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Pronio A, Covotta F, Pallotta L, Palma R, Badiali D, Sacchi MC, Lamazza A, Severi C. Eosinophilic Esophagitis: Cytokines Expression and Fibrotic Markers in Comparison to Celiac Disease. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12092092. [PMID: 36140492 PMCID: PMC9497632 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12092092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is now recognized as the main inflammatory condition that leads to fibrosis, unlike other chronic inflammatory gastrointestinal diseases, such as celiac disease. The aim of our study is to characterize the collagen deposition and cytokine expression involved in the fibrogenic response in patients affected by EoE in comparison to celiac disease. Materials and Methods: Consecutive patients with a clinical suspicion of untreated EoE or active celiac disease were enrolled. In the control group, patients with negative upper endoscopy were included. Total RNA was isolated from biopsy specimens using a commercial kit (SV Total RNA Isolation System, Promega Italia Srl). Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was performed in triplicate using a StepOne™ Real-Time PCR instrument (Thermo Fisher Scientific, Monza, Italy). mRNA encoding for inflammatory molecules: interleukin 4 (IL-4), interleukin 5 (IL-5), interleukin 13 (IL-13), and fibrotic markers: transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β), mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase 7 (MAP3K7), serpin family E member 1 (SERPINE1), were quantified using TaqMan Gene Expression Assays (Applied Biosystems). RESULTS. In EoE, the qPCR analysis showed an increase in all the inflammatory cytokines. Both IL-5 and Il-3 mRNA expression resulted in a statistically significant increase in oesophageal mucosa with respect to the celiac duodenum, while no differences were present in IL-4 expression. TGF-β expression was similar to the controls in the mid esophagus but reduced in the distal EoE esophagus (RQ: 0.46 ± 0.1). MAP3K7 expression was reduced in the mid esophagus (RQ: 0.59 ± 0.3) and increased in the distal esophagus (RQ: 1.75 ± 0.6). In turn, the expression of SERPINE1 was increased in both segments and was higher in the mid than in the distal esophagus (RQ: 5.25 ± 3.9, 1.92 ± 0.9, respectively). Collagen deposition was greater in the distal esophagus compared to the mid esophagus [18.1% ± 8 vs. 1.3% ± 1; p = 0.008]. Conclusions: The present study confirms the esophageal fibrotic involution involving the distal esophagus and shows that the inflammatory pathway in EoE is peculiar to this disease and different from other chronic inflammatory gastrointestinal disorders such as celiac disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria Pronio
- Department of General Surgery and Surgical Specialties ‘Paride Stefanini’, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Covotta
- Department of General Surgery and Surgical Specialties ‘Paride Stefanini’, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Lucia Pallotta
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Rossella Palma
- Department of General Surgery and Surgical Specialties ‘Paride Stefanini’, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-33-4309-1174
| | - Danilo Badiali
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Carlotta Sacchi
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonietta Lamazza
- Department of Surgery Pietro Valdoni, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Carola Severi
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
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Sumners C, Peluso AA, Haugaard AH, Bertelsen JB, Steckelings UM. Anti-fibrotic mechanisms of angiotensin AT 2 -receptor stimulation. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2019; 227:e13280. [PMID: 30957953 DOI: 10.1111/apha.13280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Revised: 03/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The angiotensin AT2 -receptor is a main receptor of the protective arm of the renin-angiotensin system. Understanding of this unconventional G-protein coupled receptor has significantly advanced during the past decade, largely because of the availability of a selective non-peptide AT2 -receptor agonist, which allowed the conduct of a multitude of studies in animal disease models. This article reviews such preclinical studies that in their entirety provide strong evidence for an anti-fibrotic effect mediated by activation of the AT2 -receptor. Prevention of the development of fibrosis by AT2 -receptor stimulation has been demonstrated in lungs, heart, blood vessels, kidney, pancreas and skin. In lungs, AT2 -receptor stimulation was even able to reverse existing fibrosis. The article further discusses intracellular signalling mechanisms mediating the AT2 -receptor-coupled anti-fibrotic effect, including activation of phosphatases and subsequent interference with pro-fibrotic signalling pathways, induction of matrix-metalloproteinases and hetero-dimerization with the AT1 -receptor, the TGF-βRII-receptor or the RXFP1-receptor for relaxin. Knowledge of the anti-fibrotic effects of the AT2 -receptor is of particular relevance because drugs targeting this receptor have entered clinical development for indications involving fibrotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin Sumners
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics University of Florida Gainesville Florida
| | - Antonio Augusto Peluso
- IMM ‐ Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research University of Southern Denmark Odense Denmark
| | - Andreas Houe Haugaard
- IMM ‐ Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research University of Southern Denmark Odense Denmark
| | - Jesper Bork Bertelsen
- IMM ‐ Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research University of Southern Denmark Odense Denmark
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Cerulein-induced chronic pancreatitis in Swiss albino mice: An improved short-term model for pharmacological screening. J Pharmacol Toxicol Methods 2019; 96:46-55. [PMID: 30684670 DOI: 10.1016/j.vascn.2019.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Revised: 12/13/2018] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
There is a need for short-term, reliable and reproducible animal model of chronic pancreatitis (CP) in small animals like mice. This study was aimed to establish the 9 exposures of cerulein-induced CP in mice. Repeated intraperitoneal cerulein injections were performed at 6 consecutive doses (50 μg/kg)/day, 3 days a week for 3 weeks to induce chronic pancreatitis in Swiss albino mice. The severity of damage was assessed by biochemical assays and histopathology. The expression of pro-inflammatory cytokine and fibrotic proteins was assessed by IHC and western blotting. The cerulein treated mice showed significantly elevated plasma amylase (p < .0285) and lipase levels (p < .0022) and resulted in significantly increased pancreatic oxidative (p < .0022) and nitrosative (p < .0022) stress. The hydroxyproline levels were 3.06 fold increased in the cerulein treated mice. The expressions of fibrotic cytokine TGF-β1 by 1.8 folds and pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α by 2.3 fold, IL-6 by 2.2 fold and IL-1β by 3.7 fold were markedly increased in cerulein treated mice. The histological evaluations indicated increased inflammatory cells infiltration and deposition of collagen. Moreover, the expression of fibrotic markers such as α-SMA increased by 2.5 folds (p < .00014), collagen1a by 1.3 folds (p < .0258) and fibronectin by 3.5 folds (p < .00014) were significantly increased. Our study demonstrates the superiority of 9 exposures of cerulein-induced CP model in mice with the reduction of duration, cerulein exposure, more economical and mortality rate of mice over the available models. Therefore, our model may be suitable to evaluate the pharmacological effects of new drugs in chronic pancreatitis.
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Graus-Nunes F, Souza-Mello V. The renin-angiotensin system as a target to solve the riddle of endocrine pancreas homeostasis. Biomed Pharmacother 2018; 109:639-645. [PMID: 30404071 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2018.10.191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2018] [Revised: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Local renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in the pancreas is linked to the modulation of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) in beta cells and insulin sensitivity in target tissues, emerging as a promising tool in the prevention and/or treatment of obesity, diabetes, and systemic arterial hypertension. Insulin resistance alters pancreatic islet cell distribution and morphology and hypertrophied islets exhibit upregulated angiotensin II type 1 receptor, which drives oxidative stress, apoptosis, and fibrosis, configuring beta cell dysfunction and diminishing islet lifespan. Pharmacological modulation of RAS has shown beneficial effects in diet-induced obesity model, mainly related to the translational potential that angiotensin receptor blockers and ECA2/ANG (1-7)/MAS receptor axis modulation have when it comes to islet preservation and type 2 diabetes prevention and/or treatment. This review describes the existing evidence for different approaches to blocking RAS elements in the management of insulin resistance and diabetes and focuses on islet remodeling and GSIS in rodents and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francielle Graus-Nunes
- Laboratory of Morphometry, Metabolism, and Cardiovascular Diseases, Biomedical Center, Institute of Biology, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Souza-Mello
- Laboratory of Morphometry, Metabolism, and Cardiovascular Diseases, Biomedical Center, Institute of Biology, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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5
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Balance and circumstance: The renin angiotensin system in wound healing and fibrosis. Cell Signal 2018; 51:34-46. [PMID: 30071289 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2018.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Revised: 07/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The tissue renin angiotensin system (tRAS) is a locally-acting master-modulator of tissue homeostasis and regeneration. Through these abilities, it is emerging as an attractive target for therapies aiming to restore tissue homeostasis in conditions associated with disturbed wound healing. The tRAS can be divided into two axes - one being pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic and one being anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic. However, the division of the axes is fuzzy and imperfect as the axes are codependent and the outcome of tRAS activation is determined by the context. Although the tRAS is a local system it shares its key enzymes, ligands and receptors with the systemic RAS and is consequently also targeted by repurposing of drugs developed against the systemic RAS to manage hypertension. With a focus on the skin we will here discuss the tRAS, its involvement in physiological and pathological wound healing, and the therapeutic aptitude of its targeting to treat chronic wounds and fibrosis.
