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Pawlik VE, Sonntag SR, Grisanti S, Tura A, Kakkassery V, Ranjbar M. Impact of Nintedanib and Anti-Angiogenic Agents on Uveal Melanoma Cell Behavior. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2024; 65:30. [PMID: 38381412 PMCID: PMC10893901 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.65.2.30] [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: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate the direct impact of the combined angiokinase inhibitor nintedanib as well as the anti-angiogenic agents ranibizumab, bevacizumab, and aflibercept on the primary uveal melanoma (UM) cell line Mel270 and liver metastasis UM cell line OMM2.5. Methods The metabolic activity, viability, and oxidative stress levels were analyzed by the Thiazolyl Blue Tetrazolium Bromide (MTT), LIVE/DEAD, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) assays. Expression of intracellular VEGF-A165 and VEGF receptor-2 was detected by immunofluorescent staining. The secretion of VEGF-A165 into the cell culture supernatants was evaluated by VEGF-A165 ELISA. Results Nintedanib, at a concentration of 1 µg/mL, resulted in a median reduction of metabolic activity (for Mel270 of approximately 38% and for OMM2.5 of 46% compared to the untreated control) without exerting toxicity in either cell line, whereas the other 3 substances did not result in any changes (which also means that none of the 4 substances led to an increased cell death). Moreover, nintedanib (1 µg/mL) induced oxidative stress in the Mel270 by approximately 1.2 to 1.5-fold compared to the untreated control, but not the OMM2.5 cells. Conclusions Nintedanib could suppress the growth of UM cells in a concentration-dependent manner. The metastatic UM cell line OMM2.5 was not sensitive to the pro-oxidant activity of nintedanib. This study was the first to investigate nintedanib in the context of UM. We propose further investigation of this substance to elucidate its effects on this tumor entity with the hope of identifying advantageous therapeutic options for future adjuvant tumor therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera E. Pawlik
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | | | | | - Aysegül Tura
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | | | - Mahdy Ranjbar
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
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2
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Webster KA. Translational Relevance of Advanced Age and Atherosclerosis in Preclinical Trials of Biotherapies for Peripheral Artery Disease. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:135. [PMID: 38275616 PMCID: PMC10815340 DOI: 10.3390/genes15010135] [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: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Approximately 6% of adults worldwide suffer from peripheral artery disease (PAD), primarily caused by atherosclerosis of lower limb arteries. Despite optimal medical care and revascularization, many PAD patients remain symptomatic and progress to critical limb ischemia (CLI) and risk major amputation. Delivery of pro-angiogenic factors as proteins or DNA, stem, or progenitor cells confers vascular regeneration and functional recovery in animal models of CLI, but the effects are not well replicated in patients and no pro-angiogenic biopharmacological procedures are approved in the US, EU, or China. The reasons are unclear, but animal models that do not represent clinical PAD/CLI are implicated. Consequently, it is unclear whether the obstacles to clinical success lie in the toxic biochemical milieu of human CLI, or in procedures that were optimized on inappropriate models. The question is significant because the former case requires abandonment of current strategies, while the latter encourages continued optimization. These issues are discussed in the context of relevant preclinical and clinical data, and it is concluded that preclinical mouse models that include age and atherosclerosis as the only comorbidities that are consistently present and active in clinical trial patients are necessary to predict clinical success. Of the reviewed materials, no biopharmacological procedure that failed in clinical trials had been tested in animal models that included advanced age and atherosclerosis relevant to PAD/CLI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith A. Webster
- Vascular Biology Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33146, USA;
- Department of Ophthalmology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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3
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Chen Y, Tai Z, Zhu C, Yu Q, Zhu Q, Chen Z. Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A VEGFA Inhibition: An Effective Treatment Strategy for Psoriasis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:59. [PMID: 38203230 PMCID: PMC10778864 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010059] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin disease mediated by the immune system and characterized by an inflammatory ring, also known as an epithelial immune microenvironment (EIME). The interaction between the epithelial tissue of the skin and the immune system has a crucial role in the immune cycle of psoriasis. Although the formation of new blood vessels in skin lesions provides energy support for the proliferation of epidermal keratinocytes, the role of angiogenesis in psoriasis has not been extensively studied. Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) is a key regulator of angiogenesis that has an important role in the development of psoriasis. VEGFA promotes angiogenesis and directly stimulates epidermal keratinocytes and infiltrating immune cells, thus contributing to the progression of psoriasis. Measuring VEGFA levels to identify angiogenic characteristics in psoriasis patients may be a predictive biomarker for disease severity and response to anti-angiogenic therapy. Clinical data have shown that anti-angiogenic therapy can improve skin lesions in psoriasis patients. Therefore, this study aimed to uncover the underestimated role of blood vessels in psoriasis, explore the relationship between VEGFA and keratinocytes in the EIME, and inspire innovative drug therapies for the treatment of psoriasis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Quangang Zhu
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 1278 Baode Road, Shanghai 200443, China; (Y.C.); (Z.T.); (C.Z.); (Q.Y.)
| | - Zhongjian Chen
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 1278 Baode Road, Shanghai 200443, China; (Y.C.); (Z.T.); (C.Z.); (Q.Y.)
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4
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Pérez-Gutiérrez L, Ferrara N. Biology and therapeutic targeting of vascular endothelial growth factor A. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2023; 24:816-834. [PMID: 37491579 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-023-00631-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
The formation of new blood vessels, called angiogenesis, is an essential pathophysiological process in which several families of regulators have been implicated. Among these, vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA; also known as VEGF) and its two tyrosine kinase receptors, VEGFR1 and VEGFR2, represent a key signalling pathway mediating physiological angiogenesis and are also major therapeutic targets. VEGFA is a member of the gene family that includes VEGFB, VEGFC, VEGFD and placental growth factor (PLGF). Three decades after its initial isolation and cloning, VEGFA is arguably the most extensively investigated signalling system in angiogenesis. Although many mediators of angiogenesis have been identified, including members of the FGF family, angiopoietins, TGFβ and sphingosine 1-phosphate, all current FDA-approved anti-angiogenic drugs target the VEGF pathway. Anti-VEGF agents are widely used in oncology and, in combination with chemotherapy or immunotherapy, are now the standard of care in multiple malignancies. Anti-VEGF drugs have also revolutionized the treatment of neovascular eye disorders such as age-related macular degeneration and ischaemic retinal disorders. In this Review, we emphasize the molecular, structural and cellular basis of VEGFA action as well as recent findings illustrating unexpected interactions with other pathways and provocative reports on the role of VEGFA in regenerative medicine. We also discuss clinical and translational aspects of VEGFA. Given the crucial role that VEGFA plays in regulating angiogenesis in health and disease, this molecule is largely the focus of this Review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Pérez-Gutiérrez
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Napoleone Ferrara
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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5
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Sjöberg E, Melssen M, Richards M, Ding Y, Chanoca C, Chen D, Nwadozi E, Pal S, Love DT, Ninchoji T, Shibuya M, Simons M, Dimberg A, Claesson-Welsh L. Endothelial VEGFR2-PLCγ signaling regulates vascular permeability and antitumor immunity through eNOS/Src. J Clin Invest 2023; 133:e161366. [PMID: 37651195 PMCID: PMC10575733 DOI: 10.1172/jci161366] [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: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Endothelial phospholipase Cγ (PLCγ) is essential for vascular development; however, its role in healthy, mature, or pathological vessels is unexplored. Here, we show that PLCγ was prominently expressed in vessels of several human cancer forms, notably in renal cell carcinoma (RCC). High PLCγ expression in clear cell RCC correlated with angiogenic activity and poor prognosis, while low expression correlated with immune cell activation. PLCγ was induced downstream of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) phosphosite Y1173 (pY1173). Heterozygous Vegfr2Y1173F/+ mice or mice lacking endothelial PLCγ (Plcg1iECKO) exhibited a stabilized endothelial barrier and diminished vascular leakage. Barrier stabilization was accompanied by decreased expression of immunosuppressive cytokines, reduced infiltration of B cells, helper T cells and regulatory T cells, and improved response to chemo- and immunotherapy. Mechanistically, pY1173/PLCγ signaling induced Ca2+/protein kinase C-dependent activation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), required for tyrosine nitration and activation of Src. Src-induced phosphorylation of VE-cadherin at Y685 was accompanied by disintegration of endothelial junctions. This pY1173/PLCγ/eNOS/Src pathway was detected in both healthy and tumor vessels in Vegfr2Y1173F/+ mice, which displayed decreased activation of PLCγ and eNOS and suppressed vascular leakage. Thus, we believe that we have identified a clinically relevant endothelial PLCγ pathway downstream of VEGFR2 pY1173, which destabilizes the endothelial barrier and results in loss of antitumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elin Sjöberg
