Metabolism of vascular smooth muscle cells in vascular diseases

Lactate Dehydrogenase A Crotonylation and Mono-Ubiquitination Maintains Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Growth and Migration and Promotes Neointima Hyperplasia

BACKGROUND

Phenotypic plasticity of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) is believed to be a key factor in neointima hyperplasia, which is the pathological basis of vascular remodeling diseases. LDHA (lactate dehydrogenase A) has been demonstrated to promote the proliferation and migration of VSMCs. However, the mechanism is still unclear.

METHODS AND RESULTS

LDHA ubiquitination and crotonylation in VSMCs were predicted by modified omics and proteomic analysis and were verified by immunoprecipitation. Lysine mutants of LDHA were conducted to determine the specific modified sites. Immunofluorescent staining, cell growth and migration assays, lactate production, immunobloting, adenovirus transduction, LDHA tetramerization, and mitochondrial extraction assays were performed to determine the molecular mechanism. LDHA expression, crotonylation, and ubiquitination in vivo were observed in the carotid arteries of ligation injury mice. We showed that the expression, crotonylation, and mono-ubiquitination of LDHA is upregulated in PDGF-BB (platelet-derived growth factor-BB)-induced proliferative VSMCs and ligation-induced neointima. LDHA is crotonylated at lysine 5 and is mono-ubiquitinated at K76. Crotonylation at lysine 5 activates LDHA through tetramer formation to enhance lactate production and VSMC growth. Mono-ubiquitination at K76 induces the translocation of LDHA into mitochondria, which promotes mitochondria fission and subsequent formation of lamellipodia and podosomes, thereby enhancing VSMC migration and growth. Furthermore, deletion of LDHA K5 crotonylation or K76 mono-ubiquitination decreases ligation-induced neointima formation.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study reveals a novel mechanism that combines VSMC metabolic reprogramming and vascular remodeling. Inhibition of LDHA K5 crotonylation or K76 mono-ubiquitination may be a promising approach for the therapy of vascular remodeling diseases.

Arachidonic acid is involved in high-salt diet-induced coronary remodeling through stimulation of the IRE1α/XBP1s/RUNX2/OPN signaling cascade

BACKGROUND

The impact of a high-salt (HS) diet on metabolic disturbances in individuals with coronary heart disease remains unclear. The arachidonic acid (AA) metabolic pathway is closely linked to the development of cardiometabolic diseases and atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) has emerged as a major contributor to cardiometabolic diseases. AA-related inflammation and ERS are hypothesized to play a role in HS diet-induced coronary remodeling.

METHODS

Rats were subjected to an HS diet for 4 weeks, and the serum concentration of AA was measured via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Immunofluorescence staining and vascular tension measurements were conducted on coronary arteries. In addition, AA-stimulated coronary artery smooth muscle cells (CASMCs) were treated with ERS inhibitors to explore the underlying pathway involved.

RESULTS

Increased susceptibility to myocardial infarction in the HS diet-fed rats was accompanied by increased serum AA concentrations and increased expression of the key AA metabolic enzyme cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). AA incubation weakened the contraction of denuded coronary arteries, reduced the expression of contraction markers, and increased the fluorescence intensity of synthetic and ERS response markers in coronary arteries. Further investigation of CASMCs revealed that AA-induced phenotypic transformation was mediated via the ERS pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

ERS and AA were found to be stimulated in CASMCs following an HS diet. AA triggers an ERS response through COX-2 catalysis, and the downstream inositol requiring enzyme 1 - X-box binding protein-1 - osteopontin pathway may contribute to the AA-induced phenotypic transformation of CASMCs, resulting in dysfunctional coronary tension. This study may provide potential therapeutic targets for cardiovascular diseases associated with excessive AA-derived ERS.

EUGENOL RESTRAINS ANGIOTENSIN II-INDUCED DEATH, INFLAMMATION AND FERROPTOSIS OF VASCULAR SMOOTH MUSCLE CELLS BY TARGETING STAT3/HMGB2 AXIS

ABSTRACT

Background: Eugenol has been found to inhibit a variety of disease processes, including abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) formation. However, the specific role and the underlying molecular mechanism of Eugenol in AAA progression need to be further revealed. Methods: Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) were pretreated with Eugenol, followed by treated with Angiotensin II (Ang-II). VSMCs were transfected with HMGB2 siRNA or overexpression vector and treated with Ang-II to confirm the effect of HMGB2 on AAA progression. Cell proliferation and death were determined using cell counting kit 8 assay, 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine assay, and flow cytometry. Inflammatory factors were examined by ELISA. Fe 2+ , glutathione, and malondialdehyde levels were tested to evaluate cell ferroptosis. The protein levels of ferroptosis-related markers, high mobility group box 2 (HMGB2), and STAT3 were measured using western blot. Human AAA tissues and normal abdominal aortic tissues were collected to detect HMGB2 mRNA expression by quantitative real-time PCR. The interaction between HMGB2 and STAT3 was confirmed by chromatin immunoprecipitation assay and dual-luciferase reporter assay. Results: Eugenol enhanced VSMCs proliferation, while restrained Ang-II-induced death, inflammation, and ferroptosis. HMGB2 was upregulated in AAA tissues and Ang-II-induced VSMCs, and Eugenol significantly decreased HMGB2 expression. HMGB2 knockdown reduced Ang-II-induced VSMCs death, inflammation, and ferroptosis, Besides, HMGB2 overexpression abolished the effect of Eugenol on Ang-II-induced VSMCs injury. Transcription factor STAT3 bound to HMGB2 promoter region to increase its expression. In addition, Eugenol decreased STAT3 expression to regulate HMGB2. Conclusion: Eugenol could slow down the development of AAA, which might be achieved by regulating STAT3/HMGB2 axis.

KLF4's role in regulating nitric oxide production and promoting microvascular formation following ischemic stroke

This study examines KLF4's role in endothelial cells (ECs), emphasizing its effects on nitric oxide (NO) production, microvascular formation, and oxidative stress regulation following ischemic stroke. Through high-throughput sequencing, we identified eight cell subpopulations in carotid artery tissues post-stroke, with KLF4 notably elevated in ECs. KLF4 overexpression in ECs promoted NO synthesis, enhanced endothelial tube formation, mitigated oxidative stress, and improved smooth muscle cells (SMCs) function, collectively boosting blood flow in ischemic regions. These findings highlight KLF4 as pivotal in vascular regeneration and oxidative stress reduction, positioning it as a promising target for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular therapies.

Dehydrodiisoeugenol inhibits PDGF-BB-induced proliferation and migration of human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells via the mTOR/HIF1-α/HK2 signaling pathway

Abnormal proliferation and migration of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) leading to pulmonary vascular remodeling are critical factors in the development of pulmonary hypertension (pH). Dehydrodiisoeugenol (DEH), a natural phenolic compound, is renowned for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the precise role and mechanisms of DEH in PH remain unclear. In this study, human PASMCs were exposed to PDGF-BB for 48 h to establish an in vitro model. Subsequently, cells were treated with DEH, and assessments of cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis were performed using CCK-8/EdU assays, scratch/transwell assays, and flow cytometry. The results showed that PDGF-BB induced phenotypic modulation, proliferation, and migration of PASMCs while reducing apoptosis. Treatment with DEH effectively reversed these effects. Bioinformatics analysis identified mTOR as a target of DEH action. Western blot experiments were conducted to evaluate the expression of proteins involved in the mTOR/HIF1-α/HK2 signaling pathway, suggesting that DEH modulates this pathway by targeting and inhibiting mTOR. After treating cells with mTOR inhibitors, cellular glycolysis was assessed using the extracellular acidification rate (ECAR) assay. The results indicated that inhibition of mTOR phosphorylation decreased aerobic glycolysis in PASMCs and suppressed cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis resistance, regardless of PDGF-BB treatment. Activation of mTOR reversed the inhibition of PDGF-BB-induced PASMC-related protein expression by DEH. These findings suggest that DEH inhibits aerobic glycolysis in PDGF-BB-induced PASMCs through the mTOR/HIF1-α/HK2 signaling pathway, thereby suppressing cell proliferation, migration, and resistance to apoptosis. Consequently, DEH holds promise as a novel therapeutic agent for treating pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Transient receptor potential melastatin 7 cation channel, magnesium and cell metabolism in vascular health and disease

Preserving the balance of metabolic processes in endothelial cells (ECs) and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), is crucial for optimal vascular function and integrity. ECs are metabolically active and depend on aerobic glycolysis to efficiently produce energy for their essential functions, which include regulating vascular tone. Impaired EC metabolism is linked to endothelial damage, increased permeability and inflammation. Metabolic alterations in VSMCs also contribute to vascular dysfunction in atherosclerosis and hypertension. Magnesium (Mg2+) is the second most abundant intracellular divalent cation and influences molecular processes that regulate vascular function, including vasodilation, vasoconstriction, and release of vasoactive substances. Mg2+ is critically involved in maintaining cellular homeostasis and metabolism since it is an essential cofactor for ATP, nucleic acids and hundreds of enzymes involved in metabolic processes. Low Mg2+ levels have been linked to endothelial dysfunction, increased vascular tone, vascular inflammation and arterial remodeling. Growing evidence indicates an important role for the transient receptor potential melastatin-subfamily member 7 (TRPM7) cation channel in the regulation of Mg2+ homeostasis in EC and VSMCs. In the vasculature, TRPM7 deficiency leads to impaired endothelial function, increased vascular contraction, phenotypic switching of VSMCs, inflammation and fibrosis, processes that characterize the vascular phenotype in hypertension. Here we provide a comprehensive overview on TRPM7/Mg2+ in the regulation of vascular function and how it influences EC and VSMC metabolism such as glucose and energy homeostasis, redox regulation, phosphoinositide signaling, and mineral metabolism. The putative role of TRPM7/Mg2+ and altered cellular metabolism in vascular dysfunction and hypertension is also discussed.

