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Rengarajan A, Austin JL, Stanic AK, Patankar MS, Boeldt DS. Mononuclear Cells Negatively Regulate Endothelial Ca 2+ Signaling. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:2292-2301. [PMID: 36717462 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01164-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Endothelial Ca2+ signaling has important roles to play in maintaining pregnancy associated vasodilation in the utero-placenta. Inflammatory cytokines, often elevated in vascular complications of pregnancy, negatively regulate ATP-stimulated endothelial Ca2+ signaling and associated nitric oxide production. However, the role of direct engagement of immune cells on endothelial Ca2+ signaling and therefore endothelial function is unclear. To model immune-endothelial interactions, herein, we evaluate the effects of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in short-term interaction with human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) on agonist-stimulated Ca2+ signaling in HUVECs. We find that mononuclear cells (10:1 and 25:1 mononuclear: HUVEC) cause decreased ATP-stimulated Ca2+ signaling; worsened by activated mononuclear cells possibly due to increased cytokine secretion. Additionally, monocytes, natural killers, and T-cells cause decrease in ATP-stimulated Ca2+ signaling using THP-1 (monocyte), NKL (natural killer cells), and Jurkat (T-cell) cell lines, respectively. PBMCs with Golgi-restricted protein transport prior to interaction with endothelial cells display rescue in Ca2+ signaling, strongly suggesting that secreted proteins from PBMCs mediate changes in HUVEC Ca2+ signaling. We propose that endothelial cells from normal pregnancy interacting with PBMCs may model preeclamptic endothelial-immune interaction and resultant endothelial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya Rengarajan
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Medicine and Public Health, Perinatal Research Laboratories, 7E UnityPoint Health-Meriter Hospital, 202 South Park St, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Jason L Austin
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Medicine and Public Health, Perinatal Research Laboratories, 7E UnityPoint Health-Meriter Hospital, 202 South Park St, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Aleksandar K Stanic
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Medicine and Public Health, Perinatal Research Laboratories, 7E UnityPoint Health-Meriter Hospital, 202 South Park St, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Manish S Patankar
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Medicine and Public Health, Perinatal Research Laboratories, 7E UnityPoint Health-Meriter Hospital, 202 South Park St, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Derek S Boeldt
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Medicine and Public Health, Perinatal Research Laboratories, 7E UnityPoint Health-Meriter Hospital, 202 South Park St, Madison, WI, 53715, USA.
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2
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Clemente L, Bird IM. The epidermal growth factor receptor in healthy pregnancy and preeclampsia. J Mol Endocrinol 2023; 70:e220105. [PMID: 36197759 PMCID: PMC9742168 DOI: 10.1530/jme-22-0105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is expressed robustly in the placenta, and critical processes of pregnancy such as placental growth and trophoblast fusion are dependent on EGFR function. However, the role that aberrant EGFR signaling might play in the etiology and/or maintenance of preeclampsia (PE) remains largely unexplored. Recently, we have shown that overexpression of EGFR in cultured uterine artery endothelial cells (UAEC), which express little endogenous EGFR, remaps responsiveness away from vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) signaling and toward EGFR, suggesting that endothelial EGFR expression may be kept low to preserve VEGFR control of angiogenesis. Here we will consider the evidence for the possibility that the endothelial dysfunction observed in PE might in some cases result from elevation of endothelial EGFR. During pregnancy, trophoblasts are known to synthesize large amounts of EGFR protein, and the placenta regularly releases syncytiotrophoblast-derived exosomes and microparticles into the maternal circulation. Although there are no reports of elevated EGFR gene expression in preeclamptic endothelial cells, the ongoing shedding of placental vesicles into the vascular system raises the possibility that EGFR-rich vesicles might fuse with endothelium, thereby contributing to the symptoms of PE by interrupting angiogenesis and blocking pregnancy-adapted vasodilatory function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Clemente
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Ian M. Bird
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
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3
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Ampey AC, Dahn RL, Grummer MA, Bird IM. Differential control of uterine artery endothelial monolayer integrity by TNF and VEGF is achieved through multiple mechanisms operating inside and outside the cell - Relevance to preeclampsia. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 534:111368. [PMID: 34153378 PMCID: PMC8344923 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Uterine artery endothelium undergoes a form of functional adaptation during pregnancy because of an increase in Cx43 communication, resulting in increased Ca2+/IP3 exchange and more synchronous and sustained vasodilator production. We have shown previously that acute exposure to growth factors and TNF can block this adaptation through ERK and/or Src-mediated Cx43 phosphorylation. In preeclampsia such adapted function is already missing, but while elevated TNF is associated with this condition, particularly after 28 weeks (late PE), elevated circulating VEGF165 is not. Given PE is a long term condition emerging in the second half of pregnancy, and is often associated with added edema, we now compare the chronic effects of these two factors on the cell monolayer in order to establish if the breakdown of junctional adherens and tight junctional assemblies in which Cx43 resides could also explain loss of vasodilatory function. We report that while TNF can degrade monolayer integrity even in the 0.1-1 ng/ml physiologic range, VEGF up to 10 ng/ml does not. In addition, the progressive action of TNF is mediated through Src and ERK signaling to promote internalization and destruction of VE-Cadherin (VE-Cad) and ZO-1, as well as the expression and secretion of a variety of proteases. At least one protein degraded from the extracellular space is VE-Cad, resulting in release of a shed VE-Cad protein product, and consistent with monolayer breakdown being sensitive to both Src and MEK/ERK kinase inhibitors and the general protease inhibitor GM6001. We conclude that the greater association of TNF with 'late' PE is as much due to its longer term destabilizing effects on junctional assemblies as it is to acute closure of Cx43 channels themselves. New therapies aimed at stabilizing these junctional assemblies may help treat this hypertensive condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda C Ampey
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 7E Unity Point Health-Meriter Hospital, 202 South Park Street, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Rachel L Dahn
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 7E Unity Point Health-Meriter Hospital, 202 South Park Street, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Mary A Grummer
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 7E Unity Point Health-Meriter Hospital, 202 South Park Street, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Ian M Bird
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 7E Unity Point Health-Meriter Hospital, 202 South Park Street, Madison, WI, 53715, USA.