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Beijer and Science for Life Laboratories, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Marit Melssen
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Beijer and Science for Life Laboratories, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mark Richards
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Beijer and Science for Life Laboratories, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Yindi Ding
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Beijer and Science for Life Laboratories, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Catarina Chanoca
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Beijer and Science for Life Laboratories, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Dongying Chen
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Emmanuel Nwadozi
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Beijer and Science for Life Laboratories, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Sagnik Pal
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Beijer and Science for Life Laboratories, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Dominic T. Love
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Beijer and Science for Life Laboratories, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Takeshi Ninchoji
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Beijer and Science for Life Laboratories, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Masabumi Shibuya
- Institute of Physiology and Medicine, Jobu University, Takasaki, Gunma, Japan
| | - Michael Simons
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Anna Dimberg
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Beijer and Science for Life Laboratories, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Lena Claesson-Welsh
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Beijer and Science for Life Laboratories, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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6
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Alalwany RH, Hawtrey T, Morgan K, Morris JC, Donaldson LF, Bates DO. Vascular endothelial growth factor isoforms differentially protect neurons against neurotoxic events associated with Alzheimer's disease. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1181626. [PMID: 37456522 PMCID: PMC10349181 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1181626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia, the chronic and progressive deterioration of memory and cognitive abilities. AD can be pathologically characterised by neuritic plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, formed by the aberrant aggregation of β-amyloid and tau proteins, respectively. We tested the hypothesis that VEGF isoforms VEGF-A165a and VEGF-A165b, produced by differential splice site selection in exon 8, could differentially protect neurons from neurotoxicities induced by β-amyloid and tau proteins, and that controlling expression of splicing factor kinase activity could have protective effects on AD-related neurotoxicity in vitro. Using oxidative stress, β-amyloid, and tau hyperphosphorylation models, we investigated the effect of VEGF-A splicing isoforms, previously established to be neurotrophic agents, as well as small molecule kinase inhibitors, which selectively inhibit SRPK1, the major regulator of VEGF splicing. While both VEGF-A165a and VEGF-A165b isoforms were protective against AD-related neurotoxicity, measured by increased metabolic activity and neurite outgrowth, VEGF-A165a was able to enhance neurite outgrowth but VEGF-A165b did not. In contrast, VEGF-A165b was more effective than VEGF-A165a in preventing neurite "dieback" in a tau hyperphosphorylation model. SRPK1 inhibition was found to significantly protect against neurite "dieback" through shifting AS of VEGFA towards the VEGF-A165b isoform. These results indicate that controlling the activities of the two different isoforms could have therapeutic potential in Alzheimer's disease, but their effect may depend on the predominant mechanism of the neurotoxicity-tau or β-amyloid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roaa H. Alalwany
- Tumour and Vascular Biology Laboratories, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, Centre for Cancer Sciences, School of Medicine, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Tom Hawtrey
- School of Chemistry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kevin Morgan
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan C. Morris
- School of Chemistry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Lucy F. Donaldson
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - David O. Bates
- Tumour and Vascular Biology Laboratories, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, Centre for Cancer Sciences, School of Medicine, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- Pan African Cancer Research Institute, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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7
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Rizvi SF, Hasan A, Parveen S, Mir SS. Untangling the complexity of heat shock protein 27 in cancer and metastasis. Arch Biochem Biophys 2023; 736:109537. [PMID: 36738981 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2023.109537] [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: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Heat shock protein 27 is a type of molecular chaperone whose expression gets up-regulated due to reaction towards different stressful triggers including anticancer treatments. It is known to be a major player of resistance development in cancer cells, whereby cells are sheltered against the therapeutics that normally activate apoptosis. Heat shock protein 27 (HSP27) is one of the highly expressed proteins during various cellular insults and is a strong tumor survival factor. HSP27 influences various cellular pathways associated with cancer cell survival and growth such as apoptosis, autophagy, metastasis, angiogenesis, epithelial to mesenchymal transition, etc. HSP27 is molecular machinery which prevents the clumping of numerous substrates or client proteins which get mutated in cancer. It has been reported in several studies that targeting HSP27 is difficult because of its dynamic structure and absence of an ATP-binding site. Here, in this review, we have summarized different modulators of HSP27 and their mechanism of action as well. Effect of deregulated HSP27 in various cancer models, limitations of targeting HSP27, resistance against the conventional drugs generated due to the overexpression of HSP27, and measures to counteract this effect have also been discussed here in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suroor Fatima Rizvi
- Molecular Cell Biology Laboratory, Integral Information and Research Centre-4 (IIRC-4), Integral University, Kursi Road, Lucknow, 226026, India; Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Integral University, Kursi Road, Lucknow, 226026, India.
| | - Adria Hasan
- Molecular Cell Biology Laboratory, Integral Information and Research Centre-4 (IIRC-4), Integral University, Kursi Road, Lucknow, 226026, India; Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Integral University, Kursi Road, Lucknow, 226026, India.
| | - Sana Parveen
- Molecular Cell Biology Laboratory, Integral Information and Research Centre-4 (IIRC-4), Integral University, Kursi Road, Lucknow, 226026, India; Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Integral University, Kursi Road, Lucknow, 226026, India.
| | - Snober S Mir
- Molecular Cell Biology Laboratory, Integral Information and Research Centre-4 (IIRC-4), Integral University, Kursi Road, Lucknow, 226026, India; Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Integral University, Kursi Road, Lucknow, 226026, India.
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8
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The VEGF/VEGFR Axis Revisited: Implications for Cancer Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415585. [PMID: 36555234 PMCID: PMC9779738 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)/vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) axis is indispensable in the process of angiogenesis and has been implicated as a key driver of tumor vascularization. Consequently, several strategies that target VEGF and its cognate receptors, VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2, have been designed to treat cancer. While therapies targeting full-length VEGF have resulted in an improvement in both overall survival and progression-free survival in various cancers, these benefits have been modest. In addition, the inhibition of VEGFRs is associated with undesirable off-target effects. Moreover, VEGF splice variants that modulate sprouting and non-sprouting angiogenesis have been identified in recent years. Cues within the tumor microenvironment determine the expression patterns of these variants. Noteworthy is that the mechanisms of action of these variants challenge the established norm of VEGF signaling. Furthermore, the aberrant expression of some of these variants has been observed in several cancers. Herein, developments in the understanding of the VEGF/VEGFR axis and the splice products of these molecules, as well as the environmental cues that regulate these variants are reviewed. Furthermore, strategies that incorporate the targeting of VEGF variants to enhance the effectiveness of antiangiogenic therapies in the clinical setting are discussed.