Qianyang Yuyin granules alleviate hypertension-induced vascular remodeling by inhibiting the phenotypic switch of vascular smooth muscle cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Qianyang Yuyin granules (QYYY) have been used clinically to treat hypertension for over two decades. Previous clinical trials have shown that QYYY can improve vascular elastic function in hypertensive patients. However, the underlying pharmacological mechanism is unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To elucidate the effects and mechanisms of QYYY on vascular remodeling using a multidisciplinary approach that includes network pharmacology, proteomics, and both in vitro and in vivo experiments.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The main components of QYYY were identified using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography and high-resolution mass spectrometry. Network pharmacology and molecular docking were employed to predict QYYY's primary active ingredients, potential therapeutic targets and intervention pathways in hypertensive vascular remodeling. We induced hypertension in male C57BL/6 mice by infusing angiotensin II (Ang II) via osmotic minipumps, and performed pre-treatment with QYYY or Sacubitril/valsartan (Entresto). Blood pressure was monitored in vivo, followed by the extraction of aortas to examine pathological structural changes and alterations in protein expression patterns. The expression and location of proteins involved in the HIF-1α/TWIST1/P-p65 signaling pathway were investigated, as well as markers of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) phenotypic switch. In vitro, we studied the effects of QYYY water extract on Ang II-stimulated human aortic VSMCs. We investigated whether QYYY could affect the HIF-1α/TWIST1/P-p65 signaling pathway, thereby ameliorating apoptosis, autophagy, and phenotype switch in VSMCs.

RESULTS

We identified 62 main compounds in QYYY, combined with network pharmacology, speculated 827 potentially active substances, and explored 1021 therapeutic targets. The KEGG pathway analysis revealed that the mechanisms of action associated with QYYY therapy potentially encompass various biological processes, including metabolic pathways, TNF signaling pathways, apoptosis, Ras signaling pathways, HIF-1 signaling pathways, autophagy-animal pathways. In hypertensive mice, QYYY restored abnormally elevated blood pressure, vascular remodeling, and inflammation with a dose-response relationship while altering abnormal protein patterns. In vitro, QYYY could inhibit abnormal proliferation, migration, intracellular Ca2+ accumulation and cytoskeletal changes of VSMCs. It improved mitochondrial function, reduced ROS levels, stabilized membrane potential, prevented cell death, and reduced overproduction of TGF-β1, TNF-a, and IL-1β.

CONCLUSION

QYYY may be able to inhibit the overactivation of the HIF-1α/TWIST1/P-p65 signaling pathway, improve the phenotypic switch, and balance apoptosis and autophagy in VSMCs, thereby effectively improving vascular remodeling caused by hypertension.

Phospholipase C epsilon 1 as a therapeutic target in cardiovascular diseases

BACKGROUND

Phospholipase C epsilon 1 (PLCε1) can hydrolyze phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate and phosphatidylinositol-4-phosphate at the plasma membrane and perinuclear membrane in the cardiovascular system, producing lipid-derived second messengers. These messengers are considered prominent triggers for various signal transduction processes. Notably, diverse cardiac phenotypes have been observed in cardiac-specific and global Plce1 knockout mice under conditions of pathological stress. It is well established that the cardiac-specific Plce1 knockout confers cardioprotective benefits. Therefore, the development of tissue/cell-specific targeting approaches is critical for advancing therapeutic interventions.

AIM OF REVIEW

This review aims to distill the foundational biology and functional significance of PLCε1 in cardiovascular diseases, as well as to explore potential avenues for research and the development of novel therapeutic strategies targeting PLCε1.

KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW

Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with incidence rates escalating annually. A comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted role of PLCε1 is essential for enhancing the diagnosis, management, and prognostic assessment of patients suffering from cardiovascular diseases.

A biosensory μvessel-gravity device for advancing vascular analysis in space medicine

Studying vascular responses to microgravity (MG) poses significant challenges in space medicine due to the limitations of conventional cell culture and animal models. To address these challenges, we have developed an innovative biosensory μvessel-gravity device that integrates organ-on-a-chip technology, 3D printing, and a 3D clinostat. This device enables cell interaction monitoring and flow shear stress modeling, thereby allowing accurate blood vessel cell sensory to changed mechanical environment. Our study reveals that simulated MG induces senescence in endothelial cells (ECs) and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) within mono-cultured μvessels. Interestingly, co-culturing ECs and VSMCs in the μvessel mitigates EC senescence, although VSMC senescence remains unaffected. Furthermore, the application of continuous flow shear stress delays EC senescence and enhances tight junction integrity under MG conditions, underscoring the importance of incorporating mechanical factors into the device. Knocking down the mechanosensor Piezo1 in VSMCs delays senescence in both VSMCs and ECs under MG, highlighting the critical role of mechanosensors in vascular responses to MG. The biosensory μvessel-gravity device presents an innovative in vitro model designed to sense vascular changes induced by gravitational forces, effectively replicating the pro-aging effects of MG on vascular tissues. This holds significant potential for advancing research in aging-related vascular diseases.

Prospective Study of lncRNA NORAD for Predicting Cerebrovascular Events in Asymptomatic Patients with Carotid Artery Stenosis

BACKGROUND

Carotid artery stenosis (CAS) may cause many cerebrovascular diseases, and a biomarker for screening and monitoring is needed. This study focused on the clinical significance of long-chain non-coding RNA (lncRNA) non-coding RNA activated by DNA damage (NORAD) in patients with CAS and aimed to search for potential biomarkers of CAS.

METHODS

Eighty-six asymptomatic patients with CAS and 60 healthy individuals were enrolled, with corresponding clinical data and serum samples collected. The expression of NORAD was detected by reverse transcription-quantitive PCR (RT-qPCR). All patients were followed up for 2 years to collected the occurrence data of cerebrovascular events, and Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression were used for data analysis. Receiver operator characteristic curve was used to analyze the diagnostic value of NORAD in distinguishing CAS patients from healthy people, and to evaluate the prediction accuracy of NORAD.

RESULTS

NORAD is overexpressed in the serum of CAS patients, and associated with patients' hypertension, TC, LDL-C levels and stenosis degree. NORAD has high sensitivity (88.37%) and specificity (80.00%) in the identification of CAS patients (AUC = 0.917). NORAD was independently related to the occurrence of cerebrovascular events (HR = 2.435, P = .003). a logistic regression risk model for predicting cerebrovascular events was constructed with the parameters including NORAD, TC and LDL.

CONCLUSION

NORAD can be used as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for CAS, and NORAD, total cholesterol (TC), and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) can be independently correlated to predict cerebrovascular events.

Maintenance of Cardiac Microenvironmental Homeostasis: A Joint Battle of Multiple Cells

Various cells such as cardiomyocytes, fibroblasts and endothelial cells constitute integral components of cardiac tissue. The health and stability of cardiac ecosystem are ensured by the action of a certain type of cell and the intricate interactions between multiple cell types. The dysfunctional cells exert a profound impact on the development of cardiovascular diseases by involving in the pathological process. In this paper, we introduce the dynamic activity, cell surface markers as well as biological function of the various cells in the heart. Besides, we discuss the multiple signaling pathways involved in the cardiac injury including Hippo/YAP, TGF-β/Smads, PI3K/Akt, and MAPK signaling. The complexity of different cell types poses a great challenge to the disease treatment. By characterizing the roles of various cell types in cardiovascular diseases, we sought to discuss the potential strategies for preventing and treating cardiovascular diseases.

Magnolia kobus DC. Regulates Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation by Modulating O-GlcNAc and MOF Expression

Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) undergo metabolic pathway transitions, including aerobic glycolysis, fatty acid oxidation, and amino acid metabolism, which are important for their function. Metabolic dysfunction in VSMCs can lead to age-related vascular diseases. O-GlcNAcylation, a nutrient-dependent posttranslational modification linked specifically to glucose metabolism, plays an important role in this context. Magnolia kobus DC. (MK), derived from the flower buds of Magnolia biondii, is known for its anticancer, anti-allergy, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the role of O-GlcNAcylation in VSMCs under aging and the association between MK and O-GlcNAc remain unclear. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the effects of O-GlcNAc on VSMC proliferation, along with the expression of MOF (males absent on the first, KAT8) and its correlation with the efficacy of MK. The results showed that aging and O-GlcNAc induction increased the expression levels of O-GlcNAc, O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT), ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) protein, and MOF in mouse vascular smooth muscle cells (MOVAS) and aorta tissue. Transfection with OGT siRNA reduced the expression of MOF and OGT, indicating that OGT regulates MOF and influences cell proliferation. MK treatment reduced the expression of OGT, ATM, and MOF, which was correlated with O-GlcNAc levels. These findings suggest that O-GlcNAcylation is important for VSMC homeostasis and may be a novel target for vascular diseases. Thus, MK exhibits potential as a new drug candidate for treating vascular diseases by modulating O-GlcNAcylation and MOF interactions.

