1
|
Reddy SK, Devi V, Seetharaman ATM, Shailaja S, Bhat KMR, Gangaraju R, Upadhya D. Cell and molecular targeted therapies for diabetic retinopathy. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1416668. [PMID: 38948520 PMCID: PMC11211264 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1416668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) stands as a prevalent complication in the eye resulting from diabetes mellitus, predominantly associated with high blood sugar levels and hypertension as individuals age. DR is a severe microvascular complication of both type I and type II diabetes mellitus and the leading cause of vision impairment. The critical approach to combatting and halting the advancement of DR lies in effectively managing blood glucose and blood pressure levels in diabetic patients; however, this is seldom achieved. Both human and animal studies have revealed the intricate nature of this condition involving various cell types and molecules. Aside from photocoagulation, the sole therapy targeting VEGF molecules in the retina to prevent abnormal blood vessel growth is intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy. However, a substantial portion of cases, approximately 30-40%, do not respond to this treatment. This review explores distinctive pathophysiological phenomena of DR and identifiable cell types and molecules that could be targeted to mitigate the chronic changes occurring in the retina due to diabetes mellitus. Addressing the significant research gap in this domain is imperative to broaden the treatment options available for managing DR effectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shivakumar K. Reddy
- Centre for Molecular Neurosciences, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Vasudha Devi
- Department of Pharmacology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Amritha T. M. Seetharaman
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - S. Shailaja
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Kumar M. R. Bhat
- Department of Anatomy, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Rajashekhar Gangaraju
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - Dinesh Upadhya
- Centre for Molecular Neurosciences, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Hamada M, Varkoly KS, Riyadh O, Beladi R, Munuswamy-Ramanujam G, Rawls A, Wilson-Rawls J, Chen H, McFadden G, Lucas AR. Urokinase-Type Plasminogen Activator Receptor (uPAR) in Inflammation and Disease: A Unique Inflammatory Pathway Activator. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1167. [PMID: 38927374 PMCID: PMC11201033 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12061167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) is a unique protease binding receptor, now recognized as a key regulator of inflammation. Initially, uPA/uPAR was considered thrombolytic (clot-dissolving); however, recent studies have demonstrated its predominant immunomodulatory functions in inflammation and cancer. The uPA/uPAR complex has a multifaceted central role in both normal physiological and also pathological responses. uPAR is expressed as a glycophosphatidylinositol (GPI)-linked receptor interacting with vitronectin, integrins, G protein-coupled receptors, and growth factor receptors within a large lipid raft. Through protein-to-protein interactions, cell surface uPAR modulates intracellular signaling, altering cellular adhesion and migration. The uPA/uPAR also modifies extracellular activity, activating plasminogen to form plasmin, which breaks down fibrin, dissolving clots and activating matrix metalloproteinases that lyse connective tissue, allowing immune and cancer cell invasion and releasing growth factors. uPAR is now recognized as a biomarker for inflammatory diseases and cancer; uPAR and soluble uPAR fragments (suPAR) are increased in viral sepsis (COVID-19), inflammatory bowel disease, and metastasis. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the structure, function, and current studies examining uPAR and suPAR as diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets. Understanding uPAR is central to developing diagnostic markers and the ongoing development of antibody, small-molecule, nanogel, and virus-derived immune-modulating treatments that target uPAR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Hamada
- College of Medicine, Kansas City University, 1750 Independence Ave, Kansas City, MO 64106, USA; (M.H.); (O.R.)
| | - Kyle Steven Varkoly
- Department of Internal Medicine, McLaren Macomb Hospital, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, 1000 Harrington St., Mt Clemens, MI 48043, USA
| | - Omer Riyadh
- College of Medicine, Kansas City University, 1750 Independence Ave, Kansas City, MO 64106, USA; (M.H.); (O.R.)
| | - Roxana Beladi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ascension Providence Hospital, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, 16001 W Nine Mile Rd, Southfield, MI 48075, USA;
| | - Ganesh Munuswamy-Ramanujam
- Molecular Biology and Immunobiology Division, Interdisciplinary Institute of Indian System of Medicine, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur 603203, India;
| | - Alan Rawls
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, 427 E Tyler Mall, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA; (A.R.); (J.W.-R.)
| | - Jeanne Wilson-Rawls
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, 427 E Tyler Mall, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA; (A.R.); (J.W.-R.)