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9
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Tortonese DJ. Hypophysial angiogenesis decodes annual time and underlies physiological adaptation to seasonal changes in the environment. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY. PART A, ECOLOGICAL AND INTEGRATIVE PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 337:939-951. [PMID: 35844178 PMCID: PMC9796326 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Adaptation to annual changes in the environment is controlled by hypophysial hormones. In temperate zones, photoperiod is the primary external cue that regulates annual biological cycles and is translated by the pattern of melatonin secretion acting primarily in the hypophysial pars tuberalis. Angiogenic mechanisms within this tissue contribute to decode the melatonin signal through alternative splicing of the vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) gene in both the pars tuberalis and the capillary loops of the infundibulum. The resulting melatonin-evoked differential productions of VEGF-A isoforms will induce seasonal remodeling of the vascular connection between the hypothalamus and hypophysis, and act as paracrine messengers in the pars distalis to generate the required seasonal endocrine response. Specifically, the long melatonin signal in winter upregulates antiangiogenic VEGF-A isoforms, which will reduce the number of vascular loops and the density of VEGF receptors in endocrine and folliculo-stellate (FS) cells, inhibit prolactin secretion, and stimulate FSH. In contrast, the short melatonin signal in summer upregulates proangiogenic VEGF-A isoforms that will increase the number of vascular loops and the density of VEGF receptors in endocrine and FS cells, stimulate prolactin secretion, and suppress FSH. A similar system has been identified in long day seasonal breeders, revealing that this is a conserved mechanism of adaptation across species. Thus, an angiogenesis-based, intrahypophysial system for annual time measurement controls local microvascular plasticity and conveys the photoperiodic signal readout from the melatonin sensitive pars tuberalis to the endocrine cells of the pars distalis to regulate seasonal adaptation to the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domingo J. Tortonese
- Laboratories for Integrative Neuroscience and Endocrinology, Faculty of Health SciencesUniversity of BristolBristolUK
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10
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Wimberger P, Gerber MJ, Pfisterer J, Erdmann K, Füssel S, Link T, du Bois A, Kommoss S, Heitz F, Sehouli J, Kimmig R, de Gregorio N, Schmalfeldt B, Park-Simon TW, Baumann K, Hilpert F, Grube M, Schröder W, Burges A, Belau A, Hanker L, Kuhlmann JD. Bevacizumab May Differentially Improve Prognosis of Advanced Ovarian Cancer Patients with Low Expression of VEGF-A165b, an Antiangiogenic VEGF-A Splice Variant. Clin Cancer Res 2022; 28:4660-4668. [PMID: 36001383 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-22-1326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The identification of a robust IHC marker to predict the response to antiangiogenic bevacizumab in ovarian cancer is of high clinical interest. VEGF-A, the molecular target of bevacizumab, is expressed as multiple isoforms with pro- or antiangiogenic properties, of which VEGF-A165b is the most dominant antiangiogenic isoform. The balance of VEGF-A isoforms is closely related to the angiogenic capacity of a tumor and may define its vulnerability to antiangiogenic therapy. We investigated whether the expression of VEGF-A165b could be related to the effect of bevacizumab in advanced ovarian cancer patients. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues from 413 patients of the ICON7 multicenter phase III trial, treated with standard platinum-based chemotherapy with or without bevacizumab, were probed for VEGF-A165b expression by IHC. RESULTS In patients with low VEGF-A165b expression, the addition of bevacizumab to standard platinum-based chemotherapy significantly improved progression-free (HR: 0.727; 95% CI, 0.538-0.984; P = 0.039) and overall survival (HR: 0.662; 95% CI, 0.458-0.958; P = 0.029). Multivariate analysis showed that the addition of bevacizumab in low VEGF-A165b-expressing patients conferred significant improvements in progression-free survival (HR: 0.610; 95% CI, 0.446-0.834; P = 0.002) and overall survival (HR: 0.527; 95% CI, 0.359-0.775; P = 0.001), independently from established risk factors. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrate for the first time that bevacizumab may differentially improve the prognosis of advanced ovarian cancer patients with low expression of VEGF-A165b, an antiangiogenic VEGF-A splice variant. We envision that this novel biomarker could be implemented into routine diagnostics and may have direct clinical implications for guiding bevacizumab-related treatment decisions in advanced ovarian cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Wimberger
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,National Center for Tumour Diseases (NCT), Dresden, Germany: German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany; Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Dresden and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,AGO Study Group, Wiesbaden, Germany
| | - Mara Julia Gerber
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,National Center for Tumour Diseases (NCT), Dresden, Germany: German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany; Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Dresden and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jacobus Pfisterer
- AGO Study Group, Wiesbaden, Germany.,Gynecologic Oncology Center, Kiel, Germany
| | - Kati Erdmann
- National Center for Tumour Diseases (NCT), Dresden, Germany: German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany; Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Dresden and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Urology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus Dresden, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Susanne Füssel
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Dresden and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Urology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus Dresden, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Theresa Link
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,National Center for Tumour Diseases (NCT), Dresden, Germany: German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany; Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Dresden and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Andreas du Bois
- Department of Gynecology and Gynecologic Oncology, Kliniken Essen-Mitte (KEM), Essen, Germany
| | - Stefan Kommoss
- Department Gynecology and Gynecologic Oncology, University of Tuebingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Florian Heitz
- AGO Study Group, Wiesbaden, Germany.,Department of Gynecology and Gynecologic Oncology, Kliniken Essen-Mitte (KEM), Essen, Germany
| | - Jalid Sehouli
- AGO Study Group, Wiesbaden, Germany.,Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Rainer Kimmig
- AGO Study Group, Wiesbaden, Germany.,University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Nikolaus de Gregorio
- AGO Study Group, Wiesbaden, Germany.,University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany and SLK-Kliniken Heilbronn, Klinikum am Gesundbrunnen, Heilbronn, Germany
| | - Barbara Schmalfeldt
- AGO Study Group, Wiesbaden, Germany.,University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Klaus Baumann
- AGO Study Group, Wiesbaden, Germany.,University Hospital Gießen and Marburg, Marburg, Germany; Hospital Ludwigshafen, Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - Felix Hilpert
- AGO Study Group, Wiesbaden, Germany.,University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany; Krankenhaus Jerusalem, Mammazentrum Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marcel Grube
- AGO Study Group, Wiesbaden, Germany.,Department Gynecology and Gynecologic Oncology, University of Tuebingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Willibald Schröder
- AGO Study Group, Wiesbaden, Germany.,Klinikum Bremen-Mitte, Bremen, Germany; GYNAEKOLOGICUM Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | - Alexander Burges
- AGO Study Group, Wiesbaden, Germany.,University Hospital LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Antje Belau
- AGO Study Group, Wiesbaden, Germany.,University Hospital Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany; Frauenarztpraxis Dr. Belau, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Lars Hanker
- AGO Study Group, Wiesbaden, Germany.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Jan Dominik Kuhlmann
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,National Center for Tumour Diseases (NCT), Dresden, Germany: German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany; Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Dresden and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
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11
