confocal microscopy and the Imaris software, we found that nestin KD attenuated focal adhesion sizes during cell spreading. Moreover, polo-like kinase 1 (Plk1) and vimentin phosphorylation at Ser-56 have been previously shown to affect focal adhesion assembly. Here, nestin KD reduced Plk1 phosphorylation at Thr-210 (an indication of Plk1 activation), vimentin phosphorylation at Ser-56, the contacts of vimentin filaments to paxillin, and the morphology of focal adhesions. Moreover, the expression of vimentin phosphorylation-mimic mutant S56D (aspartic acid substitution at Ser-56) rescued the migration, vimentin reorganization, and focal adhesion size of nestin KD cells. Together, our results suggest that nestin promotes smooth muscle cell migration. Mechanistically, nestin regulates Plk1 phosphorylation, which mediates vimenitn phosphorylation, the connection of vimentin filaments with paxillin, and focal adhesion assembly.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Dale D. Tang
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(518)-262-6416; Fax: +1-(518)-262-8101
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Current Understanding of Asthma Pathogenesis and Biomarkers. Cells 2022; 11:cells11172764. [PMID: 36078171 PMCID: PMC9454904 DOI: 10.3390/cells11172764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Asthma is a heterogeneous lung disease with variable phenotypes (clinical presentations) and distinctive endotypes (mechanisms). Over the last decade, considerable efforts have been made to dissect the cellular and molecular mechanisms of asthma. Aberrant T helper type 2 (Th2) inflammation is the most important pathological process for asthma, which is mediated by Th2 cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-5, IL-4, and IL-13. Approximately 50% of mild-to-moderate asthma and a large portion of severe asthma is induced by Th2-dependent inflammation. Th2-low asthma can be mediated by non-Th2 cytokines, including IL-17 and tumor necrosis factor-α. There is emerging evidence to demonstrate that inflammation-independent processes also contribute to asthma pathogenesis. Protein kinases, adapter protein, microRNAs, ORMDL3, and gasdermin B are newly identified molecules that drive asthma progression, independent of inflammation. Eosinophils, IgE, fractional exhaled nitric oxide, and periostin are practical biomarkers for Th2-high asthma. Sputum neutrophils are easily used to diagnose Th2-low asthma. Despite progress, more studies are needed to delineate complex endotypes of asthma and to identify new and practical biomarkers for better diagnosis, classification, and treatment.
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Rieg AD, Suleiman S, Anker C, Bünting NA, Verjans E, Spillner J, Kalverkamp S, von Stillfried S, Braunschweig T, Uhlig S, Martin C. Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB regulates the airway tone via activation of MAP2K, thromboxane, actin polymerisation and Ca 2+-sensitisation. Respir Res 2022; 23:189. [PMID: 35841089 PMCID: PMC9287894 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-022-02101-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND PDGFR-inhibition by the tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) nintedanib attenuates the progress of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). However, the effects of PDGF-BB on the airway tone are almost unknown. We studied this issue and the mechanisms beyond, using isolated perfused lungs (IPL) of guinea pigs (GPs) and precision-cut lung slices (PCLS) of GPs and humans. METHODS IPL: PDGF-BB was perfused after or without pre-treatment with the TKI imatinib (perfused/nebulised) and its effects on the tidal volume (TV), the dynamic compliance (Cdyn) and the resistance were studied. PCLS (GP) The bronchoconstrictive effects of PDGF-BB and the mechanisms beyond were evaluated. PCLS (human): The bronchoconstrictive effects of PDGF-BB and the bronchorelaxant effects of imatinib were studied. All changes of the airway tone were measured by videomicroscopy and indicated as changes of the initial airway area. RESULTS PCLS (GP/human): PDGF-BB lead to a contraction of airways. IPL: PDGF-BB decreased TV and Cdyn, whereas the resistance did not increase significantly. In both models, inhibition of PDGFR-(β) (imatinib/SU6668) prevented the bronchoconstrictive effect of PDGF-BB. The mechanisms beyond PDGF-BB-induced bronchoconstriction include activation of MAP2K and TP-receptors, actin polymerisation and Ca2+-sensitisation, whereas the increase of Ca2+ itself and the activation of EP1-4-receptors were not of relevance. In addition, imatinib relaxed pre-constricted human airways. CONCLUSIONS PDGFR regulates the airway tone. In PCLS from GPs, this regulatory mechanism depends on the β-subunit. Hence, PDGFR-inhibition may not only represent a target to improve chronic airway disease such as IPF, but may also provide acute bronchodilation in asthma. Since asthma therapy uses topical application. This is even more relevant, as nebulisation of imatinib also appears to be effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette D Rieg
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Medical Faculty RWTH-Aachen, Aachen, Germany.
| | - Said Suleiman
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty RWTH-Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Carolin Anker
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty RWTH-Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Nina A Bünting
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty RWTH-Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Eva Verjans
- Department of Paediatrics, Medical Faculty RWTH-Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Jan Spillner
- Department of Cardiac and Thorax Surgery, Medical Faculty RWTH-Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Sebastian Kalverkamp
- Department of Cardiac and Thorax Surgery, Medical Faculty RWTH-Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | | | - Till Braunschweig
- Institute of Pathology, Medical Faculty RWTH-Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Stefan Uhlig
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty RWTH-Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Christian Martin
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty RWTH-Aachen, Aachen, Germany
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8
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Wang R, Wang Y, Liao G, Chen B, Panettieri RA, Penn RB, Tang DD. Abi1 mediates airway smooth muscle cell proliferation and airway remodeling via Jak2/STAT3 signaling. iScience 2022; 25:103833. [PMID: 35198891 PMCID: PMC8851273 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.103833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Asthma is a complex pulmonary disorder with multiple pathological mechanisms. A key pathological feature of chronic asthma is airway remodeling, which is largely attributed to airway smooth muscle (ASM) hyperplasia that contributes to thickening of the airway wall and further drives asthma pathology. The cellular processes that mediate ASM cell proliferation are not completely elucidated. Using multiple approaches, we demonstrate that the adapter protein Abi1 (Abelson interactor 1) is upregulated in ∼50% of ASM cell cultures derived from patients with asthma. Loss-of-function studies demonstrate that Abi1 regulates the activation of Jak2 (Janus kinase 2) and STAT3 (signal transducers and activators of transcription 3) as well as the proliferation of both nonasthmatic and asthmatic human ASM cell cultures. These findings identify Abi1 as a molecular switch that activates Jak2 kinase and STAT3 in ASM cells and demonstrate that a dysfunctional Abi1-associated pathway contributes to the progression of asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruping Wang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA
| | - Yinna Wang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA
| | - Guoning Liao
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA
| | - Bohao Chen
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Reynold A. Panettieri
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Institute for Translational Medicine and Science, Robert Wood Johnson School of Medicine, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Raymond B. Penn
- Department of Medicine, Center for Translational Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Dale D. Tang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA
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9
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Liao G, Wang R, Tang DD. Plk1 Regulates Caspase-9 Phosphorylation at Ser-196 and Apoptosis of Human Airway Smooth Muscle Cells. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2022; 66:223-234. [PMID: 34705620 PMCID: PMC8845127 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2021-0192oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Airway smooth muscle thickening, a key characteristic of chronic asthma, is largely attributed to increased smooth muscle cell proliferation and reduced smooth muscle apoptosis. Polo-like kinase 1 (Plk1) is a serine/threonine protein kinase that participates in the pathogenesis of airway smooth muscle remodeling. Although the role of Plk1 in cell proliferation and migration is recognized, its function in smooth muscle apoptosis has not been previously investigated. Caspase-9 (Casp9) is a key enzyme that participates in the execution of apoptosis. Casp9 phosphorylation at Ser-196 and Thr-125 is implicated in regulating its activity in cancer cells and epithelial cells. Here, exposure of human airway smooth muscle (HASM) cells to platelet-derived growth factorfor 24 hours enhanced the expression of Plk1 and Casp9 phosphorylation at Ser-196, but not Thr-125. Overexpression of Plk1 in HASM cells increased Casp9 phosphorylation at Ser-196. Moreover, the expression of Plk1 increased the levels of pro-Casp9 and pro-Casp3 and inhibited apoptosis, demonstrating a role of Plk1 in inhibiting apoptosis. Knockdown of Plk1 reduced Casp9 phosphorylation at Ser-196, reduced pro-Casp9/3 expression, and increased apoptosis. Furthermore, Casp9 phosphorylation at Ser-196 was upregulated in asthmatic HASM cells, which was associated with increased Plk1 expression. Knockdown of Plk1 in asthmatic HASM cells decreased Casp9 phosphorylation at Ser-196 and enhanced apoptosis. Together, these studies disclose a previously unknown mechanism that the Plk1-Casp9/3 pathway participates in the controlling of smooth muscle apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoning Liao
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York
| | - Ruping Wang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York
| | - Dale D Tang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York
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10
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Joseph C, Tatler AL. Pathobiology of Airway Remodeling in Asthma: The Emerging Role of Integrins. J Asthma Allergy 2022; 15:595-610. [PMID: 35592385 PMCID: PMC9112045 DOI: 10.2147/jaa.s267222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Airway remodeling is a complex clinical feature of asthma that involves long-term disruption and modification of airway architecture, which contributes significantly to airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) and lung function decline. It is characterized by thickening of the airway smooth muscle layer, deposition of a matrix below the airway epithelium, resulting in subepithelial fibrosis, changes within the airway epithelium, leading to disruption of the barrier, and excessive mucous production and angiogenesis within the airway wall. Airway remodeling contributes to stiffer and less compliant airways in asthma and leads to persistent, irreversible airflow obstruction. Current asthma treatments aim to reduce airway inflammation and exacerbations but none are targeted towards airway remodeling. Inhibiting the development of airway remodeling or reversing established remodeling has the potential to dramatically improve symptoms and disease burden in asthmatic patients. Integrins are a family of transmembrane heterodimeric proteins that serve as the primary receptors for extracellular matrix (ECM) components, mediating cell-cell and cell-ECM interactions to initiate intracellular signaling cascades. Cells present within the lungs, including structural and inflammatory cells, express a wide and varying range of integrin heterodimer combinations and permutations. Integrins are emerging as an important regulator of inflammation, repair, remodeling, and fibrosis in the lung, particularly in chronic lung diseases such as asthma. Here, we provide a comprehensive summary of the current state of knowledge on integrins in the asthmatic airway and how these integrins promote the remodeling process, and emphasize their potential involvement in airway disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chitra Joseph
- Centre for Respiratory Research, National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Amanda L Tatler