| | - Hao Chen
- Department of Tumor Center, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730030, China;
| | - Grant McFadden
- Center for Personalized Diagnostics, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, 727 E Tyler St., Tempe, AZ 85287, USA;
| | - Alexandra R. Lucas
- Center for Personalized Diagnostics, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, 727 E Tyler St., Tempe, AZ 85287, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sadikan MZ, Abdul Nasir NA, Ibahim MJ, Iezhitsa I, Agarwal R. Identifying the stability of housekeeping genes to be used for the quantitative real-time PCR normalization in retinal tissue of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Int J Ophthalmol 2024; 17:794-805. [PMID: 38766348 PMCID: PMC11074185 DOI: 10.18240/ijo.2024.05.02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
AIM To investigate the stability of the seven housekeeping genes: beta-actin (ActB), glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), 18s ribosomal unit 5 (18s), cyclophilin A (CycA), hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyl transferase (HPRT), ribosomal protein large P0 (36B4) and terminal uridylyl transferase 1 (U6) in the diabetic retinal tissue of rat model. METHODS The expression of these seven genes in rat retinal tissues was determined using real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) in two groups; normal control rats and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. The stability analysis of gene expression was investigated using geNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper, and comparative delta-Ct (ΔCt) algorithms. RESULTS The 36B4 gene was stably expressed in the retinal tissues of normal control animals; however, it was less stable in diabetic retinas. The 18s gene was expressed consistently in both normal control and diabetic rats' retinal tissue. That this gene was the best reference for data normalisation in RT-qPCR studies that used the retinal tissue of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Furthermore, there was no ideal gene stably expressed for use in all experimental settings. CONCLUSION Identifying relevant genes is a need for achieving RT-qPCR validity and reliability and must be appropriately achieved based on a specific experimental setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Zulfiqah Sadikan
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Manipal University College Malaysia (MUCM), Bukit Baru, Melaka 75150, Malaysia
| | - Nurul Alimah Abdul Nasir
- Centre for Neuroscience Research (NeuRon), Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Sungai Buloh, Selangor 47000, Malaysia
- Department of Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Sungai Buloh, Selangor 47000, Malaysia
| | - Mohammad Johari Ibahim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Sungai Buloh, Selangor 47000, Malaysia
| | - Igor Iezhitsa
- School of Medicine, International Medical University, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur 57000, Malaysia
- Department of Pharmacology and Bioinformatics, Volgograd State Medical University, Volgograd 400131, Russia
| | - Renu Agarwal
- School of Medicine, International Medical University, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur 57000, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Pesce NA, Plastino F, Reyes-Goya C, Bernd J, Pavone V, Dal Monte M, Kvanta A, Locri F, André H. Mitigation of human iris angiogenesis through uPAR/LRP-1 interaction antagonism in an organotypic ex vivo model. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23533. [PMID: 38451430 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202301892rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Rubeosis Iridis (RI) is characterized by an increase in neovascularization and inflammation factors in the iris. During angiogenesis, the urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) and its receptor (uPAR) play a pivotal role in extracellular matrix remodeling, where uPAR regulates endothelial cell migration and proliferation through assembly with transmembrane receptors. Here, in the context of hypoxia-induced angiogenesis, the uPA/uPAR system blockage was investigated by using UPARANT in a novel ex vivo human iris organotypic angiogenesis assay. The effects of uPA/uPAR system antagonism in the humanized model of ocular pathologic angiogenesis were analyzed by sprouting angiogenesis and protein assays (western, dot blots, and co-immunoprecipitation) and correlated to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibition. Phosphoprotein and co-immunoprecipitation assay illustrated an unidentified antagonism of UPARANT in the interaction of uPAR with the low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein-1 (LRP-1), resulting in inhibition of β-catenin-mediated angiogenesis in this model. The effects of uPA/uPAR system inhibition were focal to endothelial cells ex vivo. Comparison between human iris endothelial cells and human retinal endothelial revealed an endothelial-specific mechanism of β-catenin-mediated angiogenesis inhibited by uPA/uPAR system blockage and not by VEGF inhibition. Collectively, these findings broaden the understanding of the effects of the uPA/uPAR system antagonism in the context of angiogenesis, revealing non-canonical β-catenin downstream effects mediated by LRP-1/uPAR interaction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noemi Anna Pesce
- Division of Eye and Vision, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, St Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Flavia Plastino
- Division of Eye and Vision, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, St Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Jonathan Bernd
- Division of Eye and Vision, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, St Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Vincenzo Pavone
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Anders Kvanta
- Division of Eye and Vision, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, St Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Filippo Locri
