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Ramirez-Perez FI, Jurrissen TJ, Augenreich MA, Castorena-Gonzalez JA, Morales-Quinones M, Foote CA, Nourian Z, Lateef OM, Imkaew N, Sun Z, Hill MA, Meininger GA, Padilla J, Martinez-Lemus LA. Small Arteries From Old Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats Exhibit Enhanced Endothelium-Independent Vasodilatory Capacity and Reduced Stiffness. Microcirculation 2025; 32:e70004. [PMID: 39962557 DOI: 10.1111/micc.70004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2024] [Revised: 12/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2025] [Indexed: 05/09/2025]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In conduit arteries, aging and hypertension are associated with stiffening characterized by increased cytoskeletal F-actin and endothelial dysfunction. Herein, we determined if this also happens at the level of the resistance vasculature. METHODS We retrospectively compared the mechanical and structural characteristics of small arteries isolated from older hypertensive and younger normotensive (64.7 ± 2.8 vs. 32.1 ± 1.9 years old) human subjects. The intersection of aging and hypertension was studied in small mesenteric arteries from old (88 weeks of age) spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) and Wistar Kyoto (WKY) normotensive rats. RESULTS Arteries from older hypertensive subjects were stiffer and had more F-actin, relative to those from younger normotensives. Comparatively, arteries from old SHRs showed reduced stiffness and increased vasodilation to sodium nitroprusside without changes in F-actin. Matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and -9 (MMP-9) were increased in the SHR arteries and exposure of naive arteries to exogenous MMP-2 and MMP-9 augmented responsiveness to sodium nitroprusside and adenosine. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, resistance arteries from old SHRs are softer and vasodilate more to exogenous nitric oxide than those of WKY rats. This improved endothelial-independent vasodilation is associated with an increased vascular expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9. We further conclude that aging and hypertension effects on the microcirculation may vary between species and vascular beds.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thomas J Jurrissen
- NextGen Precision Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Marc A Augenreich
- NextGen Precision Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- Department of Nutrition and Exercise Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | | | | | - Christopher A Foote
- NextGen Precision Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Zahra Nourian
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Olubodun M Lateef
- NextGen Precision Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Natnicha Imkaew
- NextGen Precision Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Zhe Sun
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Michael A Hill
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Gerald A Meininger
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Jaume Padilla
- NextGen Precision Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- Department of Nutrition and Exercise Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Luis A Martinez-Lemus
- NextGen Precision Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
- Center for Precision Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
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Zagol-Ikapitte IA, Tabatabai MA, Wilus DM, Alcendor DJ. Plasma Endothelin-1 Levels: Non-Predictors of Alzheimer's Disease Reveal Age Correlation in African American Women. J Clin Med 2025; 14:635. [PMID: 39860641 PMCID: PMC11766246 DOI: 10.3390/jcm14020635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2024] [Revised: 01/04/2025] [Accepted: 01/14/2025] [Indexed: 01/27/2025] Open
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related dementias (ADRD) disproportionately impact racial and ethnic minorities. Contributing biological factors that explain this disparity have been elusive. Moreover, non-invasive biomarkers for early detection of AD are needed. Endothelin-1 (ET-1), a vasoconstrictive factor linked to cerebral vascular disease pathology and neuronal injury, could provide insights to better understand racial disparities in AD. As a potent vasoconstrictive peptide that regulates contractions in smooth muscle, endothelial cells, and pericytes, ET-1 may result in cerebral vascular constriction, leading to cerebral hypoperfusion; over time, this may result in neuronal injury, contributing to the pathology of AD. The role of the ET-1 system as a driver of ethnic disparities in AD requires further investigation. In the United States (U.S.), ET-1 dysregulation in Hispanic/Latinx (H/L) ethnic populations has largely been unexplored. Genetics linking ET-1 dysregulation and racial disparities in AD also require further investigation. In this study, we examined the role of the ET-1 protein in human plasma as a potential biomarker with predictive value for correlating with the development of AD by age, race, and sex. Methods: We examined ET-1 protein levels using quantitative mass spectrometry in AA and NHW patients with AD, along with controls. Results: A partial correlation between age at draw and ET-1, stratified by race and sex, while controlling for AD status, was significant for female AAs (r = 0.385, p = 0.016). When the data were not stratified but controlled for AD status, the partial correlation between age at draw and ET-1 was not significant (r = 0.108, p = 0.259). Conclusions: Based on the small number of plasma specimens and no plasma specimens from H/L individuals with AD, we conclude that ET-1 was clearly not a significant factor in predicting AD in this study and will require a larger scale study for validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene A. Zagol-Ikapitte
- Proteomics Laboratory, Mass Spectrometry Research Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA;
| | | | - Derek M. Wilus
- School of Global Health, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN 37208, USA
| | - Donald J. Alcendor
- Center for AIDS Health Disparities Research, Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Physiology, Meharry Medical College, School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37208, USA
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3
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Alcendor DJ. Dysregulation of Endothelin-1: Implications for Health Disparities in Alzheimer's Disease. J Pers Med 2020; 10:E199. [PMID: 33126567 PMCID: PMC7712547 DOI: 10.3390/jpm10040199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related dementias disproportionately impact racial and ethnic minorities. The racial and ethnic disparities in AD could be explained by differences in cerebral vascular disease pathology. Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is a potent vasoconstrictive peptide that regulates smooth muscle, endothelial cell, and pericyte contractions that may result in cerebral vascular constriction, leading to cerebral hypoperfusion; over time, ET-1 may result in neuronal injury contributing to the pathology of AD. Upregulation of the ET-1 system has been observed in African Americans when compared with non-Hispanic Whites. The role of the ET-1 system as a driver of ethnic disparities in AD requires further investigation. Targeting of the ET-1 system as a therapeutic intervention that could impact AD progression also needs further study. Dysregulation of ET-1 in Hispanic/Latino populations largely have been unexplored. Genetics linking ET-1 dysregulation and racial disparities in AD also needs further investigation. In this review, I examine how AD effects underserved minority populations and how dysregulation of the ET-1 system specifically predisposes ethnic minorities to AD. In addition, I examine the molecular interactions of the ET-1 system and amyloid beta, the role the ET-1 system in neurodegeneration, potential therapeutics for ET-1 dysregulation, and the impact on AD progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald J Alcendor
- Center for AIDS Health Disparities Research, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Physiology, School of Medicine, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN 37208, USA
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4
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Gutha R, Yarrappagaari S, Thopireddy L, Reddy KS, Saddala RR. Effect of abiotic and biotic stress factors analysis using machine learning methods in zebrafish. COMPARATIVE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY D-GENOMICS & PROTEOMICS 2017; 25:62-72. [PMID: 29156228 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbd.2017.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2017] [Revised: 10/23/2017] [Accepted: 10/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In order to understand the mechanisms underlying stress responses, meta-analysis of transcriptome is made to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and their biological, molecular and cellular mechanisms in response to stressors. The present study is aimed at identifying the effect of abiotic and biotic stress factors, and it is found that several stress responsive genes are common for both abiotic and biotic stress factors in zebrafish. The meta-analysis of micro-array studies revealed that almost 4.7% i.e., 108 common DEGs are differentially regulated between abiotic and biotic stresses. This shows that there is a global coordination and fine-tuning of gene regulation in response to these two types of challenges. We also performed dimension reduction methods, principal component analysis, and partial least squares discriminant analysis which are able to segregate abiotic and biotic stresses into separate entities. The supervised machine learning model, recursive-support vector machine, could classify abiotic and biotic stresses with 100% accuracy using a subset of DEGs. Beside these methods, the random forests decision tree model classified five out of 8 stress conditions with high accuracy. Finally, Functional enrichment analysis revealed the different gene ontology terms, transcription factors and miRNAs factors in the regulation of stress responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajasekar Gutha
- Division of Animal Biotechnology, Dept of Biotechnology, School of Herbal Studies and Naturo Sciences, Dravidian University, Kuppam, 517426 A.P., India
| | - Suresh Yarrappagaari
- Division of Animal Biotechnology, Dept of Biotechnology, School of Herbal Studies and Naturo Sciences, Dravidian University, Kuppam, 517426 A.P., India
| | | | | | - Rajeswara Reddy Saddala
- Division of Animal Biotechnology, Dept of Biotechnology, School of Herbal Studies and Naturo Sciences, Dravidian University, Kuppam, 517426 A.P., India.