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Scott-Emuakpor J, Allot E, Johnson SA, Howard LE, Macias E, Freedland SJ, Gurley SB. Angiotensin receptor signaling and prostate tumor growth in mice. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL THERAPEUTICS AND ONCOLOGY 2017; 11:107-115. [PMID: 28976133 PMCID: PMC6311706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2015] [Accepted: 07/03/2015] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The renin-angiotensin system, through its type 1 and type 2 angiotensin receptors (AT1R and AT2R, respectively) may have a role in prostate cancer. The objective of this pilot study was to explore that potential role by determining whether the AT1R blocker, losartan, would reduce the growth of LAPC-4 prostate cancer xenografts in nude mice. We also evaluated the tumor growth effects of using angiotensin II to activate both AT1R and AT2R simultaneously. Our data showed that losartan decreased tumor volumes by 56% versus control. This decrease reached statistical significance at day 54 (p = 0.0014). By day 54, Ki67 was also reduced in the losartan group, though not significantly so (p = 0.077). Losartan had no significant effect on AT1R or AT2R expression. Despite significant increases in both AT1R and AT2R at day 29 (p = 0.043 and 0.038, respectively), the administration of angiotensin II did not result in any significant differences in tumor volumes or ki67 at any time point. These data suggest that selective activation and induction of AT2R coupled with blockade of AT1R may slow prostate cancer growth. Future larger studies are needed to confirm these results.
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MESH Headings
- Angiotensin II/pharmacology
- Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Blockers/pharmacology
- Animals
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Losartan/pharmacology
- Male
- Mice
- Neoplasm Transplantation
- Prostatic Neoplasms/metabolism
- Prostatic Neoplasms/pathology
- RNA, Messenger/drug effects
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Receptor, Angiotensin, Type 1/drug effects
- Receptor, Angiotensin, Type 1/genetics
- Receptor, Angiotensin, Type 1/metabolism
- Receptor, Angiotensin, Type 2/drug effects
- Receptor, Angiotensin, Type 2/genetics
- Signal Transduction
- Transcriptome/drug effects
- Tumor Burden/drug effects
- Vasoconstrictor Agents/pharmacology
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Affiliation(s)
- Jem Scott-Emuakpor
- Department of Research and Development, Durham VA Medical Center, USA
- Department of Biomedical Research, The McConnell Group, Inc., USA
| | - Emma Allot
- Department of Surgery, Durham VA Medical Center, USA
- Duke Prostate Center, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Duke University, USA
- Department of Pathology, Duke University, USA
| | - Stacy A. Johnson
- Department of Research and Development, Durham VA Medical Center, USA
- Division of Nephrology, Durham VA Medical Center, USA
- Duke O’Brien Center for Kidney Research, Duke University, USA
- Division of Nephrology, Duke University Medical Centers, Duke University, USA
| | - Lauren E. Howard
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University School of Medicine, Duke University, USA
| | - Everardo Macias
- Duke Prostate Center, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Duke University, USA
| | - Stephen J. Freedland
- Department of Research and Development, Durham VA Medical Center, USA
- Department of Surgery, Durham VA Medical Center, USA
- Duke Prostate Center, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Duke University, USA
- Department of Pathology, Duke University, USA
| | - Susan B. Gurley
- Department of Research and Development, Durham VA Medical Center, USA
- Division of Nephrology, Durham VA Medical Center, USA
- Duke O’Brien Center for Kidney Research, Duke University, USA
- Division of Nephrology, Duke University Medical Centers, Duke University, USA
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Lu H, Wang F, Liu X, Wu Y. Rapid Assessment of Tomato Ripeness Using Visible/Near-Infrared Spectroscopy and Machine Vision. FOOD ANAL METHOD 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s12161-016-0734-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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8
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Chow BSM, Koulis C, Krishnaswamy P, Steckelings UM, Unger T, Cooper ME, Jandeleit-Dahm KA, Allen TJ. The angiotensin II type 2 receptor agonist Compound 21 is protective in experimental diabetes-associated atherosclerosis. Diabetologia 2016; 59:1778-90. [PMID: 27168137 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-016-3977-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
AIMS/HYPOTHESIS Angiotensin II is well-recognised to be a key mediator in driving the pathological events of diabetes-associated atherosclerosis via signalling through its angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) subtype. However, its actions via the angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2R) subtype are still poorly understood. This study is the first to investigate the role of the novel selective AT2R agonist, Compound 21 (C21) in an experimental model of diabetes-associated atherosclerosis (DAA). METHODS Streptozotocin-induced diabetic Apoe-knockout mice were treated with vehicle (0.1 mol/l citrate buffer), C21 (1 mg/kg per day), candesartan cilexetil (4 mg/kg per day) or C21 + candesartan cilexetil over a 20 week period. In vitro models of DAA using human aortic endothelial cells and monocyte cultures treated with C21 were also performed. At the end of the experiments, assessment of plaque content and markers of oxidative stress, inflammation and fibrosis were conducted. RESULTS C21 treatment significantly attenuated aortic plaque deposition in a mouse model of DAA in vivo, in association with a decreased infiltration of macrophages and mediators of inflammation, oxidative stress and fibrosis. On the other hand, combination therapy with C21 and candesartan (AT1R antagonist) appeared to have a limited additive effect in attenuating the pathology of DAA when compared with either treatment alone. Similarly, C21 was found to confer profound anti-atherosclerotic actions at the in vitro level, particularly in the setting of hyperglycaemia. Strikingly, these atheroprotective actions of C21 were completely blocked by the AT2R antagonist PD123319. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION Taken together, these findings provide novel mechanistic and potential therapeutic insights into C21 as a monotherapy agent against DAA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryna S M Chow
- JDRF Danielle Alberti Memorial Centre for Diabetic Complications, Diabetic Complications Division, Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Research Institute, 75 Commercial Road, P. O. Box 6492, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Christine Koulis
- JDRF Danielle Alberti Memorial Centre for Diabetic Complications, Diabetic Complications Division, Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Research Institute, 75 Commercial Road, P. O. Box 6492, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Pooja Krishnaswamy
- JDRF Danielle Alberti Memorial Centre for Diabetic Complications, Diabetic Complications Division, Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Research Institute, 75 Commercial Road, P. O. Box 6492, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Ulrike M Steckelings
- IMM-Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Thomas Unger
- School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Mark E Cooper
- JDRF Danielle Alberti Memorial Centre for Diabetic Complications, Diabetic Complications Division, Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Research Institute, 75 Commercial Road, P. O. Box 6492, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Karin A Jandeleit-Dahm
- JDRF Danielle Alberti Memorial Centre for Diabetic Complications, Diabetic Complications Division, Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Research Institute, 75 Commercial Road, P. O. Box 6492, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Terri J Allen
- JDRF Danielle Alberti Memorial Centre for Diabetic Complications, Diabetic Complications Division, Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Research Institute, 75 Commercial Road, P. O. Box 6492, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia.
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Inhibitors of Arg-Gly-Asp-Binding Integrins Reduce Development of Pancreatic Fibrosis in Mice. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2016; 2:499-518. [PMID: 28174730 PMCID: PMC5042566 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2016.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2016] [Accepted: 03/04/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) regulate the development of chronic pancreatitis (CP) and are activated by the cytokine transforming growth factor β (TGFB). Integrins of the αv family promote TGFB signaling in mice, probably by interacting with the Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) sequence of the TGFB latency-associated peptide, which frees TGFB to bind its cellular receptors. However, little is known about the role of integrins in the development of CP. We investigated the effects of small-molecule integrin inhibitors in a mouse model of CP. METHODS We induced CP in C57BL/6 female mice by repeated cerulein administration. An active RGD peptidomimetic compound (Center for World Health and Medicine [CWHM]-12) was delivered by continuous infusion, starting 3 days before or 5 days after cerulein administration began. Pancreata were collected and parenchymal atrophy, fibrosis, and activation of PSCs were assessed by histologic, gene, and protein expression analyses. We measured CWHM-12 effects on activation of TGFB in co-culture assays in which rat PSC cells (large T immortalized cells [LTC-14]) activate expression of a TGFB-sensitive promoter in reporter cells. RESULTS Pancreatic tissues of mice expressed messenger RNAs encoding subunits of RGD-binding integrins. Cerulein administration increased expression of these integrins, altered pancreatic cell morphology, and induced fibrosis. The integrin inhibitor CWHM-12 decreased acinar cell atrophy and loss, and substantially reduced fibrosis, activation of PSCs, and expression of genes regulated by TGFB. CWHM-12 also reduced established fibrosis in mice and blocked activation of TGFB in cultured cells. CONCLUSIONS Based on studies of a mouse model of CP and cultured PSCs, integrins that bind RGD sequences activate PSCs and promote the development of pancreatic fibrogenesis in mice. Small-molecule antagonists of this interaction might be developed for treatment of pancreatic fibrotic diseases.