- Centre for Respiratory Research, National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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Wang Y, Liao G, Wang R, Tang DD. Acetylation of Abelson interactor 1 at K416 regulates actin cytoskeleton and smooth muscle contraction. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21811. [PMID: 34369620 PMCID: PMC8800440 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202100415r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Actin cytoskeletal reorganization plays an important role in regulating smooth muscle contraction, which is essential for the modulation of various physiological functions including airway tone. The adapter protein Abi1 (Abelson interactor 1) participates in the control of smooth muscle contraction. The mechanisms by which Abi1 coordinates smooth muscle function are not fully understood. Here, we found that contractile stimulation elicited Abi1 acetylation in human airway smooth muscle (HASM) cells. Mutagenesis analysis identified lysine‐416 (K416) as a major acetylation site. Replacement of K416 with Q (glutamine) enhanced the interaction of Abi1 with neuronal Wiskott‐Aldrich syndrome protein (N‐WASP), an important actin‐regulatory protein. Moreover, the expression of K416Q Abi1 promoted actin polymerization and smooth muscle contraction without affecting myosin light chain phosphorylation at Ser‐19 and vimentin phosphorylation at Ser‐56. Furthermore, p300 is a lysine acetyltransferase that catalyzes acetylation of histone and non‐histone proteins in various cell types. Here, we discovered that a portion of p300 was localized in the cytoplasm of HASM cells. Knockdown of p300 reduced the agonist‐induced Abi1 acetylation in HASM cells and in mouse airway smooth muscle tissues. Smooth muscle conditional knockout of p300 inhibited actin polymerization and the contraction of airway smooth muscle tissues without affecting myosin light chain phosphorylation and vimentin phosphorylation. Together, our results suggest that contractile stimulation induces Abi1 acetylation via p300 in smooth muscle. Acetylation at K416 promotes the coupling of Abi1 with N‐WASP, which facilitates actin polymerization and smooth muscle contraction. This is a novel acetylation‐dependent regulation of the actin cytoskeleton in smooth muscle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinna Wang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Guoning Liao
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Ruping Wang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Dale D Tang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
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12
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Distinctive roles of Abi1 in regulating actin-associated proteins during human smooth muscle cell migration. Sci Rep 2020; 10:10667. [PMID: 32606387 PMCID: PMC7326921 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-67781-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Smooth muscle cell migration is essential for many diverse biological processes such as pulmonary/cardiovascular development and homeostasis. Abi1 (Abelson interactor 1) is an adapter protein that has been implicated in nonmuscle cell migration. However, the role and mechanism of Abi1 in smooth muscle migration are largely unknown. Here, Abi1 knockdown by shRNA reduced human airway smooth muscle cell migration, which was restored by Abi1 rescue. Abi1 localized at the tip of lamellipodia and its protrusion coordinated with F-actin at the leading cell edge of live cells. In addition, we identified profilin-1 (Pfn-1), a G-actin transporter, as a new partner for Abi1. Abi1 knockdown reduced the recruitment of Pfn-1 to the leading cell edge. Moreover, Abi1 knockdown reduced the localization of the actin-regulatory proteins c-Abl (Abelson tyrosine kinase) and N-WASP (neuronal Wiskott–Aldrich Syndrome Protein) at the cell edge without affecting other migration-related proteins including pVASP (phosphorylated vasodilator stimulated phosphoprotein), cortactin and vinculin. Furthermore, we found that c-Abl and integrin β1 regulated the positioning of Abi1 at the leading edge. Taken together, the results suggest that Abi1 regulates cell migration by affecting Pfn-1 and N-WASP, but not pVASP, cortactin and focal adhesions. Integrin β1 and c-Abl are important for the recruitment of Abi1 to the leading edge.
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Zhou X, Cheng J, Chen Z, Li H, Chen S, Xu F, Fan R, Zhuang J, Sun T. Role of c-Abl in Ang II-induced aortic dissection formation: Potential regulatory efficacy on phenotypic transformation and apoptosis of VSMCs. Life Sci 2020; 256:117882. [PMID: 32497633 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.117882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Angiotensin II (Ang II) induces aortic dissection (AD) via regulation of pathological changes in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). However, the molecular mechanisms involved are not fully understood. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential role of the proto-oncogene non-receptor cellular Abelson tyrosine kinase (c-Abl) in Ang II-induced VSMC phenotypic transformation and apoptosis. MAIN METHODS Lentiviral transfection and short hairpin RNA (shRNA) were used to enhance or inhibit c-Abl in cultured VSMCs. In addition, C57BL/6 and Abl1 gene knockout heterozygous (c-Abl-/+) mice were infused with Ang II, with or without c-Abl inhibitor (STI571) treatment. The incidence of AD was evaluated in vivo, while the molecular and pathological features of VSMC phenotypic transformation and apoptosis were evaluated in vitro and in vivo. KEY FINDINGS Ang II infusion induced a substantial incidence of AD in vivo (27%; 8/30), while STI571 intragastric gavage or Abl1 knockout reduced the incidence of AD to 13% (4/30) and 7% (2/30), respectively. The results of subsequent studies showed that c-Abl overexpression enhanced the Ang II-induced apoptosis and synthetic phenotypic transformation of VSMCs in vitro, while inhibition of c-Abl activity with STI571 or Abl1 gene knockout significantly attenuated the Ang II-induced apoptosis and synthetic phenotypic transformation of VSMCs both in vivo and in vitro. SIGNIFICANCE Activation of c-Abl may be important for the phenotypic transformation and apoptosis of VSMCs underlying the Ang II-induced AD. Targeted inhibition of c-Abl may prevent Ang II-induced AD via attenuation of the pathological changes of VSMCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianwu Zhou
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of South China Structural Heart Disease, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangzhou 510100, PR China
| | - Jiancheng Cheng
- Cardiothoracic Surgery Department of Zhengzhou central hospital affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zerui Chen
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of South China Structural Heart Disease, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangzhou 510100, PR China
| | - Huadong Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Shu Chen
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Fei Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Ruixin Fan
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of South China Structural Heart Disease, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangzhou 510100, PR China
| | - Jian Zhuang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of South China Structural Heart Disease, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangzhou 510100, PR China.
| | - Tucheng Sun
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of South China Structural Heart Disease, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangzhou 510100, PR China.
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Gerlach BD, Tubbesing K, Liao G, Rezey AC, Wang R, Barroso M, Tang DD. Phosphorylation of GMFγ by c-Abl Coordinates Lamellipodial and Focal Adhesion Dynamics to Regulate Airway Smooth Muscle Cell Migration. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2020; 61:219-231. [PMID: 30811945 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2018-0352oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Airway smooth muscle cells require coordinated protrusion and focal adhesion dynamics to migrate properly. However, the signaling cascades that connect these two processes remain incompletely understood. Glia maturation factor (GMF)-γ has been implicated in inducing actin debranching and inhibiting nucleation. In this study, we discovered that GMFγ phosphorylation at Y104 regulates human airway smooth muscle cell migration. Using high-resolution microscopy coupled with three-dimensional object-based quantitative image analysis software, Imaris 9.2.0, phosphomimetic mutant, Y104D-GMFγ, was enriched at nascent adhesions along the leading edge where it recruited activated neural Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein (N-WASP; pY256) to promote actin-branch formation, which enhanced lamellipodial dynamics and limited the growth of focal adhesions. Unexpectedly, we found that nonphosphorylated mutant, Y104F-GMFγ, was enriched in growing adhesions where it promoted a linear branch organization and focal adhesion clustering, and recruited zyxin to increase maturation, thus inhibiting lamellipodial dynamics and cell migration. The localization of GMFγ between the leading edge and focal adhesions was dependent upon myosin activity. Furthermore, c-Abl tyrosine kinase regulated the GMFγ phosphorylation-dependent processes. Together, these results unveil the importance of GMFγ phosphorylation in coordinating lamellipodial and focal adhesion dynamics to regulate cell migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brennan D Gerlach
- Department of Molecular Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York
| | - Kate Tubbesing
- Department of Molecular Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York
| | - Guoning Liao
- Department of Molecular Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York
| | - Alyssa C Rezey
- Department of Molecular Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York
| | - Ruping Wang
- Department of Molecular Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York
| | - Margarida Barroso
- Department of Molecular Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York
| | - Dale D Tang
- Department of Molecular Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York
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15
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Long J, Liao G, Wang Y, Tang DD. Specific protein 1, c-Abl and ERK1/2 form a regulatory loop. J Cell Sci 2019; 132:jcs222380. [PMID: 30559247 PMCID: PMC6340136 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.222380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The tyrosine kinase c-Abl participates in the regulation of various cellular functions including cell proliferation, adhesion, migration, smooth muscle contraction and cancer progression. However, knowledge regarding transcriptional regulation of c-Abl is surprisingly limited. Sp1 is a founding member of the Sp1 transcription factor family that has been implicated in housekeeping gene expression, tumor cell proliferation and differentiation. Here, we show that knockdown and rescue of Sp1 affected growth factor-mediated c-Abl expression in cells. c-Abl promoter activity was also affected by Sp1 knockdown. This is the first evidence to suggest that Sp1 is an important transcription factor to regulate c-Abl expression. In addition, Sp1 phosphorylation at Thr-453 and Thr-739 has been proposed to regulate its activity in Drosophila cells. We unexpectedly found that growth factors did not induce Sp1 phosphorylation at these two residues. In contrast, growth factor stimulation upregulated Sp1 expression. Intriguingly, inhibition of ERK1 and ERK2 (ERK1/2, also known as MAPK3 and MAPK1, respectively) reduced expression of Sp1 and c-Abl. Furthermore, c-Abl knockdown diminished ERK1/2 phosphorylation and Sp1 expression. Taken together, these studies suggest that Sp1 can modulate c-Abl expression at transcription level. Conversely, c-Abl affects ERK1/2 activation and Sp1 expression in cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaoyue Long
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12118, USA
| | - Guoning Liao
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12118, USA
| | - Yinna Wang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12118, USA
| | - Dale D Tang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12118, USA
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16
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Liao G, Wang R, Rezey AC, Gerlach BD, Tang DD. MicroRNA miR-509 Regulates ERK1/2, the Vimentin Network, and Focal Adhesions by Targeting Plk1. Sci Rep 2018; 8:12635. [PMID: 30135525 PMCID: PMC6105636 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-30895-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 08/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Polo-like kinase 1 (Plk1) has been implicated in mitosis, cytokinesis, and proliferation. The mechanisms that regulate Plk1 expression remain to be elucidated. It is reported that miR-100 targets Plk1 in certain cancer cells. Here, treatment with miR-100 did not affect Plk1 protein expression in human airway smooth muscle cells. In contrast, treatment with miR-509 inhibited the expression of Plk1 in airway smooth muscle cells. Exposure to miR-509 inhibitor enhanced Plk1 expression in cells. Introduction of miR-509 reduced luciferase activity of a Plk1 3'UTR reporter. Mutation of miR-509 targeting sequence in Plk1 3'UTR resisted the reduction of the luciferase activity. Furthermore, miR-509 inhibited the PDGF-induced phosphorylation of MEK1/2 and ERK1/2, and cell proliferation without affecting the expression of c-Abl, a tyrosine kinase implicated in cell proliferation. Moreover, we unexpectedly found that vimentin filaments contacted paxillin-positive focal adhesions. miR-509 exposure inhibited vimentin phosphorylation at Ser-56, vimentin network reorganization, focal adhesion formation, and cell migration. The effects of miR-509 on ERK1/2 and vimentin were diminished in RNAi-resistant Plk1 expressing cells treated with miR-509. Taken together, these findings unveil previously unknown mechanisms that miR-509 regulates ERK1/2 and proliferation by targeting Plk1. miR-509 controls vimentin cytoskeleton reorganization, focal adhesion assembly, and cell migration through Plk1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoning Liao
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Ruping Wang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Alyssa C Rezey
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Brennan D Gerlach
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Dale D Tang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA.