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4
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Mauro AK, Khurshid N, Berdahl DM, Ampey AC, Adu D, Shah DM, Boeldt DS. Cytokine concentrations direct endothelial function in pregnancy and preeclampsia. J Endocrinol 2021; 248:107-117. [PMID: 33263558 PMCID: PMC7906941 DOI: 10.1530/joe-20-0397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Endothelial dysfunction is a prominent feature of preeclampsia, a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy, and contributes to multiple symptoms characteristic of the syndrome. A myriad of growth factors and cytokines are dysregulated in preeclampsia as compared to normal pregnancy, however, a complete appreciation of the effect of changing concentrations of these factors on endothelial function is lacking. In this study, we evaluate the effect of a variety of growth factors and cytokines on Ca2+ signaling and monolayer integrity. We report that VEGF165, TNFα, EGF, and IL-1β either improve or inhibit Ca2+ signaling depending on dose, whereas TNFα and IL-1β reduce monolayer integrity and bFGF increases monolayer integrity. Additionally, to model the effects of combinations of growth factors and cytokines, we screened for Ca2+ signaling changes in response to 16 dose combinations of VEGF165 and TNFα together. This revealed an optimal combination capable of supporting pregnancy-adapted Ca2+ signaling, and that changes in either VEGF165 or TNFα dose would result in a shift toward suppressed function. This study shows in detail how growth factor or cytokine concentration effects endothelial cell function. Such data can be used to model how changing growth factor and cytokine levels in normal pregnancy may contribute to healthy endothelial function and in preeclampsia may promote endothelial dysfunction. The results of VEGF165 and TNFα combination treatments suggest that more complex growth factor and cytokine combination modeling may be important in order to more accurately understand the effects of circulating factors on the endothelial function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda K Mauro
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Wisconsin – Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53715
| | - Nauman Khurshid
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Wisconsin – Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53715
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Wisconsin – Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53715
| | - Danielle M Berdahl
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Wisconsin – Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53715
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Wisconsin – Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53715
| | - Amanda C Ampey
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Wisconsin – Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53715
| | - Daniel Adu
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Wisconsin – Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53715
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin – Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53715
| | - Dinesh M Shah
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Wisconsin – Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53715
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Wisconsin – Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53715
| | - Derek S Boeldt
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Wisconsin – Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53715
- Correspondence and reprint requests: Derek S Boeldt, Ph.D., University Wisconsin - Madison, Department Obstetrics & Gynecology, Perinatal Research Laboratories, 7E Meriter Hospital/Park, 202 South Park St., Madison, WI 53715., Tel: (608) 417 6314, Fax: (608) 257 1304,
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5
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Rozas-Villanueva MF, Casanello P, Retamal MA. Role of ROS/RNS in Preeclampsia: Are Connexins the Missing Piece? Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21134698. [PMID: 32630161 PMCID: PMC7369723 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21134698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication that appears after 20 weeks of gestation and is characterized by hypertension and proteinuria, affecting both mother and offspring. The cellular and molecular mechanisms that cause the development of preeclampsia are poorly understood. An important feature of preeclampsia is an increase in oxygen and nitrogen derived free radicals (reactive oxygen species/reactive nitrogen species (ROS/RNS), which seem to be central players setting the development and progression of preeclampsia. Cell-to-cell communication may be disrupted as well. Connexins (Cxs), a family of transmembrane proteins that form hemichannels and gap junction channels (GJCs), are essential in paracrine and autocrine cell communication, allowing the movement of signaling molecules between cells as well as between the cytoplasm and the extracellular media. GJCs and hemichannels are fundamental for communication between endothelial and smooth muscle cells and, therefore, in the control of vascular contraction and relaxation. In systemic vasculature, the activity of GJCs and hemichannels is modulated by ROS and RNS. Cxs participate in the development of the placenta and are expressed in placental vasculature. However, it is unknown whether Cxs are modulated by ROS/RNS in the placenta, or whether this potential modulation contributes to the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. Our review addresses the possible role of Cxs in preeclampsia, and the plausible modulation of Cxs-formed channels by ROS and RNS. We suggest these factors may contribute to the development of preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- María F. Rozas-Villanueva
- Centro de Fisiología Celular e Integrativa, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago 7690000, Chile;
- Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias e Innovación en Medicina, Facultad de Medicina, Clínica Alemana Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago 7690000, Chile
| | - Paola Casanello
- Department of Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 7690000, Chile;
- Department of Neonatology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 7690000, Chile
| | - Mauricio A. Retamal
- Centro de Fisiología Celular e Integrativa, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago 7690000, Chile;
- Programa de Comunicación Celular de Cáncer, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago 7690000, Chile
- Correspondence:
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Mauro AK, Berdahl DM, Khurshid N, Clemente L, Ampey AC, Shah DM, Bird IM, Boeldt DS. Conjugated linoleic acid improves endothelial Ca2+ signaling by blocking growth factor and cytokine-mediated Cx43 phosphorylation. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 510:110814. [PMID: 32259635 PMCID: PMC7253345 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Sustained Ca2+ burst signaling is crucial for endothelial vasodilator production and is disrupted by growth factors and cytokines. Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a Src inhibitor in certain preparations, is generally regarded as safe during pregnancy by the FDA. Multiple CLA preparations; t10, c12 or c9, t11 CLA, or a 1:1 mixture of the two were administered before growth factor or cytokine treatment. Growth factors and cytokines caused a significant decrease in Ca2+ burst numbers in response to ATP stimulation. Both t10, c12 CLA and the 1:1 mixture rescued VEGF165 or TNFα inhibited Ca2+ bursts and correlated with Src-specific phosphorylation of connexin 43. VEGF165, TNFα, and IL-6 in combination at physiologic concentrations revealed IL-6 amplified the inhibitory effects of lower dose of VEGF165 and TNFα. Again, the 1:1 CLA mixture was most effective at rescue of function. Therefore, CLA formulations may be a promising treatment for endothelial dysfunction in diseases such as preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda K Mauro
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Danielle M Berdahl
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Nauman Khurshid
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Luca Clemente
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Amanda C Ampey
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Dinesh M Shah
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Ian M Bird
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin - Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Derek S Boeldt
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, 53715, USA.