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5
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Wang HC, Cheng KI, Chou CW, Kwan AL, Chang LL. Intrathecal CGS-26303 Pretreatment Attenuates Spinal Nerve Ligation-Induced Neuropathic Pain in the Spinal Cord. World Neurosurg 2016; 91:532-541.e1. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2016.02.093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Revised: 02/22/2016] [Accepted: 02/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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6
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Rohr A, McDonald J. Health effects of carbon-containing particulate matter: focus on sources and recent research program results. Crit Rev Toxicol 2015; 46:97-137. [PMID: 26635181 DOI: 10.3109/10408444.2015.1107024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Air pollution is a complex mixture of gas-, vapor-, and particulate-phase materials comprised of inorganic and organic species. Many of these components have been associated with adverse health effects in epidemiological and toxicological studies, including a broad spectrum of carbonaceous atmospheric components. This paper reviews recent literature on the health impacts of organic aerosols, with a focus on specific sources of organic material; it is not intended to be a comprehensive review of all the available literature. Specific emission sources reviewed include engine emissions, wood/biomass combustion emissions, biogenic emissions and secondary organic aerosol (SOA), resuspended road dust, tire and brake wear, and cooking emissions. In addition, recent findings from large toxicological and epidemiological research programs are reviewed in the context of organic PM, including SPHERES, NPACT, NERC, ACES, and TERESA. A review of the extant literature suggests that there are clear health impacts from emissions containing carbon-containing PM, but difficulty remains in apportioning responses to certain groupings of carbonaceous materials, such as organic and elemental carbon, condensed and gas phases, and primary and secondary material. More focused epidemiological and toxicological studies, including increased characterization of organic materials, would increase understanding of this issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette Rohr
- a Electric Power Research Institute , Palo Alto , CA , USA
| | - Jacob McDonald
- b Lovelace Respiratory Research Institute , Albuquerque , NM , USA
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7
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Lund AK, Doyle-Eisele M, Lin YH, Arashiro M, Surratt JD, Holmes T, Schilling KA, Seinfeld JH, Rohr AC, Knipping EM, McDonald JD. The effects of α-pinene versus toluene-derived secondary organic aerosol exposure on the expression of markers associated with vascular disease. Inhal Toxicol 2013; 25:309-24. [PMID: 23742109 DOI: 10.3109/08958378.2013.782080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
To investigate the toxicological effects of biogenic- versus anthropogenic-source secondary organic aerosol (SOA) on the cardiovascular system, the Secondary Particulate Health Effects Research program irradiation chamber was used to expose atherosclerotic apolipoprotein E null (Apo E-/-) mice to SOA from the oxidation of either α-pinene or toluene for 7 days. SOA atmospheres were produced to yield 250-300 μg/m(3) of particulate matter and ratios of 10:1:1 α-pinene:nitrogen oxide (NOx):ammonia (NH3); 10:1:1:1 α-pinene:NOx:NH3:sulfur dioxide (SO2) or 10:1:1 toluene:NOx:NH3; and 10:1:1:1 toluene:NOx:NH3:SO2. Resulting effects on the cardiovascular system were assessed by measurement of vascular lipid peroxidation (thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS)), as well as quantification of heme-oxygenase (HO)-1, endothelin (ET)-1, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 mRNA expression for comparison to previous program exposure results. Consistent with similar previous studies, vascular TBARS were not increased significantly with any acute SOA exposure. However, vascular HO-1, MMP-9, and ET-1 observed in Apo E-/- mice exposed to α-pinene + NOx + NH3 + SO2 increased statistically, while α-pinene + NOx + NH3 exposure to either toluene + NOx + NH3 or toluene +NOx + NH3 + SO2 resulted in a decreased expression of these vascular factors. Such findings suggest that the specific chemistry created by the presence or absence of acidic components may be important in SOA-mediated toxicity in the cardiovascular system and/or progression of cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amie K Lund
- Lovelace Respiratory Research Institute , Albuquerque, NM 87108, USA
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8
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Matsumoto T, Watanabe S, Kawamura R, Taguchi K, Kobayashi T. Epigallocatechin gallate attenuates ET-1-induced contraction in carotid artery from type 2 diabetic OLETF rat at chronic stage of disease. Life Sci 2013; 118:200-5. [PMID: 24291377 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2013.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2013] [Revised: 11/07/2013] [Accepted: 11/18/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
AIMS There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a major catechin isolated from green tea, has several beneficial effects, such as anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. However, whether treatment with EGCG can suppress the endothelin-1 (ET-1)-induced contraction in carotid arteries from type 2 diabetic rats is unknown, especially at the chronic stage of the disease. We hypothesized that long-term treatment with EGCG would attenuate ET-1-induced contractions in type 2 diabetic arteries. MAIN METHODS Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima fatty (OLETF) rats (43 weeks old) were treated with EGCG (200 mg/kg/day for 2 months, p.o.), and the responsiveness to ET-1, phenylephrine (PE), acetylcholine (ACh) and sodium nitroprusside (SNP) was measured in common carotid artery (CA) from EGCG-treated and -untreated OLETF rats and control Long-Evans Tokushima Otsuka (LETO) rats. KEY FINDINGS In OLETF rats, EGCG attenuated responsiveness to ET-1 in CA compared to untreated groups. However, EGCG did not alter PE-induced contractions in CA from OLETF rats. In endothelium-denuded arteries, EGCG did not affect ET-1-induced contractions in either the OLETF or LETO group. Acetylcholine-induced relaxation was increased by EGCG treatment in CA from the OLETF group. The expressions of ET receptors, endothelial nitric oxide synthase, superoxide dismutases, and gp91(phox) [an NAD(P)H oxidase component] in CA were not altered by EGCG treatment in either group. SIGNIFICANCE Our data suggest that, within the timescale investigated here, EGCG attenuates ET-1-induced contractions in CA from type 2 diabetic rats, and one of the mechanisms may involve normalizing endothelial function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takayuki Matsumoto
- Department of Physiology and Morphology, Institute of Medicinal Chemistry, Hoshi University, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 142-8501, Japan
| | - Shun Watanabe
- Department of Physiology and Morphology, Institute of Medicinal Chemistry, Hoshi University, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 142-8501, Japan
| | - Ryusuke Kawamura
- Department of Physiology and Morphology, Institute of Medicinal Chemistry, Hoshi University, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 142-8501, Japan
| | - Kumiko Taguchi
- Department of Physiology and Morphology, Institute of Medicinal Chemistry, Hoshi University, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 142-8501, Japan
| | - Tsuneo Kobayashi
- Department of Physiology and Morphology, Institute of Medicinal Chemistry, Hoshi University, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 142-8501, Japan.