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Rieg AD, Suleiman S, Anker C, Verjans E, Rossaint R, Uhlig S, Martin C. PDGF-BB regulates the pulmonary vascular tone: impact of prostaglandins, calcium, MAPK- and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling and actin polymerisation in pulmonary veins of guinea pigs. Respir Res 2018; 19:120. [PMID: 29921306 PMCID: PMC6009037 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-018-0829-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB and its receptor PDGFR are highly expressed in pulmonary hypertension (PH) and mediate proliferation. Recently, we showed that PDGF-BB contracts pulmonary veins (PVs) and that this contraction is prevented by inhibition of PDGFR-β (imatinib/SU6668). Here, we studied PDGF-BB-induced contraction and downstream-signalling in isolated perfused lungs (IPL) and precision-cut lung slices (PCLS) of guinea pigs (GPs). Methods In IPLs, PDGF-BB was perfused after or without pre-treatment with imatinib (perfused/nebulised), the effects on the pulmonary arterial pressure (PPA), the left atrial pressure (PLA) and the capillary pressure (Pcap) were studied and the precapillary (Rpre) and postcapillary resistance (Rpost) were calculated. Perfusate samples were analysed (ELISA) to detect the PDGF-BB-induced release of prostaglandin metabolites (TXA2/PGI2). In PCLS, the contractile effect of PDGF-BB was evaluated in pulmonary arteries (PAs) and PVs. In PVs, PDGF-BB-induced contraction was studied after inhibition of PDGFR-α/β, L-Type Ca2+-channels, ROCK/PKC, prostaglandin receptors, MAP2K, p38-MAPK, PI3K-α/γ, AKT/PKB, actin polymerisation, adenyl cyclase and NO. Changes of the vascular tone were measured by videomicroscopy. In PVs, intracellular cAMP was measured by ELISA. Results In IPLs, PDGF-BB increased PPA, Pcap and Rpost. In contrast, PDGF-BB had no effect if lungs were pre-treated with imatinib (perfused/nebulised). In PCLS, PDGF-BB significantly contracted PVs/PAs which was blocked by the PDGFR-β antagonist SU6668. In PVs, inhibition of actin polymerisation and inhibition of L-Type Ca2+-channels reduced PDGF-BB-induced contraction, whereas inhibition of ROCK/PKC had no effect. Blocking of EP1/3- and TP-receptors or inhibition of MAP2K-, p38-MAPK-, PI3K-α/γ- and AKT/PKB-signalling prevented PDGF-BB-induced contraction, whereas inhibition of EP4 only slightly reduced it. Accordingly, PDGF-BB increased TXA2 in the perfusate, whereas PGI2 was increased in all groups after 120 min and inhibition of IP-receptors did not enhance PDGF-BB-induced contraction. Moreover, PDGF-BB increased cAMP in PVs and inhibition of adenyl cyclase enhanced PDGF-BB-induced contraction, whereas inhibition of NO-formation only slightly increased it. Conclusions PDGF-BB/PDGFR regulates the pulmonary vascular tone by the generation of prostaglandins, the increase of calcium, the activation of MAPK- or PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling and actin remodelling. More insights in PDGF-BB downstream-signalling may contribute to develop new therapeutics for PH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette D Rieg
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Medical Faculty RWTH-Aachen, Aachen, Germany.
| | - Said Suleiman
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty RWTH-Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Carolin Anker
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty RWTH-Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Eva Verjans
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty RWTH-Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Rolf Rossaint
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Medical Faculty RWTH-Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Stefan Uhlig
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty RWTH-Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Christian Martin
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty RWTH-Aachen, Aachen, Germany
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18
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Wang Y, Rezey AC, Wang R, Tang DD. Role and regulation of Abelson tyrosine kinase in Crk-associated substrate/profilin-1 interaction and airway smooth muscle contraction. Respir Res 2018; 19:4. [PMID: 29304860 PMCID: PMC5756382 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-017-0709-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Airway smooth muscle contraction is critical for maintenance of appropriate airway tone, and has been implicated in asthma pathogenesis. Smooth muscle contraction requires an "engine" (myosin activation) and a "transmission system" (actin cytoskeletal remodeling). However, the mechanisms that control actin remodeling in smooth muscle are not fully elucidated. The adapter protein Crk-associated substrate (CAS) regulates actin dynamics and the contraction in smooth muscle. In addition, profilin-1 (Pfn-1) and Abelson tyrosine kinase (c-Abl) are also involved in smooth muscle contraction. The interplays among CAS, Pfn-1 and c-Abl in smooth muscle have not been previously investigated. METHODS The association of CAS with Pfn-1 in mouse tracheal rings was evaluated by co-immunoprecipitation. Tracheal rings from c-Abl conditional knockout mice were used to assess the roles of c-Abl in the protein-protein interaction and smooth muscle contraction. Decoy peptides were utilized to evaluate the importance of CAS/Pfn-1 coupling in smooth muscle contraction. RESULTS Stimulation with acetylcholine (ACh) increased the interaction of CAS with Pfn-1 in smooth muscle, which was regulated by CAS tyrosine phosphorylation and c-Abl. The CAS/Pfn-1 coupling was also modified by the phosphorylation of cortactin (a protein implicated in Pfn-1 activation). In addition, ACh activation promoted the spatial redistribution of CAS and Pfn-1 in smooth muscle cells, which was reduced by c-Abl knockdown. Inhibition of CAS/Pfn-1 interaction by a decoy peptide attenuated the ACh-induced actin polymerization and contraction without affecting myosin light chain phosphorylation. Furthermore, treatment with the Src inhibitor PP2 and the actin polymerization inhibitor latrunculin A attenuated the ACh-induced c-Abl tyrosine phosphorylation (an indication of c-Abl activation). CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest a novel activation loop in airway smooth muscle: c-Abl promotes the CAS/Pfn-1 coupling and actin polymerization, which conversely facilitates c-Abl activation. The positive feedback may render c-Abl in active state after contractile stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinna Wang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Avenue, MC-8, Albany, NY, 12208, USA
| | - Alyssa C Rezey
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Avenue, MC-8, Albany, NY, 12208, USA
| | - Ruping Wang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Avenue, MC-8, Albany, NY, 12208, USA
| | - Dale D Tang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Avenue, MC-8, Albany, NY, 12208, USA.
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Abstract
Recent studies suggest that neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) promotes angiogenesis mainly via VEGF and its receptors. It promotes tumorigenesis via formation of the NRP-1/ VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor)/VEGFR2 (vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2) complex. In addition to VEGF and its receptors, NRP-1 also binds with other growth factors such as platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR). PDGF plays important roles in cellular proliferation and, in particular, blood vessel formation. Moreover, recent studies show that NRP-1 promotes angiogenesis via the NRP-1-ABL pathway, but independent of VEGF-VEGFR2. RAD51 is a protein involved in the signaling pathways of NRP1-ABL and PDGF(R), the expression of which is positively associated with cell radioresistance and chemoresistance. NRP-1 activates the signaling pathways of ABL and PDGF(R) to upregulate RAD51, which induces resistance to radiotherapy and chemotherapy in cancer cells. Furthermore, NRP-1 activates the tumor microenvironment by binding with fibronectin and activating ABL, thereby promoting tumor growth. Inhibition of NRP-1 may overcome the limitations of individually inhibiting the VEGF-VEGFR2 pathway in cancer therapy and provide new ideas for cancer treatment. Therefore, we review the role of NRP-1 in VEGF-VEGFR2-independent tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenxi Hu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Lianyungang First People's Hospital, No.182, Tongguan Road, Lianyungang City, 222002, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiaodong Jiang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Lianyungang First People's Hospital, No.182, Tongguan Road, Lianyungang City, 222002, Jiangsu Province, China.