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7
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Rengarajan A, Mauro AK, Boeldt DS. Maternal disease and gasotransmitters. Nitric Oxide 2020; 96:1-12. [PMID: 31911124 DOI: 10.1016/j.niox.2020.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The three known gasotransmitters, nitric oxide, carbon monoxide, and hydrogen sulfide are involved in key processes throughout pregnancy. Gasotransmitters are known to impact on smooth muscle tone, regulation of immune responses, and oxidative state of cells and their component molecules. Failure of the systems that tightly regulate gasotransmitter production and downstream effects are thought to contribute to common maternal diseases such as preeclampsia and preterm birth. Normal pregnancy-related changes in uterine blood flow depend heavily on gasotransmitter signaling. In preeclampsia, endothelial dysfunction is a major contributor to aberrant gasotransmitter signaling, resulting in hypertension after 20 weeks gestation. Maintenance of pregnancy to term also requires gasotransmitter-mediated uterine quiescence. As the appropriate signals for parturition occur, regulation of gasotransmitter signaling must work in concert with those endocrine signals in order for appropriate labor and delivery timing. Like preeclampsia, preterm birth may have origins in abnormal gasotransmitter signaling. We review the evidence for the involvement of gasotransmitters in preeclampsia and preterm birth, as well as mechanistic and molecular signaling targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya Rengarajan
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Dept Ob/ Gyn, UW - Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Amanda K Mauro
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Dept Ob/ Gyn, UW - Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Derek S Boeldt
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Dept Ob/ Gyn, UW - Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA.
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8
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Clemente L, Boeldt DS, Grummer MA, Morita M, Morgan TK, Wiepz GJ, Bertics PJ, Bird IM. Adenoviral transduction of EGFR into pregnancy-adapted uterine artery endothelial cells remaps growth factor induction of endothelial dysfunction. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 499:110590. [PMID: 31550517 PMCID: PMC6886699 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2019.110590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2019] [Revised: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
During pregnancy, uterine vascular vasodilation is enhanced through adapted Ca2+ signaling, facilitated through increased endothelial connexin 43 (Cx43) gap junctional communication (GJC). In preeclampsia (PE), this adaptive response is missing. Of note, the angiogenic factor VEGF can also act via Src and ERK to close Cx43 gap junctions. While VEGFR2 is necessary for such closure, a role VEGFR1 is less clear. We reasoned if VEGFR2 is acting alone, then substituting another growth factor receptor with VEGFR2-like signaling should have the same effect. In uterine artery endothelial cells derived from pregnant sheep (P-UAEC), endogenous EGFR expression is very low. When we used adenovirus to raise EGFR, we also dose-dependently induced EGF-sensitive Cx43 phosphorylation mainly via ERK, and corresponding loss of Ca2+ bursts, but eliminated VEGF effects on phosphorylation of Cx43 or loss of Ca2+ bursting. This surprising observation suggests that while activated EGFR may indeed substitute for VEGFR2, it also sequesters a limited pool of effector molecules needed for VEGFR2 to phosphorylate Cx43. Thus, low endogenous EGFR expression in P-UAEC may be a necessary strategy to allow VEGFR-2 control of GJC, a first step in initiating angiogenesis in healthy pregnancy. Of further note, trophoblasts are rich in EGFR, and we have demonstrated shed PLAP+/EGFR + extracellular vesicles in maternal circulation in first trimester plasma samples using nanoscale high resolution flow cytometry. Collectively our data suggest that placenta derived exosomes positive for EGFR should be further considered as a possible cause of endothelial dysfunction in women with PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Clemente
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Derek S Boeldt
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Mary A Grummer
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Mayu Morita
- Departments of Pathology, Obstetrics & Gynecology, and Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Terry K Morgan
- Departments of Pathology, Obstetrics & Gynecology, and Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Greg J Wiepz
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin - Madison, School of Veterinary Medicine, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Paul J Bertics
- Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, University of Wisconsin - Madison, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Ian M Bird
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, 53715, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin - Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, 53715, USA.
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9
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Endothelial Ca 2+ Signaling, Angiogenesis and Vasculogenesis: just What It Takes to Make a Blood Vessel. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20163962. [PMID: 31416282 PMCID: PMC6721072 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20163962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Revised: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
It has long been known that endothelial Ca2+ signals drive angiogenesis by recruiting multiple Ca2+-sensitive decoders in response to pro-angiogenic cues, such as vascular endothelial growth factor, basic fibroblast growth factor, stromal derived factor-1α and angiopoietins. Recently, it was shown that intracellular Ca2+ signaling also drives vasculogenesis by stimulation proliferation, tube formation and neovessel formation in endothelial progenitor cells. Herein, we survey how growth factors, chemokines and angiogenic modulators use endothelial Ca2+ signaling to regulate angiogenesis and vasculogenesis. The endothelial Ca2+ response to pro-angiogenic cues may adopt different waveforms, ranging from Ca2+ transients or biphasic Ca2+ signals to repetitive Ca2+ oscillations, and is mainly driven by endogenous Ca2+ release through inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors and by store-operated Ca2+ entry through Orai1 channels. Lysosomal Ca2+ release through nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate-gated two-pore channels is, however, emerging as a crucial pro-angiogenic pathway, which sustains intracellular Ca2+ mobilization. Understanding how endothelial Ca2+ signaling regulates angiogenesis and vasculogenesis could shed light on alternative strategies to induce therapeutic angiogenesis or interfere with the aberrant vascularization featuring cancer and intraocular disorders.