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Kuppuswamy S, Annex BH, Ganta VC. Targeting Anti-Angiogenic VEGF 165b-VEGFR1 Signaling Promotes Nitric Oxide Independent Therapeutic Angiogenesis in Preclinical Peripheral Artery Disease Models. Cells 2022; 11:2676. [PMID: 36078086 PMCID: PMC9454804 DOI: 10.3390/cells11172676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) is the critical regulator of VEGFR2-induced angiogenesis. Neither VEGF-A over-expression nor L-Arginine (NO-precursor) supplementation has been effective in helping patients with Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) in clinical trials. One incompletely studied reason may be due to the presence of the less characterized anti-angiogenic VEGF-A (VEGF165b) isoform. We have recently shown that VEGF165b inhibits ischemic angiogenesis by blocking VEGFR1, not VEGFR2 activation. Here we wanted to determine whether VEGF165b inhibition using a monoclonal isoform-specific antibody against VEGF165b vs. control, improved perfusion recovery in preclinical PAD models that have impaired VEGFR2-NO signaling, including (1) type-2 diabetic model, (2) endothelial Nitric oxide synthase-knock out mice, and (3) Myoglobin transgenic mice that have impaired NO bioavailability. In all PAD models, VEGF165b inhibition vs. control enhanced perfusion recovery, increased microvascular density in the ischemic limb, and activated VEGFR1-STAT3 signaling. In vitro, VEGF165b inhibition vs. control enhanced a VEGFR1-dependent endothelial survival/proliferation and angiogenic capacity. These data demonstrate that VEGF165b inhibition induces VEGFR1-STAT3 activation, which does not require increased NO to induce therapeutic angiogenesis in PAD. These results may have implications for advancing therapies for patients with PAD where the VEGFR2-eNOS-NO pathway is impaired.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Vijay C. Ganta
- Vascular Biology Center and Department of Medicine, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
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12
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Han J, Luo L, Marcelina O, Kasim V, Wu S. Therapeutic angiogenesis-based strategy for peripheral artery disease. Theranostics 2022; 12:5015-5033. [PMID: 35836800 PMCID: PMC9274744 DOI: 10.7150/thno.74785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) poses a great challenge to society, with a growing prevalence in the upcoming years. Patients in the severe stages of PAD are prone to amputation and death, leading to poor quality of life and a great socioeconomic burden. Furthermore, PAD is one of the major complications of diabetic patients, who have higher risk to develop critical limb ischemia, the most severe manifestation of PAD, and thus have a poor prognosis. Hence, there is an urgent need to develop an effective therapeutic strategy to treat this disease. Therapeutic angiogenesis has raised concerns for more than two decades as a potential strategy for treating PAD, especially in patients without option for surgery-based therapies. Since the discovery of gene-based therapy for therapeutic angiogenesis, several approaches have been developed, including cell-, protein-, and small molecule drug-based therapeutic strategies, some of which have progressed into the clinical trial phase. Despite its promising potential, efforts are still needed to improve the efficacy of this strategy, reduce its cost, and promote its worldwide application. In this review, we highlight the current progress of therapeutic angiogenesis and the issues that need to be overcome prior to its clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingxuan Han
- The Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China.,State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Lailiu Luo
- The Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China.,State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Olivia Marcelina
- The Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China.,State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Vivi Kasim
- The Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China.,State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Chongqing 400044, China.,The 111 Project Laboratory of Biomechanics and Tissue Repair, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China.,✉ Corresponding authors: Vivi Kasim, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China; Phone: +86-23-65112672, Fax: +86-23-65111802, ; Shourong Wu, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China; Phone: +86-23-65111632, Fax: +86-23-65111802,
| | - Shourong Wu
- The Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China.,State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Chongqing 400044, China.,The 111 Project Laboratory of Biomechanics and Tissue Repair, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China.,✉ Corresponding authors: Vivi Kasim, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China; Phone: +86-23-65112672, Fax: +86-23-65111802, ; Shourong Wu, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China; Phone: +86-23-65111632, Fax: +86-23-65111802,
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13
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Malhi NK, Allen CL, Stewart E, Horton KL, Riu F, Batson J, Amoaku W, Morris JC, Arkill KP, Bates DO. Serine-arginine-rich protein kinase-1 inhibition for the treatment of diabetic retinopathy. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2022; 322:H1014-H1027. [PMID: 35302878 PMCID: PMC9109797 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00001.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Angiogenic VEGF isoforms are upregulated in diabetic retinopathy (DR), driving pathological growth and fluid leakage. Serine-arginine-rich protein kinase-1 (SRPK1) regulates VEGF splicing, and its inhibition blocks angiogenesis. We tested the hypothesis that SRPK1 is activated in diabetes, and an SRPK1 inhibitor (SPHINX31) switches VEGF splicing in DR and prevents increased vascular permeability into the retina. SRPK1 was activated by high glucose (HG), in a PKC-dependent manner, and was blocked by SPHINX31. HG induced release of SRSF1 from the nuclear speckles, which was also SRPK1 dependent, and increased retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) monolayer admittance, which was reversed by SRPK1 inhibition (P < 0.05). Diabetes increased retinal permeability and thickness after 14 days which was blocked by treatment with SPHINX31 eye drops (P < 0.0001). These results show that SRPK1 inhibition, administered as an eye drop, protected the retinal barrier from hyperglycemia-associated loss of integrity in RPE cells in vitro and in diabetic rats in vivo. A clinical trial of another SRPK1 inhibitor has now been initiated in patients with diabetic macular edema.NEW & NOTEWORTHY VEGF-A165b splicing is induced by hyperglycemia through PKC-mediated activation of SRPK1 in RPE cells, increasing their permeability and angiogenic capability. SRPK1 inhibitors can be given as eye drops to reduce retinal permeability and edema in diabetic retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naseeb K Malhi
- Tumour and Vascular Biology Laboratories, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, Centre for Cancer Sciences, School of Medicine, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Claire L Allen
- Tumour and Vascular Biology Laboratories, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, Centre for Cancer Sciences, School of Medicine, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | | | - Katherine L Horton
- Tumour and Vascular Biology Laboratories, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, Centre for Cancer Sciences, School of Medicine, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Federica Riu
- Tumour and Vascular Biology Laboratories, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, Centre for Cancer Sciences, School of Medicine, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | | | - Winfried Amoaku
- Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan C Morris
- School of Chemistry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kenton P Arkill
- Tumour and Vascular Biology Laboratories, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, Centre for Cancer Sciences, School of Medicine, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - David O Bates
- Tumour and Vascular Biology Laboratories, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, Centre for Cancer Sciences, School of Medicine, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom.,Exonate Limited, Duxford, United Kingdom.,COMPARE, University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham Midlands, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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14
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Al Kawas H, Saaid I, Jank P, Westhoff CC, Denkert C, Pross T, Weiler KBS, Karsten MM. How VEGF-A and its splice variants affect breast cancer development - clinical implications. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2022; 45:227-239. [PMID: 35303290 PMCID: PMC9050780 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-022-00665-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Altered expression levels and structural variations in the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) have been found to play important roles in cancer development and to be associated with the overall survival and therapy response of cancer patients. Particularly VEGF-A and its splice variants have been found to affect physiological and pathological angiogenic processes, including tumor angiogenesis, correlating with tumor progression, mostly caused by overexpression. This review focuses on the expression and impact of VEGF-A splice variants under physiologic conditions and in tumors and, in particular, the distribution and role of isoform VEGF165b in breast cancer. CONCLUSIONS AND PERSPECTIVES Many publications already highlighted the importance of VEGF-A and its splice variants in tumor therapy, especially in breast cancer, which are summarized in this review. Furthermore, we were able to demonstrate that cytoplasmatic VEGFA/165b expression is higher in invasive breast cancer tumor cells than in normal tissues or stroma. These examples show that the detection of VEGF splice variants can be performed also on the protein level in formalin fixed tissues. Although no quantitative conclusions can be drawn, these results may be the starting point for further studies at a quantitative level, which can be a major step towards the design of targeted antibody-based (breast) cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hivin Al Kawas