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Key Words
- CP, chronic pancreatitis
- CTGF, connective tissue growth factor
- CWHM, Center for World Health and Medicine
- Col1a1, collagen type I α1
- DMEM, Dulbecco's modified Eagle medium
- DMSO, dimethyl sulfoxide
- ECM, extracellular matrix
- FBS, fetal bovine serum
- IC50, median inhibitory concentration
- Inflammation
- LAP, latency-associated peptide
- LTC-14, large T immortalized cells
- MLEC, mink lung epithelial cell
- MMP, matrix metallopeptidase
- PBS, phosphate-buffered saline
- PCR, polymerase chain reaction
- PSC, pancreatic stellate cell
- Pancreas
- Peptidomimetic
- RGD, arginine-glycine-aspartic acid
- Signal Transduction
- TGFB, transforming growth factor β
- mPSC, mouse pancreatic stellate cell
- mRNA, messenger RNA
- p-SMAD, phosphorylated SMAD
- α-SMA, α-smooth muscle actin
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Guo HL, Liao XH, Liu Q, Zhang L. Angiotensin II Type 2 Receptor Decreases Transforming Growth Factor-β Type II Receptor Expression and Function in Human Renal Proximal Tubule Cells. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0148696. [PMID: 26867007 PMCID: PMC4750982 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0148696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2015] [Accepted: 01/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), via its receptors, induces epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and plays an important role in the development of renal tubulointersitial fibrosis. Angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2R), which mediates beneficial renal physiological functions, has received attention as a prospective therapeutic target for renoprotection. In this study, we investigated the effect and underlying mechanism of AT2R on the TGF-β receptor II (TGF-βRII) expression and function in human proximal tubular cells (HK-2). Here, we show that the AT2R agonist CGP42112A decreased TGF-βRII protein expression in a concentration- and time-dependent manner in HK-2 cells. The inhibitory effect of the AT2R on TGF-βRII expression was blocked by the AT2R antagonists PD123319 or PD123177. Stimulation with TGF-β1 enhanced EMT in HK-2 cells, which was prevented by pre-treatment with CGP42112A. One of mechanisms in this regulation is associated with the increased TGF-βRII degradation after activation of AT2R. Furthermore, laser confocal immunofluorescence microscopy showed that AT2R and TGF-βRII colocalized in HK-2 cells. AT2R and TGF-βRII coimmunoprecipitated and this interaction was increased after AT2R agonist stimulation for 30 min. The inhibitory effect of the AT2R on TGF-βRII expression was also blocked by the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor L-NAME, indicating that nitric oxide is involved in the signaling pathway. Taken together, our study indicates that the renal AT2R regulates TGF-βRII expression and function via the nitric oxide pathway, which may be important in the control of renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis.
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MESH Headings
- Cell Line
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition
- Fibrosis/pathology
- Humans
- Imidazoles/chemistry
- Kidney/pathology
- Kidney Tubules, Proximal/cytology
- Kidney Tubules, Proximal/pathology
- Microscopy, Confocal
- Microscopy, Fluorescence
- Nitric Oxide/chemistry
- Oligopeptides/chemistry
- Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases/genetics
- Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases/metabolism
- Pyridines/chemistry
- Receptor, Angiotensin, Type 2/metabolism
- Receptor, Angiotensin, Type 2/physiology
- Receptor, Transforming Growth Factor-beta Type II
- Receptors, Transforming Growth Factor beta/genetics
- Receptors, Transforming Growth Factor beta/metabolism
- Time Factors
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Lin Guo
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400010, China
| | - Xiao-Hui Liao
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400010, China
| | - Qi Liu
- Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400010, China
- * E-mail: (LZ); (QL)
| | - Ling Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400010, China
- * E-mail: (LZ); (QL)
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Karnik SS, Unal H, Kemp JR, Tirupula KC, Eguchi S, Vanderheyden PML, Thomas WG. International Union of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology. XCIX. Angiotensin Receptors: Interpreters of Pathophysiological Angiotensinergic Stimuli [corrected]. Pharmacol Rev 2015; 67:754-819. [PMID: 26315714 PMCID: PMC4630565 DOI: 10.1124/pr.114.010454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 207] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The renin angiotensin system (RAS) produced hormone peptides regulate many vital body functions. Dysfunctional signaling by receptors for RAS peptides leads to pathologic states. Nearly half of humanity today would likely benefit from modern drugs targeting these receptors. The receptors for RAS peptides consist of three G-protein-coupled receptors—the angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1 receptor), the angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2 receptor), the MAS receptor—and a type II trans-membrane zinc protein—the candidate angiotensin IV receptor (AngIV binding site). The prorenin receptor is a relatively new contender for consideration, but is not included here because the role of prorenin receptor as an independent endocrine mediator is presently unclear. The full spectrum of biologic characteristics of these receptors is still evolving, but there is evidence establishing unique roles of each receptor in cardiovascular, hemodynamic, neurologic, renal, and endothelial functions, as well as in cell proliferation, survival, matrix-cell interaction, and inflammation. Therapeutic agents targeted to these receptors are either in active use in clinical intervention of major common diseases or under evaluation for repurposing in many other disorders. Broad-spectrum influence these receptors produce in complex pathophysiological context in our body highlights their role as precise interpreters of distinctive angiotensinergic peptide cues. This review article summarizes findings published in the last 15 years on the structure, pharmacology, signaling, physiology, and disease states related to angiotensin receptors. We also discuss the challenges the pharmacologist presently faces in formally accepting newer members as established angiotensin receptors and emphasize necessary future developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadashiva S Karnik
- Department of Molecular Cardiology, Lerner Research Institute of Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio (S.S.K., H.U., J.R.K., K.C.T.); Cardiovascular Research Center, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (S.E.); Faculty of Sciences and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium (P.M.L.V.); and Department of General Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia (W.G.T.)
| | - Hamiyet Unal
- Department of Molecular Cardiology, Lerner Research Institute of Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio (S.S.K., H.U., J.R.K., K.C.T.); Cardiovascular Research Center, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (S.E.); Faculty of Sciences and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium (P.M.L.V.); and Department of General Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia (W.G.T.)
| | - Jacqueline R Kemp
- Department of Molecular Cardiology, Lerner Research Institute of Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio (S.S.K., H.U., J.R.K., K.C.T.); Cardiovascular Research Center, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (S.E.); Faculty of Sciences and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium (P.M.L.V.); and Department of General Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia (W.G.T.)
| | - Kalyan C Tirupula
- Department of Molecular Cardiology, Lerner Research Institute of Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio (S.S.K., H.U., J.R.K., K.C.T.); Cardiovascular Research Center, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (S.E.); Faculty of Sciences and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium (P.M.L.V.); and Department of General Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia (W.G.T.)
| | - Satoru Eguchi
- Department of Molecular Cardiology, Lerner Research Institute of Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio (S.S.K., H.U., J.R.K., K.C.T.); Cardiovascular Research Center, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (S.E.); Faculty of Sciences and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium (P.M.L.V.); and Department of General Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia (W.G.T.)
| | - Patrick M L Vanderheyden
- Department of Molecular Cardiology, Lerner Research Institute of Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio (S.S.K., H.U., J.R.K., K.C.T.); Cardiovascular Research Center, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (S.E.); Faculty of Sciences and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium (P.M.L.V.); and Department of General Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia (W.G.T.)
| | - Walter G Thomas
- Department of Molecular Cardiology, Lerner Research Institute of Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio (S.S.K., H.U., J.R.K., K.C.T.); Cardiovascular Research Center, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (S.E.); Faculty of Sciences and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium (P.M.L.V.); and Department of General Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia (W.G.T.)