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10
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Osikoya O, Ahmed H, Panahi S, Bourque SL, Goulopoulou S. Uterine perivascular adipose tissue is a novel mediator of uterine artery blood flow and reactivity in rat pregnancy. J Physiol 2019; 597:3833-3852. [PMID: 31165480 DOI: 10.1113/jp277643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS In vivo, uterine perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) potentiates uterine artery blood flow in pregnant rats, although not in non-pregnant rats. In isolated preparations, uterine PVAT has pro-contractile and anti-dilatory effects on uterine arteries. Pregnancy induces changes in uterine arteries that makes them responsive to uterine PVAT signalling. ABSTRACT An increase in uterine artery blood flow (UtBF) is a common and necessary feature of a healthy pregnancy. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that adipose tissue surrounding uterine arteries (uterine perivascular adipose tissue; PVAT) is a novel local mediator of UtBF and uterine artery tone during pregnancy. In vivo experiments in anaesthetized Sprague-Dawley rats showed that pregnant animals (gestational day 16, term = 22--23 days) had a three-fold higher UtBF compared to non-pregnant animals. Surgical removal of uterine PVAT reduced UtBF only in pregnant rats. In a series of ex vivo bioassays, we demonstrated that uterine PVAT had pro-contractile and anti-dilatory effects on rat uterine arteries. In the presence of PVAT-conditioned media, isolated uterine arteries from both pregnant and non-pregnant rats had reduced vasodilatory responses. In non-pregnant rats, these responses were mediated at the level of uterine vascular smooth muscle, whereas, in pregnant rats, PVAT-media reduced endothelium-dependent relaxation. Pregnancy increased adipocyte size in ovarian adipose tissue but had no effect on uterine PVAT adipocyte morphology. In addition, pregnancy down-regulated the gene expression of metabolic adipokines in uterine but not in aortic PVAT. In conclusion, this is the first study to demonstrate that uterine PVAT plays a regulatory role in UtBF, at least in part, as a result of its actions on uterine artery tone. We propose that the interaction between the uterine vascular wall and its adjacent adipose tissue may provide new insights for interventions in pregnancies with adipose tissue dysfunction and abnormal UtBF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwatobiloba Osikoya
- Department of Physiology and Anatomy, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, USA
| | - Hijab Ahmed
- Department of Physiology and Anatomy, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, USA
| | - Sareh Panahi
- Departments of Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine, Pharmacology, and Pediatrics, Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Stephane L Bourque
- Departments of Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine, Pharmacology, and Pediatrics, Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Styliani Goulopoulou
- Department of Physiology and Anatomy, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, USA
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11
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Ampey AC, Boeldt DS, Clemente L, Grummer MA, Yi F, Magness RR, Bird IM. TNF-alpha inhibits pregnancy-adapted Ca 2+ signaling in uterine artery endothelial cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2019; 488:14-24. [PMID: 30779937 PMCID: PMC6475486 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2019.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2018] [Revised: 02/10/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Enhancement of vasodilation of uterine arteries during pregnancy occurs through increased connexin (Cx)43 gap junction (GJ) communication supporting more frequent and sustained Ca2+ 'bursts'. Such adaptation is lacking in subjects with preeclampsia (PE). Here we show TNF-alpha, commonly increased in PE subjects, inhibits Cx43 function and Ca2+ bursts in pregnancy-derived ovine uterine artery endothelial cells (P-UAEC) via Src and MEK/ERK phosphorylation of Cx43, and this can be reversed by PP2 or U0126. Of relevance to humans: (1) the nutraceutical Src antagonist t10, c12 CLA also recovers Ca2+ bursting in P-UAEC. (2) TNF-alpha can reduce and PP2 rescue Ca2+ bursting and NO output in human umbilical vein endothelium (HUV Endo) preparations. (3) Treatment of HUV Endo from PE subjects with PP2 alone can rescue bursting and NO output. We conclude TNF-alpha acts via Src more than MEK/ERK to inhibit GJ Cx43 function in PE subjects, and CLA may offer a potential therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda C Ampey
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 7E Unity Point Health-Meriter Hospital, 202 South Park Street, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Derek S Boeldt
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 7E Unity Point Health-Meriter Hospital, 202 South Park Street, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Luca Clemente
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 7E Unity Point Health-Meriter Hospital, 202 South Park Street, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Mary A Grummer
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 7E Unity Point Health-Meriter Hospital, 202 South Park Street, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - FuXian Yi
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 7E Unity Point Health-Meriter Hospital, 202 South Park Street, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Ronald R Magness
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 7E Unity Point Health-Meriter Hospital, 202 South Park Street, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Ian M Bird
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 7E Unity Point Health-Meriter Hospital, 202 South Park Street, Madison, WI, 53715, USA.
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Alvarez RE, Boeldt DS, Pattnaik BR, Friedman HL, Bird IM. Pregnancy-adapted uterine artery endothelial cell Ca2+ signaling and its relationship with membrane potential. Physiol Rep 2018; 5:5/21/e13452. [PMID: 29122954 PMCID: PMC5688774 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.13452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2017] [Revised: 08/12/2017] [Accepted: 08/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy‐derived uterine artery endothelial cells (P‐UAEC) express P2Y2 receptors and at high cell density show sustained and synchronous [Ca2+]i burst responses in response to ATP. Bursts in turn require coupling of transient receptor potential canonical type3 channel (TRPC3) and inositol 1,4,5‐triphosphate receptor type 2 (IP3R2), which is upregulated in P‐UAEC in a manner dependent on connexin 43 (Cx43) gap junctions. While there is no known direct interaction of TRPC3 with Cx43, early descriptions of TRPC3 function showed it may also be influenced by altered membrane potential (Vm). Herein, we ask if enhanced TRPC3 Ca2+ bursting due to enhanced Cx43 coupling may be coupled via dynamic alterations in Vm in P‐UAEC, as reported in some (HUVEC) but not all endothelial cells. Following basic electrical characterization of UAEC, we employed a high sensitivity cell imaging system to simultaneously monitor cell Vm and [Ca2+]i in real time in continuous monolayers of UAEC. Our findings show that while acute and sustained phase [Ca2+]i bursting occur dose‐dependently in response to ATP, Vm is not coregulated with any periodicity related to [Ca2+]i bursting. Only a small but significant progressive change in Vm is seen, and this is more closely related to overall mobilization of Ca2+. Surprisingly, this is also most apparent in NP‐UAEC > P‐UAEC. In contrast [Ca2+]i bursting is more synchronous in P‐UAEC and even achieves [Ca2+]i waves passing through the P‐UAEC monolayer. The relevance of these findings to mechanisms of pregnancy adaptation and its failure in hypertensive pregnancy are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxanne E Alvarez
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Derek S Boeldt
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Bikash R Pattnaik
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin.,Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Hannah L Friedman
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Ian M Bird
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin .,Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