Spatial and temporal evaluation of iodine uptake and radiodensity in meniscus tissue using contrast-enhanced micro-CT

Rationale and objective

The visualization of soft tissues, like the meniscus, through X-ray micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), requires the use of contrast agents (CAs). While other studies have investigated CA diffusion in fibrocartilagineous tissues, this work aimed to optimize iodine staining protocols for meniscal tissue that improve their visualization by micro-CT. Specific objectives included evaluating the diffusion of CAs within meniscal samples over time, assessing volume changes due to staining, and identifying the iodine ions absorbed by the tissue.

Materials and methods

Water-based and PBS-based Lugol solutions (KI3) were used to stain sheep and pig menisci for 24 days. Samples were scanned using micro-CT at different time points (0, 1, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24 days) to monitor CA diffusion and volume changes. Micro-CT provided three-dimensional (3D) visualization of iodine distribution and quantification of volume changes and radiodensity in the menisci. Additionally, UV-visible spectroscopy (UV-vis) analyses were performed to determine the uptake of iodine ions by the meniscus.

Results

Results indicated volumetric shrinkage and increased radiodensity within the first days of staining, with diffusion primarily occurring from the periphery of the meniscus. UV-visible spectroscopy identified two iodide ions in the CA solution (I- and I3 -) and revealed a preferential absorption of the triiodide ion (I3 -).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the utility of iodine-based CAs and micro-CT technique for visualizing and investigating the spatial and temporal iodine diffusion within the meniscal tissue of sheep and pigs. The findings of this study have important implications for using iodine-based CAs in imaging analyses of the meniscus and offer potentially valuable insights into the diffusion patterns of iodine in fibrocartilagineous tissues.

Umbilical vein remodeling is associated with pregestational maternal overweight

Introduction

Excess weight during pregnancy is a condition that can affect both mother and fetus, through the maternal-fetal interface, which is constituted by the placenta and umbilical cord. The umbilical vein is responsible for transporting oxygen and nutrients to the fetus, and its proper functioning depends on the integrity of its structure. The remodeling of the umbilical vein represents one of the causes of inadequate transport of nutrients to the fetus, being potentially harmful. This study aims to evaluate whether maternal overweight alters the structural characteristics of the umbilical vein.

Methods

Umbilical cords were collected from eutrophic and overweight pregnant women and were processed according to histological routine. We analyzed morphometry parameters, collagen and elastin fibers deposition, glycosaminoglycan level, and cell proliferation.

Results

Veins from overweight pregnant women were found to have greater total area, wall area, wall thickness, and diameter. There was higher collagen labeling in the perivascular region of the overweight group and a higher amount of type III collagen in the vascular smooth muscle. The proliferation of muscle and perivascular cells was higher in overweight pregnant women. A positive, although weak, correlation was observed between BMI and vessel thickness and with type III collagen deposition in vascular smooth muscle.

Discussion

With this study, we show that being overweight can structurally alter the umbilical vein, causing vascular remodeling of the vessel, through hypertrophy and hyperplasia.

Screening of potential regulatory genes in carotid atherosclerosis vascular immune microenvironment

BACKGROUND

Immune microenvironment is one of the essential characteristics of carotid atherosclerosis (CAS), which cannot be reversed by drug therapy alone. Thus, there is a pressing need to develop novel immunoregulatory strategies to delay this pathological process that drives cardiovascular-related diseases. This study aimed to detect changes in the immune microenvironment of vascular tissues at various stages of carotid atherosclerosis, as well as cluster and stratify vascular tissue samples based on the infiltration levels of immune cell subtypes to distinguish immune phenotypes and identify potential hub genes regulating the immune microenvironment of carotid atherosclerosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

RNA sequencing datasets for CAS vascular tissue and healthy vascular tissue (GSE43292 and GSE28829) were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. To begin, the immune cell subtype infiltration level of all samples in both GSE43292 and GSE28829 cohorts was assessed using the ssGSEA algorithm. Following this, consensus clustering was performed to stratify CAS samples into different clusters. Finally, hub genes were identified using the maximum neighborhood component algorithm based on the construction of interaction networks, and their diagnostic efficiency was evaluated.

RESULTS

Compared to the controls, a higher number of immune cell subtypes were enriched in CAS samples with higher immune scores in the GSE43292 cohort. Advanced CAS was characterized by high immune cell infiltration, whereas early CAS was characterized by low immune cell infiltration in the GSE28829 cohort. Moreover, CAS progression may be related to the immune response pathway. Biological processes associated with muscle cell development may impede the progression of CAS. Finally, the hub genes PTPRC, ACTN2, ACTC1, LDB3, MYOZ2, and TPM2 had satisfactory efficacy in the diagnosis and prediction of high and low immune cell infiltration in CAS and distinguishing between early and advanced CAS samples.

CONCLUSION

The enrichment of immune cells in vascular tissues is a primary factor driving pathological changes in CAS. Additionally, CAS progression may be related to the immune response pathway. Biological processes linked to muscle cell development may delay the progression of CAS. PTPRC, ACTN2, ACTC1, LDB3, MYOZ2, and TPM2 may regulate the immune microenvironment of CAS and participate in the occurrence and progression of the disease.

Glucose transporter 1 in vascular smooth muscle cells is dispensable for abdominal aortic aneurysm induced by angiotensin II

Treatment with an inhibitor of glucose use via glucose transporters (GLUT) has been shown to attenuate experimental abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) development in mice. Vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) signaling seems to be essential for angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced AAA in mice. Accordingly, we have tested a hypothesis that VSMC silencing of the major GLUT, GLUT1, prevents AAA development and rupture in mice treated with Ang II plus β-aminopropionitrile. A mouse model of inducible VSMC GLUT1 deletion was created and aortic GLUT1 silencing was confirmed. Without Ang II plus β-aminopropionitrile treatment, no difference was observed regarding the external aortic diameter (control 1.06 ± 0.18 mm vs deletion 0.97 ± 0.26 mm) or systolic blood pressure (control 102 ± 9 mm Hg vs deletion 107 ± 11 mm Hg) between control or GLUT1-silenced mice. With treatment, control mice as well as VSMC GLUT1-silenced mice equally developed AAA (control 2.37 ± 0.75 mm vs deletion 2.41 ± 0.93 mm), whereas a tendency toward lower blood pressure was observed in GLUT1 silenced mice (control 150 ± 9 mm Hg vs deletion 135 ± 22 mm Hg). No significant difference was observed regarding the rate of rupture-dependent mortality. We concluded that VSMC GLUT1 is dispensable for AAA development induced by Ang II in mice.

Emerging role of IRE1α in vascular diseases

A mounting body of evidence suggests that the endoplasmic reticulum stress and the unfolded protein response are involved in the underlying mechanisms responsible for vascular diseases. Inositol-requiring protein 1α (IRE1α), the most ancient branch among the UPR-related signaling pathways, can possess both serine/threonine kinase and endoribonuclease (RNase) activity and can perform physiological and pathological functions. The IRE1α-signaling pathway plays a critical role in the pathology of various vascular diseases. In this review, we provide a general overview of the physiological function of IRE1α and its pathophysiological role in vascular diseases.

Therapeutic Effects of Coenzyme Q10 in the Treatment of Ischemic Stroke

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Ischemic stroke is the second deadly disease worldwide, but current treatment is very limited. The brain, rich in lipids and high in oxygen consumption, is susceptible to damage from oxidative stress after ischemic stroke. Thus, antioxidants are promising neuroprotective agents for treatment and prevention of ischemic stroke. Coenzyme Q10 is the only lipophilic antioxidant that can be synthesized de novo by cells and plays a key role as an electron carrier in the oxidative phosphorylation of the mitochondrial electron transport chain. However, the reduced form of coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinol) levels are significantly deficient in the brain. The aim of this article is to review the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of coenzyme Q10 in ischemic stroke.

RECENT FINDINGS

Current studies have found that coenzyme Q10 protects and treats ischemic stroke through multiple mechanisms based on the evidence from in vitro experiments, in vivo experiments, and clinical observations. For the first time, we reviewed the neuroprotective effects of coenzyme Q10 in ischemic stroke. Coenzyme Q10 exerts neuroprotective effects after ischemic stroke through anti-oxidative stress, anti-nitrosative stress, anti-inflammation, and anti-cell death. Here, we provided the evidence on the therapeutic and preventive effects of coenzyme Q10 in ischemic stroke and suggested the potential value of coenzyme Q10 as a medication candidate.

Effects of soluble Klotho and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in vascular calcification in chronic kidney disease model rats and the intervention of Shenyuan granules

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the effect of the soluble Klotho (sKlotho)/Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway on vascular calcification in rat models of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and the intervention effect of Shenyuan granules.

METHODS

Rats with 5/6 nephrectomy and high phosphorus feeding were used to establish the vascular calcification model. The rats were given gradient doses of Shenyuan granules aqueous solution and calcitriol solution by gavage for 8 weeks, which were divided into experimental group and positive control group.