- Division of Eye and Vision, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, St Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Helder André
- Division of Eye and Vision, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, St Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Takashima A, Miura J, Sugiyama K, Shimizu M, Okada M, Otani T, Nagashima T, Tsuda T, Araki T. Glycation promotes pulp calcification in Type 2 diabetes rat model. Oral Dis 2024; 30:593-603. [PMID: 36843542 DOI: 10.1111/odi.14529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Intrapulpal calcifications can occur in the dental pulp of patients with diabetes. We focused on the association between ectopic calcifications in the dental pulp and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in Spontaneously Diabetic Torii (SDT)-fatty rats, an obese type 2 diabetic rat model, to determine the mechanism of calcification with pulp stone in the dental pulp. MATERIALS AND METHODS Pathologic calcification in the dental pulp of SDT-fatty rats was observed using electron microscopy and immunohistochemical analysis. Moreover, mechanical analysis of periapical region of molar tooth against occlusal force was performed. RESULTS In SDT-fatty rats, pathogenic pulpal calcifications occurred during blood glucose elevation after 6 weeks, and granular calcification was observed in the dental pulp after 11 weeks. Pentosidine, a major AGE, and the receptor for AGEs were strongly expressed in the dental pulp of SDT-fatty rats. S100A8, TNF-α, and IL-6 also showed positive response in the dental pulp of the SDT-fatty rat, which indicated pulpal inflammation. Blood flow disorder and hypoxic dental pulp cells were also observed. In silico simulation, strain from occlusal force concentrates on the root apex. CONCLUSIONS Glycation makes blood vessels fragile, and occlusal forces damage the vessels mechanically. These are factors for intrapulpal calcification of diabetes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aoi Takashima
- Division for Interdisciplinary Dentistry, Graduate School of Dentistry, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
| | - Jiro Miura
- Division for Interdisciplinary Dentistry, Graduate School of Dentistry, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
| | - Keita Sugiyama
- Division for Interdisciplinary Dentistry, Graduate School of Dentistry, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
| | - Masato Shimizu
- Division for Interdisciplinary Dentistry, Graduate School of Dentistry, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
| | - Misa Okada
- Division for Interdisciplinary Dentistry, Graduate School of Dentistry, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Otani
- Department of Mechanical Science and Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering Science, Osaka University, Toyonaka, Japan
| | - Tadashi Nagashima
- Division for Interdisciplinary Dentistry, Graduate School of Dentistry, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Tsuda
- Department of Materials Science, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Araki
- Department of Mechanical Science and Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering Science, Osaka University, Toyonaka, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Gao Y, Xue M, Dai B, Tang Y, Liu J, Zhao C, Meng H, Yan F, Zhu X, Lu Y, Ge Y. Identification of immune associated potential molecular targets in proliferative diabetic retinopathy. BMC Ophthalmol 2023; 23:27. [PMID: 36658547 PMCID: PMC9854219 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-023-02774-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the most common microvascular complications of diabetes and causes of blindness in developed countries. Our study was designed to identify immune-related genes involved in the progression of proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). METHODS The "GSE102485" dataset of neovascular membrane samples (NVMs) from type 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus patients was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Functional enrichment analyses, protein-protein interaction network (PPI) construction, and module analysis of immune pathways in NVMs and controls were conducted via Gene Set Enrichment Analysis and Metascape. RESULTS The significantly upregulated hallmark gene sets in DR2 and DR1 groups were involved in five immune pathways. Only CCR4, CXCR6, C3AR1, LPAR1, C5AR1, and P2RY14 were not previously reported in the context of PDR molecular pathophysiology. Except for P2RY14, all of the above were upregulated in retinal samples from experimental diabetes mouse models and human retina microvascular endothelial cells (HRMECs) treated with high glucose (HG) by quantitative Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR). CONCLUSION The genes identified herein provide insight into immune-related differential gene expression during DR progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Gao
- grid.41156.370000 0001 2314 964XDepartment of Ophthalmology, Affilia Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province China
| | - Min Xue
- Department of Ophthalmology, Anhui NO.2 Provincial People’s Hospital, Hefei, Anhui China
| | - Bing Dai
- grid.417028.80000 0004 1799 2608Department of Vascular Surgery, Tianjin Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yun Tang
- grid.41156.370000 0001 2314 964XDepartment of Ophthalmology, Affilia Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province China
| | - Jingyu Liu
- grid.41156.370000 0001 2314 964XDepartment of Ophthalmology, Affilia Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province China
| | - Changlin Zhao
- grid.41156.370000 0001 2314 964XDepartment of Ophthalmology, Affilia Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province China
| | - Hu Meng
- grid.41156.370000 0001 2314 964XDepartment of Ophthalmology, Affilia Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province China
| | - Feng Yan