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Li Y, Lorca RA, Su EJ. Molecular and cellular underpinnings of normal and abnormal human placental blood flows. J Mol Endocrinol 2018; 60:R9-R22. [PMID: 29097590 PMCID: PMC5732864 DOI: 10.1530/jme-17-0139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2017] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Abnormal placental function is well-established as a major cause for poor pregnancy outcome. Placental blood flow within the maternal uteroplacental compartment, the fetoplacental circulation or both is a vital factor in mediating placental function. Impairment in flow in either or both vasculatures is a significant risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcome, potentially impacting maternal well-being, affecting immediate neonatal health and even influencing the long-term health of the infant. Much remains unknown regarding the mechanistic underpinnings of proper placental blood flow. This review highlights the currently recognized molecular and cellular mechanisms in the development of normal uteroplacental and fetoplacental blood flows. Utilizing the entities of preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction as clinical phenotypes that are often evident downstream of abnormal placental blood flow, mechanisms underlying impaired uteroplacental and fetoplacental blood flows are also discussed. Deficiencies in knowledge, which limit the efficacy of clinical care, are also highlighted, underscoring the need for continued research on normal and abnormal placental blood flows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingchun Li
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyDivision of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Ramón A Lorca
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyDivision of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Emily J Su
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyDivision of Maternal-Fetal Medicine/Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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Wilson C, Lee MD, McCarron JG. Acetylcholine released by endothelial cells facilitates flow-mediated dilatation. J Physiol 2016; 594:7267-7307. [PMID: 27730645 PMCID: PMC5157078 DOI: 10.1113/jp272927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2016] [Accepted: 10/03/2016] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS The endothelium plays a pivotal role in the vascular response to chemical and mechanical stimuli. The endothelium is exquisitely sensitive to ACh, although the physiological significance of ACh-induced activation of the endothelium is unknown. In the present study, we investigated the mechanisms of flow-mediated endothelial calcium signalling. Our data establish that flow-mediated endothelial calcium responses arise from the autocrine action of non-neuronal ACh released by the endothelium. ABSTRACT Circulating blood generates frictional forces (shear stress) on the walls of blood vessels. These frictional forces critically regulate vascular function. The endothelium senses these frictional forces and, in response, releases various vasodilators that relax smooth muscle cells in a process termed flow-mediated dilatation. Although some elements of the signalling mechanisms have been identified, precisely how flow is sensed and transduced to cause the release of relaxing factors is poorly understood. By imaging signalling in large areas of the endothelium of intact arteries, we show that the endothelium responds to flow by releasing ACh. Once liberated, ACh acts to trigger calcium release from the internal store in endothelial cells, nitric oxide production and artery relaxation. Flow-activated release of ACh from the endothelium is non-vesicular and occurs via organic cation transporters. ACh is generated following mitochondrial production of acetylCoA. Thus, we show ACh is an autocrine signalling molecule released from endothelial cells, and identify a new role for the classical neurotransmitter in endothelial mechanotransduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Calum Wilson
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical SciencesUniversity of StrathclydeSIPBS BuildingGlasgowUK
| | - Matthew D. Lee
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical SciencesUniversity of StrathclydeSIPBS BuildingGlasgowUK
| | - John G. McCarron
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical SciencesUniversity of StrathclydeSIPBS BuildingGlasgowUK
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Boeldt DS, Krupp J, Yi FX, Khurshid N, Shah DM, Bird IM. Positive versus negative effects of VEGF165 on Ca2+ signaling and NO production in human endothelial cells. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2016; 312:H173-H181. [PMID: 27836897 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00924.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Revised: 11/01/2016] [Accepted: 11/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The role increased vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) plays in vascular function during normal vs. preeclamptic pregnancy has been a source of some controversy of late. In this study, we seek to understand how VEGF165 influences vasodilator production via Ca2+ signaling mechanisms in human endothelial cells. We utilize human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) as well as intact ex vivo human umbilical vein (HUV Endo) to address direct stimulation of Ca2+ and NO by VEGF165 alone, as well as the effect of VEGF165 on subsequent ATP-stimulated Ca2+ signaling and NO production. We show that VEGF165 stimulates Ca2+ responses in both HUVEC and HUV Endo, which results in a corresponding increase in NO production in HUV Endo. Longer-term VEGF165 pretreatment then inhibits sustained Ca2+ burst responses to ATP in HUVEC and HUV Endo. This is paralleled by a corresponding drop in ATP-stimulated NO production in HUV Endo, likely through inhibition of Cx43 gap-junction function. Thus, although VEGF165 makes a small initial positive impact on vasodilator production via direct stimulation of Ca2+ responses, this is outweighed by the greater subsequent negative impact on Ca2+ bursts and vasodilator production promoted by more potent agonists such as ATP. Overall, elevated levels of VEGF165 associated with preeclampsia could contribute to the endothelial dysfunction by preventing Ca2+ bursts to other agonists including but not limited to ATP. NEW & NOTEWORTHY In this manuscript, we show that VEGF levels associated with preeclampsia are a net negative contributor to potential vasodilator production in both a human ex vivo and in vitro endothelial cell model. Therefore, pharmacological targeting of VEGF-stimulated signaling pathways could be a novel treatment modality for preeclampsia-related hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek S Boeldt
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin; and
| | - Jennifer Krupp
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin; and.,Division Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Fu-Xian Yi
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin; and
| | - Nauman Khurshid
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin; and.,Division Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Dinesh M Shah
- Division Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Ian M Bird
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin; and