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de Sousa HA, da Silva MDG, Barbosa KDP, Vianna LMDS, Pacheco YG, de Godoy JRP, Kuckelhaus SAS. Electrical stimulation structurally affects the tissues of the rectum and anus of nulliparous rats. J Anat 2017; 231:398-404. [PMID: 28547814 PMCID: PMC5554829 DOI: 10.1111/joa.12635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Considering that the muscles of the anus perform a critical role in maintaining continence, losses in their structure can negatively affect the physiological control of the intestinal contents. Anorectal electro-stimulation (ARES) has been reported to have a positive effect on the functionality of treated patients, but how ARES affects the structural tissues of the anorectal segment remains unknown. Because the study of how ARES structurally affects human tissues is not possible, this study aimed to clarify these effects in a murine model, which has a similar anorectal segment (structure and physiology) to humans. For the descriptive and comparative study, randomly selected nulliparous adult Wistar rats (n = 5) were submitted to 30 anorectal sessions of ARES with a biphasic current (700 μs, 50 Hz from 2 to 4 mA). After treatment, the animals were euthanized, and the anorectal segments were dissected and processed for histopathological analysis. Our results showed that ARES increased the widths of the mucosal, submucosal and muscle layers of the rectum, as well as the number of leukocytes in the mucosa. ARES also caused hyperplasia of the smooth muscle of the internal anal sphincter and hypertrophy of the external anal sphincter muscle. In conclusion, our results showed that ARES had not only a positive effect on the structure (morphology) of all tissues associated with the rectum and anus but, more importantly, on the structural gain of the muscles (hyperplasia and hypertrophy), which could point to a functional gain of the anal sphincter, reinforcing the applicability of ARES as a non-invasive treatment for anal incontinence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Alves de Sousa
- Laboratory of Molecular Anatomy and NanomedicineArea of MorphologyFaculty of MedicineUniversity of BrasiliaBrasiliaFederal DistrictBrazil
| | - Maria da Glória da Silva
- Laboratory of HistologyArea of MorphologyFaculty of MedicineUniversity of BrasiliaBrasiliaFederal DistrictBrazil
| | | | | | - Yolanda Galindo Pacheco
- Laboratory of Molecular Anatomy and NanomedicineArea of MorphologyFaculty of MedicineUniversity of BrasiliaBrasiliaFederal DistrictBrazil
| | - José Roberto Pimenta de Godoy
- Laboratory of Molecular Anatomy and NanomedicineArea of MorphologyFaculty of MedicineUniversity of BrasiliaBrasiliaFederal DistrictBrazil
| | - Selma Aparecida Souza Kuckelhaus
- Laboratory of Molecular Anatomy and NanomedicineArea of MorphologyFaculty of MedicineUniversity of BrasiliaBrasiliaFederal DistrictBrazil
- Laboratory of Cell ImmunologyArea of PathologyFaculty of MedicineUniversity of BrasiliaBrasiliaFederal DistrictBrazil
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21
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Abstract
Smooth muscle contraction requires both myosin activation and actin cytoskeletal remodeling. Actin cytoskeletal reorganization facilitates smooth muscle contraction by promoting force transmission between the contractile unit and the extracellular matrix (ECM), and by enhancing intercellular mechanical transduction. Myosin may be viewed to serve as an "engine" for smooth muscle contraction whereas the actin cytoskeleton may function as a "transmission system" in smooth muscle. The actin cytoskeleton in smooth muscle also undergoes restructuring upon activation with growth factors or the ECM, which controls smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration. Abnormal smooth muscle contraction, cell proliferation, and motility contribute to the development of vascular and pulmonary diseases. A number of actin-regulatory proteins including protein kinases have been discovered to orchestrate actin dynamics in smooth muscle. In particular, Abelson tyrosine kinase (c-Abl) is an important molecule that controls actin dynamics, contraction, growth, and motility in smooth muscle. Moreover, c-Abl coordinates the regulation of blood pressure and contributes to the pathogenesis of airway hyperresponsiveness and vascular/airway remodeling in vivo. Thus, c-Abl may be a novel pharmacological target for the development of new therapy to treat smooth muscle diseases such as hypertension and asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dale D Tang
- Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, United States.
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22
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Salter B, Pray C, Radford K, Martin JG, Nair P. Regulation of human airway smooth muscle cell migration and relevance to asthma. Respir Res 2017; 18:156. [PMID: 28814293 PMCID: PMC5559796 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-017-0640-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Airway remodelling is an important feature of asthma pathogenesis. A key structural change inherent in airway remodelling is increased airway smooth muscle mass. There is emerging evidence to suggest that the migration of airway smooth muscle cells may contribute to cellular hyperplasia, and thus increased airway smooth muscle mass. The precise source of these cells remains unknown. Increased airway smooth muscle mass may be collectively due to airway infiltration of myofibroblasts, neighbouring airway smooth muscle cells in the bundle, or circulating hemopoietic progenitor cells. However, the relative contribution of each cell type is not well understood. In addition, although many studies have identified pro and anti-migratory agents of airway smooth muscle cells, whether these agents can impact airway remodelling in the context of human asthma, remains to be elucidated. As such, further research is required to determine the exact mechanism behind airway smooth muscle cell migration within the airways, how much this contributes to airway smooth muscle mass in asthma, and whether attenuating this migration may provide a therapeutic avenue for asthma. In this review article, we will discuss the current evidence with respect to the regulation of airway smooth muscle cell migration in asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany Salter
- Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health, St Joseph’s Healthcare and Department of Medicine, 50 Charlton Avenue, East, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6 Canada
| | - Cara Pray
- Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health, St Joseph’s Healthcare and Department of Medicine, 50 Charlton Avenue, East, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6 Canada
| | - Katherine Radford
- Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health, St Joseph’s Healthcare and Department of Medicine, 50 Charlton Avenue, East, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6 Canada
| | - James G. Martin
- Meakins Christie Laboratories, McGill University, Montreal, QC Canada
| | - Parameswaran Nair
- Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health, St Joseph’s Healthcare and Department of Medicine, 50 Charlton Avenue, East, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6 Canada
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Divergent Regulation of Actin Dynamics and Megakaryoblastic Leukemia-1 and -2 (Mkl1/2) by cAMP in Endothelial and Smooth Muscle Cells. Sci Rep 2017. [PMID: 28623279 PMCID: PMC5473867 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-03337-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) or endothelial cell (ECs) promote or inhibit, respectively, restenosis after angioplasty, vein graft intimal thickening and atherogenesis. Here we investigated the effects of cAMP-induced cytoskeletal remodelling on the serum response factor (SRF) co-factors Megakaryoblastic Leukemia-1 and -2 (MKL1 and MKL2) and their role in controlling VSMC and EC proliferation and migration. Elevation of cAMP using forskolin, dibutyryl-cAMP (db-cAMP), BAY60-6583 or Cicaprost induced rapid cytoskeleton remodelling and inhibited proliferation and migration in VSMCs but not EC. Furthermore, elevated cAMP inhibited mitogen-induced nuclear-translocation of MKL1 and MKL2 in VSMCs but not ECs. Forskolin also significantly inhibited serum response factor (SRF)-dependent reporter gene (SRE-LUC) activity and mRNA expression of pro-proliferative and pro-migratory MKL1/2 target genes in VSMCs but not in ECs. In ECs, MKL1 was constitutively nuclear and MKL2 cytoplasmic, irrespective of mitogens or cAMP. Pharmacological or siRNA inhibition of MKL1 significantly inhibited the proliferation and migration of VSMC and EC. Our new data identifies and important contribution of MKL1/2 to explaining the strikingly different response of VSMCs and ECs to cAMP elevation. Elucidation of these pathways promises to identify targets for specific inhibition of VSMC migration and proliferation.
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c-Abl regulates gastrointestinal muscularis propria homeostasis via ERKs. Sci Rep 2017; 7:3563. [PMID: 28620185 PMCID: PMC5472598 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-03569-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2016] [Accepted: 05/02/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The gastrointestinal tract is responsible for food digestion and absorption. The muscularis propria propels the foodstuff through the GI tract and defects in intestine motility may cause obstruction disorders. Our present genetic studies identified non-receptor tyrosine kinase c-Abl as an important regulator of the muscularis propria homeostasis and a risk factor for rectal prolapse. Mouse deficient for c-Abl showed defects in the muscularis propria of gastrointestinal tract and older c-Abl -/- mice developed megaesophagus and rectal prolapse. Inhibition of c-Abl with imatinib mesylate, an anti-CML drug, or ablation of c-Abl using Prx1-Cre, which marks smooth muscle cells, recapitulated most of the muscularis propria phenotypes. The pathogenesis of rectal prolapse was attributable to overproliferation of smooth muscle cells, which was caused by enhanced ERK1/2 activation. Administration of ERK inhibitor U0126 impeded the development of rectal prolapse in c-Abl deficient mice. These results reveal a role for c-Abl-regulated smooth muscle proliferation in the pathogenesis of rectal prolapse, and imply that long-term use of imatinib mesylate may cause gastrointestinal problems in patients while ERK inhibitor may be effective in treating rectal prolapse.