- grid.41156.370000 0001 2314 964XDepartment of Ophthalmology, Affilia Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province China
| | - Xiaomin Zhu
- grid.41156.370000 0001 2314 964XDepartment of Ophthalmology, Affilia Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province China
| | - Yan Lu
- grid.41156.370000 0001 2314 964XDepartment of Ophthalmology, Affilia Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province China
| | - Yirui Ge
- grid.41156.370000 0001 2314 964XDepartment of Ophthalmology, Affilia Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Yemanyi F, Bora K, Blomfield AK, Wang Z, Chen J. Wnt Signaling in Inner Blood-Retinal Barrier Maintenance. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11877. [PMID: 34769308 PMCID: PMC8584977 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The retina is a light-sensing ocular tissue that sends information to the brain to enable vision. The blood-retinal barrier (BRB) contributes to maintaining homeostasis in the retinal microenvironment by selectively regulating flux of molecules between systemic circulation and the retina. Maintaining such physiological balance is fundamental to visual function by facilitating the delivery of nutrients and oxygen and for protection from blood-borne toxins. The inner BRB (iBRB), composed mostly of inner retinal vasculature, controls substance exchange mainly via transportation processes between (paracellular) and through (transcellular) the retinal microvascular endothelium. Disruption of iBRB, characterized by retinal edema, is observed in many eye diseases and disturbs the physiological quiescence in the retina's extracellular space, resulting in vision loss. Consequently, understanding the mechanisms of iBRB formation, maintenance, and breakdown is pivotal to discovering potential targets to restore function to compromised physiological barriers. These unraveled targets can also inform potential drug delivery strategies across the BRB and the blood-brain barrier into retinas and brain tissues, respectively. This review summarizes mechanistic insights into the development and maintenance of iBRB in health and disease, with a specific focus on the Wnt signaling pathway and its regulatory role in both paracellular and transcellular transport across the retinal vascular endothelium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jing Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (F.Y.); (K.B.); (A.K.B.); (Z.W.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Yuan C, Guo Z, Yu S, Jiang L, Huang M. Development of inhibitors for uPAR: blocking the interaction of uPAR with its partners. Drug Discov Today 2021; 26:1076-1085. [PMID: 33486111 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2021.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) mediates a multitude of biological activities, has key roles in several clinical indications, including malignancies and inflammation, and, thus, has attracted intensive research over the past few decades. The pleiotropic functions of uPAR can be attributed to its interaction with an array of partners. Many inhibitors have been developed to intervene with the interaction of uPAR with these partners. Here, we review the development of these classes of uPAR inhibitor and their inhibitory mechanisms to promote the translation of these inhibitors to clinical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cai Yuan
- College of Biological Science and Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350116, China
| | - Zhanzhi Guo
- College of Biological Science and Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350116, China
| | - Shujuan Yu
- College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fujian, 350116, China
| | - Longguang Jiang
- College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fujian, 350116, China.
| | - Mingdong Huang
- College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fujian, 350116, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Pharmacokinetics of the Urokinase Receptor-Derived Peptide UPARANT After Single and Multiple Doses Administration in Rats. Eur J Drug Metab Pharmacokinet 2020; 46:119-128. [PMID: 33089470 DOI: 10.1007/s13318-020-00654-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES UPARANT has emerged as a novel therapeutic agent with the potential to treat ocular diseases as assessed by studies in animal models. Since limited information is available on the pharmacokinetics of UPARANT, the aim of this study is to evaluate its pharmacokinetics after single and multiple ascending dose (SAD and MAD) administration in rats. METHODS Male (n = 27) and female (n = 27) Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into six groups (n = 9/sex/group). UPARANT was administered via subcutaneous injection as single (10, 50 or 100 mg/kg; day 1) and multiple (10, 50 or 100 mg/kg/day; 7 consecutive days; day 7) dosing. Blood samples were collected on day 1 (pre-dose, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8 and 24 h post dose) and day 7 (pre-dose, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8, 24, 48 and 192 h post dose). The plasma concentration of UPARANT was determined by a validated liquid chromatography mass spectrometry method. RESULTS The plasma concentration-time profiles of UPARANT were similar in SAD and MAD administration in both male and female rats. The compound reached maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) at 1-2 h with a slow apparent plasma clearance and a moderate apparent volume of distribution. Moreover, SAD administration revealed a non-proportional increase in Cmax and in the area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUCinf), whereas a dose-proportional increase in AUCinf was shown after MAD administration. Regarding the extent of accumulation, the data suggest negligible accumulation of the compound after multiple administrations. CONCLUSION The pharmacokinetics of UPARANT were not sex-related, and there was negligible accumulation in plasma after 7 days of treatment. However, the compound exhibited no dose-proportional pharmacokinetics after single and multiple ascending subcutaneous dosing.