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Pastore MB, Talwar S, Conley MR, Magness RR. Identification of Differential ER-Alpha Versus ER-Beta Mediated Activation of eNOS in Ovine Uterine Artery Endothelial Cells. Biol Reprod 2016; 94:139. [PMID: 27170438 PMCID: PMC4946807 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.137554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2015] [Accepted: 05/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Endothelial nitric oxide (NO) production is partly responsible for maintenance of uterine vasodilatation during physiologic states of high circulating estrogen levels, e.g., pregnancy. Although 3%–5% of estrogen receptors (ER-alpha/beta) localize to the endothelial plasmalemma, these receptors are responsible for the nongenomic vasodilator responses. Estradiol induces endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) activation to increase NO production; however, it is unknown if eNOS regulation is dependent on both ERs. We hypothesize that ER-alpha and/or ER-beta are capable of changing eNOS phosphorylation and increasing NO production in uterine artery endothelial cells (UAECs). UAECs were 1) treated with vehicle or increasing concentrations (0.1–100 nM) or timed treatments (0–30 min) of estradiol and 2) pretreated with the inhibitors ICI 182,780 (nonspecific ER), 1,3-Bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4-methyl-5-[4-(2-piperidinylethoxy)phenol]-1H-pyrazole dihydrochloride (MPP; ER-alpha specific), or 4-[2-phenyl-5,7-bis(trifluoromethyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-3-yl]phenol (PHTPP; ER-beta specific) followed by estradiol to analyze the changes in eNOS stimulatory Ser1177eNOS and Ser635eNOS versus inhibitory Thr495eNOS via Western blot analysis. UAECs were also pretreated with MPP, PHTPP, or MPP + PHTTP followed by estradiol or treated with the agonists estradiol, 4,4′,4″-(4-propyl-[1H]-pyrazole-1,3,5-triyl)trisphenol, 2,3-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)-propionitrile, or ATP to quantify total NOx levels (NO2+NO3). Estrogen and ER-alpha activation induced an increase in Ser1177eNOS and Ser635eNOS, a decrease in Thr495eNOS, and an increase in NOx levels. In contrast, ER-beta activation only reduced Thr495eNOS without changes in Ser1177eNOS or Ser635eNOS. However, ER-beta activation increased NOx levels. Lastly, the antagonism of both receptors induced a reduction in basal and stimulated NOx levels in UAECs. These data demonstrate that 1) eNOS phosphorylation changes occur via ER-alpha- and ER-beta-dependent mechanisms and 2) ER-alpha and ER-beta can both increase NO levels independently from each other.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayra B Pastore
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology Perinatal Research Labs, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Saira Talwar
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology Perinatal Research Labs, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Meghan R Conley
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology Perinatal Research Labs, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Ronald R Magness
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology Perinatal Research Labs, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin Department of Animal Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin University of South Florida Perinatal Research Center, Tampa, Florida
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18
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Boeldt DS, Grummer MA, Yi F, Magness RR, Bird IM. Phosphorylation of Ser-279/282 and Tyr-265 positions on Cx43 as possible mediators of VEGF-165 inhibition of pregnancy-adapted Ca2+ burst function in ovine uterine artery endothelial cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2015; 412:73-84. [PMID: 26033246 PMCID: PMC4516676 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2015.05.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2015] [Revised: 05/26/2015] [Accepted: 05/26/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Normal pregnancy requires increased uterine endothelial cell driven vasodilation that is related to increases in sustained Ca2+ signaling via increased connexin 43 (Cx43) gap junction function. Preeclampsia, a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy associated with endothelial dysfunction, is also linked with down regulation of Ca2+ driven vasodilator production and increased levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Cx43 function can be acutely down-regulated by phosphorylation of multiple inhibitory residues and VEGF is known to promote phosphorylation of Cx43. Herein, we show that VEGF-165 promotes Cx43 phosphorylation at Ser-279/282 and Tyr-265 residues and blocks pregnancy-adapted Ca2+ signaling in ovine uterine artery endothelial cells (UAEC). Pharmacological Src and ERK kinase pathway inhibitors (PP2 and U0126) reverse these phosphorylations and rescue Ca2+ signaling. We also report a nutraceutical Src inhibitor, t10,c12 conjugated linoleic acid (10,12 CLA), rescues Ca2+ signaling in UAEC and therefore may have therapeutic potential for preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek S Boeldt
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53715, USA.
| | - Mary A Grummer
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - FuXian Yi
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Ronald R Magness
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53715, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin - Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53715, USA; Department of Animal Sciences, University of Wisconsin - Madison, WI 53715, USA
| | - Ian M Bird
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53715, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin - Madison, School Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53715, USA
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Ampey BC, Morschauser TJ, Lampe PD, Magness RR. Gap junction regulation of vascular tone: implications of modulatory intercellular communication during gestation. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2014; 814:117-32. [PMID: 25015806 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-1031-1_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
In the vasculature, gap junctions (GJ) play a multifaceted role by serving as direct conduits for cell-cell intercellular communication via the facilitated diffusion of signaling molecules. GJs are essential for the control of gene expression and coordinated vascular development in addition to vascular function. The coupling of endothelial cells to each other, as well as with vascular smooth muscle cells via GJs, plays a relevant role in the control of vasomotor tone, tissue perfusion and arterial blood pressure. The regulation of cell-signaling is paramount to cardiovascular adaptations of pregnancy. Pregnancy requires highly developed cell-to-cell coupling, which is affected partly through the formation of intercellular GJs by Cx43, a gap junction protein, within adjacent cell membranes to help facilitate the increase of uterine blood flow (UBF) in order to ensure adequate perfusion for nutrient and oxygen delivery to the placenta and thus the fetus. One mode of communication that plays a critical role in regulating Cx43 is the release of endothelial-derived vasodilators such as prostacyclin (PGI2) and nitric oxide (NO) and their respective signaling mechanisms involving second messengers (cAMP and cGMP, respectively) that are likely to be important in maintaining UBF. Therefore, the assertion we present in this review is that GJs play an integral if not a central role in maintaining UBF by controlling rises in vasodilators (PGI2 and NO) via cyclic nucleotides. In this review, we discuss: (1) GJ structure and regulation; (2) second messenger regulation of GJ phosphorylation and formation; (3) pregnancy-induced changes in cell-signaling; and (4) the role of uterine arterial endothelial GJs during gestation. These topics integrate the current knowledge of this scientific field with interpretations and hypotheses regarding the vascular effects that are mediated by GJs and their relationship with vasodilatory vascular adaptations required for modulating the dramatic physiological rises in uteroplacental perfusion and blood flow observed during normal pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan C Ampey
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, School Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
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Boeldt DS, Grummer MA, Magness RR, Bird IM. Altered VEGF-stimulated Ca2+ signaling in part underlies pregnancy-adapted eNOS activity in UAEC. J Endocrinol 2014; 223:1-11. [PMID: 25063757 PMCID: PMC4161637 DOI: 10.1530/joe-14-0252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