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12
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Grillo AR, Scarpa M, D'Incà R, Brun P, Scarpa M, Porzionato A, De Caro R, Martines D, Buda A, Angriman I, Palù G, Sturniolo GC, Castagliuolo I. TAK1 is a key modulator of the profibrogenic phenotype of human ileal myofibroblasts in Crohn's disease. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2015; 309:G443-54. [PMID: 26185333 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00400.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2014] [Accepted: 07/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β-activated kinase 1 (TAK1) signaling can mediate inflammatory responses as well as tissue remodeling. Intestinal mucosal myofibroblast (IMF) activation drives gut fibrosis in Crohn's disease (CD); however, the molecular pathways involved are largely unknown. Thus we investigated the yet-unknown expression and function of TAK1 in human CD-associated fibrosis. Ileal surgical specimens, ileal biopsies, and IMF isolated from controls and CD patients were analyzed for TAK1 and its active phosphorylated form (pTAK1) by Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and real-time quantitative PCR. TAK1 pharmacological inhibition and silencing were used to assess its role in collagen and inflammatory cytokine synthesis in IMF. TAK1 and pTAK1 levels increased in ileum specimens from CD patients compared with controls and correlated to tissue fibrosis. Similarly, TAK1 mRNA in ileal biopsies of CD patients correlated with fibrogenic marker expression but not inflammatory cytokines. CD-derived IMF showed higher TAK1 and pTAK1 expression associated with increased collagen1(α)1 mRNA levels compared with control IMF. TGF-β1 promoted pTAK1 nuclear translocation and collagen synthesis. TAK1 inhibition or silencing significantly reduced TGF-β1-stimulated collagen production and normalized the profibrogenic phenotype of CD-derived IMF. Taken together, these data suggest that TAK1 activation and nuclear translocation induce and maintain a fibrogenic phenotype in the IMF. Thus the TAK1 signaling pathway may represent a suitable target to design new, antifibrotic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Rosaria Grillo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy; Department of Surgery Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy; and
| | - Melania Scarpa
- Oncological Surgery Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV - IRCCS, Padova, Italy
| | - Renata D'Incà
- Department of Surgery Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy; and
| | - Paola Brun
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Marco Scarpa
- Oncological Surgery Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV - IRCCS, Padova, Italy
| | - Andrea Porzionato
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Raffaele De Caro
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Diego Martines
- Department of Surgery Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy; and
| | - Andrea Buda
- Department of Surgery Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy; and
| | - Imerio Angriman
- Department of Surgery Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy; and
| | - Giorgio Palù
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Giacomo Carlo Sturniolo
- Department of Surgery Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy; and
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), its product angiotensin-(1-7), and its receptor Mas have been shown to moderate the adverse effects of the ACE-angiotensin II-AT1 axis in many diseases. The aim of this study was to determine whether the ACE2-Ang-(1-7)-Mas axis could have similar effects in a cell culture model of pancreatic damage. METHODS AR42J cells were stimulated with 10 nmol/L cerulein to simulate acute pancreatitis. ACE2, Ang-(1-7), Mas receptor, and PI3K/AKT pathway were measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis. RESULTS ACE2 and Mas receptor protein levels in AR42J cells were significantly increased (P < 0.05) between 30 minutes and 6 hours postdisease induction compared with the control group. Mas receptor gene expression was significantly increased (P < 0.05) at 2 hours postdisease induction, and Ang-(1-7) was increased at 6 hours. Treatment with Ang-(1-7) in AR42J cells increased IL-10, decreased IL-6 and IL-8, and reduced the damage to pancreatic cells. Levels of IL-6 and IL-8 in AR42J cell culture were increased significantly after treatment with A779. Moreover, Ang-(1-7) increased the concentration of PI3K/AKT pathway and eNOSin AR42J cells. CONCLUSIONS ACE2-angiotensin-(1-7)-Mas axis significantly inhibits pancreatitis in response to decreased inflammatory factors by the activation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase and NO signaling pathways.
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14
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Ulmasov B, Oshima K, Rodriguez MG, Cox RD, Neuschwander-Tetri BA. Differences in the degree of cerulein-induced chronic pancreatitis in C57BL/6 mouse substrains lead to new insights in identification of potential risk factors in the development of chronic pancreatitis. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2013; 183:692-708. [PMID: 23845568 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2013.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2012] [Revised: 03/25/2013] [Accepted: 05/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
A frequently used experimental model of chronic pancreatitis (CP) recapitulating human disease is repeated injection of cerulein into mice. C57BL/6 is the most commonly used inbred mouse strain for biomedical research, but widespread demand has led to generation of several substrains with subtly different phenotypes. In this study, two common substrains, C57BL/6J and C57BL/6NHsd, exhibited different degrees of CP, with C57BL/6J being more susceptible to repetitive cerulein-induced CP as assessed by pancreatic atrophy, pancreatic morphological changes, and fibrosis. We hypothesized that the deficiency of nicotinamide nucleotide transhydrogenase (NNT) protein in C57BL/6J is responsible for the more severe C57BL/6J phenotype but the parameters of CP in NNT-expressing transgenic mice generated on a C57BL6/J background do not differ with those of wild-type C57BL/6J. The highly similar genetic backgrounds but different CP phenotypes of these two substrains presents a unique opportunity to discover genes important in pathogenesis of CP. We therefore performed whole mouse genome Affymetrix microarray analysis of pancreatic gene expression of C57BL/6J and C57BL/6NHsd before and after induction of CP. Genes with differentially regulated expression between the two substrains that might be candidates in CP progression included Mmp7, Pcolce2, Itih4, Wdfy1, and Vtn. We also identified several genes associated with development of CP in both substrains, including RIKEN cDNA 1810009J06 gene (trypsinogen 5), Ccl8, and Ccl6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Ulmasov
- Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA.
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15
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Chauhan VP, Martin JD, Liu H, Lacorre DA, Jain SR, Kozin SV, Stylianopoulos T, Mousa AS, Han X, Adstamongkonkul P, Popović Z, Huang P, Bawendi MG, Boucher Y, Jain RK. Angiotensin inhibition enhances drug delivery and potentiates chemotherapy by decompressing tumour blood vessels. Nat Commun 2013; 4:2516. [PMID: 24084631 PMCID: PMC3806395 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms3516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 721] [Impact Index Per Article: 65.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2013] [Accepted: 08/29/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer and stromal cells actively exert physical forces (solid stress) to compress tumour blood vessels, thus reducing vascular perfusion. Tumour interstitial matrix also contributes to solid stress, with hyaluronan implicated as the primary matrix molecule responsible for vessel compression because of its swelling behaviour. Here we show, unexpectedly, that hyaluronan compresses vessels only in collagen-rich tumours, suggesting that collagen and hyaluronan together are critical targets for decompressing tumour vessels. We demonstrate that the angiotensin inhibitor losartan reduces stromal collagen and hyaluronan production, associated with decreased expression of profibrotic signals TGF-β1, CCN2 and ET-1, downstream of angiotensin-II-receptor-1 inhibition. Consequently, losartan reduces solid stress in tumours resulting in increased vascular perfusion. Through this physical mechanism, losartan improves drug and oxygen delivery to tumours, thereby potentiating chemotherapy and reducing hypoxia in breast and pancreatic cancer models. Thus, angiotensin inhibitors -inexpensive drugs with decades of safe use - could be rapidly repurposed as cancer therapeutics.