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Tang DD, Gerlach BD. The roles and regulation of the actin cytoskeleton, intermediate filaments and microtubules in smooth muscle cell migration. Respir Res 2017; 18:54. [PMID: 28390425 PMCID: PMC5385055 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-017-0544-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 190] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2017] [Accepted: 04/05/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Smooth muscle cell migration has been implicated in the development of respiratory and cardiovascular systems; and airway/vascular remodeling. Cell migration is a polarized cellular process involving a protrusive cell front and a retracting trailing rear. There are three cytoskeletal systems in mammalian cells: the actin cytoskeleton, the intermediate filament network, and microtubules; all of which regulate all or part of the migrated process. The dynamic actin cytoskeleton spatially and temporally regulates protrusion, adhesions, contraction, and retraction from the cell front to the rear. c-Abl tyrosine kinase plays a critical role in regulating actin dynamics and migration of airway smooth muscle cells and nonmuscle cells. Recent studies suggest that intermediate filaments undergo reorganization during migration, which coordinates focal adhesion dynamics, cell contraction, and nucleus rigidity. In particular, vimentin intermediate filaments undergo phosphorylation and reorientation in smooth muscle cells, which may regulate cell contraction and focal adhesion assembly/disassembly. Motile cells are characterized by a front-rear polarization of the microtubule framework, which regulates all essential processes leading to cell migration through its role in cell mechanics, intracellular trafficking, and signaling. This review recapitulates our current knowledge how the three cytoskeletal systems spatially and temporally modulate the migratory properties of cells. We also summarize the potential role of migration-associated biomolecules in lung and vascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dale D Tang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Avenue, MC-8, Albany, NY, 12208, USA.
| | - Brennan D Gerlach
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Avenue, MC-8, Albany, NY, 12208, USA
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Kim SH, Pei QM, Jiang P, Yang M, Qian XJ, Liu JB. Effect of active vitamin D3 on VEGF-induced ADAM33 expression and proliferation in human airway smooth muscle cells: implications for asthma treatment. Respir Res 2017; 18:7. [PMID: 28056993 PMCID: PMC5217212 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-016-0490-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2016] [Accepted: 12/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease characterized by reversible airway obstruction with persistent airway inflammation and airway remodeling, which is associated with increased airway smooth muscle (ASM) mass. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has been implicated in inflammatory and airway blood vessel remodeling in asthma. Recent evidence indicates that a deficiency of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) may influence asthma pathogenesis. A disintegrin and metalloproteinase (ADAM)33 has been identified as playing a role in the pathophysiology of asthma. ADAM33, which is expressed in ASM cells, is suggested to play a role in the function of these cells. Recent studies show that 1,25-(OH)2D3 exerts direct inhibitory effects on passively sensitized human ASM cells in vitro, including inhibition of ADAM33 expression and cell proliferation; however, the mechanism has not been fully understood. METHODS In order to elucidate the precise mechanism underlying the effect of 1,25(OH)2D3 on VEGF-induced ADAM33 expression and ASM cell proliferation, we tested the effects of 1,25(OH)2D3 on cell cycle progression and evaluated the levels of phospho-VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR2), phospho-extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), and phospho-Akt in VEGF-stimulated ASM cells. RESULTS We found that 1,25(OH)2D3 inhibited VEGF-induced ADAM33 expression and ASM cell proliferation, as well as cell cycle arrest. Additionally, VEGF-induced ADAM33 expression and ASM cell proliferation was suppressed via inhibition of ERK1/2 activity, but not that of Akt. Furthermore, 1,25(OH)2D3 treatment inhibited VEGF-induced activation of VEGFR2 as well as that of ERK and Akt in a concentration-dependent manner. 1,25(OH)2D3 also inhibited transforming growth factor (TGF)-β-induced VEGF secretion by ASM cells. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our findings suggest that 1,25(OH)2D3 inhibits VEGF-induced ASM cell proliferation by suppressing VEGFR2 and ERK1/2 activation and downregulating ADAM33. Further studies of these mechanisms are needed to facilitate the development of treatments for smooth muscle hyperplasia-associated diseases of the airway such as asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung-Ho Kim
- Department of Respiration, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Fukanglu-24, Nankaiqu, Tianjin, 300192, China.
| | - Qing-Mei Pei
- Department of Radiology, Tianjin Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Ping Jiang
- Department of Respiration, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Fukanglu-24, Nankaiqu, Tianjin, 300192, China
| | - Min Yang
- Department of Respiration, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Fukanglu-24, Nankaiqu, Tianjin, 300192, China
| | - Xue-Jiao Qian
- Department of Respiration, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Fukanglu-24, Nankaiqu, Tianjin, 300192, China
| | - Jiang-Bo Liu
- Department of Respiration, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Fukanglu-24, Nankaiqu, Tianjin, 300192, China
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27
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Huang C, Mei H, Zhou M, Zheng X. A novel PDGF receptor inhibitor-eluting stent attenuates in-stent neointima formation in a rabbit carotid model. Mol Med Rep 2016; 15:21-28. [PMID: 27922693 PMCID: PMC5355735 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2016.5986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2015] [Accepted: 07/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
A novel drug-eluting stent (DES) is required to target vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) without harming endothelial cells (ECs). Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) is critical for the proliferation and migration of SMCs. Sunitinib [a PDGF receptor (PDGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor]‑eluting stents may therefore inhibit neointimal formation. The aim of the present study was to examine the stent‑based delivery of sunitinib in a rabbit carotid model; in addition, the effects of sunitinib were evaluated in vitro. Local administration of sunitinib markedly reduced neointimal formation without delaying re-endothelialization in the carotid artery model. In vitro, sunitinib inhibited SMC proliferation; however, no effects were observed on ECs. Sunitinib caused necrosis of SMCs. In addition, sunitinib attenuated PDGF-stimulated SMC migration in a scratch wound assay and inhibited α‑SMA cytoskeleton polymerization. Furthermore, sunitinib inhibited PDGF-induced phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase in vitro and in vivo. Therefore, this novel DES may be a potential strategy for the treatment of vascular disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Huang
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, P.R. China
| | - Haijun Mei
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, P.R. China
| | - Min Zhou
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, P.R. China
| | - Xiaobing Zheng
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, P.R. China
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28
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Molecular Background of miRNA Role in Asthma and COPD: An Updated Insight. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 2016:7802521. [PMID: 27376086 PMCID: PMC4916273 DOI: 10.1155/2016/7802521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2016] [Revised: 04/29/2016] [Accepted: 05/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Inflammatory airway diseases are a significant health problems requiring new approaches to the existing therapies and addressing fundamental issues. Difficulties in developing effective therapeutic strategies might be caused by lack of understanding of their exact molecular mechanism. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of regulators that already revolutionized the view of gene expression regulation. A cumulating number of investigations show a pivotal role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or airway remodeling through the regulation of many pathways involved in their pathogenesis. Expression changes of several miRNAs have also been found to play a role in the development and/or improvement in asthma or COPD. Still, relatively little is known about the role of miRNAs in inflammatory disorders. The microRNA profiles may differ depending on the cell type or antigen-presenting cell. Based on the newest literature, this review discusses the current knowledge concerning miRNA contribution and influence on lung inflammation and chosen inflammatory airway diseases: asthma and COPD.
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29
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Schreier B, Schwerdt G, Heise C, Bethmann D, Rabe S, Mildenberger S, Gekle M. Substance-specific importance of EGFR for vascular smooth muscle cells motility in primary culture. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2016; 1863:1519-33. [PMID: 27012600 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2016.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2015] [Revised: 03/01/2016] [Accepted: 03/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Besides their importance for the vascular tone, vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) also contribute to pathophysiological vessel alterations. Various G-protein coupled receptor ligands involved in vascular dysfunction and remodeling can transactivate the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) of VSMC, yet the importance of EGFR transactivation for the VSMC phenotype is incompletely understood. The aims of this study were (i) to characterize further the importance of the VSMC-EGFR for proliferation, migration and marker gene expression for inflammation, fibrosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) homeostasis and (ii) to test the hypothesis that vasoactive substances (endothelin-1, phenylephrine, thrombin, vasopressin and ATP) rely differentially on the EGFR with respect to the abovementioned phenotypic alterations. In primary, aortic VSMC from mice without conditional deletion of the EGFR, proliferation, migration, marker gene expression (inflammation, fibrosis and ROS homeostasis) and cell signaling (ERK 1/2, intracellular calcium) were analyzed. VSMC-EGFR loss reduced collective cell migration and single cell migration probability, while no difference between the genotypes in single cell velocity, chemotaxis or marker gene expression could be observed under control conditions. EGF promoted proliferation, collective cell migration, chemokinesis and chemotaxis and leads to a proinflammatory gene expression profile in wildtype but not in knockout VSMC. Comparing the impact of five vasoactive substances (all reported to transactivate EGFR and all leading to an EGFR dependent increase in ERK1/2 phosphorylation), we demonstrate that the importance of EGFR for their action is substance-dependent and most apparent for crowd migration but plays a minor role for gene expression regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Schreier
- Julius-Bernstein-Institute of Physiology, University of Halle-Wittenberg, Magdeburger Strasse 6, 06112 Halle/Saale, Germany.
| | - Gerald Schwerdt
- Julius-Bernstein-Institute of Physiology, University of Halle-Wittenberg, Magdeburger Strasse 6, 06112 Halle/Saale, Germany
| | - Christian Heise
- Julius-Bernstein-Institute of Physiology, University of Halle-Wittenberg, Magdeburger Strasse 6, 06112 Halle/Saale, Germany
| | - Daniel Bethmann
- Julius-Bernstein-Institute of Physiology, University of Halle-Wittenberg, Magdeburger Strasse 6, 06112 Halle/Saale, Germany
| | - Sindy Rabe
- Julius-Bernstein-Institute of Physiology, University of Halle-Wittenberg, Magdeburger Strasse 6, 06112 Halle/Saale, Germany
| | - Sigrid Mildenberger
- Julius-Bernstein-Institute of Physiology, University of Halle-Wittenberg, Magdeburger Strasse 6, 06112 Halle/Saale, Germany
| | - Michael Gekle
- Julius-Bernstein-Institute of Physiology, University of Halle-Wittenberg, Magdeburger Strasse 6, 06112 Halle/Saale, Germany
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30
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Tang DD. Critical role of actin-associated proteins in smooth muscle contraction, cell proliferation, airway hyperresponsiveness and airway remodeling. Respir Res 2015; 16:134. [PMID: 26517982 PMCID: PMC4628321 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-015-0296-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Accepted: 10/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Asthma is characterized by airway hyperresponsiveness and airway remodeling, which are largely attributed to increased airway smooth muscle contractility and cell proliferation. It is known that both chemical and mechanical stimulation regulates smooth muscle contraction. Recent studies suggest that contractile activation and mechanical stretch induce actin cytoskeletal remodeling in smooth muscle. However, the mechanisms that control actin cytoskeletal reorganization are not completely elucidated. This review summarizes our current understanding regarding how actin-associated proteins may regulate remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton in airway smooth muscle. In particular, there is accumulating evidence to suggest that Abelson tyrosine kinase (Abl) plays a critical role in regulating airway smooth muscle contraction and cell proliferation in vitro, and airway hyperresponsiveness and remodeling in vivo. These studies indicate that Abl may be a novel target for the development of new therapy to treat asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dale D Tang
- Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Avenue, MC-8, Albany, NY, 12208, USA.