- Department of Gynecology with Breast Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Inas Saaid
- Department of Gynecology with Breast Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Paul Jank
- Institute of Pathology, Philipps-Universität Marburg, 35043, Marburg, Germany
| | | | - Carsten Denkert
- Institute of Pathology, Philipps-Universität Marburg, 35043, Marburg, Germany
| | - Therese Pross
- Department of Gynecology with Breast Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Maria Margarete Karsten
- Department of Gynecology with Breast Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
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15
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Bondos SE, Dunker AK, Uversky VN. Intrinsically disordered proteins play diverse roles in cell signaling. Cell Commun Signal 2022; 20:20. [PMID: 35177069 PMCID: PMC8851865 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-022-00821-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract Signaling pathways allow cells to detect and respond to a wide variety of chemical (e.g. Ca2+ or chemokine proteins) and physical stimuli (e.g., sheer stress, light). Together, these pathways form an extensive communication network that regulates basic cell activities and coordinates the function of multiple cells or tissues. The process of cell signaling imposes many demands on the proteins that comprise these pathways, including the abilities to form active and inactive states, and to engage in multiple protein interactions. Furthermore, successful signaling often requires amplifying the signal, regulating or tuning the response to the signal, combining information sourced from multiple pathways, all while ensuring fidelity of the process. This sensitivity, adaptability, and tunability are possible, in part, due to the inclusion of intrinsically disordered regions in many proteins involved in cell signaling. The goal of this collection is to highlight the many roles of intrinsic disorder in cell signaling. Following an overview of resources that can be used to study intrinsically disordered proteins, this review highlights the critical role of intrinsically disordered proteins for signaling in widely diverse organisms (animals, plants, bacteria, fungi), in every category of cell signaling pathway (autocrine, juxtacrine, intracrine, paracrine, and endocrine) and at each stage (ligand, receptor, transducer, effector, terminator) in the cell signaling process. Thus, a cell signaling pathway cannot be fully described without understanding how intrinsically disordered protein regions contribute to its function. The ubiquitous presence of intrinsic disorder in different stages of diverse cell signaling pathways suggest that more mechanisms by which disorder modulates intra- and inter-cell signals remain to be discovered. Graphical abstract ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Bondos
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
| | - A Keith Dunker
- Center for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Vladimir N Uversky
- Department of Molecular Medicine and USF Health Byrd Alzheimer's Research Institute, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA.,Institute for Biological Instrumentation of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Federal Research Center "Pushchino Scientific Center for Biological Research of the Russian Academy of Sciences", Pushchino, Moscow Region, Russia, 142290
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16
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Peach CJ, Kilpatrick LE, Woolard J, Hill SJ. Use of NanoBiT and NanoBRET to monitor fluorescent VEGF-A binding kinetics to VEGFR2/NRP1 heteromeric complexes in living cells. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 178:2393-2411. [PMID: 33655497 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE VEGF-A is a key mediator of angiogenesis, primarily signalling via VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR2). Endothelial cells also express the co-receptor neuropilin-1 (NRP1) that potentiates VEGF-A/VEGFR2 signalling. VEGFR2 and NRP1 had distinct real-time ligand binding kinetics when monitored using BRET. We previously characterised fluorescent VEGF-A isoforms tagged at a single site with tetramethylrhodamine (TMR). Here, we explored differences between VEGF-A isoforms in living cells that co-expressed both receptors. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Receptor localisation was monitored in HEK293T cells expressing both VEGFR2 and NRP1 using membrane-impermeant HaloTag and SnapTag technologies. To isolate ligand binding pharmacology at a defined VEGFR2/NRP1 complex, we developed an assay using NanoBiT complementation technology whereby heteromerisation is required for luminescence emissions. Binding affinities and kinetics of VEGFR2-selective VEGF165 b-TMR and non-selective VEGF165 a-TMR were monitored using BRET from this defined complex. KEY RESULTS Cell surface VEGFR2 and NRP1 were co-localised and formed a constitutive heteromeric complex. Despite being selective for VEGFR2, VEGF165 b-TMR had a distinct kinetic ligand binding profile at the complex that largely remained elevated in cells over 90 min. VEGF165 a-TMR bound to the VEGFR2/NRP1 complex with kinetics comparable to those of VEGFR2 alone. Using a binding-dead mutant of NRP1 did not affect the binding kinetics or affinity of VEGF165 a-TMR. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS This NanoBiT approach enabled real-time ligand binding to be quantified in living cells at 37°C from a specified complex between a receptor TK and its co-receptor for the first time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe J Peach
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors, University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, The Midlands, UK
| | - Laura E Kilpatrick
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors, University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, The Midlands, UK
- Division of Bimolecular Sciences and Medicinal Chemistry, Biodiscovery Institute, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Jeanette Woolard
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors, University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, The Midlands, UK
| | - Stephen J Hill
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors, University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, The Midlands, UK
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17
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Ganta VC, Annex BH. Peripheral vascular disease: preclinical models and emerging therapeutic targeting of the vascular endothelial growth factor ligand-receptor system. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2021; 25:381-391. [PMID: 34098826 PMCID: PMC8573823 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2021.1940139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A is a sought therapeutic target for PAD treatment because of its potent role in angiogenesis. However, no therapeutic benefit was achieved in VEGF-A clinical trials, suggesting that our understanding of VEGF-A biology and ischemic angiogenic processes needs development. Alternate splicing in VEGF-A produces pro- and anti-angiogenic VEGF-A isoforms; the only difference being a 6-amino acid switch in the C-terminus of the final 8th exon of the gene. This finding has changed our understanding of VEGF-A biology and may explain the lack of benefit in VEGF-A clinical trials. It presents new therapeutic opportunities for peripheral arterial disease (PAD) treatment.Areas covered: Literature search was conducted to include: 1) predicted mechanism by which the anti-angiogenic VEGF-A isoform would inhibit angiogenesis, 2) unexpected mechanism of action, and 3) how this mechanism revealed novel signaling pathways that may enhance future therapeutics in PAD.Expert opinion: Inhibiting a specific anti-angiogenic VEGF-A isoform in ischemic muscle promotes perfusion recovery in preclinical PAD. Additional efforts focused on the production of these isoforms, and the pathways altered by modulating different VEGF receptor-ligand interactions, and how this new data may allow bedside progress offers new approaches to PAD are discussed.I.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijay Chaitanya Ganta
- Department of Medicine and Vascular Biology Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Brian H Annex
- Department of Medicine and Vascular Biology Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
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18
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Zhang J, Hou Z, Wang X, Jiang H, Neng L, Zhang Y, Yu Q, Burwood G, Song J, Auer M, Fridberger A, Hoa M, Shi X. VEGFA165 gene therapy ameliorates blood-labyrinth barrier breakdown and hearing loss. JCI Insight 2021; 6:143285. [PMID: 33690221 PMCID: PMC8119217 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.143285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Millions of people are affected by hearing loss. Hearing loss is frequently caused by noise or aging and often associated with loss of pericytes. Pericytes populate the small vessels in the adult cochlea. However, their role in different types of hearing loss is largely unknown. Using an inducible and conditional pericyte depletion mouse model and noise-exposed mouse model, we show that loss of pericytes leads to marked changes in vascular structure, in turn leading to vascular degeneration and hearing loss. In vitro, using advanced tissue explants from pericyte fluorescence reporter models combined with exogenous donor pericytes, we show that pericytes, signaled by VEGF isoform A165 (VEGFA165), vigorously drive new vessel growth in both adult and neonatal mouse inner ear tissue. In vivo, the delivery of an adeno-associated virus serotype 1-mediated (AAV1-mediated) VEGFA165 viral vector to pericyte-depleted or noise-exposed animals prevented and regenerated lost pericytes, improved blood supply, and attenuated hearing loss. These studies provide the first clear-cut evidence that pericytes are critical for vascular regeneration, vascular stability, and hearing in adults. The restoration of vascular function in the damaged cochlea, including in noise-exposed animals, suggests that VEGFA165 gene therapy could be a new strategy for ameliorating vascular associated hearing disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinhui Zhang