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MESH Headings
- Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Blockers/pharmacology
- Angiotensins/antagonists & inhibitors
- Angiotensins/metabolism
- Animals
- Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology
- Cell Hypoxia
- Collagen/metabolism
- Connective Tissue Growth Factor/genetics
- Connective Tissue Growth Factor/metabolism
- Drug Repositioning
- Drug Synergism
- Endothelin-1/genetics
- Endothelin-1/metabolism
- Female
- Fluorouracil/pharmacology
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Humans
- Hyaluronic Acid/metabolism
- Losartan/pharmacology
- Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental/blood supply
- Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental/drug therapy
- Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental/pathology
- Mechanotransduction, Cellular
- Mice
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/blood supply
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/pathology
- Receptor, Angiotensin, Type 1/genetics
- Receptor, Angiotensin, Type 1/metabolism
- Stress, Mechanical
- Stromal Cells/drug effects
- Stromal Cells/metabolism
- Stromal Cells/pathology
- Transforming Growth Factor beta1/genetics
- Transforming Growth Factor beta1/metabolism
- Pancreatic Neoplasms
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikash P. Chauhan
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratory, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
- School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138, USA
- These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - John D. Martin
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratory, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, USA
- These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Hao Liu
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratory, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
- Program in Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Delphine A. Lacorre
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratory, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
| | - Saloni R. Jain
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratory, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, USA
| | - Sergey V. Kozin
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratory, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
| | - Triantafyllos Stylianopoulos
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratory, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
- Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus CY-1678, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Ahmed S. Mousa
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratory, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
| | - Xiaoxing Han
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratory, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
| | - Pichet Adstamongkonkul
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratory, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
- School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138, USA
| | - Zoran Popović
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, USA
| | - Peigen Huang
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratory, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
| | - Moungi G. Bawendi
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, USA
| | - Yves Boucher
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratory, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
| | - Rakesh K. Jain
- Edwin L. Steele Laboratory, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
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The Angiotensin II Type 2 Receptor in Brain Functions: An Update. Int J Hypertens 2012; 2012:351758. [PMID: 23320146 PMCID: PMC3540774 DOI: 10.1155/2012/351758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2012] [Accepted: 11/29/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Angiotensin II (Ang II) is the main active product of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), mediating its action via two major receptors, namely, the Ang II type 1 (AT1) receptor and the type 2 (AT2) receptor. Recent results also implicate several other members of the renin-angiotensin system in various aspects of brain functions. The first aim of this paper is to summarize the current state of knowledge regarding the properties and signaling of the AT2 receptor, its expression in the brain, and its well-established effects. Secondly, we will highlight the potential role of the AT2 receptor in cognitive function, neurological disorders and in the regulation of appetite and the possible link with development of metabolic disorders. The potential utility of novel nonpeptide selective AT2 receptor ligands in clarifying potential roles of this receptor in physiology will also be discussed. If confirmed, these new pharmacological tools should help to improve impaired cognitive performance, not only through its action on brain microcirculation and inflammation, but also through more specific effects on neurons. However, the overall physiological relevance of the AT2 receptor in the brain must also consider the Ang IV/AT4 receptor.
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Severe acute pancreatitis is associated with upregulation of the ACE2-angiotensin-(1-7)-Mas axis and promotes increased circulating angiotensin-(1-7). Pancreatology 2012; 12:451-7. [PMID: 23127535 DOI: 10.1016/j.pan.2012.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2012] [Revised: 07/28/2012] [Accepted: 07/29/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), its product angiotensin-(1-7) and its receptor Mas may counteract the adverse effects of the ACE-angiotensin receptor II-AT(1) axis in many diseases. We examined the expression of these novel components of the rennin-angiotensin system in an experimental mouse model of severe acute pancreatitis (SAP). METHODS SAP was induced by six intraperitoneal injections of caerulein, and mice were sacrificed at 2, 12, 24, 48 and 72 h post disease-induction (normal control group mice were sacrificed at 2 h post disease-induction). Tissue and blood were collected for biochemical detection, gene and protein expression by qRT-PCR and western blot analysis, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and immunohistology detection. RESULTS Pancreatic ACE2 gene and protein expression, plasma and pancreatic angiotensin-(1-7) levels and Mas receptor gene and protein expression were significantly increased (p < 0.05) following SAP induction compared with the normal control group. CONCLUSIONS Severe acute pancreatitis is associated with upregulation of the ACE2-angiotensin-(1-7)-Mas axis and promotes increased circulating angiotensin-(1-7). These results support the presence of an ACE2-angiotensin-(1-7)-Mas axis in pancreatitis.
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18
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Erkan M, Hausmann S, Michalski CW, Fingerle AA, Dobritz M, Kleeff J, Friess H. The role of stroma in pancreatic cancer: diagnostic and therapeutic implications. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2012; 9:454-67. [PMID: 22710569 DOI: 10.1038/nrgastro.2012.115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 462] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the five most lethal malignancies worldwide and survival has not improved substantially in the past 30 years. Desmoplasia (abundant fibrotic stroma) is a typical feature of PDAC in humans, and stromal activation commonly starts around precancerous lesions. It is becoming clear that this stromal tissue is not a bystander in disease progression. Cancer-stroma interactions effect tumorigenesis, angiogenesis, therapy resistance and possibly the metastatic spread of tumour cells. Therefore, targeting the tumour stroma, in combination with chemotherapy, is a promising new option for the treatment of PDAC. In this Review, we focus on four issues. First, how can stromal activity be used to detect early steps of pancreatic carcinogenesis? Second, what is the effect of perpetual pancreatic stellate cell activity on angiogenesis and tissue perfusion? Third, what are the (experimental) antifibrotic therapy options in PDAC? Fourth, what lessons can be learned from Langton's Ant (a simple mathematical model) regarding the unpredictability of genetically engineered mouse models?
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Affiliation(s)
- Mert Erkan
- Department of General Surgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Ismaningerstrasse 12, 81675 Munich, Germany.
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19
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The role of stroma in pancreatic cancer: diagnostic and therapeutic implications. J Gastrointest Cancer 2012; 40:1-9. [PMID: 22710569 DOI: 10.1007/s12029-009-9071-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2009] [Accepted: 05/27/2009] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the five most lethal malignancies worldwide and survival has not improved substantially in the past 30 years. Desmoplasia (abundant fibrotic stroma) is a typical feature of PDAC in humans, and stromal activation commonly starts around precancerous lesions. It is becoming clear that this stromal tissue is not a bystander in disease progression. Cancer-stroma interactions effect tumorigenesis, angiogenesis, therapy resistance and possibly the metastatic spread of tumour cells. Therefore, targeting the tumour stroma, in combination with chemotherapy, is a promising new option for the treatment of PDAC. In this Review, we focus on four issues. First, how can stromal activity be used to detect early steps of pancreatic carcinogenesis? Second, what is the effect of perpetual pancreatic stellate cell activity on angiogenesis and tissue perfusion? Third, what are the (experimental) antifibrotic therapy options in PDAC? Fourth, what lessons can be learned from Langton's Ant (a simple mathematical model) regarding the unpredictability of genetically engineered mouse models?
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20
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Hartog AW, Franken R, Zwinderman AH, Groenink M, Mulder BJM. Current and future pharmacological treatment strategies with regard to aortic disease in Marfan syndrome. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2012; 13:647-62. [PMID: 22397493 DOI: 10.1517/14656566.2012.665446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Marfan syndrome is a multisystemic connective tissue disorder caused mainly by mutations in the fibrillin-1 gene. The entire cardiovascular system is affected in patients with Marfan syndrome. Aortic root dilatation, aortic valve regurgitation or - the most feared and life-threatening symptom - aortic root dissection are the most common manifestations. Therapeutic strategies, such as prophylactic aortic root surgery and pharmacological therapy, focus on the prevention of aortic dissection. Currently, the standard medicinal treatments targeting aortic dilatation and dissection consist of agents generally used to lower blood pressure and/or the inotropic state of the heart. By these means, the cyclic repetitive forces exerted on the aortic wall are diminished and thus the onset of aortic dilatation is potentially prevented. Although these pharmacological agents may offer some benefit in reduction of aortic aneurysm expansion rate, they do not target the underlying cause of the progressive aortic degradation. AREAS COVERED This review discusses the effectiveness of frequently prescribed medications used to prevent and delay aortic complications in Marfan syndrome. New insights on the biochemical pathways leading to aortic disease are also discussed to highlight new targets for pharmacological therapy. EXPERT OPINION Recent insights in the transforming growth factor beta signaling pathway and inflammatory mechanisms in a well-established mouse model of Marfan syndrome, have led to studies exploring new pharmacological treatment strategies with doxycycline, statins and angiotensin II receptor blockers. Pharmacological therapy is focused more on prevention than on delay of aortic wall pathology in Marfan syndrome. Of the new pharmacological treatment strategies targeting aortic pathology in Marfan syndrome, angiotensin receptor type 1 blockers are promising candidates, with several clinical trials currently ongoing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander W Hartog
- Academic Medical Center, Department of Cardiology, B2-240, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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21