Collapse
|
10
|
Kobayashi K, Sasase T, Ishii Y, Katsuda Y, Miyajima K, Yamada T, Ohta T. The sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor modulator, FTY720, prevents the incidence of diabetes in Spontaneously Diabetic Torii rats. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2020; 48:869-876. [PMID: 32920892 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1681.13405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator regulates lymphocyte trafficking, resulting in its depletion from circulation, which ultimately causes immunosuppression. In this study, we investigated the preventive effect of fingolimod (FTY720) in the non-obese type 2 diabetic model, Spontaneously Diabetic Torii (SDT) rats. The S1P receptor modulator, FTY720 (0.3 mg/kg p.o.), was administered for 12 weeks to SDT rats from 5 to 17 weeks of age. Based on our findings, FTY720 could suppress the incidence of diabetes in SDT rats. Further, glucose intolerance was improved in FTY720-treated SDT rats at 14 weeks of age. Based on the haematological and histological analyses performed at 17 to 18 weeks of age, a decrease in lymphocytes and monocytes in the peripheral blood and a decrease in lymphocyte and atrophy in spleen occurred in the FTY720-treated SDT rats. Furthermore, the pancreatic changes, such as inflammation, atrophy, and fibrosis in islets observed in SDT rats were improved by FTY720 treatment. These findings suggest that the immunomodulatory effects of FTY720 reduced the pancreatic lesion in SDT rats, thereby demonstrating its preventive effect against diabetes. The development of diabetes in SDT rats is related to disorders of the immune system. However, the S1P receptor modulator may be useful for treating type 2 diabetes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kazuma Kobayashi
- Biological/Pharmacological Research Laboratories, Takatsuki Research Center, Central Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Japan Tobacco Inc, Osaka, Japan.,Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Tomohiko Sasase
- Biological/Pharmacological Research Laboratories, Takatsuki Research Center, Central Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Japan Tobacco Inc, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yukihito Ishii
- Biological/Pharmacological Research Laboratories, Takatsuki Research Center, Central Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Japan Tobacco Inc, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Katsuda
- Biological/Pharmacological Research Laboratories, Takatsuki Research Center, Central Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Japan Tobacco Inc, Osaka, Japan
| | - Katsuhiro Miyajima
- Department of Nutritional Science and Food Safety Faculty of Applied Biosciences, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takahisa Yamada
- Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Takeshi Ohta
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Functional Anatomy, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Locri F, Pesce NA, Aronsson M, Cammalleri M, De Rosa M, Pavone V, Bagnoli P, Kvanta A, Dal Monte M, André H. Gaining insight on mitigation of rubeosis iridis by UPARANT in a mouse model associated with proliferative retinopathy. J Mol Med (Berl) 2020; 98:1629-1638. [PMID: 32940719 PMCID: PMC7591405 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-020-01979-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Proliferative retinopathies (PR) lead to an increase in neovascularization and inflammation factors, at times culminating in pathologic rubeosis iridis (RI). In mice, uveal puncture combined with injection of hypoxia-conditioned media mimics RI associated with proliferative retinopathies. Here, we investigated the effects of the urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) antagonist-UPARANT-on the angiogenic and inflammatory processes that are dysregulated in this model. In addition, the effects of UPARANT were compared with those of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapies. Administration of UPARANT promptly decreased iris vasculature, while anti-VEGF effects were slower and less pronounced. Immunoblot and qPCR analysis suggested that UPARANT acts predominantly by reducing the upregulated inflammatory and extracellular matrix degradation responses. UPARANT appears to be more effective in comparison to anti-VEGF in the treatment of RI associated with PR in the murine model, by modulating multiple uPAR-associated signaling pathways. Furthermore, UPARANT effectiveness was maintained when systemically administered, which could open to novel improved therapies for proliferative ocular diseases, particularly those associated with PR. KEY MESSAGES: • Further evidence of UPARANT effectiveness in normalizing pathological iris neovascularization. • Both systemic and local administration of UPARANT reduce iris neovascularization in a model associated with proliferative retinopathies. • In the mouse models of rubeosis iridis associated with proliferative retinopathy, UPARANT displays stronger effects when compared with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor regimen.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Locri
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Eye and Vision, St Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Polhemsgatan 50, 112 82, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Noemi A Pesce
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Eye and Vision, St Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Polhemsgatan 50, 112 82, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Monica Aronsson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Eye and Vision, St Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Polhemsgatan 50, 112 82, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Mario De Rosa
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Pavone
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Paola Bagnoli
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Anders Kvanta