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Houde M, Jamain MD, Labonté J, Desbiens L, Pejler G, Gurish M, Takai S, D'Orléans-Juste P. Pivotal role of mouse mast cell protease 4 in the conversion and pressor properties of Big-endothelin-1. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2013; 346:31-7. [PMID: 23596057 PMCID: PMC3684843 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.112.202275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2012] [Accepted: 04/15/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The serine protease chymase has been reported to generate intracardiac angiotensin-II (Ang-II) from Ang-I as well as an intermediate precursor of endothelin-1 (ET-1), ET-1 (1-31) from Big-ET-1. Although humans possess only one chymase, several murine isoforms are documented, each with its own specific catalytic activity. Among these, mouse mast cell protease 4 (mMCP-4) is the isoform most similar to the human chymase for its activity. The aim of this study was to characterize the capacity of mMCP-4 to convert Big-ET-1 into its bioactive metabolite, ET-1, in vitro and in vivo in the mouse model. Basal mean arterial pressure did not differ between wild-type (WT) and mMCP-4(-/-) mice. Systemic administration of Big-ET-1 triggered pressor responses and increased blood levels of immunoreactive (IR) ET-1 (1-31) and ET-1 that were reduced by more than 50% in mMCP-4 knockout (-/-) mice compared with WT controls. Residual responses to Big-ET-1 in mMCP-4(-/-) mice were insensitive to the enkephalinase/neutral endopeptidase inhibitor thiorphan and the specific chymase inhibitor TY-51469 {2-[4-(5-fluoro-3-methylbenzo[b]thiophen-2-yl)sulfonamido-3-methanesulfonylphenyl]thiazole-4-carboxylic acid}. Soluble fractions from the lungs, left cardiac ventricle, aorta, and kidneys of WT but not mMCP-4(-/-) mice generated ET-1 (1-31) from exogenous Big-ET-1 in a TY-51469-sensitive fashion as detected by high-performance liquid chromatography/ matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-mass spectrometry. Finally, pulmonary endogenous levels of IR-ET-1 were reduced by more than 40% in tissues derived from mMCP-4(-/-) mice compared with WT mice. Our results show that mMCP-4 plays a pivotal role in the dynamic conversion of systemic Big-ET-1 to ET-1 in the mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Houde
- Department of Pharmacology, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
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Zheng LY, Li L, Ma MM, Liu Y, Wang GL, Tang YB, Zhou JG, Lv XF, Du YH, Guan YY. Deficiency of volume-regulated ClC-3 chloride channel attenuates cerebrovascular remodelling in DOCA-salt hypertension. Cardiovasc Res 2013; 100:134-42. [DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvt156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
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11
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Puzserova A, Slezak P, Balis P, Bernatova I. Long-term social stress induces nitric oxide-independent endothelial dysfunction in normotensive rats. Stress 2013; 16:331-9. [PMID: 22928844 DOI: 10.3109/10253890.2012.725116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
As chronic stress is a significant risk factor for several cardiovascular disorders, this study investigated the hypothesis that long-term stress produced by crowding may lead to alterations in nitric oxide (NO) production and NO-dependent relaxation in the course of stress, resulting in endothelial dysfunction and hypertension in Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. For this purpose, male WKY rats were divided into control (480 cm2/rat, four rats/cage, n = 8) and crowded (200 cm2/rat, five rats/cage, n = 10) groups for 8 or 12 weeks. Vasorelaxation was evaluated in vitro as a response to acetylcholine (ACh) of femoral arteries pre-contracted by serotonin, before and after NO synthase inhibition (N (G)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester, 300 μmol/l). Crowding increased plasma corticosterone concentration but failed to affect blood pressure (determined by tail-cuff plethysmography) of rats. NO production was unchanged in the hypothalamus and left ventricle of both stressed groups; however it was significantly elevated in the aorta. Maximal ACh-induced relaxation was elevated significantly after 8-week stress, but reduced after 12 weeks. Stress elevated the NO-dependent component and reduced the NO-independent component of ACh-induced relaxation in both crowded groups. However, a reduction in the NO-independent component was more pronounced after 12-week versus 8-week stress. In conclusion, elevated endothelium-dependent relaxation was observed after 8-week stress, while the extension of stress exposure resulted in a reduction in arterial relaxation associated with a more pronounced decrease of its NO-independent component. Thus, elevation of the NO-dependent component of relaxation can be considered as an adaptation mechanism, and impairment of NO-independent relaxation might be the initial step in chronic stress-induced cardiovascular disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelika Puzserova
- Institute of Normal and Pathological Physiology, Centre of Excellence for Examination of Regulatory Role of Nitric Oxide in Civilisation Diseases, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
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12
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Schmid-Schönbein GW. An emerging role of degrading proteinases in hypertension and the metabolic syndrome: autodigestion and receptor cleavage. Curr Hypertens Rep 2012; 14:88-96. [PMID: 22081429 DOI: 10.1007/s11906-011-0240-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
One of the major challenges for hypertension research is to identify the mechanisms that cause the comorbidities encountered in many hypertensive patients, as seen in the metabolic syndrome. An emerging body of evidence suggests that human and experimental hypertensives may exhibit uncontrolled activity of proteinases, including the family of matrix metalloproteinases, recognized for their ability to restructure the extracellular matrix proteins and to play a role in hypertrophy. We propose a new hypothesis that provides a molecular framework for the comorbidities of hypertension, diabetes, capillary rarefaction, immune suppression, and other cell and organ dysfunctions due to early and uncontrolled extracellular receptor cleavage by active proteinases. The proteinase and signaling activity in hypertensives requires further detailed analysis of the proteinase expression, the mechanisms causing proenzyme activation, and identification of the proteinase substrate. This work may open the opportunity for reassessment of old interventions and development of new interventions to manage hypertension and its comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geert W Schmid-Schönbein
- Department of Bioengineering, Institute of Engineering in Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0412, USA.
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Tan X, Chai J, Bi SC, Li JJ, Li WW, Zhou JY. Involvement of matrix metalloproteinase-2 in medial hypertrophy of pulmonary arterioles in broiler chickens with pulmonary arterial hypertension. Vet J 2012; 193:420-5. [PMID: 22377328 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2012.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2011] [Revised: 01/11/2012] [Accepted: 01/18/2012] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Medial hypertrophy of pulmonary arterioles during pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in humans is associated with enhanced proliferation of smooth muscle cells (SMCs). Elevated matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 has been found in pulmonary artery SMCs (PA-SMCs) in humans with idiopathic PAH, leading to the hypothesis that MMP-2 contributes to the proliferation and migration of vascular SMCs in the pathogenesis of PAH. Rapidly growing meat-type (broiler) chickens provide a model of spontaneous PAH. The present study was conducted to determine whether MMP-2 is involved in the medial hypertrophy of pulmonary arterioles in this model. Cultured PA-SMCs from normal birds were used to evaluate the effect of MMPs on cell proliferation. Gelatin zymography showed that endothelin (ET)-1-induced proliferation of PA-SMCs was concomitant with increased pro- and active MMP-2 production. Reverse transcription PCR demonstrated upregulation of MMP-2 mRNA. However, PA-SMC proliferation was inhibited by the MMP inhibitors doxycycline and cis-9-octadecenoyl-N-hydroxylamide. In vivo experiments revealed a significant increase of MMP-2 expression in hypertrophied pulmonary arterioles of PAH broiler chickens, which was positively correlated with wall thickness and medial hypertrophy. MMP-2 may contribute to medial hypertrophy in pulmonary arterioles during PAH in broiler chickens by enhancing the proliferation of vascular SMCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xun Tan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Virology of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
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14
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Lund AK, Lucero J, Harman M, Madden MC, McDonald JD, Seagrave JC, Campen MJ. The oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor mediates vascular effects of inhaled vehicle emissions. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2011; 184:82-91. [PMID: 21493736 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.201012-1967oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE To determine vascular signaling pathways involved in inhaled air pollution (vehicular engine emission) exposure-induced exacerbation of atherosclerosis that are associated with onset of clinical cardiovascular events. OBJECTIVES To elucidate the role of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) and its primary receptor on endothelial cells, the lectin-like oxLDL receptor (LOX-1), in regulation of endothelin-1 expression and matrix metalloproteinase activity associated with inhalational exposure to vehicular engine emissions. METHODS Atherosclerotic apolipoprotein E knockout mice were exposed by inhalation to filtered air or mixed whole engine emissions (250 μg particulate matter [PM]/m(3) diesel + 50 μg PM/m(3) gasoline exhausts) 6 h/d for 7 days. Concurrently, mice were treated with either mouse IgG or neutralizing antibodies to LOX-1 every other day. Vascular and plasma markers of oxidative stress and expression proatherogenic factors were assessed. In a parallel study, healthy human subjects were exposed to either 100 μg PM/m(3) diesel whole exhaust or high-efficiency particulate air and charcoal-filtered "clean" air (control subjects) for 2 hours, on separate occasions. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Mixed emissions exposure increased oxLDL and vascular reactive oxygen species, as well as LOX-1, matrix metalloproteinase-9, and endothelin-1 mRNA expression and also monocyte/macrophage infiltration, each of which was attenuated with LOX-1 antibody treatment. In a parallel study, diesel exhaust exposure in volunteer human subjects induced significant increases in plasma-soluble LOX-1. CONCLUSIONS These findings demonstrate that acute exposure to vehicular source pollutants results in up-regulation of vascular factors associated with progression of atherosclerosis, endothelin-1, and matrix metalloproteinase-9, mediated through oxLDL-LOX-1 receptor signaling, which may serve as a novel target for future therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amie K Lund
- Lovelace Respiratory Research Institute, Department of Environmental Toxicology, 2425 Ridgecrest Drive SE, Albuquerque, NM 87108, USA.