RESULTS

The 5/6 nephrectomy combined with high phosphorus feeding induced thoracic aortic calcification in rats. Shenyuan granules intervention increased the serum sKlotho level, inhibited the mRNA and protein expression of Wnt1, β-catenin, and Runx2 in the thoracic aorta, and alleviated thoracic aortic media calcification in rats.

CONCLUSION

Shenyuan granules may partially regulate the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway via serum sKl to interfere with the expression of Runx2, thereby improving vascular calcification in CKD.

CircNRIP1 promotes proliferation, migration and phenotypic switch of Ang II-induced HA-VSMCs by increasing CXCL5 mRNA stability via recruiting IGF2BP1

Circular RNA (circRNA) has been found to be differentially expressed and involved in regulating the processes of human diseases, including thoracic aortic dissection (TAD). However, the role and mechanism of circNRIP1 in the TAD process are still unclear. GEO database was used to screen the differentially expressed circRNA and mRNA in type A TAD patients and age-matched normal donors. Angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced human aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (HA-VSMCs) were used to construct TAD cell models. The expression levels of circNRIP1, NRIP1, CXC-motif chemokine 5 (CXCL5) and IGF2BP1 were detected by quantitative real-time PCR. Cell proliferation and migration were determined by EdU assay, transwell assay and wound healing assay. The protein levels of synthetic phenotype markers, contractile phenotype markers, CXCL5 and IGF2BP1 were tested by western blot analysis. The interaction between IGF2BP1 and circNRIP1/CXCL5 was confirmed by RIP assay, and CXCL5 mRNA stability was assessed by actinomycin D assay. CircNRIP1 was upregulated in TAD patients and Ang II-induced HA-VSMCs. Knockdown of circNRIP1 suppressed Ang II-induced proliferation, migration and phenotypic switch of HA-VSMCs. Also, high expression of CXCL5 was observed in TAD patients, and its knockdown could inhibit Ang II-induced HA-VSMCs proliferation, migration and phenotypic switch. Moreover, CXCL5 overexpression reversed the regulation of circNRIP1 knockdown on Ang II-induced HA-VSMCs functions. Mechanistically, circNRIP1 could competitively bind to IGF2BP1 and subsequently enhance CXCL5 mRNA stability. CircNRIP1 might contribute to TAD progression by promoting CXCL5 mRNA stability via recruiting IGF2BP1.

Bioengineered human arterial equivalent and its applications from vascular graft to in vitro disease modeling

Arterial disorders such as atherosclerosis, thrombosis, and aneurysm pose significant health risks, necessitating advanced interventions. Despite progress in artificial blood vessels and animal models aimed at understanding pathogenesis and developing therapies, limitations in graft functionality and species discrepancies restrict their clinical and research utility. Addressing these issues, bioengineered arterial equivalents (AEs) with enhanced vascular functions have been developed, incorporating innovative technologies that improve clinical outcomes and enhance disease progression modeling. This review offers a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in bioengineered AEs, systematically summarizing the bioengineered technologies used to construct these AEs, and discussing their implications for clinical application and pathogenesis understanding. Highlighting current breakthroughs and future perspectives, this review aims to inform and inspire ongoing research in the field, potentially transforming vascular medicine and offering new avenues for preclinical and clinical advances.

TRIM25 activates Wnt/β-catenin signalling by destabilising MAT2A mRNA to drive thoracic aortic aneurysm development

This study explored the roles of methionine adenosyltransferase 2A (MAT2A) and tripartite motif containing 25 (TRIM25) in the progression of thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA). The TAA model was established based on the β-aminopropionitrile method. The effects of MAT2A on thoracic aortic lesions and molecular levels were analyzed by several pathological staining assays (hematoxylin-eosin, Verhoeff-Van Gieson, TUNEL) and molecular biology experiments (qRT-PCR, Western blot). Angiotensin II (Ang-II) was used to induce injury in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) in vitro. The effects of MAT2A, shMAT2A, shTRIM25 and/or Wnt inhibitor (IWR-1) on the viability, apoptosis and protein expressions of VSMCs were examined by CCK-8, Annexin V-FITC/PI and Western blot assays. In TAA mice, overexpression of MAT2A alleviated thoracic aortic injury, inhibited the aberrant expressions of aortic contractile proteins and dedifferentiation markers, and blocked the activation of Wnt/β-catenin pathway. In Ang-II-induced VSMCs, up-regulation of MAT2A increased cellular activity and repressed the expression of β-catenin protein. TRIM25 knockdown promoted activity of VSMCs, inhibited apoptosis, and blocked the Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation by binding to MAT2A. IWR-1 partially counteracted the regulatory effects of shMAT2A. Collectively, TRIM25 destabilises the mRNA of MAT2A to activate Wnt/β-catenin signaling and ultimately exacerbate TAA injury.

Histone deacetylases: Regulation of vascular homeostasis via endothelial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells and the role in vascular pathogenesis

Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are proteases that play a key role in chromosome structural modification and gene expression regulation, and the involvement of HDACs in cancer, the nervous system, and the metabolic and immune system has been well reviewed. Our understanding of the function of HDACs in the vascular system has recently progressed, and a significant variety of HDAC inhibitors have been shown to be effective in the treatment of vascular diseases. However, few reviews have focused on the role of HDACs in the vascular system. In this study, the role of HDACs in the regulation of the vascular system mainly involving endothelial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells was discussed based on recent updates, and the role of HDACs in different vascular pathogenesis was summarized as well. Furthermore, the therapeutic effects and prospects of HDAC inhibitors were also addressed in this review.

Gut microbiota-derived Metabolite, Shikimic Acid, inhibits vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration

Gut microbiota dysbiosis is linked to vascular wall disease, but the mechanisms by which gut microbiota cross-talk with the host vascular cells remain largely unknown. Shikimic acid (SA) is a biochemical intermediate synthesized in plants and microorganisms, but not mammals. Surprisingly, recent metabolomic profiling data demonstrate that SA is detectable in human and murine blood. In this study, analyzing data from germ-free rats, we provide evidence in support of SA as a bona fide gut microbiota-derived metabolite, emphasizing its biological relevance. Since vascular cells are the first cells exposed to circulating metabolites, in this study, we examined, for the first time, the effects and potential underlying molecular mechanisms of SA on vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation and migration, which play a key role in occlusive vascular diseases, such as post-angioplasty restenosis and atherosclerosis. We found that SA inhibits the proliferation and migration of human coronary artery SMCs. At the molecular level, unexpectedly, we found that SA activates, rather than inhibits, multiple pro-mitogenic signaling pathways in VSMCs, such as ERK1/2, AKT, and mTOR/p70S6K. Conversely, we found that SA activates the anti-proliferative AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in VSMCs, a key cellular energy sensor and regulator. However, loss-of-function experiments demonstrate that AMPK does not mediate the inhibitory effects of SA on VSMC proliferation. In conclusion, these studies demonstrate that a microbiota-derived metabolite, SA, inhibits VSMC proliferation and migration in vitro and prompt further evaluation of the possible underlying molecular mechanisms and the potential protective role in VSMC-related vascular wall disease in vivo.

Hypoxia-Induced Mitochondrial ROS and Function in Pulmonary Arterial Endothelial Cells

Pulmonary artery endothelial cells (PAECs) are a major contributor to hypoxic pulmonary hypertension (PH) due to the possible roles of reactive oxygen species (ROS). However, the molecular mechanisms and functional roles of ROS in PAECs are not well established. In this study, we first used Amplex UltraRed reagent to assess hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) generation. The result indicated that hypoxic exposure resulted in a significant increase in Amplex UltraRed-derived fluorescence (i.e., H2O2 production) in human PAECs. To complement this result, we employed lucigenin as a probe to detect superoxide (O2-) production. Our assays showed that hypoxia largely increased O2- production. Hypoxia also enhanced H2O2 production in the mitochondria from PAECs. Using the genetically encoded H2O2 sensor HyPer, we further revealed the hypoxic ROS production in PAECs, which was fully blocked by the mitochondrial inhibitor rotenone or myxothiazol. Interestingly, hypoxia caused an increase in the migration of PAECs, determined by scratch wound assay. In contrast, nicotine, a major cigarette or e-cigarette component, had no effect. Moreover, hypoxia and nicotine co-exposure further increased migration. Transfection of lentiviral shRNAs specific for the mitochondrial Rieske iron-sulfur protein (RISP), which knocked down its expression and associated ROS generation, inhibited the hypoxic migration of PAECs. Hypoxia largely increased the proliferation of PAECs, determined using Ki67 staining and direct cell number accounting. Similarly, nicotine caused a large increase in proliferation. Moreover, hypoxia/nicotine co-exposure elicited a further increase in cell proliferation. RISP knockdown inhibited the proliferation of PAECs following hypoxia, nicotine exposure, and hypoxia/nicotine co-exposure. Taken together, our data demonstrate that hypoxia increases RISP-mediated mitochondrial ROS production, migration, and proliferation in human PAECs; nicotine has no effect on migration, increases proliferation, and promotes hypoxic proliferation; the effects of nicotine are largely mediated by RISP-dependent mitochondrial ROS signaling. Conceivably, PAECs may contribute to PH via the RISP-mediated mitochondrial ROS.