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Garg M, Angus PW, Burrell LM, Herath C, Gibson PR, Lubel JS. Review article: the pathophysiological roles of the renin-angiotensin system in the gastrointestinal tract. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2012; 35:414-28. [PMID: 22221317 PMCID: PMC7159631 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2036.2011.04971.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2011] [Revised: 11/29/2011] [Accepted: 12/13/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is a homeostatic pathway widely known to regulate cardiovascular and renal physiology; however, little is known about its influence in gastrointestinal tissues. AIM To elicit the anatomical distribution and physiological significance of the components of the RAS in the gastrointestinal tract. METHODS An extensive online literature review including Pubmed and Medline. RESULTS There is evidence for RAS involvement in gastrointestinal physiology and pathophysiology, with all the components required for autonomous regulation identified throughout the gastrointestinal tract. The RAS is implicated in the regulation of glucose, amino acid, fluid and electrolyte absorption and secretion, motility, inflammation, blood flow and possibly malignant disease within the gastrointestinal tract. Animal studies investigating the effects of RAS blockade in a range of conditions including inflammatory bowel disease, functional gut disorders, gastrointestinal malignancy and even intestinal ischaemia have been encouraging to date. Given the ready availability of drugs that modify the RAS and their excellent safety profile, an opportunity exists for investigation of their possible therapeutic role in a variety of human gastrointestinal diseases. CONCLUSIONS The gastrointestinal renin-angiotensin system appears to be intricately involved in a number of physiological processes, and provides a possible target for novel investigative and therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Garg
- Department of Gastroenterology & HepatologyEastern HealthVic., Australia,Eastern Health Clinical SchoolMonash UniversityVic., Australia
| | - P. W. Angus
- Department of MedicineMelbourne UniversityVic., Australia,Gastroenterology and Liver Transplant UnitAustin HospitalVic., Australia
| | - L. M. Burrell
- Department of MedicineMelbourne UniversityVic., Australia
| | - C. Herath
- Department of MedicineMelbourne UniversityVic., Australia
| | - P. R. Gibson
- Department of Gastroenterology & HepatologyEastern HealthVic., Australia,Eastern Health Clinical SchoolMonash UniversityVic., Australia
| | - J. S. Lubel
- Department of Gastroenterology & HepatologyEastern HealthVic., Australia,Gastroenterology and Liver Transplant UnitAustin HospitalVic., Australia,Eastern Health Clinical SchoolMonash UniversityVic., Australia
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Chan YC, Leung PS. The Renin-angiotensin system and reactive oxygen species: implications in pancreatitis. Antioxid Redox Signal 2011; 15:2743-55. [PMID: 21644836 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2011.4071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
SIGNIFICANCE The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is a circulating hormonal system involved in the regulation of blood pressure and circulating fluid electrolytes. Recent findings have revealed that locally generated angiotensin (Ang) II plays a pivotal role in normal physiology as well as pathophysiology in various tissues and organs, including the pancreas. This review article summarizes current progress that has been made in elucidating the putative roles of Ang II in both acute and chronic pancreatitis. RECENT ADVANCES A convergence of evidence suggests that the underlying mechanism may involve reactive oxygen species (ROS)-generating systems, such as nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase, and subsequent elevation of proinflammatory and profibrogenic gene expression as well as protein activity. More importantly, Ang II-induced ROS interacts with other ROS-generating systems to positively feed-forward the ROS-induced signaling. CRITICAL ISSUES AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS Advances in basic research indicate that RAS blockers may provide potential therapeutic role for the management of pancreatic inflammation and, more importantly, pancreatitis-associated complications. Genetic alterations resulting from a malfunction in the epigenetic control of pancreatic RAS could be a causative factor in the development of pancreatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuk Cheung Chan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin New Teritories, Hong Kong, China
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Apte M, Pirola R, Wilson J. The fibrosis of chronic pancreatitis: new insights into the role of pancreatic stellate cells. Antioxid Redox Signal 2011; 15:2711-22. [PMID: 21728885 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2011.4079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
SIGNIFICANCE Prominent fibrosis is a major histological feature of chronic pancreatitis, a progressive necroinflammatory condition of the pancreas, most commonly associated with alcohol abuse. Patients with this disease often develop exocrine and endocrine insufficiency characterized by maldigestion and diabetes. Up until just over a decade ago, there was little understanding of the pathogenesis of pancreatic fibrosis in chronic pancreatitis. RECENT ADVANCES In recent times, significant progress has been made in this area, mostly due to the identification, isolation, and characterization of the cells, namely pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) that are now established as key players in pancreatic fibrogenesis. In health, PSCs maintain normal tissue architecture via regulation of the synthesis and degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. During pancreatic injury, PSCs transform into an activated phenotype that secretes excessive amounts of the ECM proteins that comprise fibrous tissue. CRITICAL ISSUES This Review summarizes current knowledge and critical aspects of PSC biology which have been increasingly well characterized over the past few years, particularly with respect to the response of PSCs to factors that stimulate or inhibit their activation and the intracellular signaling pathways governing these processes. Based on this knowledge, several therapeutic strategies have been examined in experimental models of pancreatic fibrosis, demonstrating that pancreatic fibrosis is a potentially reversible condition, at least in early stages. FUTURE DIRECTIONS These will involve translation of the laboratory findings into effective clinical approaches to prevent/inhibit PSC activation so as to prevent, retard, or reverse the fibrotic process in pancreatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minoti Apte
- Pancreatic Research Group, South Western Sydney Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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Abstract
The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) plays an important role in regulating blood pressure, water-salt balance and the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. Angiotensin II (Ang II) is the physiologically active mediator and mediates the main pathophysiological actions in RAS. Ang II exerts the effects by activating its receptors, primarily type 1 (AT1R) and type 2 (AT2R). Most of the known pathophysiological effects of Ang II are mediated by AT1R activation. The precise physiological function of AT2R is still not clear. Generally, AT2R is considered to oppose the effects of AT1R. Lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein scavenger receptor-1 (LOX-1) is one of the major receptors responsible for binding, internalizing and degrading ox-LDL. The activation of LOX-1 has been known to be related to many pathophysiological events, including endothelial dysfunction and injury, fibroblast growth, and vascular smooth muscle cell hypertrophy. Many of these alterations are present in atherosclerosis, hypertension, and myocardial ischemia and remodeling. A growing body of evidence suggests the existence of a cross-talk between LOX-1 and Ang II receptors. Their interplays are embodied in the reciprocal regulation of their expression and activity. Their interplays are involved in a series of signals. Recent studies suggests that reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO), protein kinase C (PKC) and mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPKs) are important signals responsible for their cross-talk. This paper reviews these aspects of dyslipidemia and RAS activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianwei Wang
- Division of Cardiology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA.
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Schmitz JC, Protiva P, Gattu AK, Utsumi T, Iwakiri Y, Neto AG, Quinn M, Cornwell ML, Fitchev P, Lugea A, Crawford SE, Chung C. Pigment epithelium-derived factor regulates early pancreatic fibrotic responses and suppresses the profibrotic cytokine thrombospondin-1. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2011; 179:2990-9. [PMID: 21964188 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2011.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2011] [Revised: 08/01/2011] [Accepted: 08/10/2011] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) is important for maintaining the normal extracellular matrix. We hypothesized that the initiation of pancreatic fibrosis is dependent on the loss of PEDF. Pancreatic PEDF expression was assessed in wild-type mice fed either a control or ethanol diet using an intragastric feeding model. Pancreatitis responses were elicited with either a single episode or a repetitive cerulein-induced (50 μg/kg, 6 hourly i.p. injections) protocol in wild-type and PEDF-null mice. Quantitative real-time PCR and immunoblotting were performed to assess fibrogenic responses. In wild-type animals, PEDF expression increased with pancreatitis and was more pronounced in mice fed ethanol. Compared with wild-type mice, α-smooth muscle actin staining and expression levels of fibrogenic markers (eg, transforming growth factor-β1, platelet-derived growth factor, collagen I, and thrombospondin-1) were higher in PEDF-null mice at baseline. Sirius red staining revealed more fibrosis in PEDF-null versus wild-type pancreas 1 week after pancreatitis. Differences in tissue fibrosis resolved with longer recovery periods. PEDF overexpression suppressed thrombospondin-1 levels in vitro. Ethanol feeding and experimental pancreatitis increased PEDF expression in wild-type mice. PEDF-null mice, however, demonstrated enhanced early fibrotic responses compared with wild-type mice with pancreatitis. These findings indicate that PEDF acts as a compensatory antifibrotic cytokine in pancreatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- John C Schmitz
- Section of Digestive Diseases, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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Doetschman T, Barnett JV, Runyan RB, Camenisch TD, Heimark RL, Granzier HL, Conway SJ, Azhar M. Transforming growth factor beta signaling in adult cardiovascular diseases and repair. Cell Tissue Res 2011; 347:203-23. [PMID: 21953136 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-011-1241-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2011] [Accepted: 09/02/2011] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The majority of children with congenital heart disease now live into adulthood due to the remarkable surgical and medical advances that have taken place over the past half century. Because of this, adults now represent the largest age group with adult cardiovascular diseases. It includes patients with heart diseases that were not detected or not treated during childhood, those whose defects were surgically corrected but now need revision due to maladaptive responses to the procedure, those with exercise problems and those with age-related degenerative diseases. Because adult cardiovascular diseases in this population are relatively new, they are not well understood. It is therefore necessary to understand the molecular and physiological pathways involved if we are to improve treatments. Since there is a developmental basis to adult cardiovascular disease, transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) signaling pathways that are essential for proper cardiovascular development may also play critical roles in the homeostatic, repair and stress response processes involved in adult cardiovascular diseases. Consequently, we have chosen to summarize the current information on a subset of TGFβ ligand and receptor genes and related effector genes that, when dysregulated, are known to lead to cardiovascular diseases and adult cardiovascular deficiencies and/or pathologies. A better understanding of the TGFβ signaling network in cardiovascular disease and repair will impact genetic and physiologic investigations of cardiovascular diseases in elderly patients and lead to an improvement in clinical interventions.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is critical for cardiovascular control, impacting normal physiology and disease pathogenesis. Although several biologically active peptides are generated by this system, its major actions are mediated by angiotensin II acting through its type 1 (AT1) and type 2 (AT2) receptors. Along with their effects to influence blood pressure and hemodynamics, recent studies have provided evidence that angiotensin receptors influence a range of processes independent from hemodynamic effects. RECENT FINDINGS This review is focused on new molecular mechanisms underlying actions of AT1 receptors to influence vasoconstriction, inflammation, immune responses, and longevity. Moreover, we also highlight new advances in understanding functions of the AT2 receptor in end-organ damage, emphasizing the AT2 receptor as a potential therapeutic target in cardiovascular diseases. SUMMARY Here we review recent advances in understanding the role of angiotensin receptors in normal physiology and disease states, focusing on their properties that may contribute to blood pressure regulation, end-organ damage, autoimmune disease and longevity.