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31
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Liao G, Panettieri RA, Tang DD. MicroRNA-203 negatively regulates c-Abl, ERK1/2 phosphorylation, and proliferation in smooth muscle cells. Physiol Rep 2015; 3:3/9/e12541. [PMID: 26400984 PMCID: PMC4600385 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.12541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The nonreceptor tyrosine kinase c-Abl has a role in regulating smooth muscle cell proliferation, which contributes to the development of airway remodeling in chronic asthma. MicroRNAs (miRs) are small noncoding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression by binding to complementary sequences in the 3′ untranslated regions (3′ UTR) of target mRNAs. Previous analysis suggests that miR-203 is able to bind to the 3′ UTR of human c-Abl mRNA. In this report, treatment with miR-203 attenuated the expression of c-Abl mRNA and protein in human airway smooth muscle (HASM) cells. Furthermore, transfection with an miR-203 inhibitor enhanced the expression of c-Abl at mRNA and protein levels in HASM cells. Treatment with platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) induced the proliferation and ERK1/2 phosphorylation in HASM cells. Exposure to miR-203 attenuated the PDGF-stimulated proliferation and ERK1/2 phosphorylation in HASM cells. The expression of c-Abl at protein and mRNA levels was higher in asthmatic HASM cells, whereas the level of miR-203 was reduced in asthmatic HASM cells as compared to control HASM cells. Taken together, our present results suggest that miR-203 is a negative regulator of c-Abl expression in smooth muscle cells. miR-203 regulates smooth muscle cell proliferation by controlling c-Abl expression, which in turn modulates the activation of ERK1/2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoning Liao
- The Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York
| | | | - Dale D Tang
- The Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York
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Jiang S, Tang DD. Plk1 regulates MEK1/2 and proliferation in airway smooth muscle cells. Respir Res 2015; 16:93. [PMID: 26242183 PMCID: PMC4531535 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-015-0257-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2015] [Accepted: 07/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polo-like kinase 1 (Plk1) is a serine/threonine protein kinase that has been implicated in the regulation of mitosis. In addition, the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) is a key event in the early stage of the growth factor response. The role of Plk1 in MAPK phosphorylation in cells has not been investigated. METHODS Immunoblot analysis was used to evaluate Plk1 and MAPK phosphorylation in cells upon stimulation with platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF). We also generated stable Plk1 knockdown (KD) cells to assess the role of Plk1 in MAPK activation and cell proliferation. Furthermore, we used a non-phosphorylatable Plk1 mutant to determine the function of Plk1 phosphorylation in these processes. RESULTS Treatment with PDGF increased Plk1 phosphorylation at Thr-210 (an indication of Plk1 activation) in human airway smooth muscle cells. Plk1 KD attenuated the PDGF-induced phosphorylation of MEK1/2 and ERK1/2 as well as cell proliferation. However, phosphorylation of Raf-1 and AKT upon stimulation with PDGF was not reduced in Plk1 KD cells. Furthermore, the expression of T210A Plk1 (alanine substitution at Thr-210) inhibited the PDGF-stimulated MEK1/2 phosphorylation, ERK1/2 phosphorylation and cell proliferation. CONCLUSIONS Together, these findings suggest that Plk1 is activated upon growth factor stimulation, which may control the activation of MEK1/2 and ERK1/2, and smooth muscle cell proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sixin Jiang
- The Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Avenue, MC-8, Albany, NY, 12208, USA.
| | - Dale D Tang
- The Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Avenue, MC-8, Albany, NY, 12208, USA.
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33
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Wang T, Wang R, Cleary RA, Gannon OJ, Tang DD. Recruitment of β-catenin to N-cadherin is necessary for smooth muscle contraction. J Biol Chem 2015; 290:8913-24. [PMID: 25713069 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m114.621003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
β-Catenin is a key component that connects transmembrane cadherin with the actin cytoskeleton at the cell-cell interface. However, the role of the β-catenin/cadherin interaction in smooth muscle has not been well characterized. Here stimulation with acetylcholine promoted the recruitment of β-catenin to N-cadherin in smooth muscle cells/tissues. Knockdown of β-catenin by lentivirus-mediated shRNA attenuated smooth muscle contraction. Nevertheless, myosin light chain phosphorylation at Ser-19 and actin polymerization in response to contractile activation were not reduced by β-catenin knockdown. In addition, the expression of the β-catenin armadillo domain disrupted the recruitment of β-catenin to N-cadherin. Force development, but not myosin light chain phosphorylation and actin polymerization, was reduced by the expression of the β-catenin armadillo domain. Furthermore, actin polymerization and microtubules have been implicated in intracellular trafficking. In this study, the treatment with the inhibitor latrunculin A diminished the interaction of β-catenin with N-cadherin in smooth muscle. In contrast, the exposure of smooth muscle to the microtubule depolymerizer nocodazole did not affect the protein-protein interaction. Together, these findings suggest that smooth muscle contraction is mediated by the recruitment of β-catenin to N-cadherin, which may facilitate intercellular mechanotransduction. The association of β-catenin with N-cadherin is regulated by actin polymerization during contractile activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Wang
- From the Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York 12208
| | - Ruping Wang
- From the Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York 12208
| | - Rachel A Cleary
- From the Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York 12208
| | - Olivia J Gannon
- From the Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York 12208
| | - Dale D Tang
- From the Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York 12208
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Wang T, Cleary RA, Wang R, Tang DD. Glia maturation factor-γ phosphorylation at Tyr-104 regulates actin dynamics and contraction in human airway smooth muscle. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2015; 51:652-9. [PMID: 24818551 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2014-0125oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Actin dynamics plays an essential role in regulating airway smooth muscle contraction. The mechanisms that regulate actin dynamics in smooth muscle are not completely understood. Glia maturation factor (GMF) is a protein that has been reported to inhibit actin nucleation and to induce actin network debranching in vitro. The role of GMF in human smooth muscle cells and tissues has not been investigated. In this study, knockdown of GMF-γ by RNA interference enhanced actin polymerization and contraction in human airway smooth muscle (HASM) cells and tissues without affecting myosin phosphorylation (another important biochemical change during contractile activation). Activation of HASM cells and tissues with acetylcholine induced dissociation of GMF-γ from Arp2 of the Arp2/3 complex. Acetylcholine stimulation also increased GMF-γ phosphorylation at Tyr-104. GMF-γ phosphorylation at this residue was mediated by c-Abl tyrosine kinase. The GMF-γ mutant Y104F (phenylalanine substitution at Tyr-104) had higher association with Arp2 in HASM cells upon contractile activation. Furthermore, expression of mutant Y104F GMF-γ attenuated actin polymerization and contraction in smooth muscle. Thus, we propose a novel mechanism for the regulation of actin dynamics and smooth muscle contraction. In unstimulated smooth muscle, GMF-γ binds to the Arp2/3 complex, which induces actin disassembly and retains lower levels of F-actin. Upon contractile stimulation, phosphorylation at Tyr-104 mediated by c-Abl tyrosine kinase leads to the dissociation of GMF-γ from Arp2/3, by which GMF-γ no longer induces actin disassembly. Reduced actin disassembly renders F-actin in higher level, which facilitates smooth muscle contraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Wang
- Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York
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35
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Chen Y, Liu H, Xu S, Wang T, Li W. Targeting microsomal prostaglandin E2synthase-1 (mPGES-1): the development of inhibitors as an alternative to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). MEDCHEMCOMM 2015. [DOI: 10.1039/c5md00278h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
AA cascade and several key residues in the 3D structure of mPGES-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqing Chen
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine
- Nanjing
- China
| | | | - Shuang Xu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine
- Nanjing
- China
| | - Tianlin Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine
- Nanjing
- China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine
- Nanjing
- China
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Trejo Bittar HE, Yousem SA, Wenzel SE. Pathobiology of severe asthma. ANNUAL REVIEW OF PATHOLOGY-MECHANISMS OF DISEASE 2014; 10:511-45. [PMID: 25423350 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pathol-012414-040343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Severe asthma (SA) afflicts a heterogeneous group of asthma patients who exhibit poor responses to traditional asthma medications. SA patients likely represent 5-10% of all asthma patients; however, they have a higher economic burden when compared with milder asthmatics. Considerable research has been performed on pathological pathways and structural changes associated with SA. Although limitations of the pathological approaches, ranging from sampling, to quantitative assessments, to heterogeneity of disease, have prevented a more definitive understanding of the underlying pathobiology, studies linking pathology to molecular markers to targeted therapies are beginning to solidify the identification of select molecular phenotypes. This review addresses the pathobiology of SA and discusses the current limitations of studies, the inflammatory cells and pathways linked to emerging phenotypes, and the structural and remodeling changes associated with severe disease. In all cases, an effort is made to link pathological findings to specific clinical/molecular phenotypes.