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15
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Sachidanandam K, Portik-Dobos V, Kelly-Cobbs AI, Ergul A. Dual endothelin receptor antagonism prevents remodeling of resistance arteries in diabetes. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2011; 88:616-21. [PMID: 20628426 DOI: 10.1139/y10-034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Vascular remodeling, characterized by extracellular matrix deposition and increased media-to-lumen (M/L) ratio, contributes to the development of microvascular complications in diabetes. We have previously shown in type 2 diabetic Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rats that selective ETA receptor blockade prevents medial thickening of mesenteric arteries via regulation of matrix metalloproteases (MMP), whereas selective ETB receptor blockade augments this thickening. The goal of this study was to determine the effect of combined ETA and ETB receptor blockade on resistance vessel remodeling. Vessel structure, MMP activity, and extracellular matrix proteins were assessed in control Wistar and diabetic GK rats treated with vehicle or bosentan (100 mg/kg per day) for 4 weeks (n = 7-9 per group). Bosentan completely prevented the increase in M/L ratio and MMP-2 activity in diabetes but paradoxically increased M/L ratio and MMP activation in control animals. Collagenase (MMP-13) activity and protein levels were significantly decreased in diabetes. Accordingly, collagen deposition was augmented in GK rats. Dual ET receptor antagonism improved enzyme activity and normalized MMP-13 levels in diabetic animals but blunted MMP-13 activity in control animals. In summary, current findings suggest that diabetes-mediated remodeling of resistance arteries is prevented by dual blockade of ETA and ETB receptors and that the relative role of ET receptors in the regulation of vascular structure differs in the control and disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamakshi Sachidanandam
- Program in Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Georgia College of Pharmacy, Athens, Georgia, USA
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16
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Fraenkl SA, Mozaffarieh M, Flammer J. Retinal vein occlusions: The potential impact of a dysregulation of the retinal veins. EPMA J 2010; 1:253-261. [PMID: 21258633 PMCID: PMC3003793 DOI: 10.1007/s13167-010-0025-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2010] [Accepted: 05/19/2010] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
A retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is a sight threatening disease. It can be divided into central vein occlusion and branch retinal vein occlusion. The pathogenesis of the condition remains to be solved. Mechanical compression of the vessel wall or thrombotic occlusion of the vessel lumen, sometimes combined with rheological disorders, are often assumed pathomechanisms. Accordingly, the therapy relies either on mechanical decompression, lyses of thrombi or improvement of rheology. A number of observations however, such as the relationship of RVO to atherosclerotic risk factors, spontaneous reversibility particularly in young patients, rest flow observed in angiography, occlusion despite anticoagulation or thrombocytopenia and finally the positive effect of anti-VEGF therapy are not explained by the present pathogenetic concept. As a new concept we propose a local venous constriction induced by vasoconstrictive molecules diffusing from neighbouring diseased arteries and/or from other neighbouring (hypoxic) tissues. Recognizing these postulated conditions might lead to an earlier identification of impending vein occlusions as well as to a treatment more tailored to the risk factor constellation of the particular patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan A Fraenkl
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Basel, Mittlere Strasse 91, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
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17
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Zeydanli EN, Turan B. Omega-3E treatment regulates matrix metalloproteinases and prevents vascular reactivity alterations in diabetic rat aorta. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2010; 87:1063-73. [PMID: 20029543 DOI: 10.1139/y09-112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
It is known that increased generation of oxidants and (or) reduced endogenous antioxidant defense mechanisms are associated with the etiology of diabetic vascular complications. Although a close correlation exists between increased oxidative stress and the activation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), little is known about the effect of hyperglycemia on the regulation and contribution of MMPs in the vascular system. Therefore, we aimed to examine whether omega-3E (50 mg/kg per day for 4 weeks), a long-chain (n-3) polyunsaturated fatty acid enriched with vitamin E, has a beneficial effect on vascular dysfunction via affecting MMPs in streptozotocin-diabetic rat aorta. Omega-3E treatment improved the diabetes-induced impairment of phenylephrine-induced contraction and isoproterenol-induced relaxation responses of aorta. It also exhibited marked protection against diabetes-induced degenerative changes in smooth muscle cell morphology. Biochemical data showed that this treatment significantly prevented important changes, such as inhibition of MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity, loss of tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-4 (TIMP-4) protein, increase in tissue levels of thiol oxidation, endothelin-1, protein kinase C (PKC), and cAMP production, and decrease in tissue level of nitrite. These results indicated that omega-3E significantly improved impaired vascular responses and regulated the activity of MMPs via preventing oxidative injury. Overall, the data suggest that omega-3E ameliorates or prevents vascular reactivity alterations in diabetes. Such an observation provides preliminary evidence for omega-3E's potential as a therapeutic agent for the prevention of vascular disorders in diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esma N Zeydanli
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara 06100, Turkey
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18
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Tanbe AF, Khalil RA. Circulating and Vascular Bioactive Factors during Hypertension in Pregnancy. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 6:60-75. [PMID: 20419111 DOI: 10.2174/157340710790711737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Normal pregnancy is associated with significant vascular remodeling in the uterine and systemic circulation in order to meet the metabolic demands of the mother and developing fetus. The pregnancy-associated vascular changes are largely due to alterations in the amount/activity of vascular mediators released from the endothelium, vascular smooth muscle and extracellular matrix. The endothelium releases vasodilator substances such as nitric oxide, prostacyclin and hyperpolarizing factor as well as vasoconstrictor factors such as endothelin, angiotensin II and thromboxane A(2). Vascular smooth muscle contraction is mediated by intracellular free Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)), and [Ca(2+)](i) sensitization pathways such as protein kinase C, Rho-kinase and mitogen-activated protein kinase. Extracellular matrix and vascular remodeling are regulated by matrix metalloproteases. Hypertension in pregnancy and preeclampsia are major complications and life threatening conditions to both the mother and fetus, precipitated by various genetic, dietary and environmental factors. The initiating mechanism of preeclampsia and hypertension in pregnancy is unclear; however, most studies have implicated inadequate invasion of cytotrophoblasts into the uterine artery, leading to reduction in the uteroplacental perfusion pressure and placental ischemia/hypoxia. This placental hypoxic state is thought to induce the release of several circulating bioactive factors such as growth factor inhibitors, anti-angiogenic proteins, inflammatory cytokines, reactive oxygen species, hypoxia-inducible factors, and vascular receptor antibodies. Increases in the plasma levels and vascular content of these factors during pregnancy could cause an imbalance in the vascular mediators released from the endothelium, smooth muscle and extracellular matrix, and lead to severe vasoconstriction and hypertension. This review will discuss the interactions between the various circulating bioactive factors and the vascular mediators released during hypertension in pregnancy, and provide an insight into the current and future approaches in the management of preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alain F Tanbe
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
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Plasma C-terminal pro-endothelin-1 is associated with left ventricular mass index and aortic root diameter in African-American adults with hypertension. J Hum Hypertens 2010; 25:106-13. [PMID: 20182452 DOI: 10.1038/jhh.2010.20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Endothelin-1 (ET-1), a circulating vasoactive peptide with potent vasoconstricting and mitogenic properties, may contribute to target-organ damage in hypertension. We investigated whether plasma levels of C-terminal pro-endothelin-1 (CT-pro-ET-1) are associated with left ventricular (LV) mass and aortic root diameter in African-American adults with hypertension. Plasma CT-pro-ET-1 was measured by an immunoluminometric assay in 1041 African Americans (65±9 years, 72% women) with hypertension. LV mass and aortic root diameter were measured according to the American Society of Echocardiography guidelines, and LV mass was indexed by height to the power 2.7 (LVMi). Multivariable regression analyses were used to assess whether plasma CT-pro-ET-1 was associated with LVMi and aortic root diameter, independent of potential confounding variables. Plasma CT-pro-ET-1 was modestly correlated with LVMi (r=0.21, P<0.0001) and aortic root diameter (r=0.09, P=0.004). In separate multivariable regression models that adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, total and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, smoking history, diabetes, history of myocardial infarction or stroke, and blood pressure-lowering medication and statin use, log CT-pro-ET-1 was significantly associated with greater LVMi (P=0.001) and larger aortic root diameter (P=0.006). CT-pro-ET-1 is independently associated with LVMi and aortic root diameter and may be a marker of target-organ damage in African-Americans adults with hypertension.
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Campen MJ, Lund AK, Knuckles TL, Conklin DJ, Bishop B, Young D, Seilkop S, Seagrave J, Reed MD, McDonald JD. Inhaled diesel emissions alter atherosclerotic plaque composition in ApoE(-/-) mice. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2009; 242:310-7. [PMID: 19891982 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2009.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2009] [Revised: 09/29/2009] [Accepted: 10/27/2009] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Recent epidemiological studies suggest that traffic-related air pollution may have detrimental effects on cardiovascular health. Previous studies reveal that gasoline emissions can induce several enzyme pathways involved in the formation and development of atherosclerotic plaques. As a direct comparison, the present study examined the impact of diesel engine emissions on these pathways, and further examined the effects on vascular lesion pathology. Apolipoprotein E-null mice were simultaneously placed on a high-fat chow diet and exposed to four concentrations, plus a high concentration exposure with particulates (PM) removed by filtration, of diesel emissions for 6 h/day for 50 days. Aortas were subsequently assayed for alterations in matrix metalloproteinase-9, endothelin-1, and several other biomarkers. Diesel induced dose-related alterations in gene markers of vascular remodeling and aortic lipid peroxidation; filtration of PM did not significantly alter these vascular responses, indicating that the gaseous portion of the exhaust was a principal driver. Immunohistochemical analysis of aortic leaflet sections revealed no net increase in lesion area, but a significant decrease in lipid-rich regions and increasing trends in macrophage accumulation and collagen content, suggesting that plaques were advanced to a more fragile, potentially more vulnerable state by diesel exhaust exposure. Combined with previous studies, these results indicate that whole emissions from mobile sources may have a significant role in promoting chronic vascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Campen
- Toxicology Division, Lovelace Respiratory Research Institute, Albuquerque, NM, USA.