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van Geenen EJM, Smits MM, Schreuder TCMA, van der Peet DL, Bloemena E, Mulder CJJ. Smoking is related to pancreatic fibrosis in humans. Am J Gastroenterol 2011; 106:1161-6; quiz 1167. [PMID: 21577244 DOI: 10.1038/ajg.2011.43] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Smokers are at risk for pancreatic cancer (PC) and other pancreatic diseases. Cigarette smoking also aggravates the risk of PC in patients with hereditary and chronic pancreatitis (CP) and results in a higher incidence of acute pancreatitis and relapses in CP. Both PC and CP are characterized by a progressive fibrosis. Recently, two studies on rats reported that tobacco smoking is associated with chronic pancreatic inflammation with fibrosis and scarring of pancreatic acinar structures. In this study, we aimed to confirm a relationship between cigarette smoking and pancreatic fibrosis (PF) in humans. METHODS In this retrospective study, pancreatic and liver tissue acquired during autopsy was collected and analyzed. PF was scored by assessing severity of intralobular, extralobular, and total PF: grade 0 (normal or mild; 0-25% PF), grade 1 (moderate; 25-50% PF), and grade 2 (severe; >50%). Information on smoking habits was extracted from (electronic) medical records. RESULTS Of 900 autopsies performed from January 2005 to December 2007, a minority of patients (n=111) met all inclusion criteria for analysis. Grade 2-3 total PF and intralobular PF was significantly more present in smokers vs. "never-smokers" (total: 42.9 vs. 26.5%, P=0.027 and intralobular: 39.3 vs. 15.6%, P=0.013), whereas no differences could be found between never-smokers and ex-smokers and between ex-smokers and smokers. When we took into account interlobular PF, no differences between all groups were observed. No relationship between PF and age (P=0.893), body mass index (P=0.707), and pancreatic lipomatosis (P=0.916) was observed. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, no study in humans had studied the effect of tobacco smoking on pancreatic tissue. We have demonstrated for the first time that current cigarette smoking is associated with total PF-specifically, intralobular PF-as compared with nonsmokers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erwin J M van Geenen
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Habashi JP, Doyle JJ, Holm TM, Aziz H, Schoenhoff F, Bedja D, Chen Y, Modiri AN, Judge DP, Dietz HC. Angiotensin II type 2 receptor signaling attenuates aortic aneurysm in mice through ERK antagonism. Science 2011; 332:361-5. [PMID: 21493863 PMCID: PMC3097422 DOI: 10.1126/science.1192152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 346] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Angiotensin II (AngII) mediates progression of aortic aneurysm, but the relative contribution of its type 1 (AT1) and type 2 (AT2) receptors remains unknown. We show that loss of AT2 expression accelerates the aberrant growth and rupture of the aorta in a mouse model of Marfan syndrome (MFS). The selective AT1 receptor blocker (ARB) losartan abrogated aneurysm progression in the mice; full protection required intact AT2 signaling. The angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEi) enalapril, which limits signaling through both receptors, was less effective. Both drugs attenuated canonical transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) signaling in the aorta, but losartan uniquely inhibited TGFβ-mediated activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), by allowing continued signaling through AT2. These data highlight the protective nature of AT2 signaling and potentially inform the choice of therapies in MFS and related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer P. Habashi
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Jefferson J. Doyle
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Tammy M. Holm
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Hamza Aziz
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Florian Schoenhoff
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Djahida Bedja
- Department of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - YiChun Chen
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Alexandra N. Modiri
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Daniel P. Judge
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD21205, USA
| | - Harry C. Dietz
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD21205, USA
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Sakurai T, Kudo M, Fukuta N, Nakatani T, Kimura M, Park AM, Munakata H. Involvement of angiotensin II and reactive oxygen species in pancreatic fibrosis. Pancreatology 2011; 11 Suppl 2:7-13. [PMID: 21464581 DOI: 10.1159/000323478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic cancers often develop in the context of pancreatic fibrosis caused by chronic pancreas inflammation, which also results in the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), pancreatic parenchymal cell death, and stellate cell activation. Angiotensin II, which is converted from angiotensin I by the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), stimulates ROS production via NADPH oxidase. In stellate cells, angiotensin II activates the stress-activated protein kinase p38. However, the molecular mechanism by which angiotensin II regulates pancreatic inflammation and fibrosis remains to be determined. METHODS Wistar Bonn/Kobori (WBN/Kob) rats spontaneously develop chronic pancreatic inflammation. To examine whether blockade of the renin-angiotensin system affects the development of pancreatic fibrosis, WBN/Kob rats were given angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) blocker or ACE inhibitor (ACEI). Next, we assessed the role of angiotensin II and its possible downstream target p38α in stellate cell activation using primary stellate cells. RESULTS Treatment with AT1R blocker and ACEI prevented the development of chronic pancreatitis and fibrosis. In stellate cells, angiotensin II upregulated the expression of angiotensin II receptors, α-smooth muscle actin (SMA) and transforming growth factor-β. In addition, p38α was found to be essential to collagen type I production and α-SMA expression. ROS accumulation is enhanced in chronic pancreatic inflammation, which increases the risk of pancreatic cancer. CONCLUSIONS Inhibition of the angiotensin II signaling pathway might be a promising strategy to prevent pancreatic fibrogenesis and subsequent carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshiharu Sakurai
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Kinki University, Osakasayama, Osaka, Japan
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Ansari D, Andersson E, Andersson B, Andersson R. Chronic pancreatitis: potential future interventions. Scand J Gastroenterol 2010; 45:1022-8. [PMID: 20509755 DOI: 10.3109/00365521003734174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Chronic pancreatitis is a common disorder of which the underlying pathogenic mechanisms still are incompletely understood. In the last decade, increasing evidence has shown that activated pancreatic stellate cells play a key role in the fibrosis development associated with chronic pancreatitis as well as pancreatic cancer. During pancreatic injury or inflammation, quiescent stellate cells undergo a phenotypic transformation, characterized by smooth muscle alpha-actin expression and increased synthesis of extracellular matrix proteins. Hitherto, specific therapies to prevent or reverse pancreatic fibrosis are unavailable. This review addresses current insights into pathological mechanisms underlying chronic pancreatitis and their applicability as concerns the development of potential future therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Ansari
- Department of Surgery, Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University and Lund University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
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Menk M, von Haefen C, Funke-Kaiser H, Sifringer M, Schefe JH, Kirsch S, Seidel K, Reinemund J, Steckelings UM, Unger T, Spies CD. Ethanol-induced downregulation of the angiotensin AT2 receptor in murine fibroblasts is mediated by PARP-1. Alcohol 2010; 44:495-506. [PMID: 20693103 DOI: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2010.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2009] [Revised: 05/04/2010] [Accepted: 05/12/2010] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Molecular mechanisms accompanying ethanol-induced cytotoxicity remain to be defined. The renin-angiotensin system with its respective receptors, the angiotensin AT1 and AT2 receptor (AT1R and AT2R), has been implicated in these processes. The AT2R seems to counteract the pro-inflammatory, pro-hypertrophic, and pro-fibrotic actions of the AT1R and is involved in cellular differentiation and tissue repair. Recently, we identified poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) as a novel negative transcriptional regulator of the AT2R. However, the complex interactions between ethanol, PARP-1, and the AT2R are largely unknown. In this in vitro study, we aimed to clarify whether acute ethanol treatment modifies AT2R promoter activity or AT2R mRNA and protein levels and whether PARP-1 is involved in ethanol-mediated regulation of the AT2R. Murine fibroblasts of the R3T3 and MEF line (murine embryonic fibroblasts) were exposed to ethanol for 24h. AT2R promoter activity, mRNA and protein levels were analyzed with and without PARP-1 inhibition and in PARP-1 knockout MEF cells. Expression of PARP-1 was analyzed over course of time, and cell viability and DNA fragmentation were measured on single-cell level by flow cytometry. Ethanol exposition induced substantial downregulation of the AT2R on promoter, mRNA and protein levels in a dose-dependent manner. Pharmacological inhibition or ablation of PARP-1 completely abolished this effect. Ethanol treatment did not have any effect on AT1R mRNA and protein levels in MEF cells. Further, acute ethanol treatment promoted DNA fragmentation and caused transcriptional induction of PARP-1. Our findings reveal that PARP-1 is an upstream transcriptional regulator of the AT2 receptor in the context of ethanol exposure and represses the AT2R gene in fibroblasts in vitro. Variations in expression of the potentially tissue-protective AT2R might contribute to ethanol-mediated pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Menk
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum/Campus Charité Mitte, 13353 Berlin, Germany.