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Eye and Vision, St Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Polhemsgatan 50, 112 82, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Helder André
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Eye and Vision, St Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Polhemsgatan 50, 112 82, Stockholm, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
D'Alonzo D, De Fenza M, Pavone V. COVID-19 and pneumonia: a role for the uPA/uPAR system. Drug Discov Today 2020; 25:1528-1534. [PMID: 32562843 PMCID: PMC7299864 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2020.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Here, we highlight recent findings on the urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA)/uPA receptor (uPAR) system that suggest its potential role as a main orchestrator of fatal progression to pulmonary, kidney, and heart failure in patients with coronavirus. Patients with prolonged background inflammation can present aberrant inflammatory reactions, well recognized as the main factors that can result in death and probably sustained by a dysregulated uPA/uPAR system. SuPAR, the soluble form of uPAR, represents a biomarker of disease progression, and its levels correlate well with comorbidities associated with the death of patients with coronavirus. New drugs that regulate the uPA/uPAR system could help treat the severe complications of highly pathogenic human coronaviruses (hCoVs), including pandemic coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniele D'Alonzo
- University of Naples 'Federico II', Department of Chemical Sciences, Complesso Universitario di Monte Sant'Angelo, Via Cintia 46, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Maria De Fenza
- University of Naples 'Federico II', Department of Chemical Sciences, Complesso Universitario di Monte Sant'Angelo, Via Cintia 46, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Pavone
- University of Naples 'Federico II', Department of Chemical Sciences, Complesso Universitario di Monte Sant'Angelo, Via Cintia 46, 80126 Naples, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Jung E, Jung WK, Park S, Kim HR, Kim J. Aucuba japonica extract inhibits retinal neovascularization in a mouse model of oxygen-induced retinopathy, with its bioactive components preventing VEGF-induced retinal vascular hyperpermeability. Food Sci Nutr 2020; 8:2895-2903. [PMID: 32566207 PMCID: PMC7300051 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.1590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Revised: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Neovascularization in the retina is common pathophysiology of diabetic retinal microvasculopathy and exudative macular degeneration. Our study assessed the inhibitory activity of an ethanol-based extract of Aucuba japonica (AJE) on abnormal angiogenesis in the retina with a hyperoxia-induced neovascular retinopathy model. The inhibitory effects of aucubin, quercetin, and kaempferol, bioactive compounds, from A. japonica, on retinal vascular hyperpermeability were also examined. On the 7th postnatal day (P7), the C57BL/6 pups were exposed to a hyperoxic environment with 75% oxygen to develop the experimental angiogenesis in retinas. On the 12th postnatal day (P12), the pups were then returned to the normal atmospheric pressure of oxygen. From P12 to P16, the administration was intraperitoneal. The dose per day was 250 mg per kg weight. Retinal neovascularization was measured with retinal flat mounts prepared on P17. We also measured the vascular leakage mediated by the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in retinas. Mice treated with AJE had markedly smaller neovascular lesions, in comparison with vehicle-administered mice. AJE downregulated the expression of both VEGF protein and mRNA. In addition, aucubin, quercetin, and kaempferol ameliorated VEGF-induced retinal vascular leakage. The results of our study suggest that AJE is a potent antiangiogenic substance. AJE could also serve as a therapeutic agent for abnormal growth of vessels in the retina in patients with ischemic retinopathy. The bioactive compounds of AJE may be responsible for its antiangiogenic abilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eunsoo Jung
- Laboratory of ToxicologyResearch Institute for Veterinary Science and College of Veterinary MedicineSeoul National UniversitySeoulKorea
| | - Woo Kwon Jung
- Department of Oral PathologySchool of DentistryJeonbuk National UniversityJeonjuKorea
| | - Su‐Bin Park
- Department of Oral PathologySchool of DentistryJeonbuk National UniversityJeonjuKorea
| | - Hyung Rae Kim
- Department of Oral PathologySchool of DentistryJeonbuk National UniversityJeonjuKorea
| | - Junghyun Kim
- Department of Oral PathologySchool of DentistryJeonbuk National UniversityJeonjuKorea
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Rusciano D, Bagnoli P. RBP3: a possible prognostic marker and therapeutic target in diabetic retinopathy. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2020; 7:S327. [PMID: 32016045 DOI: 10.21037/atm.2019.09.133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dario Rusciano
- SOOFT Italia SpA, Research Department c/o Biologic Tower, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Rossino MG, Dal Monte M, Casini G. Relationships Between Neurodegeneration and Vascular Damage in Diabetic Retinopathy. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:1172. [PMID: 31787868 PMCID: PMC6856056 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.01172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a common complication of diabetes and constitutes a major cause of vision impairment and blindness in the world. DR has long been described exclusively as a microvascular disease of the eye. However, in recent years, a growing interest has been focused on the contribution of neuroretinal degeneration to the pathogenesis of the disease, and there are observations suggesting that neuronal death in the early phases of DR may favor the development of microvascular abnormalities, followed by the full manifestation of the disease. However, the mediators that are involved in the crosslink between neurodegeneration and vascular changes have not yet been identified. According to our hypothesis, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) could probably be the most important connecting link between the death of retinal neurons and the occurrence of microvascular lesions. Indeed, VEGF is known to play important neuroprotective actions; therefore, in the early phases of DR, it may be released in response to neuronal suffering, and it would act as a double-edged weapon inducing both neuroprotective and vasoactive effects. If this hypothesis is correct, then any retinal stress causing neuronal damage should be accompanied by VEGF upregulation and by vascular changes. Similarly, any compound with neuroprotective properties should also induce VEGF downregulation and amelioration of the vascular lesions. In this review, we searched for a correlation between neurodegeneration and vasculopathy in animal models of retinal diseases, examining the effects of different neuroprotective substances, ranging from nutraceuticals to antioxidants to neuropeptides and others and showing that reducing neuronal suffering also prevents overexpression of VEGF and vascular complications. Taken together, the reviewed evidence highlights the crucial role played by mediators such as VEGF in the relationship between retinal neuronal damage and vascular alterations and suggests that the use of neuroprotective substances could be an efficient strategy to prevent the onset or to retard the development of DR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Massimo Dal Monte
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood "Nutraceuticals and Food for Health", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giovanni Casini
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood "Nutraceuticals and Food for Health", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
The uPAR System as a Potential Therapeutic Target in the Diseased Eye. Cells 2019; 8:cells8080925. [PMID: 31426601 PMCID: PMC6721659 DOI: 10.3390/cells8080925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Revised: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysregulation of vascular networks is characteristic of eye diseases associated with retinal cell degeneration and visual loss. Visual impairment is also the consequence of photoreceptor degeneration in inherited eye diseases with a major inflammatory component, but without angiogenic profile. Among the pathways with high impact on vascular/degenerative diseases of the eye, a central role is played by a system formed by the ligand urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) and its receptor uPAR. The uPAR system, although extensively investigated in tumors, still remains a key issue in vascular diseases of the eye and even less studied in inherited retinal pathologies such as retinitis pigmantosa (RP). Its spectrum of action has been extended far beyond a classical pro-angiogenic function and has emerged as a central actor in inflammation. Preclinical studies in more prevalent eye diseases characterized by neovascular formation, as in retinopathy of prematurity, wet macular degeneration and rubeosis iridis or vasopermeability excess as in diabetic retinopathy, suggest a critical role of increased uPAR signaling indicating the potentiality of its modulation to counteract neovessel formation and microvascular dysfunction. The additional observation that the uPAR system plays a major role in RP by limiting the inflammatory cascade triggered by rod degeneration rises further questions about its role in the diseased eye.
Collapse
|
17
|
Cammalleri M, Dal Monte M, Locri F, Pecci V, De Rosa M, Pavone V, Bagnoli P. The urokinase-type plasminogen activator system as drug target in retinitis pigmentosa: New pre-clinical evidence in the rd10 mouse model. J Cell Mol Med 2019; 23:5176-5192. [PMID: 31251468 PMCID: PMC6653070 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.14391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Revised: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 05/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is characterized by progressive loss of vision due to photoreceptor degeneration leading to secondary inflammation. The urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) system contributes to retinal inflammation, but its role in RP is unknown. In the rd10 mouse model of RP, we addressed this question with the use of the peptide UPARANT designed to interact with the uPA system. UPARANT was systemically administered from post-natal day (PD) 10 to PD30 when its efficacy in RP rescue was investigated using electroretinographic recordings, Western blot and immunocytochemistry. Temporal profile of protein expression in the uPA system was also investigated. UPARANT reduced both Müller cell gliosis and up-regulated levels of inflammatory markers and exerted major anti-apoptotic effects without influencing the autophagy cascade. Rescue from retinal cell degeneration was accompanied by improved retinal function. No scotopic phototransduction was rescued in the UPARANT-treated animals as determined by the kinetic analysis of rod-mediated a-waves and confirmed by rod photoreceptor markers. In contrast, the cone photopic b-wave was recovered and its rescue was confirmed in the whole mounts using cone arrestin antibody. Investigation of the uPA system regulation over RP progression revealed extremely low levels of uPA and its receptor uPAR both of which were recovered by HIF-1α stabilization indicating that HIF-1 regulates the expression of the uPA/uPAR gene in the retina. Ameliorative effects of UPARANT were likely to occur through an inhibitory action on up-regulated activity of the αvβ3 integrin/Rac1 pathway that was suggested as a novel target for the development of therapeutic approaches against RP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Filippo Locri
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Valeria Pecci
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Mario De Rosa
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Second University of Napoli, Napoli, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Pavone