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21
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Sun XZ, Li ZF, Liu Y, Fang P, Li MX. Inhibition of cGMP phosphodiesterase 5 suppresses matrix metalloproteinase-2 production in pulmonary artery smooth muscles cells. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2009; 37:362-7. [PMID: 19793106 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1681.2009.05304.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
1. It has been shown that the beneficial effects of phosphodiesterase (PDE) 5 inhibition on pulmonary hypertension (PH) are associated with the induction of vascular relaxation and suppression of the proliferation of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMC). In the present study, we investigated whether PDE5 inhibition affects the production and/or secretion of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in PASMC, resulting in extracellular matrix remodelling in the pulmonary vasculature and, thus, the development of PH. 2. Primary cultured PASMC were stimulated with endothelin (ET)-1 and MMP-2 production and RhoA activation were then determinded using gelatin zymography and a GTP-bound RhoA assay, respectively. The effects of the selective PDE5 inhibitor sildenafil and subsequent protein kinase G-specific inhibitor Rp-8Br-cGMPs on MMP-2 production and RhoA activation were further exmamined. 3. Endothelin-1 (1-1000 nmol/L) concentration-dependently stimulated MMP-2 production and/or secretion in primary cultured PASMC, with 100 nmol/L ET-1 causing a 2.41-fold increase in MMP-2 production compared with control (P < 0.01). This increase in MMP-2 production was accompanied by RhoA activation, which was abolished by preincubation of cells with 10 micromol/L Y27632, an inhibitor of Rho-associated kinase (ROCK). Furthermore, 10 micromol/L Y27632 abolished the ET-1-induced production of MMP-2. 4. The selective PDE5 inhibitor sildenafil (0.1-1 micromol/L) concentration-dependently reduced the increased MMP-2 production induced by 100 nmol/L ET-1. Specifically, in the presence of 1 micromol/L sildenafil, the 100 nmol/L ET-1-induced increase in MMP-2 production was only increased 1.3-fold over that of the control (P < 0.01 vs 100 nmol/L ET-1-stimulated cells). 5. Suppression of RhoA activation was found to mediate the inhibitory effect of sildenafil on ET-1-induced increases in MMP-2 production. Furthermore, the protein kinase G-specific inhibitor Rp-8Br-cGMPs reversed the inhibitory effects of sildenafil on RhoA activation and MMP-2 production. 6. The results of the present study indicate that PDE5 inhibition suppresses RhoA/ROCK-mediated MMP-2 production by PASMC, which may contribute to the regulation of pulmonary vascular remodelling. Thus, PDE5 inhibition may benefit patients with PH through multiple mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiu-Zhen Sun
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Medical College, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
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22
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Reel B, Oktay G, Ozkal S, Islekel H, Ozer E, Ozsarlak-Sozer G, Cavdar Z, Akhisaroglu ST, Kerry Z. MMP-2 and MMP-9 Alteration in Response to Collaring in Rabbits: The Effects of Endothelin Receptor Antagonism. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol Ther 2009; 14:292-301. [DOI: 10.1177/1074248409343690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and, in particular, gelatinases (MMP-2 and MMP-9), have been implicated in vascular cell proliferation and/or migration, contributing to intimal thickening, an essential stage in the development of atherosclerosis and restenosis following balloon angioplasty. Endothelin, a strong chemoatractant and mitogen, has been shown to promote smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration by activating MMPs via endothelin-A (ETA) receptors. The positioning of a soft silicon collar around the left carotid artery in rabbits results in intimal thickening. In this study, we investigate the possible role of gelatinases and the effect of a nonselective ETA/ETB receptor antagonist, TAK-044 (5 mg/kg body weight/day, subcutaneously [sc]), on these enzymes. Our results demonstrated that both MMP-2 and MMP-9 activities increased in response to collaring in placebo group, while treatment with TAK-044 significantly suppressed both gelatinase activities and proMMP-2 levels, and inhibited intimal thickening in collared arteries. These results suggest that either enhanced MMP expression or endothelin receptor antagonism may be involved in the formation of intimal thickening in this model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Buket Reel
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ege University, Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Gulgun Oktay
- Department of Biochemistry, Ege University, Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Sermin Ozkal
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Inciralti, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Huray Islekel
- Department of Biochemistry, Ege University, Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Erdener Ozer
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Inciralti, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Gonen Ozsarlak-Sozer
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ege University, Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Zahide Cavdar
- Department of Biochemistry, Ege University, Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
| | | | - Zeliha Kerry
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ege University, Bornova, Izmir, Turkey,
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Davie NJ, Schermuly RT, Weissmann N, Grimminger F, Ghofrani HA. The science of endothelin-1 and endothelin receptor antagonists in the management of pulmonary arterial hypertension: current understanding and future studies. Eur J Clin Invest 2009; 39 Suppl 2:38-49. [PMID: 19335746 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2362.2009.02120.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Pathological vascular remodelling is a key contributor to the symptomatology of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), and reversing this process may offer the best hope for improving this debilitating condition. The vascular remodelling process is believed to be due to endothelial cell dysfunction and to involve altered production of endothelial cell-derived vasoactive mediators. The observation that circulating plasma levels of the vasoactive peptide endothelin (ET)-1 are raised in patients with PAH, and that ET-1 production is increased in the pulmonary tissue of affected individuals, makes it a particularly interesting target for a therapeutic intervention in PAH. Clinical trials with ET receptor antagonists (ETRAs) show that they provide symptomatic benefit in patients with PAH, thereby proving the clinical relevance of the ET system as a therapeutic target. In this paper, we review the role of ET-1 together with the available data on the roles of the specific ET receptors and ETRAs in PAH. In particular, we discuss the possible role of ET receptor selectivity in the vascular remodelling process in PAH and whether selective ET(A) or nonselective ET(A)/ET(B) blockade offers the greatest potential to improve symptoms and alter the clinical course of the disease.
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Matsumoto T, Ishida K, Nakayama N, Kobayashi T, Kamata K. Involvement of NO and MEK/ERK pathway in enhancement of endothelin-1-induced mesenteric artery contraction in later-stage type 2 diabetic Goto-Kakizaki rat. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2009; 296:H1388-97. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00043.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Endothelin (ET)-1 is a likely candidate for a key role in diabetic vascular complications. However, no abnormalities in the vascular responsiveness to ET-1 have been identified in the chronic stage of type 2 diabetes. Our goal was to look for abnormalities in the roles played by ET receptors (ETA and ETB) in the mesenteric artery of the type 2 diabetic Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rat and to identify the molecular mechanisms involved. Using mesenteric arteries from later-stage (32–38 wk old) individuals, we compared the ET-1-induced contraction and the relaxation induced by the selective ETB receptor agonist IRL1620 between GK rats and control Wistar rats. Mesenteric artery ERK activity and the protein expressions for ET receptors and MEK were also measured. In GK rats (vs. age-matched Wistar rats), we found as follows. 1) The ET-1-induced contraction was greater and was attenuated by BQ-123 (ETA antagonist) but not by BQ-788 (ETB antagonist). In the controls, BQ-788 augmented this contraction. 2) Both the relaxation and nitric oxide (NO) production induced by IRL1620 were reduced. 3) ET-1-induced contraction was enhanced by NG-nitro-l-arginine (l-NNA; NO synthase inhibitor) but suppressed by sodium nitroprusside (NO donor). 4) The enhanced ET-1-induced contraction was reduced by MEK/ERK pathway inhibitors (PD-98059 or U0126). 5) ET-1-stimulated ERK activation was increased, as were the ETA and MEK1/2 protein expressions. 6) Mesenteric ET-1 content was increased. These results suggest that upregulation of ETA, a defect in ETB-mediated NO signaling, and activation of the MEK/ERK pathway together represent a likely mechanism mediating the hyperreactivity to ET-1 examined in this study.