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Ulmasov B, Xu Z, Talkad V, Oshima K, Neuschwander-Tetri BA. Angiotensin II signaling through the AT1a and AT1b receptors does not have a role in the development of cerulein-induced chronic pancreatitis in the mouse. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2010; 299:G70-80. [PMID: 20413721 PMCID: PMC7199229 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00006.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The intraorgan renin-angiotensin system (RAS) plays an important role in the pathophysiology of a variety of diseases and has been implicated in fibrogenesis. The role of RAS in the development of chronic pancreatitis is not well established. The blockade of RAS in rat models with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi) or angiotensin receptor 1 (AT1) blockers (ARBs) mostly have reduced pancreatic inflammation and fibrosis with a few exceptions. At the same time, the use of ACEi and ARBs in humans is associated with a modest risk of acute pancreatitis. The aim of this study was to elucidate the effect of the AT1 signaling pathway in the development of pancreatitis using AT1a- and AT1b-deficient mice as well as the ARB losartan. Chronic pancreatitis was induced by repetitive cerulein administration in C57BL/6J wild-type (WT) and AT1a- and AT1b-deficient mice (AT1a-/- and AT1b-/-), and pancreatic injury was assessed at day 10. Pancreatic weight of cerulein treated groups was significantly reduced. There was severe parenchymal atrophy and fibrosis assessed by histological examination. Fibrosis was accompanied by activation of pancreatic stellate cells (PSC) evaluated by Western blot analysis for alpha-smooth muscle actin. No differences were seen between cerulein-treated WT, AT1a-/- , AT1b-/- mice, or losartan treated-WT mice with regards to morphological or molecular alterations induced by cerulein. Our results demonstrate that AT1a and AT1b receptor pathways do not seem to be essential for the development of pancreatitis in the mouse model of pancreatitis induced by repetitive cerulein injury.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zekuan Xu
- 3Pathology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri;
| | | | - Kiyoko Oshima
- 2Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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Doi C, Egashira N, Kawabata A, Maurya DK, Ohta N, Uppalapati D, Ayuzawa R, Pickel L, Isayama Y, Troyer D, Takekoshi S, Tamura M. Angiotensin II type 2 receptor signaling significantly attenuates growth of murine pancreatic carcinoma grafts in syngeneic mice. BMC Cancer 2010; 10:67. [PMID: 20181281 PMCID: PMC2846883 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-10-67] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2009] [Accepted: 02/24/2010] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive human malignancies, with a very poor prognosis. To evaluate the effect of angiotensin II (Ang II) type 2 receptor (AT2) expression in the host's body on the growth of pancreatic carcinoma, we have investigated the growth of mouse pancreatic ductal carcinoma grafts in syngeneic wild type and AT2 receptor-deficient (AT2-KO) mice. Methods The role of AT2 receptor-signaling in stromal cells on the growth of murine pancreatic carcinoma cells (PAN02) was studied using various in vitro and in vivo assays. In vivo cell proliferation, apoptosis, and vasculature in tumors were monitored by Ki-67 immunostaining, TUNEL assay, and von Willebrand factor immunostaining, respectively. In the co-culture study, cell proliferation was measured by MTT cell viability assay. All the data were analyzed using t-test and data were treated as significant when p < 0.05. Results Our results show that the growth of subcutaneously transplanted syngeneic xenografts of PAN02 cells, mouse pancreatic ductal carcinoma cells derived from the C57/BL6 strain, was significantly faster in AT2-KO mice compared to control wild type mice. Immunohistochemical analysis of tumor tissue revealed significantly more Ki-67 positive cells in xenografts grown in AT2-KO mice than in wild type mice. The index of apoptosis is slightly higher in wild type mice than in AT2-KO mice as evaluated by TUNEL assay. Tumor vasculature number was significantly higher in AT2-KO mice than in wild type mice. In vitro co-culture studies revealed that the growth of PAN02 cells was significantly decreased when grown with AT2 receptor gene transfected wild type and AT2-KO mouse-derived fibroblasts. Faster tumor growth in AT2-KO mice may be associated with higher VEGF production in stromal cells. Conclusions These results suggest that Ang II regulates the growth of pancreatic carcinoma cells through modulating functions of host stromal cells; Moreover, Ang II AT2 receptor signaling is a negative regulator in the growth of pancreatic carcinoma cells. These findings indicate that the AT2 receptor in stromal fibroblasts is a potentially important target for chemotherapy for pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiyo Doi
- Department of Anatomy & Physiology, Kansas State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
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Steckelings UM, Rompe F, Kaschina E, Namsolleck P, Grzesiak A, Funke-Kaiser H, Bader M, Unger T. The past, present and future of angiotensin II type 2 receptor stimulation. J Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone Syst 2009; 11:67-73. [DOI: 10.1177/1470320309347791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Studying the angiotensin type 2 receptor (AT2) has been problematic in the past because a pharmacological tool for direct, specific in vitro and in vivo stimulation of the receptor has been lacking. Consequently, current knowledge about AT2 receptor signalling and function had to be obtained by indirect approaches, like studying animals or cells with genetically altered AT2 receptor expression levels, inhibitory experiments using specific AT2 receptor antagonists, stimulation with angiotensin II under concomitant angiotensin II type 1 receptor blockade or stimulation with the peptide agonist CGP42112A, which has additional AT2 receptor antagonistic properties. The recently developed non-peptide AT2 receptor agonist Compound 21 now, for the first time, allows direct, selective and specific AT2 receptor stimulation in vitro and in vivo . This new tool will certainly revolutionise AT2 receptor research, enable many new insights into AT2 receptor function and may also have the potential to become a future medical drug. This article reviews milestone findings about AT2 receptor functional properties obtained by ‘conventional’ experimental approaches within the last 20 years. Moreover, it provides an overview of the first results obtained by direct AT2 receptor stimulation with Compound 21, comprising effects on alkaline secretion, neurite outgrowth, blood pressure and post-infarct cardiac function.
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Affiliation(s)
- U. Muscha Steckelings
- Center for Cardiovascular Research, Institute of Pharmacology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany,
| | - Franziska Rompe
- Center for Cardiovascular Research, Institute of Pharmacology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany
| | - Elena Kaschina
- Center for Cardiovascular Research, Institute of Pharmacology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany
| | - Pawel Namsolleck
- Center for Cardiovascular Research, Institute of Pharmacology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany
| | - Aleksandra Grzesiak
- Center for Cardiovascular Research, Institute of Pharmacology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany
| | - Heiko Funke-Kaiser
- Center for Cardiovascular Research, Institute of Pharmacology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany
| | - Michael Bader
- Max-Delbrück-Centre for Molecular Medicine, Berlin-Buch, Germany
| | - Thomas Unger
- Center for Cardiovascular Research, Institute of Pharmacology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany
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