Metabolic Responses to Redox Stress in Vascular Cells

Significance: Redox stress underlies numerous vascular disease mechanisms. Metabolic adaptability is essential for vascular cells to preserve energy and redox homeostasis. Recent Advances: Single-cell technologies and multiomic studies demonstrate significant metabolic heterogeneity among vascular cells in health and disease. Increasing evidence shows that reductive or oxidative stress can induce metabolic reprogramming of vascular cells. A recent example is intracellular L-2-hydroxyglutarate accumulation in response to hypoxic reductive stress, which attenuates the glucose flux through glycolysis and mitochondrial respiration in pulmonary vascular cells and provides protection against further reductive stress. Critical Issues: Regulation of cellular redox homeostasis is highly compartmentalized and complex. Vascular cells rely on multiple metabolic pathways, but the precise connectivity among these pathways and their regulatory mechanisms is only partially defined. There is also a critical need to understand better the cross-regulatory mechanisms between the redox system and metabolic pathways as perturbations in either systems or their cross talk can be detrimental. Future Directions: Future studies are needed to define further how multiple metabolic pathways are wired in vascular cells individually and as a network of closely intertwined processes given that a perturbation in one metabolic compartment often affects others. There also needs to be a comprehensive understanding of how different types of redox perturbations are sensed by and regulate different cellular metabolic pathways with specific attention to subcellular compartmentalization. Lastly, integration of dynamic changes occurring in multiple metabolic pathways and their cross talk with the redox system is an important goal in this multiomics era. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 41,793-817.

Altered renal vascular patterning reduces ischemic kidney injury and limits vascular loss associated with aging

The kidney vasculature has a complex arrangement, which runs in both series and parallel to perfuse the renal tissue and appropriately filter plasma. Recent studies have demonstrated that the development of this vascular pattern is dependent on netrin-1 secreted by renal stromal progenitors. Mice lacking netrin-1 develop an arterial tree with stochastic branching, particularly of the large interlobar vessels. The current study investigated whether abnormalities in renal vascular pattern altered kidney function or response to injury. To examine this, we analyzed kidney function at baseline as well as in response to recovery from a model of bilateral ischemic injury and measured vascular dynamics in aged mice. We found no differences in kidney function or morphology at baseline between mice with an abnormal arterial pattern compared to control. Interestingly, male and female mutant mice with stochastic vascular patterning showed a reduction in tubular injury in response to ischemia. Similarly, mutant mice also had a preservation of perfused vasculature with aging compared to a reduction in the control group. These results suggest that guided and organized patterning of the renal vasculature may not be required for normal kidney function; thus, modulating renal vascular patterning may represent an effective therapeutic strategy. Understanding how patterning and maturation of the arterial tree affects physiology and response to injury or aging has important implications for enhancing kidney regeneration and tissue engineering strategies.

Integrative analysis of gene expression, protein abundance, and metabolomic profiling elucidates complex relationships in chronic hyperglycemia-induced changes in human aortic smooth muscle cells

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major public health concern with significant cardiovascular complications (CVD). Despite extensive epidemiological data, the molecular mechanisms relating hyperglycemia to CVD remain incompletely understood. We here investigated the impact of chronic hyperglycemia on human aortic smooth muscle cells (HASMCs) cultured under varying glucose conditions in vitro, mimicking normal (5 mmol/L), pre-diabetic (10 mmol/L), and diabetic (20 mmol/L) conditions, respectively. Normal HASMC cultures served as baseline controls, and patient-derived T2DM-SMCs served as disease controls. Results showed significant increases in cellular proliferation, area, perimeter, and F-actin expression with increasing glucose concentration (p < 0.01), albeit not exceeding the levels in T2DM cells. Atomic force microscopy analysis revealed significant decreases in Young's moduli, membrane tether forces, membrane tension, and surface adhesion in SMCs at higher glucose levels (p < 0.001), with T2DM-SMCs being the lowest among all the cases (p < 0.001). T2DM-SMCs exhibited elevated levels of selected pro-inflammatory markers (e.g., ILs-6, 8, 23; MCP-1; M-CSF; MMPs-1, 2, 3) compared to glucose-treated SMCs (p < 0.01). Conversely, growth factors (e.g., VEGF-A, PDGF-AA, TGF-β1) were higher in SMCs exposed to high glucose levels but lower in T2DM-SMCs (p < 0.01). Pathway enrichment analysis showed significant increases in the expression of inflammatory cytokine-associated pathways, especially involving IL-10, IL-4 and IL-13 signaling in genes that are up-regulated by elevated glucose levels. Differentially regulated gene analysis showed that compared to SMCs receiving normal glucose, 513 genes were upregulated and 590 genes were downregulated in T2DM-SMCs; fewer genes were differentially expressed in SMCs receiving higher glucose levels. Finally, the altered levels in genes involved in ECM organization, elastic fiber synthesis and formation, laminin interactions, and ECM proteoglycans were identified. Growing literature suggests that phenotypic switching in SMCs lead to arterial wall remodeling (e.g., change in stiffness, calcific deposits formation), with direct implications in the onset of CVD complications. Our results suggest that chronic hyperglycemia is one such factor that leads to morphological, biomechanical, and functional alterations in vascular SMCs, potentially contributing to the pathogenesis of T2DM-associated arterial remodeling. The observed differences in gene expression patterns between in vitro hyperglycemic models and patient-derived T2DM-SMCs highlight the complexity of T2DM pathophysiology and underline the need for further studies.

Metabolomics revealed pharmacodynamic effects of aspirin and indobufen in patients after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty surgery

Introduction

Aspirin and indobufen are commonly used therapeutic drugs for the prevention of vascular restenosis (VR) after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty surgery. They both exhibited antiplatelet effects but molecular mechanisms underlying metabolic changes induced by them remain unclear.

Methods

In this study, we collected plasma samples from patients on aspirin medication (n = 5), patients on indobufen medication, patients with no medication after PTA, and healthy controls (CKs) (n = 5). Our investigation aimed to reveal the metabolic processes in patients during vascular restenosis and its amelioration through drug therapy using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).

Results

Our data showed significant alterations in amino acid and choline metabolism in patients without medication after PTA. Aspirin and indobufen were able to regulate these metabolic pathways to alleviate VR symptoms. We identified several characteristic amino acids, including pro-leu, L-citrulline, his-glu, and L-glutamate, as important biomarkers for VR assessment in patients without medication after PTA. A total of 17 and 4 metabolites involved in arginine and phenylalanine metabolism were specifically induced by aspirin and indobufen, respectively. Their expression levels were significantly regulated by aspirin or indobufen, nearly reaching normal levels.

Discussion

Taken together, our identification of metabolites involved in metabolic changes affected by aspirin and indobufen medication enhances the understanding of VR pathology after PTA. This may help identify early diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Metabolic alterations in human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells treated with PDGF-BB

BACKGROUND

Metabolic abnormalities are considered to play a key regulatory role in vascular remodeling of pulmonary arterial hypertension. However, to date, there is a paucity of research documenting the changes in metabolome profiles within the supernatants of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMC) during their transition from a contractile to a synthetic phenotype.

METHODS

CCK-8 and Edu staining assays were used to evaluate the cell viability and proliferation of human PASMCs. IncuCyte ZOOM imaging system was used to continuously and automatically detect the migration of the PASMCs. A targeted metabolomics profiling was performed to quantitatively analyze 121 metabolites in the supernatant. Orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis was used to discriminate between PDGF-BB-induced PASMCs and controls. Metabolite set enrichment analysis was adapted to exploit the most disturbed metabolic pathways.

RESULTS

Human PASMCs exhibited a transformation from contractile phenotype to synthetic phenotype after PDGF-BB induction, along with a significant increase in cell viability, proliferation, and migration. Metabolites in the supernatants of PASMCs treated with or without PDGF-BB were well profiled. Eleven metabolites were found to be significantly upregulated, whereas seven metabolites were downregulated in the supernatants of PASMCs induced by PDGF-BB compared to the vehicle-treated cells. Fourteen pathways were involved, and pyruvate metabolism pathway was ranked first with the highest enrichment impact followed by glycolysis/gluconeogenesis and pyrimidine metabolism.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant and extensive metabolic abnormalities occurred during the phenotypic transformation of PASMCs. Disturbance of pyruvate metabolism pathway might contribute to pulmonary vascular remodeling.

Calciprotein particles induce arterial stiffening ex vivo and impair vascular cell function

Calciprotein particles (CPPs) are an endogenous buffering system, clearing excessive amounts of Ca2+ and PO43- from the circulation and thereby preventing ectopic mineralization. CPPs circulate as primary CPPs (CPP1), which are small spherical colloidal particles, and can aggregate to form large, crystalline, secondary CPPs (CPP2). Even though it has been reported that CPPs are toxic to vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) in vitro, their effect(s) on the vasculature remain unclear. Here we have shown that CPP1, but not CPP2, increased arterial stiffness ex vivo. Interestingly, the effects were more pronounced in the abdominal infrarenal aorta compared to the thoracic descending aorta. Further, we demonstrated that CPP1 affected both endothelial and VSMC function, impairing vasorelaxation and contraction respectively. Concomitantly, arterial glycosaminoglycan accumulation was observed as well, which is indicative of an increased extracellular matrix stiffness. However, these effects were not observed in vivo. Hence, we concluded that CPP1 can induce vascular dysfunction.