- Oregon Hearing Research Center, Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Zhiqiang Hou
- Oregon Hearing Research Center, Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Xiaohan Wang
- Oregon Hearing Research Center, Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA.,Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Han Jiang
- Oregon Hearing Research Center, Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Lingling Neng
- Oregon Hearing Research Center, Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Yunpei Zhang
- Oregon Hearing Research Center, Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Qing Yu
- Oregon Hearing Research Center, Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - George Burwood
- Oregon Hearing Research Center, Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Junha Song
- Life Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Manfred Auer
- Life Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Anders Fridberger
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Michael Hoa
- Auditory Development and Restoration Program, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Xiaorui Shi
- Oregon Hearing Research Center, Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
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19
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Gehmeyr J, Maghnouj A, Tjaden J, Vorgerd M, Hahn S, Matschke V, Theis V, Theiss C. Disabling VEGF-Response of Purkinje Cells by Downregulation of KDR via miRNA-204-5p. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:2173. [PMID: 33671638 PMCID: PMC7926311 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22042173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is well known for its wide-ranging functions, not only in the vascular system, but also in the central (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS). To study the role of VEGF in neuronal protection, growth and maturation processes have recently attracted much interest. These effects are mainly mediated by VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR-2). Current studies have shown the age-dependent expression of VEGFR-2 in Purkinje cells (PC), promoting dendritogenesis in neonatal, but not in mature stages. We hypothesize that microRNAs (miRNA/miR) might be involved in the regulation of VEGFR-2 expression during the development of PC. In preliminary studies, we performed a miRNA profiling and identified miR204-5p as a potential regulator of VEGFR-2 expression. In the recent study, organotypic slice cultures of rat cerebella (postnatal day (p) 1 and 9) were cultivated and VEGFR-2 expression in PC was verified via immunohistochemistry. Additionally, PC at age p9 and p30 were isolated from cryosections by laser microdissection (LMD) to analyse VEGFR-2 expression by quantitative RT-PCR. To investigate the influence of miR204-5p on VEGFR-2 levels in PC, synthetic constructs including short hairpin (sh)-miR204-5p cassettes (miRNA-mimics), were microinjected into PC. The effects were analysed by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and morphometric analysis. For the first time, we could show that miR204-5p has a negative effect on VEGF sensitivity in juvenile PC, resulting in a significant decrease of dendritic growth compared to untreated juvenile PC. In mature PC, the overexpression of miR204-5p leads to a shrinkage of dendrites despite VEGF treatment. The results of this study illustrate, for the first time, which miR204-5p expression has the potential to play a key role in cerebellar development by inhibiting VEGFR-2 expression in PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Gehmeyr
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitaetsstr. 150, Building MA, Level 5, 44780 Bochum, Germany; (J.G.); (J.T.); (V.M.); (V.T.)
| | - Abdelouahid Maghnouj
- Clinical Research Centre (ZKF), Department of Molecular Gastrointestinal Oncology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitaetsstr. 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany; (A.M.); (S.H.)
| | - Jonas Tjaden
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitaetsstr. 150, Building MA, Level 5, 44780 Bochum, Germany; (J.G.); (J.T.); (V.M.); (V.T.)
| | - Matthias Vorgerd
- Neuromuscular Center Ruhrgebiet, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr-University Bochum, Buerkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, 44789 Bochum, Germany;
| | - Stephan Hahn
- Clinical Research Centre (ZKF), Department of Molecular Gastrointestinal Oncology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitaetsstr. 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany; (A.M.); (S.H.)
| | - Veronika Matschke
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitaetsstr. 150, Building MA, Level 5, 44780 Bochum, Germany; (J.G.); (J.T.); (V.M.); (V.T.)
| | - Verena Theis
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitaetsstr. 150, Building MA, Level 5, 44780 Bochum, Germany; (J.G.); (J.T.); (V.M.); (V.T.)
| | - Carsten Theiss
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitaetsstr. 150, Building MA, Level 5, 44780 Bochum, Germany; (J.G.); (J.T.); (V.M.); (V.T.)
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20
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Supe S, Upadhya A, Singh K. Role of small interfering RNA (siRNA) in targeting ocular neovascularization: A review. Exp Eye Res 2020; 202:108329. [PMID: 33198953 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2020.108329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Ocular neovascularization (NV) plays a central role in the pathogenesis of various ocular diseases including diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, retinoblastoma, retinitis pigmentosa and may lead to loss of vision if not controlled in time. Several clinical trials elucidate the central role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the pathogenesis of the ocular neovascularization. The advent and extensive use of ocular anti-VEGF therapy heralded a new age in the treatment of retinal vascular and exudative diseases. RNA interference (RNAi) can be used to inhibit the in-vitro and in-vivo expression of specific genes and thus provides an extremely useful method for investigating gene activity with minimal toxicity. siRNA targeting VEGF overcomes many drawbacks associated with the conventional treatment available for the treatment of ocular neovascularization. However, delivery methods that protect the siRNA against degradation and are appropriate for long-term care will help increase the effectiveness of RNAi-based anti-VEGF ocular therapies. Several nanotechnology approaches have been explored by formulation scientists for delivery of siRNA to the eye; targeting particularly VEGF for the treatment of NV. This review mainly focuses on current updates in various pre-clinical and clinical siRNA strategies for targeting VEGF involved in the development of ocular neovascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shibani Supe
- Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy and Technology Management, SVKM'S NMIMS, Mumbai, 400056, Maharashtra, India
| | - Archana Upadhya
- Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy and Technology Management, SVKM'S NMIMS, Mumbai, 400056, Maharashtra, India
| | - Kavita Singh
- Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy and Technology Management, SVKM'S NMIMS, Mumbai, 400056, Maharashtra, India.
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21
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Mamer SB, Wittenkeller A, Imoukhuede PI. VEGF-A splice variants bind VEGFRs with differential affinities. Sci Rep 2020; 10:14413. [PMID: 32879419 PMCID: PMC7468149 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-71484-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2019] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) and its binding to VEGFRs is an important angiogenesis regulator, especially the earliest-known isoform, VEGF-A165a. Yet several additional splice variants play prominent roles in regulating angiogenesis in health and in vascular disease, including VEGF-A121 and an anti-angiogenic variant, VEGF-A165b. Few studies have attempted to distinguish these forms from their angiogenic counterparts, experimentally. Previous studies of VEGF-A:VEGFR binding have measured binding kinetics for VEGFA165 and VEGF-A121, but binding kinetics of the other two pro- and all anti-angiogenic splice variants are not known. We measured the binding kinetics for VEGF-A165, -A165b, and -A121 with VEGFR1 and VEGF-R2 using surface plasmon resonance. We validated our methods by reproducing the known affinities between VEGF-A165a:VEGFR1 and VEGF-A165a:VEGFR2, 1.0 pM and 10 pM respectively, and validated the known affinity VEGF-A121:VEGFR2 as KD = 0.66 nM. We found that VEGF-A121 also binds VEGFR1 with an affinity KD = 3.7 nM. We further demonstrated that the anti-angiogenic variant, VEGF-A165b selectively prefers VEGFR2 binding at an affinity = 0.67 pM while binding VEGFR1 with a weaker affinity-KD = 1.4 nM. These results suggest that the - A165b anti-angiogenic variant would preferentially bind VEGFR2. These discoveries offer a new paradigm for understanding VEGF-A, while further stressing the need to take care in differentiating the splice variants in all future VEGF-A studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spencer B Mamer
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.