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37
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Cidad P, Miguel-Velado E, Ruiz-McDavitt C, Alonso E, Jiménez-Pérez L, Asuaje A, Carmona Y, García-Arribas D, López J, Marroquín Y, Fernández M, Roqué M, Pérez-García MT, López-López JR. Kv1.3 channels modulate human vascular smooth muscle cells proliferation independently of mTOR signaling pathway. Pflugers Arch 2014; 467:1711-22. [PMID: 25208915 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-014-1607-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2014] [Revised: 08/07/2014] [Accepted: 09/01/2014] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Phenotypic modulation (PM) of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) is central to the process of intimal hyperplasia which constitutes a common pathological lesion in occlusive vascular diseases. Changes in the functional expression of Kv1.5 and Kv1.3 currents upon PM in mice VSMCs have been found to contribute to cell migration and proliferation. Using human VSMCs from vessels in which unwanted remodeling is a relevant clinical complication, we explored the contribution of the Kv1.5 to Kv1.3 switch to PM. Changes in the expression and the functional contribution of Kv1.3 and Kv1.5 channels were studied in contractile and proliferating VSMCs obtained from human donors. Both a Kv1.5 to Kv1.3 switch upon PM and an anti-proliferative effect of Kv1.3 blockers on PDGF-induced proliferation were observed in all vascular beds studied. When investigating the signaling pathways modulated by the blockade of Kv1.3 channels, we found that anti-proliferative effects of Kv1.3 blockers on human coronary artery VSMCs were occluded by selective inhibition of MEK/ERK and PLCγ signaling pathways, but were unaffected upon blockade of PI3K/mTOR pathway. The temporal course of the anti-proliferative effects of Kv1.3 blockers indicates that they have a role in the late signaling events essential for the mitogenic response to growth factors. These findings establish the involvement of Kv1.3 channels in the PM of human VSMCs. Moreover, as current therapies to prevent restenosis rely on mTOR blockers, our results provide the basis for the development of novel, more specific therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pilar Cidad
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Fisiología e Instituto de Biología y Genética Molecular (IBGM), Universidad de Valladolid y CSIC, Edificio IBGM, c/ Sanz y Forés s/n, 47003, Valladolid, Spain
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38
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Chen S, Tang DD. c-Abl tyrosine kinase regulates cytokinesis of human airway smooth muscle cells. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2014; 50:1076-83. [PMID: 24392933 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2013-0438oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytokinesis is a critical step of airway smooth muscle cell division that plays an essential role in the development and homeostasis of the respiratory system, as well as the progression of airway remodeling. The mechanisms that regulate smooth muscle cytokinesis are not fully understood. c-Abl (c-Abelson tyrosine kinase) is a nonreceptor protein tyrosine kinase that has a role in regulating actin dynamics and smooth muscle contraction. The role of c-Abl in cytokinesis has not been investigated. Here, c-Abl was found in the contractile ring, as evidenced by immunofluorescent microscopy. In addition, cortactin is a phosphorylatable protein that has been implicated in actin filament assembly. In this report, phosphorylated cortactin was also found in the contractile ring. Knockdown of c-Abl by RNA interference attenuated cortactin phosphorylation in the midzone and contractile ring formation. c-Abl knockdown decreased the number of cells undergoing cytokinesis, but increased the quantity of cells in metaphase/anaphase and the number of multinucleate cells. Treatment with the c-Abl pharmacological inhibitors, imatinib and GNF-5, had similar effects. Furthermore, the expression of a nonphosphorylatable cortactin mutant diminished cytokinesis. Finally, inhibition of actin filament assembly by latrunculin A attenuated c-Abl recruitment to the midzone. Thus, we propose a novel mechanism that regulates smooth muscle cell cytokinesis. c-Abl is recruited to the equator during cytokinesis, which may mediate cortactin phosphorylation. Phosphorylated cortactin may promote actin filament assembly, which facilitates contractile ring formation and cytokinesis. In addition, actin filament polymerization may facilitate the positioning of c-Abl to the contractile ring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Chen
- Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York
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39
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Li J, Chen S, Cleary RA, Wang R, Gannon OJ, Seto E, Tang DD. Histone deacetylase 8 regulates cortactin deacetylation and contraction in smooth muscle tissues. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2014; 307:C288-95. [PMID: 24920679 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00102.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are a family of enzymes that mediate nucleosomal histone deacetylation and gene expression. Some members of the HDAC family have also been implicated in nonhistone protein deacetylation, which modulates cell-cycle control, differentiation, and cell migration. However, the role of HDACs in smooth muscle contraction is largely unknown. Here, HDAC8 was localized both in the cytoplasm and the nucleus of mouse and human smooth muscle cells. Knockdown of HDAC8 by lentivirus-encoding HDAC8 shRNA inhibited force development in response to acetylcholine. Treatment of smooth muscle tissues with HDAC8 inhibitor XXIV (OSU-HDAC-44) induced relaxation of precontracted smooth muscle tissues. In addition, cortactin is an actin-regulatory protein that undergoes deacetylation during migration of NIH 3T3 cells. In this study, acetylcholine stimulation induced cortactin deacetylation in mouse and human smooth muscle tissues, as evidenced by immunoblot analysis using antibody against acetylated lysine. Knockdown of HDAC8 by RNAi or treatment with the inhibitor attenuated cortactin deacetylation and actin polymerization without affecting myosin activation. Furthermore, expression of a charge-neutralizing cortactin mutant inhibited contraction and actin dynamics during contractile activation. These results suggest a novel mechanism for the regulation of smooth muscle contraction. In response to contractile stimulation, HDAC8 may mediate cortactin deacetylation, which subsequently promotes actin filament polymerization and smooth muscle contraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Li
- Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York; and
| | - Shu Chen
- Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York; and
| | - Rachel A Cleary
- Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York; and
| | - Ruping Wang
- Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York; and
| | - Olivia J Gannon
- Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York; and
| | - Edward Seto
- Molecular Oncology Department, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Dale D Tang
- Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York; and
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Wang R, Cleary RA, Wang T, Li J, Tang DD. The association of cortactin with profilin-1 is critical for smooth muscle contraction. J Biol Chem 2014; 289:14157-69. [PMID: 24700464 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m114.548099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Profilin-1 (Pfn-1) is an actin-regulatory protein that has a role in modulating smooth muscle contraction. However, the mechanisms that regulate Pfn-1 in smooth muscle are not fully understood. Here, stimulation with acetylcholine induced an increase in the association of the adapter protein cortactin with Pfn-1 in smooth muscle cells/tissues. Furthermore, disruption of the protein/protein interaction by a cell-permeable peptide (CTTN-I peptide) attenuated actin polymerization and smooth muscle contraction without affecting myosin light chain phosphorylation at Ser-19. Knockdown of cortactin by lentivirus-mediated RNAi also diminished actin polymerization and smooth muscle force development. However, cortactin knockdown did not affect myosin activation. In addition, cortactin phosphorylation has been implicated in nonmuscle cell migration. In this study, acetylcholine stimulation induced cortactin phosphorylation at Tyr-421 in smooth muscle cells. Phenylalanine substitution at this position impaired cortactin/Pfn-1 interaction in response to contractile activation. c-Abl is a tyrosine kinase that is necessary for actin dynamics and contraction in smooth muscle. Here, c-Abl silencing inhibited the agonist-induced cortactin phosphorylation and the association of cortactin with Pfn-1. Finally, treatment with CTTN-I peptide reduced airway resistance and smooth muscle hyperreactivity in a murine model of asthma. These results suggest that the interaction of cortactin with Pfn-1 plays a pivotal role in regulating actin dynamics, smooth muscle contraction, and airway hyperresponsiveness in asthma. The association of cortactin with Pfn-1 is regulated by c-Abl-mediated cortactin phosphorylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruping Wang
- From the Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York 12208
| | - Rachel A Cleary
- From the Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York 12208
| | - Tao Wang
- From the Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York 12208
| | - Jia Li
- From the Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York 12208
| | - Dale D Tang
- From the Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York 12208
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41
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Cleary RA, Wang R, Waqar O, Singer HA, Tang DD. Role of c-Abl tyrosine kinase in smooth muscle cell migration. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2014; 306:C753-61. [PMID: 24477238 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00327.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
c-Abl is a nonreceptor protein tyrosine kinase that has a role in regulating smooth muscle cell proliferation and contraction. The role of c-Abl in smooth muscle cell migration has not been investigated. In the present study, c-Abl was found in the leading edge of smooth muscle cells. Knockdown of c-Abl by RNA interference attenuated smooth muscle cell motility as evidenced by time-lapse microscopy. Furthermore, the actin-associated proteins cortactin and profilin-1 (Pfn-1) have been implicated in cell migration. In this study, cell adhesion induced cortactin phosphorylation at Tyr-421, an indication of cortactin activation. Phospho-cortactin and Pfn-1 were also found in the cell edge. Pfn-1 directly interacted with cortactin in vitro. Silencing of c-Abl attenuated adhesion-induced cortactin phosphorylation and Pfn-1 localization in the cell edge. To assess the role of cortactin/Pfn-1 coupling, we developed a cell-permeable peptide. Treatment with the peptide inhibited the interaction of cortactin with Pfn-1 without affecting cortactin phosphorylation. Moreover, treatment with the peptide impaired the recruitment of Pfn-1 to the leading edge and cell migration. Finally, β1-integrin was required for the recruitment of c-Abl to the cell edge. Inhibition of actin dynamics impaired the spatial distribution of c-Abl. These results suggest that β1-integrin may recruit c-Abl to the leading cell edge, which may regulate cortactin phosphorylation in response to cell adhesion. Phosphorylated cortactin may facilitate the recruitment of Pfn-1 to the cell edge, which promotes localized actin polymerization, leading edge formation, and cell movement. Conversely, actin dynamics may strengthen the recruitment of c-Abl to the leading edge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel A Cleary
- Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York
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42
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Liu L, Wu CF. Distinct effects of Abelson kinase mutations on myocytes and neurons in dissociated Drosophila embryonic cultures: mimicking of high temperature. PLoS One 2014; 9:e86438. [PMID: 24466097 PMCID: PMC3897706 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0086438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2013] [Accepted: 12/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Abelson tyrosine kinase (Abl) is known to regulate axon guidance, muscle development, and cell-cell interaction in vivo. The Drosophila primary culture system offers advantages in exploring the cellular mechanisms mediated by Abl with utilizing various experimental manipulations. Here we demonstrate that single-embryo cultures exhibit stage-dependent characteristics of cellular differentiation and developmental progression in neurons and myocytes, as well as nerve-muscle contacts. In particular, muscle development critically depends on the stage of dissociated embryos. In wild-type (WT) cultures derived from embryos before stage 12, muscle cells remained within cell clusters and were rarely detected. Interestingly, abundant myocytes were spotted in Abl mutant cultures, exhibiting enhanced myocyte movement and fusion, as well as neuron-muscle contacts even in cultures dissociated from younger, stage 10 embryos. Notably, Abl myocytes frequently displayed well-expanded lamellipodia. Conversely, Abl neurons were characterized with fewer large veil-like lamellipodia, but instead had increased numbers of filopodia and darker nodes along neurites. These distinct phenotypes were equally evident in both homo- and hetero-zygous cultures (Abl/Abl vs. Abl/+) of different alleles (Abl1 and Abl4) indicating dominant mutational effects. Strikingly, in WT cultures derived from stage 10 embryos, high temperature (HT) incubation promoted muscle migration and fusion, partially mimicking the advanced muscle development typical of Abl cultures. However, HT enhanced neuronal growth with increased numbers of enlarged lamellipodia, distinct from the characteristic Abl neuronal morphology. Intriguingly, HT incubation also promoted Abl lamellipodia expansion, with a much greater effect on nerve cells than muscle. Our results suggest that Abl is an essential regulator for myocyte and neuron development and that high-temperature incubation partially mimics the faster muscle development typical of Abl cultures. Despite the extensive alterations by Abl mutations, we observed myocyte fusion events and nerve-muscle contact formation between WT and Abl cells in mixed WT and Abl cultures derived from labeled embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijuan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Institute of Life Sciences, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Biology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Chun-Fang Wu
- Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Institute of Life Sciences, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Biology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
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Prakash YS. Airway smooth muscle in airway reactivity and remodeling: what have we learned? Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2013; 305:L912-33. [PMID: 24142517 PMCID: PMC3882535 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00259.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2013] [Accepted: 10/12/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
It is now established that airway smooth muscle (ASM) has roles in determining airway structure and function, well beyond that as the major contractile element. Indeed, changes in ASM function are central to the manifestation of allergic, inflammatory, and fibrotic airway diseases in both children and adults, as well as to airway responses to local and environmental exposures. Emerging evidence points to novel signaling mechanisms within ASM cells of different species that serve to control diverse features, including 1) [Ca(2+)]i contractility and relaxation, 2) cell proliferation and apoptosis, 3) production and modulation of extracellular components, and 4) release of pro- vs. anti-inflammatory mediators and factors that regulate immunity as well as the function of other airway cell types, such as epithelium, fibroblasts, and nerves. These diverse effects of ASM "activity" result in modulation of bronchoconstriction vs. bronchodilation relevant to airway hyperresponsiveness, airway thickening, and fibrosis that influence compliance. This perspective highlights recent discoveries that reveal the central role of ASM in this regard and helps set the stage for future research toward understanding the pathways regulating ASM and, in turn, the influence of ASM on airway structure and function. Such exploration is key to development of novel therapeutic strategies that influence the pathophysiology of diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y S Prakash
- Dept. of Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic, 4-184 W Jos SMH, 200 First St. SW, Rochester, MN 55905.