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Lund AK, Lucero J, Lucas S, Madden MC, McDonald JD, Seagrave JC, Knuckles TL, Campen MJ. Vehicular emissions induce vascular MMP-9 expression and activity associated with endothelin-1-mediated pathways. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2009; 29:511-7. [PMID: 19150882 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.108.176107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Mechanisms of air pollution-induced exacerbation of cardiovascular disease are currently unknown, thus we examined the roles of vascular endothelin-1 (ET-1) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in regulating mediators of vascular remodeling, namely matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), after exposure to vehicle engine emissions. METHODS AND RESULTS ApoE(-/-) mice were exposed by inhalation to filtered air or gasoline engine exhaust (GEE, 1:12 dilution) 6 hours per day for 1 or 7 days. Concurrently, mice were treated with either ET(A) receptor antagonist BQ-123 (100 ng/kg/d) via osmotic minipumps, Tempol (approximately 41 mg/kg/d, orally), or vehicle. GEE-exposure increased vascular MMP-2 and -9, endothelin-1 (ET-1), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMP)-2 mRNA and ROS levels. Aortic MMP protein and plasma MMP-9 were similarly upregulated. GEE-mediated increases in vascular ROS were attenuated by Tempol-treatment, as were MMP-2 and TIMP-2; whereas BQ-123 ameliorated GEE-induced vascular expression of MMP-9, MMP-2, ROS, and ET-1. In a parallel study, diesel exhaust exposure in volunteer human subjects induced significant increases in plasma ET-1 and MMP-9 expression and activity. CONCLUSIONS These findings demonstrate that acute exposure to vehicular source air pollutants results in upregulation of circulating and vascular factors associated with progression of atherosclerosis, mediated in part through activation of ET-1-ET(A) receptor pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amie K Lund
- Lovelace Respiratory Research Institute,Department of Toxicology, Albuquerque, NM 87108, USA
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Diabetic state, high plasma insulin and angiotensin II combine to augment endothelin-1-induced vasoconstriction via ETA receptors and ERK. Br J Pharmacol 2008; 155:974-83. [PMID: 19029977 DOI: 10.1038/bjp.2008.327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Mechanisms associated with the enhanced contractile response to endothelin-1 in hyperinsulinaemic diabetes have been examined using the rat aorta. Functions for angiotensin II, endothelin-1 receptor expression and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) have been investigated. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats were infused with angiotensin II or, following insulin treatment, were treated with losartan, an angiotensin II receptor antagonist. Contractions of aortic strips with or without endothelium, in response to endothelin-1 and angiotensin II, were examined in vitro. Aortic ET(A) receptors and ERK/MEK expression were measured by western blotting. KEY RESULTS Insulin-treated diabetic rats exhibited increases in plasma insulin, angiotensin II and endothelin-1. The systolic blood pressure and endothelin-1-induced contractile responses in aortae in vitro were enhanced in insulin-treated diabetic rats and blunted by chronic losartan administration. LY294002 (phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase inhibitor) and/or PD98059 (MEK inhibitor) diminished the enhanced contractile response to endothelin-1 in aortae from insulin-treated diabetic rats. ET(A) and ET(B) receptors, ERK-1/2 and MEK-1/2 protein expression and endothelin-1-stimulated ERK phosphorylation were all increased in aortae from insulin-treated diabetic rats. Such increases were blunted by chronic losartan administration. Endothelin-1-induced contraction was significantly higher in aortae from angiotensin II-infused diabetic rats. angiotensin II-infusion increased ERK phosphorylation, but the expression of endothelin receptors and ERK/MEK proteins remained unchanged. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These results suggest that the combination of high plasma angiotensin II and insulin with a diabetic state induced enhancement of endothelin-1-induced vasoconstriction, ET(A) receptor expression and ERK expression/activity in the aorta. Losartan improved both the diabetes-related abnormalities and the diabetic hypertension.
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27
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Opitz CF, Ewert R, Kirch W, Pittrow D. Inhibition of endothelin receptors in the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension: does selectivity matter? Eur Heart J 2008; 29:1936-48. [PMID: 18562303 PMCID: PMC2515885 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehn234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment options for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) have considerably improved in the past few years. Endothelin (ET)-receptor antagonism has been established as a first-line option for the majority of PAH patients. Endothelin-receptor antagonists (ETRAs) comprise sulfonamide and non-sulfonamide agents with different affinities for ET-receptor subtypes (ETA and ETB), and the focus of development has shifted from drugs with less selectivity to those with high selectivity. There is ongoing debate as to whether selective or non-selective ET-receptor antagonism is more beneficial in the treatment of PAH. This paper reviews the current evidence from experimental and clinical studies obtained from a thorough literature search focusing on the three marketed drugs bosentan, sitaxentan, and ambrisentan. A clinically meaningful difference among the three approved ETRAs with respect to their ET-receptor selectivity could not be demonstrated to date. Therefore, in clinical practice, other features are likely to be of greater relevance when considering treatment, such as the potential for serious drug–drug interactions, convenience of dosing schedule, or rates of limiting side effects. These characteristics bear more relation to the chemical or pharmacological properties of the drugs than to receptor selectivity itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian F Opitz
- Department of Internal Medicine, DRK-Kliniken Berlin, Köpenick, Berlin, Germany.
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Sachidanandam K, Portik-Dobos V, Harris AK, Hutchinson JR, Muller E, Johnson MH, Ergul A. Evidence for vasculoprotective effects of ETB receptors in resistance artery remodeling in diabetes. Diabetes 2007; 56:2753-8. [PMID: 17670915 DOI: 10.2337/db07-0426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Vascular remodeling, characterized by extracellular matrix deposition and increased media-to-lumen (M/l) ratio, contributes to the development of microvascular complications in diabetes. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play an important role in the regulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) turnover and vascular remodeling. Vasoactive factor endothelin (ET)-1 not only causes potent vasoconstriction but also exerts profibrotic and proliferative effects that change vessel architecture, which makes it a likely candidate for a key role in vascular complications of diabetes. Thus, this study investigated the regulation of MMP activity of resistance arteries under mild-to-moderate diabetes conditions, as seen in type 2 diabetes, and the relative role of ET receptors in this process. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Vessel structure, MMP activity, and ECM proteins were assessed in control Wistar and diabetic Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rats treated with vehicle, ET(A) receptor antagonist atrasentan (5 mg x kg(-1) x day(-1)), or ET(B) receptor antagonist A-192621 (15 mg x kg(-1) x day(-1)) for 4 weeks. RESULTS M/l ratio was increased in diabetes. Atrasentan prevented this increase, whereas A-192621 caused further thickening of the medial layer. Increased MMP-2 activity in diabetes was prevented by atrasentan treatment. Collagenase activity was significantly decreased in diabetes, and while ET(A) antagonism improved enzyme activity, ET(B) blockade further reduced collagenase levels. Accordingly, collagen deposition was augmented in GK rats, which was reversed by atrasentan but exacerbated with A-192621. CONCLUSIONS ET-1 contributes to the remodeling of mesenteric resistance arteries in diabetes via activation of ET(A) receptors, and ET(B) receptors provide vasculoprotective effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamakshi Sachidanandam
- Program in Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Georgia College of Pharmacy, Augusta, Georgia, USA
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Watts SW, Rondelli C, Thakali K, Li X, Uhal B, Pervaiz MH, Watson RE, Fink GD. Morphological and biochemical characterization of remodeling in aorta and vena cava of DOCA-salt hypertensive rats. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2007; 292:H2438-48. [PMID: 17237246 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00900.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Arterial remodeling occurs in response to mechanical and neurohumoral stimuli. We hypothesized that veins, which are not exposed to higher pressures in hypertension, would demonstrate less active remodeling than arteries. We assessed remodeling with two standard measures of arterial remodeling: vessel morphometry and the expression/function of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Thoracic aorta and vena cava from sham normotensive and DOCA-salt hypertensive rats (110 ± 4 and 188 ± 8 mmHg systolic blood pressure, respectively) were used. Wall thickness was increased in DOCA-salt vs. sham aorta (301 ± 23 vs. 218 ± 14 μm, P < 0.05), as was medial area, but neither measure was altered in the vena cava. The aorta and vena cava expressed the gelatinases MMP-2, MMP-9, transmembrane proteinase MT1-MMP, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2). Immunohistochemically, MMP-2 localized to smooth muscle in the aorta and densely in endothelium/smooth muscle of the vena cava. Western and zymographic analyses verified that MMP-2 was active in all vessels and less active in the vena cava than aorta. In hypertension, MMP-2 expression and activity in the aorta were increased (59.1 ± 3.7 and 74.5 ± 6.1 units in sham and DOCA, respectively, P < 0.05); similar elevations were not observed in the vena cava. MMP-9 was weakly expressed in all vessels. MT1-MMP was expressed by the aorta and vena cava and elevated in the vena cava from DOCA-salt rats. TIMP-2 expression was significantly increased in the aorta of DOCA rats compared with sham but was barely detectable in the vena cava of sham or DOCA-salt hypertensive rats. These findings suggest that large veins may not undergo vascular remodeling in DOCA-salt hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie W Watts
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823-1317, USA.