| | - Ashley Wittenkeller
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - P I Imoukhuede
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
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22
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Dardente H, English WR, Valluru MK, Kanthou C, Simpson D. Debunking the Myth of the Endogenous Antiangiogenic Vegfaxxxb Transcripts. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2020; 31:398-409. [PMID: 32396842 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2020.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Revised: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
In this opinion article we critically assess evidence for the existence of a family of antiangiogenic vascular endothelial growth factor (Vegfaxxxb) transcripts, arising from the use of a phylogenetically conserved alternative distal splice site within exon 8 of the VEGFA gene. We explain that prior evidence for Vegfaxxxb transcripts in tissues rests heavily upon flawed RT-PCR methodologies, with the extensive use of 5'-tailing in primer design being the main issue. Furthermore, our analysis of large RNA-seq data sets (human and ovine) fails to identify a single Vegfaxxxb transcript. Therefore, we challenge the very existence of Vegfaxxxb transcripts, which further questions the physiological relevance of studies based on the use of 'anti-VEGFAxxxb' antibodies. Our analysis has implications for the proposed therapeutic use of isoform-specific anti-VEGFA strategies for treating cancer and retinopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugues Dardente
- PRC, INRA, CNRS, IFCE, Université de Tours, 37380 Nouzilly, France.
| | - William R English
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Tumour Microcirculation Group, University of Sheffield, School of Medicine, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield, S10 2RX, UK
| | - Manoj K Valluru
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Tumour Microcirculation Group, University of Sheffield, School of Medicine, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield, S10 2RX, UK
| | - Chryso Kanthou
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Tumour Microcirculation Group, University of Sheffield, School of Medicine, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield, S10 2RX, UK
| | - David Simpson
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, BT7 1NN, UK
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23
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Karsten MM, Beck MH, Rademacher A, Knabl J, Blohmer JU, Jückstock J, Radosa JC, Jank P, Rack B, Janni W. VEGF-A165b levels are reduced in breast cancer patients at primary diagnosis but increase after completion of cancer treatment. Sci Rep 2020; 10:3635. [PMID: 32108136 PMCID: PMC7046696 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-59823-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The antiangiogenic splice variant VEGF-A165b is downregulated in a variety of cancer entities, but little is known so far about circulating plasma levels. The present analysis addresses this question and examines circulating VEGF-A/VEGF-A165b levels in a collective of female high-risk breast cancer patients over the course of treatment. Within the SUCCES-A trial 205 patients were recruited after having received primary breast surgery. Using ELISA VEGF-A/VEGF-A165b concentrations were determined and correlated to clinical characteristics (1) before adjuvant chemotherapy, (2) four weeks and (3) two years after therapy and compared to healthy controls (n = 107). VEGF165b levels were significantly elevated after completion of chemotherapy. Within the breast cancer cohort, VEGF-A165b levels increased two years after completion of chemotherapy. VEGF-A plasma concentrations were significantly elevated in the breast cancer cohort at all examined time points and decreased after treatment. VEGF-A levels two years after chemotherapy correlated with increased cancer related mortality, no such correlation could be found between VEGF-A165b and the examined clinical characteristics. Compared to controls, VEGF-A/VEGF-A165b ratios were decreased in patients before and after chemotherapy. Our data suggests that circulating VEGF-A165b is significantly reduced in women with primary breast cancer at time of diagnosis; furthermore, levels change during adjuvant treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Margarete Karsten
- Department of Gynecology and Breast Care Center, University Hospital, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Maximilian Heinz Beck
- Department of Gynecology and Breast Care Center, University Hospital, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Angela Rademacher
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany.,Department of Orthopedics, Schön Clinic, Munich, Harlaching, Germany
| | - Julia Knabl
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Jens-Uwe Blohmer
- Department of Gynecology and Breast Care Center, University Hospital, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Julia Jückstock
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Julia Caroline Radosa
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Saarland University Hospital, Homburg, Germany
| | - Paul Jank
- Department of Pathology, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Brigitte Rack
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Janni
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
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24
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Ganta VC, Choi M, Farber CR, Annex BH. Antiangiogenic VEGF 165b Regulates Macrophage Polarization via S100A8/S100A9 in Peripheral Artery Disease. Circulation 2019; 139:226-242. [PMID: 30586702 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.118.034165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atherosclerotic occlusions decrease blood flow to the lower limbs, causing ischemia and tissue loss in patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD). No effective medical therapies are currently available to induce angiogenesis and promote perfusion recovery in patients with severe PAD. Clinical trials aimed at inducing vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A levels, a potent proangiogenic growth factor to induce angiogenesis, and perfusion recovery were not successful. Alternate splicing in the exon-8 of VEGF-A results in the formation of VEGFxxxa (VEGF165a) and VEGFxxxb (VEGF165b) isoforms with existing literature focusing on VEGF165b's role in inhibiting vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2-dependent angiogenesis. However, we have recently shown that VEGF165b blocks VEGF-A-induced endothelial vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1 (VEGFR1) activation in ischemic muscle to impair perfusion recovery. Because macrophage-secreted VEGF165b has been shown to decrease angiogenesis in peripheral artery disease, and macrophages were well known to play important roles in regulating ischemic muscle vascular remodeling, we examined the role of VEGF165b in regulating macrophage function in PAD. METHODS Femoral artery ligation and resection were used as an in vivo preclinical PAD model, and hypoxia serum starvation was used as an in vitro model for PAD. Experiments including laser-Doppler perfusion imaging, adoptive cell transfer to ischemic muscle, immunoblot analysis, ELISAs, immunostainings, flow cytometry, quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis, and RNA sequencing were performed to determine a role of VEGF165b in regulating macrophage phenotype and function in PAD. RESULTS First, we found increased VEGF165b expression with increased M1-like macrophages in PAD versus non-PAD (controls) muscle biopsies. Next, using in vitro hypoxia serum starvation, in vivo pre clinical PAD models, and adoptive transfer of VEGF165b-expressing bone marrow-derived macrophages or VEGFR1+/- bone marrow-derived macrophages (M1-like phenotype), we demonstrate that VEGF165b inhibits VEGFR1 activation to induce an M1-like phenotype that impairs ischemic muscle neovascularization. Subsequently, we found S100A8/S100A9 as VEGFR1 downstream regulators of macrophage polarization by RNA-Seq analysis of hypoxia serum starvation-VEGFR1+/+ versus hypoxia serum starvation-VEGFR1+/- bone marrow-derived macrophages. CONCLUSIONS In our current study, we demonstrate that increased VEGF165b expression in macrophages induces an antiangiogenic M1-like phenotype that directly impairs angiogenesis. VEGFR1 inhibition by VEGF165b results in S100A8/S100A9-mediated calcium influx to induce an M1-like phenotype that impairs ischemic muscle revascularization and perfusion recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijay Chaitanya Ganta
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center (V.C.G., M.C., B.H.A.), University of Virginia, Charlottesville.,Division Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine (V.C.G., B.H.A.), University of Virginia, Charlottesville
| | - Min Choi
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center (V.C.G., M.C., B.H.A.), University of Virginia, Charlottesville
| | - Charles R Farber
- Department of Public Health Sciences (C.R.F.), University of Virginia, Charlottesville
| | - Brian H Annex
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center (V.C.G., M.C., B.H.A.), University of Virginia, Charlottesville.,Division Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine (V.C.G., B.H.A.), University of Virginia, Charlottesville
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25