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44
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Cleary RA, Wang R, Wang T, Tang DD. Role of Abl in airway hyperresponsiveness and airway remodeling. Respir Res 2013; 14:105. [PMID: 24112389 PMCID: PMC3852349 DOI: 10.1186/1465-9921-14-105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2013] [Accepted: 10/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asthma is a chronic disease that is characterized by airway hyperresponsiveness and airway remodeling. The underlying mechanisms that mediate the pathological processes are not fully understood. Abl is a non-receptor protein tyrosine kinase that has a role in the regulation of smooth muscle contraction and smooth muscle cell proliferation in vitro. The role of Abl in airway hyperresponsiveness and airway remodeling in vivo is largely unknown. METHODS To evaluate the role of Abl in asthma pathology, we assessed the expression of Abl in airway tissues from the ovalbumin sensitized and challenged mouse model, and human asthmatic airway smooth muscle cells. In addition, we generated conditional knockout mice in which Abl expression in smooth muscle was disrupted, and then evaluated the effects of Abl conditional knockout on airway resistance, smooth muscle mass, cell proliferation, IL-13 and CCL2 in the mouse model of asthma. Furthermore, we determined the effects of the Abl pharmacological inhibitors imatinib and GNF-5 on these processes in the animal model of asthma. RESULTS The expression of Abl was upregulated in airway tissues of the animal model of asthma and in airway smooth muscle cells of patients with severe asthma. Conditional knockout of Abl attenuated airway resistance, smooth muscle mass and staining of proliferating cell nuclear antigen in the airway of mice sensitized and challenged with ovalbumin. Interestingly, conditional knockout of Abl did not affect the levels of IL-13 and CCL2 in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of animals treated with ovalbumin. However, treatment with imatinib and GNF-5 inhibited the ovalbumin-induced increase in IL-13 and CCL2 as well as airway resistance and smooth muscle growth in animals. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that the altered expression of Abl in airway smooth muscle may play a critical role in the development of airway hyperresponsiveness and airway remodeling in asthma. Our findings support the concept that Abl may be a novel target for the development of new therapy to treat asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel A Cleary
- Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Avenue MC-8, Albany, NY 12208, USA.
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Wang T, Cleary RA, Wang R, Tang DD. Role of the adapter protein Abi1 in actin-associated signaling and smooth muscle contraction. J Biol Chem 2013; 288:20713-22. [PMID: 23740246 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m112.439877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Actin filament polymerization plays a critical role in the regulation of smooth muscle contraction. However, our knowledge regarding modulation of the actin cytoskeleton in smooth muscle just begins to accumulate. In this study, stimulation with acetylcholine (ACh) induced an increase in the association of the adapter protein c-Abl interactor 1 (Abi1) with neuronal Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein (N-WASP) (an actin-regulatory protein) in smooth muscle cells/tissues. Furthermore, contractile stimulation activated N-WASP in live smooth muscle cells as evidenced by changes in fluorescence resonance energy transfer efficiency of an N-WASP sensor. Abi1 knockdown by lentivirus-mediated RNAi inhibited N-WASP activation, actin polymerization, and contraction in smooth muscle. However, Abi1 silencing did not affect myosin regulatory light chain phosphorylation at Ser-19 in smooth muscle. In addition, c-Abl tyrosine kinase and Crk-associated substrate (CAS) have been shown to regulate smooth muscle contraction. The interaction of Abi1 with c-Abl and CAS has not been investigated. Here, contractile activation induced formation of a multiprotein complex including c-Abl, CAS, and Abi1. Knockdown of c-Abl and CAS attenuated the activation of Abi1 during contractile activation. More importantly, Abi1 knockdown inhibited c-Abl phosphorylation at Tyr-412 and the interaction of c-Abl with CAS. These results suggest that Abi1 is an important component of the cellular process that regulates N-WASP activation, actin dynamics, and contraction in smooth muscle. Abi1 is activated by the c-Abl-CAS pathway, and Abi1 reciprocally controls the activation of its upstream regulator c-Abl.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Wang
- Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York 12208, USA
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Wang R, Mercaitis OP, Jia L, Panettieri RA, Tang DD. Raf-1, actin dynamics, and abelson tyrosine kinase in human airway smooth muscle cells. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2012; 48:172-8. [PMID: 23087049 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2012-0315oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Raf-1 is a serine/threonine protein kinase that has an essential role in cell proliferation. The mechanisms that regulate Raf-1 in airway smooth muscle are not well understood. In this study, treatment with platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) induced spatial redistribution of Raf-1 from the cytoplasm to the periphery of human airway smooth muscle cells. Moreover, a pool of Raf-1 was found in F-actin of human airway smooth muscle cells. Activation with PDGF led to an increase in the association of Raf-1 with cytoskeletal actin. Treatment of cells with the actin polymerization inhibitor latrunculin A (LAT-A), but not the microtubule depolymerizer nocodazole, inhibited the interaction of Raf-1 with actin in response to PDGF activation. Because abelson tyrosine kinase (Abl) is known to specifically regulate actin dynamics in smooth muscle, the role of Abl in modulating the coupling of Raf-1 with actin was also evaluated. Abl knockdown by RNA interference attenuated the association of Raf-1 with actin, which is recovered by Abl rescue. Treatment with LAT-A, but not nocodazole, inhibited the spatial redistribution of Raf-1 during PDGF activation. However, treatment with both LAT-A and nocodazole attenuated smooth muscle cell proliferation. Finally, Abl knockdown attenuated the redistribution of Raf-1 and cell proliferation, which were restored by Abl reexpression. The results suggest a novel mechanism that the interaction of Raf-1 with cytoskeletal actin is critical for Raf-1 redistribution and airway smooth muscle cell proliferation during activation with the growth factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruping Wang
- Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA
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Cai Y, Knight WE, Guo S, Li JD, Knight PA, Yan C. Vinpocetine suppresses pathological vascular remodeling by inhibiting vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2012; 343:479-88. [PMID: 22915768 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.112.195446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Abnormal vascular smooth muscle cell (SMC) activation is associated with various vascular disorders such as atherosclerosis, in-stent restenosis, vein graft disease, and transplantation-associated vasculopathy. Vinpocetine, a derivative of the alkaloid vincamine, has long been used as a cerebral blood flow enhancer for treating cognitive impairment. However, its role in pathological vascular remodeling remains unexplored. Herein, we show that systemic administration of vinpocetine significantly reduced neointimal formation in carotid arteries after ligation injury. Vinpocetine also markedly decreased spontaneous remodeling of human saphenous vein explants in ex vivo culture. In cultured SMCs, vinpocetine dose-dependently suppressed cell proliferation and caused G1-phase cell cycle arrest, which is associated with a decrease in cyclin D1 and an increase in p27Kip1 levels. In addition, vinpocetine dose-dependently inhibited platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-stimulated SMC migration as determined by the two-dimensional migration assays and three-dimensional aortic medial explant invasive assay. Moreover, vinpocetine significantly reduced PDGF-induced type I collagen and fibronectin expression. It is noteworthy that PDGF-stimulated phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2), but not protein kinase B, was specifically inhibited by vinpocetine. Vinpocetine powerfully attenuated intracellular reactive oxidative species (ROS) production, which largely mediates the inhibitory effects of vinpocetine on ERK1/2 activation and SMC growth. Taken together, our results reveal a novel function of vinpocetine in attenuating neointimal hyperplasia and pathological vascular remodeling, at least partially through suppressing ROS production and ERK1/2 activation in SMCs. Given the safety profile of vinpocetine, this study provides insight into the therapeutic potential of vinpocetine in proliferative vascular disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujun Cai
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Ave, Box CVRI, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
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