Polystyrene nanoplastics accelerate atherosclerosis: Unraveling the impact on smooth muscle cells through KIF15-mediated migration

Microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) originating from plastic pollution pose potential threats to cardiovascular health, with prior studies linking MNPs to atherosclerosis. Our earlier research elucidated how nanoplastics enhance macrophages' phagocytic activity, leading to the formation of foam cells and an elevated risk of atherosclerosis. However, the specific influence of MNPs on smooth muscle cells (SMCs) in the context of MNP-induced atherosclerosis remains poorly understood. In this study, ApoE knockout (ApoE-/-) male mice with a high-fat diet were orally exposed to environmentally realistic concentrations of 2.5-250 mg/kg polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs, 50 nm) for consecutive 19 weeks. Cardiovascular toxicity was comprehensively assessed through histopathological, transcriptomic, and proteomic analyses, while mechanisms underlying this toxicity were explored through in vitro studies. Herein, hematoxylin and eosin staining revealed accelerated atherosclerotic plaque development in ApoE-/- mice exposed to PS-NPs. Multi-omics analysis identified kinesin family member 15 (KIF15) as a pivotal target molecule. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments affirmed the specific upregulation of KIF15 in mouse aortic SMCs exposed to PS-NPs. Furthermore, in vitro experiments demonstrated that PS-NPs can promote the migration ability of MOVAS cells. Knockdown of Kif15 revealed its role in reducing MOVAS cell migration, with subsequent exposure to PS-NPs reversing the increased migration ability. This suggests that PS-NPs promote SMC migration by upregulating KIF15, and the migration of SMCs is closely associated with atherosclerosis outcomes. This study significantly advances our understanding of MNP-induced cardiovascular toxicity, providing valuable insights for risk assessment of human MNP exposure.

Hsa_circ_0007765 Promotes Platelet-Derived Growth Factor-BB-Induced Proliferation and Migration of Human Aortic Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells in Atherosclerosis

Human aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (HA-VSMCs) play vital roles in the pathogenesis of vascular diseases, including Atherosclerosis (AS). Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been reported to regulate the biological functions of HA-VSMCs. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the role and mechanism of hsa_circRNA_102353 (circ_0007765) in platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB)-induced HA-VSMCs. Circ_0007765, microRNA-654-3p (miR-654-3p), and Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor Substrate 2 (FRS2) expression were measured using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Cell proliferative ability, invasion, and migration were detected by 3-(4, 5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2, 5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT), 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU), Transwell, and wound healing assays. CyclinD1, MMP2, and FRS2 protein levels were assessed using a Western blot assay. Binding between miR-654-3p and circ_0007765 or FRS2 was predicted by Circinteractome or TargetScan, and verified using dual-luciferase reporter and RNA pull-down assays. PDGF-BB induced HA-VSMC proliferation, invasion, and migration. Circ_0007765 and FRS2 expression levels were increased in PDGF-BB-treated HA-VSMCs, and the miR-654-3p level was reduced. Moreover, circ_0007765 absence hindered PDGF-BB-induced HA-VSMC proliferation, invasion, and migration in vitro. At the molecular level, circ_0007765 increased FRS2 expression by acting as a sponge for miR-654-3p. Our findings revealed that circ_0007765 boosted PDGF-BB-induced HA-VSMC proliferation and migration through elevating FRS2 expression via adsorbing miR-654-3p, providing a feasible therapeutic strategy for AS.

Potential protective role of let-7d-5p in atherosclerosis progression reducing the inflammatory pathway regulated by NF-κB and vascular smooth muscle cells proliferation

The prevalence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) is increasing in the last decades, even is the main cause of death in first world countries being atherosclerosis one of the principal triggers. Therefore, there is an urgent need to decipher the underlying mechanisms involved in atherosclerosis progression. In this respect, microRNAs dysregulation is frequently involved in the progression of multiple diseases including CVDs. Our aim was to demonstrate that let-7d-5p unbalance could contribute to the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis and serve as a potential diagnostic biomarker. We evaluated let-7d-5p levels in vascular biopsies and exosome-enriched extracellular vesicles (EVs) from patients with carotid atherosclerosis and healthy donors. Moreover, we overexpressed let-7d-5p in vitro in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) to decipher the targets and the underlying mechanisms regulated by let-7d-5p in atherosclerosis. Our results demonstrate that let-7d-5p was significantly upregulated in carotid plaques from overweight patients with carotid atherosclerosis. Moreover, in EVs isolated from plasma, we found that let-7d-5p levels were increased in carotid atherosclerosis patients compared to control subjects specially in overweight patients. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analyses confirmed its utility as a diagnostic biomarker for atherosclerosis. In VSMCs, we demonstrated that increased let-7d-5p levels impairs cell proliferation and could serve as a protective mechanism against inflammation by impairing NF-κB pathway without affecting insulin resistance. In summary, our results highlight the role of let-7d-5p as a potential therapeutic target for atherosclerosis since its overexpression induce a decrease in inflammation and VSMCs proliferation, and also, as a novel non-invasive diagnostic biomarker for atherosclerosis in overweight patients.

The Role of Cardio-Renal Inflammation in Deciding the Fate of the Arteriovenous Fistula in Haemodialysis Therapy

Vascular access is an indispensable component of haemodialysis therapy for end-stage kidney disease patients. The arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is most common, but importantly, two-year failure rates are greater than fifty percent. AVF failure can occur due to a lack of suitable vascular remodelling, and inappropriate inflammation preventing maturation, or alternatively neointimal hyperplasia and vascular stenosis preventing long-term use. A comprehensive mechanistic understanding of these processes is still lacking, but recent studies highlight an essential role for inflammation from uraemia and the AVF itself. Inflammation affects each cell in the cascade of AVF failure, the endothelium, the infiltrating immune cells, and the vascular smooth muscle cells. This review examines the role of inflammation in each cell step by step and the influence on AVF failure. Inflammation resulting in AVF failure occurs initially via changes in endothelial cell activation, permeability, and vasoprotective chemokine secretion. Resultingly, immune cells can extravasate into the subendothelial space to release inflammatory cytokines and cause other deleterious changes to the microenvironment. Finally, all these changes modify vascular smooth muscle cell function, resulting in excessive and unchecked hyperplasia and proliferation, eventually leading to stenosis and the failure of the AVF. Finally, the emerging therapeutic options based off these findings are discussed, including mesenchymal stem cells, small-molecule inhibitors, and far-infrared therapies. Recent years have clearly demonstrated a vital role for inflammation in deciding the fate of the AVF, and future works must be centred on this to develop therapies for a hitherto unacceptably underserved patient population.

The role of nonmyocardial cells in the development of diabetic cardiomyopathy and the protective effects of FGF21: a current understanding

Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) represents a unique myocardial disease originating from diabetic metabolic disturbances that is characterized by myocardial fibrosis and diastolic dysfunction. While recent research regarding the pathogenesis and treatment of DCM has focused primarily on myocardial cells, nonmyocardial cells-including fibroblasts, vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), endothelial cells (ECs), and immune cells-also contribute significantly to the pathogenesis of DCM. Among various therapeutic targets, fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) has been identified as a promising agent because of its cardioprotective effects that extend to nonmyocardial cells. In this review, we aim to elucidate the role of nonmyocardial cells in DCM and underscore the potential of FGF21 as a therapeutic strategy for these cells.

A multimodal approach identifies lactate as a central feature of right ventricular failure that is detectable in human plasma

Background

In PAH metabolic abnormalities in multiple pathways are well-recognized features of right ventricular dysfunction, however, prior work has focused mainly on the use of a single "omic" modality to describe a single deranged pathway. We integrated metabolomic and epigenomic data using transcriptomics in failing and non-failing RVs from a rodent model to provide novel mechanistic insight and translated these findings to accessible human specimens by correlation with plasma from PAH patients.

Methods

Study was conducted in a doxycycline-inducible BMPR2 mutant mouse model of RV failure. Plasma was collected from controls and PAH patients. Transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses were done on mouse RV tissue and human plasma. For mouse RV, we layered metabolomic and transcriptomic data for multiple metabolic pathways and compared our findings with metabolomic and transcriptomic data obtained for human plasma. We confirmed our key findings in cultured cardiomyocyte cells with BMPR2 mutation.

Results

In failing mouse RVs, (1) in the glycolysis pathway, glucose is converted to lactate via aerobic glycolysis, but may also be utilized for glycogen, fatty acid, and nucleic acid synthesis, (2) in the fatty acid pathway, FAs are accumulated in the cytoplasm because the transfer of FAs to mitochondria is reduced, however, the ß-oxidation pathway is likely to be functional. (3) the TCA cycle is altered at multiple checkpoints and accumulates citrate, and the glutaminolysis pathway is not activated. In PAH patients, plasma metabolic and transcriptomic data indicated that unlike in the failing BMPR2 mutant RV, expression of genes and metabolites measured for the glycolysis pathway, FA pathway, TCA cycle, and glutaminolysis pathway were increased. Lactate was the only metabolite that was increased both in RV and circulation. We confirmed using a stable isotope of lactate that cultured cardiomyocytes with mutant BMPR2 show a modest increase in endogenous lactate, suggesting a possibility of an increase in lactate production by cardiomyocytes in failing BMPR2 mutant RV.