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30
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Saka M, Obata K, Ichihara S, Cheng XW, Kimata H, Nishizawa T, Noda A, Izawa H, Nagata K, Murohara T, Yokota M. Pitavastatin improves cardiac function and survival in association with suppression of the myocardial endothelin system in a rat model of hypertensive heart failure. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2006; 47:770-9. [PMID: 16810078 DOI: 10.1097/01.fjc.0000211791.22411.0d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Statin therapy may be associated with lower mortality in patients with heart failure, but the underlying mechanism of such an association is unknown. We have evaluated the effects of pitavastatin on cardiac function and survival in a rat model of hypertensive heart failure and investigated the molecular mechanism of the observed effects. Dahl salt-sensitive rats fed with high-salt diet from 7 weeks of age developed compensatory left ventricular hypertrophy at 12 weeks and heart failure at 19 weeks. Dahl salt-sensitive rats were treated with either vehicle or pitavastatin (0.3 mg/kg per day) from 7 or 12 weeks. Both early-onset and late-onset pitavastatin treatment reduced left ventricular fibrosis, improved cardiac function, and increased the survival rate apparent at 19 weeks. The increases in the expression levels of hypertrophic, profibrotic, and metalloproteinase genes as well as in gelatinase activities in the heart induced by the high-salt diet were suppressed by pitavastatin treatment. Furthermore, the level of cardiac endothelin-1 was increased in association with the development of heart failure in a manner sensitive to treatment with pitavastatin. Both early and late pitavastatin treatment thus improved cardiac function and survival, with modulation of extracellular matrix remodeling and endothelin-1 signaling possibly contributing to these beneficial effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masako Saka
- Department of Cardiovascular Genome Science, Nagoya University School of Medicine, Japan
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31
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Ergul A, Jupin D, Johnson MH, Prisant LM. Elevated endothelin-1 levels are associated with decreased arterial elasticity in hypertensive patients. J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich) 2006; 8:549-54. [PMID: 16896270 PMCID: PMC8109661 DOI: 10.1111/j.1524-6175.2006.05514.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Endothelin-1 stimulates collagen synthesis and is increased in hypertension, but its effect on collagen degradation remains unknown. The current study tested the hypothesis that elevated endothelin-1 levels are associated with decreased collagenase activity, markers of collagen degradation, and arterial compliance in hypertensive patients. Normotensive (n = 10) and hypertensive (n = 13) patients who were not on any antihypertensive medication were recruited, and small and large artery elasticity index, systemic vascular resistance, pulse pressure, and blood pressure were determined using blood pressure waveform analysis. Large artery elasticity index and collagen degradation products were decreased whereas endothelin-1, systemic vascular resistance, and pulse pressure were elevated in hypertensive patients. Plasma endothelin-1 was negatively correlated with a cross-linked C-terminal telopeptide of collagen type I, a collagen degradation marker (r = -0.43; p = 0.04), collagenase matrix metalloproteinase-1 (r = -0.48; p = 0.02), and large artery elasticity (r = -0.45; p = 0.03) and positively correlated with pulse pressure (r = 0.68; p = 0.0005). These results suggest that endothelin-1 contributes to decreased arterial compliance in hypertension via inhibition of collagen degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adviye Ergul
- Program in Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Georgia College of Pharmacy, Athens, GA, USA.
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32
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Wright JL, Tai H, Wang R, Wang X, Churg A. Cigarette smoke upregulates pulmonary vascular matrix metalloproteinases via TNF-alpha signaling. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2006; 292:L125-33. [PMID: 16905636 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00539.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cigarette smoke exposure causes vascular remodeling and pulmonary hypertension by poorly understood mechanisms. To ascertain whether cigarette smoke exposure affects production of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in the pulmonary vessels, we exposed C57Bl/6 (C57) mice or mice lacking TNF-alpha receptors (TNFRKO) to smoke daily for 2 wk or 6 mo. Using laser capture microdissection and RT-PCR analysis, we examined gene expression of MMP-2, MMP-9, MMP-12, MMP-13, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP-1) and examined protein production by immunohistochemistry for MMP-2, MMP-9, and MMP-12 in small intrapulmonary arteries. At 2 wk, mRNA levels of TIMP-1 and all MMPs were increased in the C57, but not TNFRKO, mice, and immunoreactive protein for MMP-2, MMP-9, and MMP-12 was also increased in the C57 mice. Increased gelatinase activity was identified by in situ and bulk tissue zymography. At 6 mo, only MMP-12 mRNA levels remained increased in the C57 mice, but at a much lower level; however, MMP-2 mRNA levels increased in the TNFRKO mice. We conclude that smoke exposure increases MMP production in the small intrapulmonary arteries but that, with the exception of MMP-12, increased MMP production is transient. MMPs probably play a role in smoke-induced vascular remodeling, as they do in other forms of pulmonary hypertension, implying that MMP inhibitors might be beneficial. MMP production is largely TNF-alpha dependent, further supporting the importance of TNF-alpha in the pathogenesis of cigarette smoke-induced lung disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- J L Wright
- Department of Pathology, University of British Columbia, 2211 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 2B5, USA.
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33
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Song W, Ergul A. Type-2 diabetes-induced changes in vascular extracellular matrix gene expression: relation to vessel size. Cardiovasc Diabetol 2006; 5:3. [PMID: 16503991 PMCID: PMC1434726 DOI: 10.1186/1475-2840-5-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2005] [Accepted: 02/17/2006] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hyperglycemia-induced changes in vascular wall structure contribute to the pathogenesis of diabetic microvascular and macrovascular complications. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP), a family of proteolytic enzymes that degrade extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, are essential for vascular remodeling. We have shown that endothelin-1 (ET-1) mediates increased MMP activity and associated vascular remodeling in Type 2 diabetes. However, the effect of Type 2 diabetes and/or ET-1 on the regulation of ECM and MMP gene expression in different vascular beds remains unknown. METHODS Aorta and mesenteric artery samples were isolated from control, Type 2 diabetic Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rats and GK rats treated with ETA antagonist ABT-627. Gene expression profile of MMP-2, MMP-9, MT1-MMP, fibronectin, procollagen type 1, c-fos and c-jun, were determined by quantitative real-time (qRT) PCR. In addition, aortic gene expression profile was evaluated by an ECM & Adhesion Molecules pathway specific microarray approach. RESULTS Analysis of the qRT-PCR data demonstrated a significant increase in mRNA levels of MMPs and ECM proteins as compared to control animals after 6 weeks of mild diabetes. Furthermore, these changes were comparable in aorta and mesentery samples. In contrast, treatment with ETA antagonist prevented diabetes-induced changes in expression of MMPs and procollagen type 1 in mesenteric arteries but not in aorta. Microarray analysis provided evidence that 27 extracellular matrix genes were differentially regulated in diabetes. Further qRT-PCR with selected 7 genes confirmed the microarray data. CONCLUSION These results suggest that the expression of both matrix scaffold protein and matrix degrading MMP genes are altered in macro and microvascular beds in Type 2 diabetes. ETA antagonism restores the changes in gene expression in the mesenteric bed but not in aorta suggesting that ET-1 differentially regulates microvascular gene expression in Type 2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- WeiWei Song
- Program in Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, the University of Georgia College of Pharmacy, Augusta, Georgia 30912, USA
| | - Adviye Ergul
- Program in Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, the University of Georgia College of Pharmacy, Augusta, Georgia 30912, USA
- Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, Georgia 30912, USA
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Portik-Dobos V, Harris AK, Song W, Hutchinson J, Johnson MH, Imig JD, Pollock DM, Ergul A. Endothelin antagonism prevents early EGFR transactivation but not increased matrix metalloproteinase activity in diabetes. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2005; 290:R435-41. [PMID: 16239374 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00300.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Although past studies have demonstrated decreased renal matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity in type 1 diabetes and in mesangial cells grown under high glucose conditions, renal MMP expression and activity in type 2 diabetes and the regulation of MMPs by profibrotic factors involved in diabetic renal complications such as endothelin-1 (ET-1) remained unknown. The renal expression and activity of MMPs in type 2 diabetic Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rats treated with vehicle or ET(A) receptor selective antagonist ABT-627 for 4 wk were assessed by gelatin zymography, fluorogenic gelatinase assay, and immunoblotting. In addition, expression and phosphorylation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and connective tissue growth factor were evaluated by immunoblotting. Renal sections stained with Masson trichrome were used to investigate kidney structure. MMP-2 activity and protein levels were significantly increased in both cortical and medullary regions in the GK rats. Membrane-bound MMP (MT1-MMP), MMP-9, and fibronectin levels were also increased, and ABT-627 treatment did not have an effect on MMP activity and expression. Histological analysis of kidneys did not reveal any structural changes. Phosphorylation of EGFR was significantly increased in the diabetic animals, and ABT-627 treatment prevented this increase, suggesting ET-1-mediated transactivation of EGFR. These results suggest that there is early upregulation of renal MMPs in the absence of any kidney damage. Although the ET(A) receptor subtype is not involved in the early activation of MMPs in type 2 diabetes, ET-1 contributes to transactivation of growth-promoting and profibrotic EGFR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Portik-Dobos