In pregnancy, the uterine vasculature undergoes dramatic vasodilatory adaptations. Previously, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has been shown to stimulate endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in uterine artery endothelial cells (UAECs) derived from pregnant ewes to a greater extent than those from non-pregnant ewes in a manner not fully explained by changes in the phosphorylation of eNOS. In this study, we used Fura-2 Ca(2+) imaging and arginine-to-citrulline conversion eNOS activity assays to assess the importance of VEGF-stimulated Ca(2+) responses in pregnancy-related changes in NO production in UAEC. In this study, we show that pregnancy-induced changes in VEGF-stimulated Ca(2+) responses could account in part for the greater capacity of VEGF to stimulate eNOS in UAECs from pregnant versus non-pregnant animals. VEGF-stimulated Ca(2+) responses in UAECs from pregnant and non-pregnant animals were mediated through VEGF receptor 2 and were detected in roughly 15% of all cells. There were no pregnancy-specific differences in area under the curve or peak height. UAECs from pregnant animals were more consistent in the time to response initiation, had a larger component of extracellular Ca(2+) entry, and were more sensitive to a submaximal dose of VEGF. In UAECs from pregnant and non-pregnant animals Ca(2+) responses and eNOS activation were sensitive to the phospholipase C/inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate pathway inhibitors 2-aminoethoxydiphenylborane and U73122. Thus, changes in VEGF-stimulated [Ca(2+)]i are necessary for eNOS activation in UAECs, and pregnancy-induced changes in Ca(2+) responses could also in part explain the pregnancy-specific adaptive increase in eNOS activity in UAECs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek S Boeldt
- Perinatal Research LaboratoriesDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 7E Meriter Hospital/Park, 202 South Park Street, Madison, Wisconsin 53715, USADepartment of PediatricsSchool Medicine and Public HealthDepartment of Animal SciencesUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53715, USA
| | - Mary A Grummer
- Perinatal Research LaboratoriesDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 7E Meriter Hospital/Park, 202 South Park Street, Madison, Wisconsin 53715, USADepartment of PediatricsSchool Medicine and Public HealthDepartment of Animal SciencesUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53715, USA
| | - Ronald R Magness
- Perinatal Research LaboratoriesDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 7E Meriter Hospital/Park, 202 South Park Street, Madison, Wisconsin 53715, USADepartment of PediatricsSchool Medicine and Public HealthDepartment of Animal SciencesUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53715, USA Perinatal Research LaboratoriesDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 7E Meriter Hospital/Park, 202 South Park Street, Madison, Wisconsin 53715, USADepartment of PediatricsSchool Medicine and Public HealthDepartment of Animal SciencesUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53715, USA Perinatal Research LaboratoriesDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 7E Meriter Hospital/Park, 202 South Park Street, Madison, Wisconsin 53715, USADepartment of PediatricsSchool Medicine and Public HealthDepartment of Animal SciencesUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53715, USA
| | - Ian M Bird
- Perinatal Research LaboratoriesDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 7E Meriter Hospital/Park, 202 South Park Street, Madison, Wisconsin 53715, USADepartment of PediatricsSchool Medicine and Public HealthDepartment of Animal SciencesUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53715, USA Perinatal Research LaboratoriesDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 7E Meriter Hospital/Park, 202 South Park Street, Madison, Wisconsin 53715, USADepartment of PediatricsSchool Medicine and Public HealthDepartment of Animal SciencesUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53715, USA
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Review: Novel insights into the regulation of vascular tone by sphingosine 1-phosphate. Placenta 2014; 35 Suppl:S86-92. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2013.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2013] [Revised: 12/10/2013] [Accepted: 12/11/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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22
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Pregnancy Programming and Preeclampsia: Identifying a Human Endothelial Model to Study Pregnancy-Adapted Endothelial Function and Endothelial Adaptive Failure in Preeclamptic Subjects. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2014; 814:27-47. [DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-1031-1_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Morschauser TJ, Ramadoss J, Koch JM, Yi FX, Lopez GE, Bird IM, Magness RR. Local effects of pregnancy on connexin proteins that mediate Ca2+-associated uterine endothelial NO synthesis. Hypertension 2013; 63:589-94. [PMID: 24366080 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.113.01171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Uterine artery adaptations during gestation facilitate increases in uterine blood flow and fetal growth. HYPOTHESIS local expression and distribution of uterine artery connexins play roles in mediating in vivo gestational eNOS activation and NO production. We established an ovine model restricting pregnancy to a single uterine horn and measured uterine blood flow, uterine artery shear stress, connexins 37/43, and P(635)eNOS protein levels in uterine artery and systemic artery (omental and renal) endothelium and connexins in vascular smooth muscle. Uterine blood flow and shear stress were locally (unilaterally) and substantially elevated by gestation. During pregnancy, uterine artery endothelial gap junction proteins connexins 37/43 were locally regulated in the gravid horn and elevated 10.3- and 25.6-fold; uterine artery endothelial P(635)eNOS and total eNOS were elevated 3.3- and 2.9-fold; whereas uterine artery vascular smooth muscle connexins 37/43 were locally elevated 12.5- and 5.9-fold, respectively. Less pronounced changes were observed in systemic vasculature except for significant pregnancy-associated increases in omental artery vascular smooth muscle connexin 43 and omental artery endothelial P(635)eNOS and total eNOS. Gap junction blockade using connexin 43, but not connexin 37-specific Gap peptides, abrogated uterine artery endothelial ATP-induced Ca(2+)-mediated NO production. Thus, uterine artery endothelial connexin 43, but not connexin 37, regulates Ca(2+)-mediated NO production required for the vasodilation to accommodate increases in uterine blood flow and shear stress during healthy pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy J Morschauser
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Perinatal Research Laboratories, PAB1, Meriter Hospital/Park, 202 S. Park St, Madison, WI 53715.
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Goulopoulou S, Hannan JL, Matsumoto T, Ergul A, Webb RC. Augmented dilation to nitric oxide in uterine arteries from rats with type 2 diabetes: implications for vascular adaptations to pregnancy. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2013; 306:H610-8. [PMID: 24337459 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00588.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Pre-existing diabetes increases the risk of maternal and fetal complications during pregnancy, which may be due to underlying maternal vascular dysfunction and impaired blood supply to the uteroplacental unit. Endothelial dysfunction and reduced vascular smooth muscle responsiveness to nitric oxide (NO) are common vascular impairments in type 2 diabetes (T2D). We hypothesized that uterine arteries from diabetic rats would have reduced vascular smooth muscle sensitivity to NO compared with nondiabetic rats due to impairment in the NO/soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC)/cGMP signaling pathway. Uterine arteries from pregnant Goto-Kakizaki (GK; model of T2D) and Wistar (nondiabetic) rats were studied in a wire myograph. GK nonpregnant uterine arteries had reduced responses to ACh and sodium nitroprusside (SNP) but increased responses to propylamine propylamine NONOate and greater sensitivity to sildenafil compared with Wistar nonpregnant arteries. In late pregnancy, Wistar rats had reduced uterine vascular smooth muscle responsiveness to SNP, but GK rats failed to show this adaptation and had reduced expression of sGC compared with the nonpregnant state. GK rats had a smaller litter size (13.9 ± 0.48 vs. 9.8 ± 0.75; P < 0.05) and a greater number of resorptions compared with Wistar controls (0.8 ± 0.76% vs. 19.9 ± 6.06%; P < 0.05). These results suggest that uterine arteries from rats with T2D show reduced sensitivity of uterine vascular smooth muscle sGC to NO. During pregnancy, the GK uterine vascular smooth muscle fails to show relaxation responses similar to those of arteries from nondiabetic rats.