Conclusion

In the failing RV with mutant BMPR2, lactate is produced by RV cardiomyocytes and may be secreted out, thereby increasing lactate in circulation. Lactate can potentially serve as a marker of RV dysfunction in PAH, which warrants investigation.

Protein lysine crotonylation in cellular processions and disease associations

Protein lysine crotonylation (Kcr) is one conserved form of posttranslational modifications of proteins, which plays an important role in a series of cellular physiological and pathological processes. Lysine ε-amino groups are the primary sites of such modification, resulting in four-carbon planar lysine crotonylation that is structurally and functionally distinct from the acetylation of these residues. High levels of Kcr modifications have been identified on both histone and non-histone proteins. The present review offers an update on the research progression regarding protein Kcr modifications in biomedical contexts and provides a discussion of the mechanisms whereby Kcr modification governs a range of biological processes. In addition, given the importance of protein Kcr modification in disease onset and progression, the potential viability of Kcr regulators as therapeutic targets is elucidated.

Lactate and lactylation in cardiovascular diseases: current progress and future perspectives

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are often linked to structural and functional impairments, such as heart defects and circulatory dysfunction, leading to compromised peripheral perfusion and heightened morbidity risks. Metabolic remodeling, particularly in the context of cardiac fibrosis and inflammation, is increasingly recognized as a pivotal factor in the pathogenesis of CVDs. Metabolic syndromes further predispose individuals to these conditions, underscoring the need to elucidate the metabolic underpinnings of CVDs. Lactate, a byproduct of glycolysis, is now recognized as a key molecule that connects cellular metabolism with the regulation of cellular activity. The transport of lactate between different cells is essential for metabolic homeostasis and signal transduction. Disruptions to lactate dynamics are implicated in various CVDs. Furthermore, lactylation, a novel post-translational modification, has been identified in cardiac cells, where it influences protein function and gene expression, thereby playing a significant role in CVD pathogenesis. In this review, we summarized recent advancements in understanding the role of lactate and lactylation in CVDs, offering fresh insights that could guide future research directions and therapeutic interventions. The potential of lactate metabolism and lactylation as innovative therapeutic targets for CVD is a promising avenue for exploration.

The Role of Mitochondrial Dysfunction in CKD-Related Vascular Calcification: From Mechanisms to Therapeutics

Vascular calcification (VC) is a common complication of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and is closely associated with cardiovascular events. The transdifferentiation of vascular smooth muscles (VSMCs) into an osteogenic phenotype is hypothesized to be the primary cause underlying VC. However, there is currently no effective clinical treatment for VC. Growing evidence suggests that mitochondrial dysfunction accelerates the osteogenic differentiation of VSMCs and VC via multiple mechanisms. Therefore, elucidating the relationship between the osteogenic differentiation of VSMCs and mitochondrial dysfunction may assist in improving VC-related adverse clinical outcomes in patients with CKD. This review aimed to summarize the role of mitochondrial biogenesis, mitochondrial dynamics, mitophagy, and metabolic reprogramming, as well as mitochondria-associated oxidative stress (OS) and senescence in VC in patients with CKD to offer valuable insights into the clinical treatment of VC.

miR-3529-3p/ABCA1 axis regulates smooth muscle cell homeostasis by enhancing inflammation via JAK2/STAT3 pathway

Background

Thoracic Aortic Dissection (TAD) is a life-threatening disease without effective drug treatments. The disruption of HASMCs homeostasis is one direct histopathologic alteration in TAD pathological process. Several miRNAs have been shown abnormally expressed in TAD and to regulate HASMCs homeostasis. The primary goal of this study is to identify the miRNAs and the specific mechanisms that lead to HASMCs homeostasis disruption.

Methods

Bulk miRNA sequencing was performed to explore the aberrantly expressed miRNA profile in TAD, and differentially expressed miRNAs were verified with qRT-PCR. To explore the role of the key miRNAs (miR-3529) in HASMCs homeostasis, we overexpressed this miRNA with lentivirus in HASMCs. Integrative transcriptomics and metabolomics analysis were used to uncover the functional roles of this miRNA in regulating HASMCs homeostasis. Further, the target gene of miR-3529 was predicted by bioinformatics and verified through a dual-luciferase reporter assay.

Results

Bulk miRNA sequencing showed miR-3529 was elevated in TAD tissues and confirmed by qRT-PCR. Further experimental assay revealed miR-3529 upregulation induced HASMCs homeostasis disruption, accompanied by reducing contractile markers and increasing pro-inflammatory cytokines. Integrative transcriptomics and metabolomics analysis showed that miR-3529 overexpression altered the metabolic profile of HASMC, particularly lipid metabolism. ABCA1 was found to be a direct target of miR-3529. Mechanistically, the miR-3529/ABCA1 axis disrupted HASMCs homeostasis through the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway.

Conclusions

miR-3529 is elevated in TAD patients and disrupts HASMCs homeostasis by reprogramming metabolism through the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. These findings favor a role for miR-3529 as a novel target for TAD therapy.

Pharmacology of Hydrogen Sulfide and Its Donors in Cardiometabolic Diseases

Cardiometabolic diseases (CMDs) are major contributors to global mortality, emphasizing the critical need for novel therapeutic interventions. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has garnered enormous attention as a significant gasotransmitter with various physiological, pathophysiological, and pharmacological impacts within mammalian cardiometabolic systems. In addition to its roles in attenuating oxidative stress and inflammatory response, burgeoning research emphasizes the significance of H2S in regulating proteins via persulfidation, a well known modification intricately associated with the pathogenesis of CMDs. This review seeks to investigate recent updates on the physiological actions of endogenous H2S and the pharmacological roles of various H2S donors in addressing diverse aspects of CMDs across cellular, animal, and clinical studies. Of note, advanced methodologies, including multiomics, intestinal microflora analysis, organoid, and single-cell sequencing techniques, are gaining traction due to their ability to offer comprehensive insights into biomedical research. These emerging approaches hold promise in characterizing the pharmacological roles of H2S in health and diseases. We will critically assess the current literature to clarify the roles of H2S in diseases while also delineating the opportunities and challenges they present in H2S-based pharmacotherapy for CMDs. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This comprehensive review covers recent developments in H2S biology and pharmacology in cardiometabolic diseases CMDs. Endogenous H2S and its donors show great promise for the management of CMDs by regulating numerous proteins and signaling pathways. The emergence of new technologies will considerably advance the pharmacological research and clinical translation of H2S.

A brief review on recent advances in diagnostic and therapeutic applications of extracellular vesicles in cardiovascular disease

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are important mediators of intercellular communication within the cardiovascular system, playing essential roles in physiological homeostasis and contributing to the pathogenesis of various cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). However, their potential as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic agents in rare cardiovascular diseases, such as valvular heart disease (VHD) and cardiomyopathies, remains largely unexplored. This review comprehensively emphasizes recent advancements in extracellular vesicle research, explicitly highlighting their growing significance in diagnosing and potentially treating rare cardiovascular diseases, with a particular focus on valvular heart disease and cardiomyopathies. We highlight the potential of extracellular vesicle-based liquid biopsies as non-invasive tools for early disease detection and risk stratification, showcasing specific extracellular vesicle-associated biomarkers (proteins, microRNAs, lipids) with diagnostic and prognostic value. Furthermore, we discussed the therapeutic promise of extracellular vesicles derived from various sources, including stem cells and engineered extracellular vesicles, for cardiac repair and regeneration through their ability to modulate inflammation, promote angiogenesis, and reduce fibrosis. By integrating the findings and addressing critical knowledge gaps, this review aims to stimulate further research and innovation in extracellular vesicle-based diagnostics and therapeutics of cardiovascular disease.

FAM19A5 in vascular aging and osteoporosis: Mechanisms and the "calcification paradox"

Aging induces a progressive decline in the vasculature's structure and function. Vascular aging is a determinant factor for vascular ailments in the elderly. FAM19A5, a recently identified adipokine, has demonstrated involvement in multiple vascular aging-related pathologies, including atherosclerosis, cardio-cerebral vascular diseases and cognitive deficits. This review summarizes the current understanding of FAM19A5' role and explores its putative regulatory mechanisms in various aging-related disorders, including cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), metabolic diseases, neurodegenerative diseases and malignancies. Importantly, we provide novel insights into the underlying therapeutic value of FAM19A5 in osteoporosis. Finally, we outline future perspectives on the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of FAM19A5 in vascular aging-related diseases.

Kanglexin counters vascular smooth muscle cell dedifferentiation and associated arteriosclerosis through inhibiting PDGFR

BACKGROUND

Dysregulation of vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) function leads to a variety of diseases such as atherosclerosis and hyperplasia after injury. However, antiproliferative drug targeting VSMC exhibits poor specificity. Therefore, there is an urgent to develop highly specific antiproliferative drugs to prevention and treatment VSMC dedifferentiation associated arteriosclerosis. Kanglexin (KLX), a new anthraquinone compound designed by our team, has potential to regulate VSMC phenotype according to the physicochemical properties.

PURPOSE

This project aims to evaluate the therapeutic role of KLX in VSMC dedifferentiation and atherosclerosis, neointimal formation and illustrates the underlying molecular mechanism.