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Paola Bagnoli
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Locri F, Dal Monte M, Aronsson M, Cammalleri M, De Rosa M, Pavone V, Kvanta A, Bagnoli P, André H. UPARANT is an effective antiangiogenic agent in a mouse model of rubeosis iridis. J Mol Med (Berl) 2019; 97:1273-1283. [PMID: 31243519 PMCID: PMC6713680 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-019-01794-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2018] [Revised: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Abstract Puncture-induced iris neovascularization (rubeosis iridis; RI) in mice is associated with upregulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation and inflammatory factors. The anti-angiogenic and anti-inflammatory efficacy of UPARANT in reducing RI was determined by noninvasive, in vivo iris vascular densitometry, and confirmed in vitro by quantitative vascular-specific immunostaining. Intravitreal administration of UPARANT successfully and rapidly reduced RI to non-induced control levels. Molecular analysis revealed that UPARANT inhibits formyl peptide receptors through a predominantly anti-inflammatory response, accompanied with a significant reduction in ECM degradation and inflammation markers. Similar results were observed with UPARANT administered systemically by subcutaneous injection. These data suggest that the tetrapeptide UPARANT is an effective anti-angiogenic agent for the treatment of RI, both by local and systemic administrations. The effectiveness of UPARANT in reducing RI in a model independent of the canonical vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) proposes an alternative for patients that do not respond to anti-VEGF treatments, which could improve treatment in proliferative ocular diseases. Key messages UPARANT is effective in the treatment of rubeosis iridis, both by local and systemic administrations. UPARANT can reduce VEGF-independent neovascularization.
Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s00109-019-01794-w) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Locri
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Eye and Vision, St Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Polhemsgatan 50, 112 82, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Monica Aronsson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Eye and Vision, St Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Polhemsgatan 50, 112 82, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Mario De Rosa
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Pavone
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Anders Kvanta
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Eye and Vision, St Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Polhemsgatan 50, 112 82, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Paola Bagnoli
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Helder André
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Eye and Vision, St Erik Eye Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Polhemsgatan 50, 112 82, Stockholm, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Dal Monte M, Cammalleri M, Pecci V, Carmosino M, Procino G, Pini A, De Rosa M, Pavone V, Svelto M, Bagnoli P. Inhibiting the urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor system recovers STZ-induced diabetic nephropathy. J Cell Mol Med 2018; 23:1034-1049. [PMID: 30426662 PMCID: PMC6349167 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.14004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Revised: 10/03/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) receptor (uPAR) participates to the mechanisms causing renal damage in response to hyperglycaemia. The main function of uPAR in podocytes (as well as soluble uPAR -(s)uPAR- from circulation) is to regulate podocyte function through αvβ3 integrin/Rac-1. We addressed the question of whether blocking the uPAR pathway with the small peptide UPARANT, which inhibits uPAR binding to the formyl peptide receptors (FPRs) can improve kidney lesions in a rat model of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes. The concentration of systemically administered UPARANT was measured in the plasma, in kidney and liver extracts and UPARANT effects on dysregulated uPAR pathway, αvβ3 integrin/Rac-1 activity, renal fibrosis and kidney morphology were determined. UPARANT was found to revert STZ-induced up-regulation of uPA levels and activity, while uPAR on podocytes and (s)uPAR were unaffected. In glomeruli, UPARANT inhibited FPR2 expression suggesting that the drug may act downstream uPAR, and recovered the increased activity of the αvβ3 integrin/Rac-1 pathway indicating a major role of uPAR in regulating podocyte function. At the functional level, UPARANT was shown to ameliorate: (a) the standard renal parameters, (b) the vascular permeability, (c) the renal inflammation, (d) the renal fibrosis including dysregulated plasminogen-plasmin system, extracellular matrix accumulation and glomerular fibrotic areas and (e) morphological alterations of the glomerulus including diseased filtration barrier. These results provide the first demonstration that blocking the uPAR pathway can improve diabetic kidney lesion in the STZ model, thus suggesting the uPA/uPAR system as a promising target for the development of novel uPAR-targeting approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Valeria Pecci
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Monica Carmosino
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Procino
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Firenze, Firenze, Italy
| | - Mario De Rosa
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Second University of Napoli, Napoli, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Pavone
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Maria Svelto
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, Bari, Italy.,Institute of Biomembranes and Bioenergetics, National Research Council, Bari, Italy
| | - Paola Bagnoli
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|