- Program in Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, Univerisity of Georgia, College of Pharmacy, Georgia 3091, USA
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Harris AK, Hutchinson JR, Sachidanandam K, Johnson MH, Dorrance AM, Stepp DW, Fagan SC, Ergul A. Type 2 diabetes causes remodeling of cerebrovasculature via differential regulation of matrix metalloproteinases and collagen synthesis: role of endothelin-1. Diabetes 2005; 54:2638-44. [PMID: 16123352 DOI: 10.2337/diabetes.54.9.2638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The risk of cerebrovascular disease is four- to sixfold higher in patients with diabetes. Vascular remodeling, characterized by extracellular matrix deposition and an increased media-to-lumen ratio, occurs in diabetes and contributes to the development of complications. However, diabetes-induced changes in the cerebrovascular structure remain unknown. Endothelin-1 (ET-1), a potent vasoconstrictor with profibrotic properties, is chronically elevated in diabetes. To determine diabetes-mediated changes in the cerebrovasculature and the role of ET-1 in this process, type 2 diabetic Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rats were administered an ET(A) receptor antagonist for 4 weeks. Middle cerebral arteries were harvested and studies were performed to determine vascular structure. Tissue and plasma ET-1 levels were increased in GK rats compared with controls. Significant medial hypertrophy and collagen deposition resulted in an increased wall-to-lumen ratio in diabetic rats that was reduced by ET(A) receptor antagonism. Vascular matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 activity was higher, but MMP-1 levels were significantly reduced in GK rats, and MMP levels were restored to control levels by ET(A) receptor antagonism. We conclude that ET-1 promotes cerebrovascular remodeling in type 2 diabetes through differential regulation of MMPs. Augmented cerebrovascular remodeling may contribute to an increased risk of stroke in diabetes, and ET(A) receptor antagonism may offer a novel therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex K Harris
- Medical College of Georgia, Clinical Pharmacy CJ-1020, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
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36
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Harris AK, Ergul A, Kozak A, Machado LS, Johnson MH, Fagan SC. Effect of neutrophil depletion on gelatinase expression, edema formation and hemorrhagic transformation after focal ischemic stroke. BMC Neurosci 2005; 6:49. [PMID: 16078993 PMCID: PMC1190186 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2202-6-49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2005] [Accepted: 08/03/2005] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background While gelatinase (MMP-2 and -9) activity is increased after focal ischemia/reperfusion injury in the brain, the relative contribution of neutrophils to the MMP activity and to the development of hemorrhagic transformation remains unknown. Results Anti-PMN treatment caused successful depletion of neutrophils in treated animals. There was no difference in either infarct volume or hemorrhage between control and PMN depleted animals. While there were significant increases in gelatinase (MMP-2 and MMP-9) expression and activity and edema formation associated with ischemia, neutrophil depletion failed to cause any change. Conclusion The main finding of this study is that, in the absence of circulating neutrophils, MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression and activity are still up-regulated following focal cerebral ischemia. Additionally, neutrophil depletion had no influence on indicators of ischemic brain damage including edema, hemorrhage, and infarct size. These findings indicate that, at least acutely, neutrophils are not a significant contributor of gelatinase activity associated with acute neurovascular damage after stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex K Harris
- Program in Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Adviye Ergul
- Program in Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Augusta, Georgia, USA
- Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Anna Kozak
- Program in Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Livia S Machado
- Program in Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Maribeth H Johnson
- Department of Biostatistics, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Susan C Fagan
- Program in Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Augusta, Georgia, USA
- Veteran's Affairs Medical Center, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, Georgia, USA
- Department of Neurology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, Georgia, USA
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Kadoglou NP, Daskalopoulou SS, Perrea D, Liapis CD. Matrix metalloproteinases and diabetic vascular complications. Angiology 2005; 56:173-89. [PMID: 15793607 DOI: 10.1177/000331970505600208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with an increased incidence of cardiovascular events and microvascular complications. These complications contribute to the morbidity and mortality associated with DM. There is increasing evidence supporting a role for matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitors (tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases - TIMPs) in the atherosclerotic process. However, the relationship between MMPs/TIMPs and diabetic angiopathy is less well defined. Hyperglycemia directly or indirectly (eg, via oxidative stress or advanced glycation products) increases MMP expression and activity. These changes are associated with histologic alterations in large vessels. On the other hand, low proteolytic activity of MMPs contributes to diabetic nephropathy. Within atherosclerotic plaques an imbalance between MMPs and TIMPs may induce matrix degradation, resulting in an increased risk of plaque rupture. Furthermore, because MMPs enhance blood coagulability, MMPs and TIMPs may play a role in acute thrombotic occlusion of vessels and consequent cardiovascular events. Some drugs can inhibit MMP activity. However, the precise mechanisms involved are still not defined. Further research is required to demonstrate the causative relationship between MMPs/TIMPs and diabetic atherosclerosis. It also remains to be established if the long-term administration of MMP inhibitors can prevent acute cardiovascular events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos P Kadoglou
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Athens University Medical School, Athens, Greece.
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38
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Douglas ML, Richardson MM, Nicol DL. Endothelin axis expression is markedly different in the two main subtypes of renal cell carcinoma. Cancer 2004; 100:2118-24. [PMID: 15139053 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.20222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The endothelin axis has been implicated in cancer growth, angiogenesis, and metastasis, but to the authors' knowledge the expression of endothelin genes has not been defined in renal cell carcinoma (RCC). METHODS Tissue specimens were harvested from both normal and tumor-affected regions at the time of radical nephrectomy from 35 patients with RCC (22 with clear cell RCC [ccRCC] and 13 with papillary RCC [PRCC]). Real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction analysis determined the expression profile of the preproendothelins (PPET-1, PPET-2, and PPET-3), the endothelin receptors (ET(A) and ET(B)), and the endothelin-converting enzymes (ECE-1 and ECE-2). RESULTS PPET-1 was found to be up-regulated in ccRCC tumor specimens and down-regulated in PRCC tumor specimens. ET(A) was significantly down-regulated in PRCC tumor specimens. ECE-1 was expressed in all tissue specimens at comparable levels, with moderate but significant elevation in normal tissue specimens associated with PRCC. Of the other genes, PPET-2 and ET(B) were expressed in all tissue specimens and no differences were observed between tumor subtypes or tumor-affected and normal tissue specimens, whereas PPET-3 and ECE-2 were present in all tissue specimens but were barely detectable. CONCLUSIONS The endothelin axis was expressed differently in the two main subtypes of RCC and appeared to match macroscopic features commonly observed in these tumors (i.e., high expression of PPET-1 in hypervascular ccRCC contrasted against low PPET-1 and ET(A) expression in hypovascular PRCC). The presence of ECE-1 mRNA in these tissue specimens suggested that active endothelin ligands were present, indicating endothelin axis activity was elevated in ccRCC compared with normal kidney, but impaired in PRCC. The current study provided further evidence that it is not appropriate to consider ccRCC and PRCC indiscriminately in regard to treatment.
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MESH Headings
- Aspartic Acid Endopeptidases
- Biomarkers, Tumor/genetics
- Carcinoma, Papillary/genetics
- Carcinoma, Papillary/surgery
- Carcinoma, Renal Cell/genetics
- Carcinoma, Renal Cell/surgery
- Endothelin-1/genetics
- Endothelin-Converting Enzymes
- Endothelins/genetics
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/genetics
- Humans
- Kidney Neoplasms/genetics
- Kidney Neoplasms/surgery
- Metalloendopeptidases/genetics
- Nephrectomy
- Protein Precursors/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Receptor, Endothelin A/genetics
- Receptor, Endothelin B/genetics
- Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Transcription, Genetic
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Affiliation(s)
- Meaghan L Douglas
- Southern Clinical Division, School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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