METHODS

In vivo, the ApoE-/- mice were fed with high-fat diet (HFD) for a duration of 13 weeks to establish the atherosclerotic model. And rat carotid artery injury model was performed to establish the neointimal formation model. In vitro, PDGF-BB was used to induce VSMC dedifferentiation.

RESULTS

We found that KLX ameliorated the atherosclerotic progression including atherosclerotic lesion formation, lipid deposition and collagen deposition in aorta and aortic sinus in atherosclerotic mouse model. In addition, The administration of KLX effectively ameliorated neointimal formation in the carotid artery following balloon injury in SD rats. The findings derived from molecular docking and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) experiments unequivocally demonstrate that KLX had potential to bind PDGFR-β. Mechanism research work proved that KLX prevented VSMC proliferation, migration and dedifferentiation via activating the PDGFR-β-MEK -ERK-ELK-1/KLF4 signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, we demonstrated that KLX effectively attenuated the progression of atherosclerosis in ApoE-/- mice and carotid arterial neointimal formation in SD rats by inhibiting VSMC phenotypic conversion via PDGFR-β-MEK-ERK-ELK-1/KLF4 signaling. KLX exhibits promising potential as a viable therapeutic agent for the treatment of VSMC phenotype conversion associated arteriosclerosis.

Plasma proteomics analysis reveals potential biomarkers for intracranial aneurysm formation and rupture

The aim of this study was to investigate the plasma proteome in individuals with intracranial aneurysms (IAs) and identify biomarkers associated with the formation and rupture of IAs. Proteomic profiles (N = 1069 proteins) were assayed in plasma (N = 120) collected from patients with ruptured and unruptured intracranial aneurysms (RIA and UIA), traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage (tSAH), and healthy controls (HC) using tandem mass tag (TMT) labeling quantitative proteomics analysis. Gene ontology (GO) and pathway analysis revealed that these relevant proteins were involved in immune response and extracellular matrix organization pathways. Seven candidate biomarkers were verified by ELISA in a completely separate cohort for validation (N = 90). Among them, FN1, PON1, and SERPINA1 can be utilized as diagnosis biomarkers of IA, with a combined area under the ROC curve of 0.891. The sensitivity was 93.33%, specificity was 75.86%, and accuracy was 87.64%. PFN1, ApoA-1, and SERPINA1 can serve as independent risk factors for predicting aneurysm rupture. The combined prediction of aneurysm rupture yielded an area under the ROC curve of 0.954 with a sensitivity of 96.15%, specificity of 81.48%, and accuracy of 88.68%. This prediction model was more effective than PHASES score. In conclusion, high-throughput proteomics analysis with population validation was performed to assess blood-based protein expression characteristics. This revealed the potential mechanism of IA formation and rupture, facilitating the discovery of biomarkers. SIGNIFICANCE: Although the annual rupture rate of small unruptured aneurysms is believed to be minimal, studies have indicated that ruptured aneurysms typically have an average size of 6.28 mm, with 71.8% of them being <7 mm in diameter. Hence, evaluating the possibility of rupture in UIA and making a choice between aggressive treatment and conservative observation emerges as a significant challenge in the management of UIA. No biomarker or scoring system has been able to satisfactorily address this issue to date. It would be significant to develop biomarkers that could be used for early diagnosis of IA as well as for prediction of IA rupture. After TMT proteomics analysis and ELISA validation in independent populations, we found that FN1, PON1, and SERPINA1 can be utilized as diagnostic biomarkers for IA, and PFN1, ApoA-1, and SERPINA1 can serve as independent risk factors for predicting aneurysm rupture. Especially, when combined with ApoA-1, SERPINA1, and PFN1 for predicting IA rupture, the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.954 with a sensitivity of 96.15%, specificity of 81.48%, and accuracy of 88.68%. This prediction model was more effective than PHASES score.

Citropten Inhibits Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation and Migration via the TRPV1 Receptor

Vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation and migration play critical roles in arterial remodeling. Citropten, a natural organic compound belonging to coumarin and its derivative classes, exhibits various biological activities. However, mechanisms by which citropten protects against vascular remodeling remain unknown. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the inhibitory effects of citropten on VSMC proliferation and migration under high-glucose (HG) stimulation. Citropten abolished the proliferation and migration of rat vascular smooth muscle cells (RVSMCs) in a concentration-dependent manner. Also, citropten inhibited the expression of proliferation-related proteins, including proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), cyclin E1, cyclin D1, and migration-related markers such as matrix metalloproteinase (MMP), MMP2 and MMP9, in a concentration-dependent manner. In addition, citropten inhibited the phosphorylation of ERK and AKT, as well as hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) expression, mediated to the Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) transcription factor. Using pharmacological inhibitors of ERK, AKT, and HIF-1α also strongly blocked the expression of MMP9, PCNA, and cyclin D1, as well as migration and the proliferation rate. Finally, molecular docking suggested that citropten docked onto the binding site of transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1), like epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a well-known agonist of TRPV1. These data suggest that citropten inhibits VSMC proliferation and migration by activating the TRPV1 channel.

Genome-scale metabolic network of human carotid plaque reveals the pivotal role of glutamine/glutamate metabolism in macrophage modulating plaque inflammation and vulnerability

BACKGROUND

Metabolism is increasingly recognized as a key regulator of the function and phenotype of the primary cellular constituents of the atherosclerotic vascular wall, including endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and inflammatory cells. However, a comprehensive analysis of metabolic changes associated with the transition of plaque from a stable to a hemorrhaged phenotype is lacking.

METHODS

In this study, we integrated two large mRNA expression and protein abundance datasets (BIKE, n = 126; MaasHPS, n = 43) from human atherosclerotic carotid artery plaque to reconstruct a genome-scale metabolic network (GEM). Next, the GEM findings were linked to metabolomics data from MaasHPS, providing a comprehensive overview of metabolic changes in human plaque.

RESULTS

Our study identified significant changes in lipid, cholesterol, and inositol metabolism, along with altered lysosomal lytic activity and increased inflammatory activity, in unstable plaques with intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH+) compared to non-hemorrhaged (IPH-) plaques. Moreover, topological analysis of this network model revealed that the conversion of glutamine to glutamate and their flux between the cytoplasm and mitochondria were notably compromised in hemorrhaged plaques, with a significant reduction in overall glutamate levels in IPH+ plaques. Additionally, reduced glutamate availability was associated with an increased presence of macrophages and a pro-inflammatory phenotype in IPH+ plaques, suggesting an inflammation-prone microenvironment.

CONCLUSIONS

This study is the first to establish a robust and comprehensive GEM for atherosclerotic plaque, providing a valuable resource for understanding plaque metabolism. The utility of this GEM was illustrated by its ability to reliably predict dysregulation in the cholesterol hydroxylation, inositol metabolism, and the glutamine/glutamate pathway in rupture-prone hemorrhaged plaques, a finding that may pave the way to new diagnostic or therapeutic measures.

NF-kB affects migration of vascular smooth muscle cells after treatment with heparin and ibrutinib

The migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) is one of the most important events in the remodeling of atherosclerosis plaque. The aim of study was to investigate the role of Heparin in the VSMC migration and its association with the NF-kB, collagen 1 and collagen 3 expression levels. Moreover, the incorporation of Heparin was studied in the VSMC cultures including Betulinic acid and Ibrutinib. Twelve cell groups were cultured and treated with the Heparin, Betulinic acid and Ibrutinib based on the viability and toxicity in 24-h and 48-h periods. The gene and protein expression levels were measured by RT-qPCR and western blotting techniques. The VSMC migration was determined by scratch test. In contrast with Ibrutinib (2 μM), Heparin (30 IU) increased significantly (P < 0.05) the NF-kB gene and protein expression levels and the VSMC migration during the exposure periods. Heparin (15 IU and 30 IU) also increased the collagen 1 gene expression level in the 48-h period while Heparin (5 IU and 15 IU) increased the collagen 3 gene expression levels in both periods. Incorporating Heparin into the cultures including Betulinic acid and Ibrutinib affected the collagen 1 and collagen 3 expression levels. The data suggested that the cell migration relates to NF-kB in the VSMCs treated with Heparin and Ibrutinib. Furthermore, the Heparin doses (5 IU and 15 IU) were safe for VSMCs based on the NF-kB, and collagen 3 expression levels.

Unravelling the molecular interplay: SUMOylation, PML nuclear bodies and vascular cell activity in health and disease

In the seemingly well-researched field of vascular research, there are still many underestimated factors and molecular mechanisms. In recent years, SUMOylation has become increasingly important. SUMOylation is a post-translational modification in which small ubiquitin-related modifiers (SUMO) are covalently attached to target proteins. Sites where these SUMO modification processes take place in the cell nucleus are PML nuclear bodies (PML-NBs) - multiprotein complexes with their essential main component and organizer, the PML protein. PML and SUMO, either alone or as partners, influence a variety of cellular processes, including regulation of transcription, senescence, DNA damage response and defence against microorganisms, and are involved in innate immunity and inflammatory responses. They also play an important role in maintaining homeostasis in the vascular system and in pathological processes leading to the development and progression of cardiovascular diseases. This review summarizes information about the function of SUMO(ylation) and PML(-NBs) in the human vasculature from angiogenesis to disease and highlights their clinical potential as drug targets.