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Krupp J, Boeldt DS, Yi FX, Grummer MA, Bankowski Anaya HA, Shah DM, Bird IM. The loss of sustained Ca(2+) signaling underlies suppressed endothelial nitric oxide production in preeclamptic pregnancies: implications for new therapy. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2013; 305:H969-79. [PMID: 23893163 PMCID: PMC3798749 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00250.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2013] [Accepted: 07/23/2013] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Approximately 8% of pregnancies are complicated by preeclampsia (PE), a hypertensive condition characterized by widespread endothelial dysfunction. Reduced nitric oxide (NO) output in PE subjects has been inferred but not directly measured, and there is little understanding of why this occurs. To address this we have used direct imaging of changes in intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)]i) and NO in umbilical vein endothelium of normal and PE subjects that is still intact and on the vessel luminal surface. This was achieved by dissection and preloading with fura 2 and DAF-2 imaging dyes, respectively, before subsequent challenge with ATP (100 μM, 30 min). As a control to reveal the content of active endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) per vessel segment, results were compared with a maximal stimulus with ionomycin (5 μM, 30 min). We show for the first time that normal umbilical vein endothelial cells respond to ATP with sustained bursting that parallels sustained NO output. Furthermore, in subjects with PE, a failure of sustained [Ca(2+)]i bursting occurs in response to ATP and is associated with blunted NO output. In contrast, NO responses to maximal [Ca(2+)]i elevation using ionomycin and the levels of eNOS protein are more similar between groups than the responses to ATP. When the endothelial cells from PE subjects are isolated and allowed to recover in culture, they regain the ability under fura 2 imaging to show multiple [Ca(2+)]i bursts otherwise seen in the cells from normal subjects. Thus novel clinical therapy aimed at restoring function in vivo may be possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Krupp
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin Madison, Madison, Wisconsin; and
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Radkov OV, Volf JV. Effects of polymorphisms of NOS3 and GNB3 genes on skin microvascular reactivity in normal pregnancy. Bull Exp Biol Med 2013; 155:81-4. [PMID: 23667878 DOI: 10.1007/s10517-013-2085-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
We studied the relationship between endothelial NO-synthase gene (NOS3) and G protein β3 subunit gene (GNB3) polymorphisms and reactivity of skin microvessels during physiological gestation. T-786C NOS3 polymorphism influenced the maximum blood flow rate in skin microvessels and the severity of postocclusive reactive hyperemia during the third trimester of pregnancy. The relationship between G894T NOS3 polymorphism and the duration of postocclusive reactive hyperemia was revealed. C825T GNB3 polymorphism affects the duration and severity of postocclusive reactive hyperemia during the first and third trimesters of pregnancy. Thus, NOS3 and GNB3 polymorphisms affect blood flow in the skin microvessels during physiological gestation.
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Toepke MW, Impellitteri NA, Lan Levengood SK, Boeldt DS, Bird IM, Murphy WL. Regulating specific growth factor signaling using immobilized branched ligands. Adv Healthc Mater 2012. [PMID: 23184776 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201200077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
VEGF-binding peptide ligands are incorporated into hydrogel microspheres and reduce the amount of growth factor in solution. VEGF binding affinity is enhanced by creating ligands with a dimer structure. The spheres are able to knock down VEGF-mediated HUVEC growth and reduce calcium signaling. The binding interaction is reversible, allowing the spheres to be used as a VEGF delivery vehicle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael W Toepke
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Orthopedics & Rehabilitation, University of Wisconsin, 5009 Wisconsin Institutes of Medical Research, 1111 Highland Ave., Madison, WI 53705, USA
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Boeldt DS, Yi FX, Bird IM. eNOS activation and NO function: pregnancy adaptive programming of capacitative entry responses alters nitric oxide (NO) output in vascular endothelium--new insights into eNOS regulation through adaptive cell signaling. J Endocrinol 2011; 210:243-58. [PMID: 21555345 PMCID: PMC4059042 DOI: 10.1530/joe-11-0053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
In pregnancy, vascular nitric oxide (NO) production is increased in the systemic and more so in the uterine vasculature, thereby supporting maximal perfusion of the uterus. This high level of functionality is matched in the umbilical vein, and in corresponding disease states such as pre-eclampsia, reduced vascular responses are seen in both uterine artery and umbilical vein. In any endothelial cell, NO actually produced by endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) is determined by the maximum capacity of the cell (eNOS expression levels), eNOS phosphorylation state, and the intracellular [Ca(2+)](i) concentration in response to circulating hormones or physical forces. Herein, we discuss how pregnancy-specific reprogramming of NO output is determined as much by pregnancy adaptation of [Ca(2+)](i) signaling responses as it is by eNOS expression and phosphorylation. By examining the changes in [Ca(2+)](i) signaling responses from human hand vein endothelial cells, uterine artery endothelial cells, and human umbilical vein endothelial cells in (where appropriate) nonpregnant, normal pregnant, and pathological pregnant (pre-eclamptic) state, it is clear that pregnancy adaptation of NO output occurs at the level of sustained phase 'capacitative entry' [Ca(2+)](i) response, and the adapted response is lacking in pre-eclamptic pregnancies. Moreover, gap junction function is an essential permissive regulator of the capacitative response and impairment of NO output results from any inhibitor of gap junction function, or capacitative entry using TRPC channels. Identifying these [Ca(2+)](i) signaling mechanisms underlying normal pregnancy adaptation of NO output not only provides novel targets for future treatment of diseases of pregnancy but may also apply to other common forms of hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- D S Boeldt
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 7E Meriter Hospital/Park, 202 South Park Street, Madison, WI 53715, USA
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