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Stevens M, Star E, Lee M, Innes E, Li L, Bowler E, Harper S, Bates DO, Oltean S. The VEGF-A exon 8 splicing-sensitive fluorescent reporter mouse is a novel tool to assess the effects of splicing regulatory compounds in vivo. RNA Biol 2019; 16:1672-1681. [PMID: 31432737 PMCID: PMC6844573 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2019.1652522] [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] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A is differentially spliced to give two functionally different isoform families; pro-angiogenic, pro-permeability VEGF-Axxx and anti-angiogenic, anti-permeability VEGF-Axxxb. VEGF-A splicing is dysregulated in several pathologies, including cancer, diabetes, and peripheral arterial disease. The bichromatic VEGF-A splicing-sensitive fluorescent reporter harboured in a transgenic mouse is a novel approach to investigate the splicing patterns of VEGF-A in vivo. We generated a transgenic mouse harbouring a splicing-sensitive fluorescent reporter designed to mimic VEGF-A terminal exon splicing (VEGF8ab) by insertion into the ROSA26 genomic locus. dsRED expression denotes proximal splice site selection (VEGF-Axxx) and eGFP expression denotes distal splice site selection (VEGF-Axxxb). We investigated the tissue-specific expression patterns in the eye, skeletal muscle, cardiac muscle, kidney, and pancreas, and determined whether the splicing pattern could be manipulated in the same manner as endogenous VEGF-A by treatment with the SRPK1 inhibitor SPHINX 31. We confirmed expression of both dsRED and eGFP in the eye, skeletal muscle, cardiac muscle, kidney, and pancreas, with the highest expression of both fluorescent proteins observed in the exocrine pancreas. The ratio of dsRED and eGFP matched that of endogenous VEGF-Axxx and VEGF-Axxxb. Treatment of the VEGF8ab mice with SPHINX 31 increased the mRNA and protein eGFP/dsRED ratio in the exocrine pancreas, mimicking endogenous VEGF-A splicing. The VEGF-A exon 8 splicing-sensitive fluorescent reporter mouse is a novel tool to assess splicing regulation in the individual cell-types and tissues, which provides a useful screening process for potentially therapeutic splicing regulatory compounds in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Stevens
- Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Science, Medical School, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - E Star
- Bristol Renal, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - M Lee
- Bristol Renal, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - E Innes
- Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Science, Medical School, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - L Li
- Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Science, Medical School, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - E Bowler
- Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Science, Medical School, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - S Harper
- Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Science, Medical School, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK.,School of Physiology, Pharmacology & Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - D O Bates
- Cancer Biology, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - S Oltean
- Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Science, Medical School, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
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26
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Descamps B, Saif J, Benest AV, Biglino G, Bates DO, Chamorro-Jorganes A, Emanueli C. BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) Promotes Embryonic Stem Cells Differentiation to Endothelial Cells Via a Molecular Pathway, Including MicroRNA-214, EZH2 (Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2), and eNOS (Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase). Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2019; 38:2117-2125. [PMID: 30354255 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.118.311400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Objective- The NTs (neurotrophins), BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) and NT-3 promote vascular development and angiogenesis. This study investigated the contribution of endogenous NTs in embryonic stem cell (ESC) vascular differentiation and the potential of exogenous BDNF to improve the process of ESC differentiation to endothelial cells (ECs). Approach and Results- Mouse ESCs were differentiated into vascular cells using a 2-dimensional embryoid body (EB) model. Supplementation of either BDNF or NT-3 increased EC progenitors' abundance at day 7 and enlarged the peripheral vascular plexus with ECs and SM22α+ (smooth muscle 22 alpha-positive) smooth muscle cells by day 13. Conversely, inhibition of either BDNF or NT-3 receptor signaling reduced ECs, without affecting smooth muscle cells spread. This suggests that during vascular development, endogenous NTs are especially relevant for endothelial differentiation. At mechanistic level, we have identified that BDNF-driven ESC-endothelial differentiation is mediated by a pathway encompassing the transcriptional repressor EZH2 (enhancer of zeste homolog 2), microRNA-214 (miR-214), and eNOS (endothelial nitric oxide synthase). It was known that eNOS, which is needed for endothelial differentiation, can be transcriptionally repressed by EZH2. In turn, miR-214 targets EZH2 for inhibition. We newly found that in ESC-ECs, BDNF increases miR-214 expression, reduces EZH2 occupancy of the eNOS promoter, and increases eNOS expression. Moreover, we found that NRP-1 (neuropilin 1), KDR (kinase insert domain receptor), and pCas130 (p130 Crk-associated substrate kinase), which reportedly induce definitive endothelial differentiation of pluripotent cells, were increased in BDNF-conditioned ESC-EC. Mechanistically, miR-214 mediated the BDNF-induced expressional changes, contributing to BDNF-driven endothelial differentiation. Finally, BDNF-conditioned ESC-ECs promoted angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. Conclusions- BDNF promotes ESC-endothelial differentiation acting via miR-214.
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Affiliation(s)
- Betty Descamps
- From the Bristol Heart Institute, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, United Kingdom (B.D., J.S., G.B., C.E.)
| | - Jaimy Saif
- From the Bristol Heart Institute, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, United Kingdom (B.D., J.S., G.B., C.E.)
| | - Andrew V Benest
- Tumour and Vascular Biology Laboratories, Cancer Biology, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, United Kingdom (A.V.B., D.O.B.)
| | - Giovanni Biglino
- From the Bristol Heart Institute, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, United Kingdom (B.D., J.S., G.B., C.E.)
| | - David O Bates
- Tumour and Vascular Biology Laboratories, Cancer Biology, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, United Kingdom (A.V.B., D.O.B.)
| | | | - Costanza Emanueli
- From the Bristol Heart Institute, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, United Kingdom (B.D., J.S., G.B., C.E.)
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, United Kingdom (A.C.-J., C.E.)
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27
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Fearnley GW, Abdul-Zani I, Latham AM, Hollstein MC, Ladbury JE, Wheatcroft SB, Odell AF, Ponnambalam S. Tpl2 is required for VEGF-A-stimulated signal transduction and endothelial cell function. Biol Open 2019; 8:bio.034215. [PMID: 31072823 PMCID: PMC6550078 DOI: 10.1242/bio.034215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
New blood vessel sprouting (angiogenesis) and vascular physiology are fundamental features of metazoan species but we do not fully understand how signal transduction pathways regulate diverse vascular responses. The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family bind membrane-bound receptor tyrosine kinases (VEGFRs), which trigger multiple signal transduction pathways and diverse cellular responses. We evaluated whether the MAP3K family member and proto-oncoprotein Tpl2 (MAP3K8) regulates basal and VEGF-A-stimulated signal transduction in endothelial cells. Notably, stimulation with exogenous VEGF-A increased Tpl2 mRNA levels and consequently de novo protein synthesis. Depletion of Tpl2 levels reveals a role in both basal and VEGF-A-stimulated endothelial cell responses, including endothelial-leukocyte interactions, monolayer permeability and new blood vessel formation. Under basal conditions, Tpl2 modulates a signal transduction cascade resulting in phosphorylation of a nuclear transcription factor (ATF-2) and altered endothelial gene expression, a pathway previously identified as crucial in VEGF-dependent vascular responses. Loss of Tpl2 expression or activity impairs signal transduction through Akt, eNOS and ATF-2, broadly impacting on endothelial function. Our study now provides a mechanism for Tpl2 as a central component of signal transduction pathways in the endothelium. Summary: Our study shows that the growth factor VEGF-A stimulates synthesis in endothelial cells of a proto-oncoprotein and protein kinase, Tpl2, and this is required for signal transduction and angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gareth W Fearnley
- School of Molecular & Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Izma Abdul-Zani
- School of Molecular & Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Antony M Latham
- School of Molecular & Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Monica C Hollstein
- Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - John E Ladbury
- School of Molecular & Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Stephen B Wheatcroft
- Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Adam F Odell
- Leeds Institute for Medical Research at St. James's, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
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28
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Bowler E, Oltean S. Alternative Splicing in Angiogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E2067. [PMID: 31027366 PMCID: PMC6540211 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20092067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Revised: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Alternative splicing of pre-mRNA allows the generation of multiple splice isoforms from a given gene, which can have distinct functions. In fact, splice isoforms can have opposing functions and there are many instances whereby a splice isoform acts as an inhibitor of canonical isoform function, thereby adding an additional layer of regulation to important processes. Angiogenesis is an important process that is governed by alternative splicing mechanisms. This review focuses on the alternative spliced isoforms of key genes that are involved in the angiogenesis process; VEGF-A, VEGFR1, VEGFR2, NRP-1, FGFRs, Vasohibin-1, Vasohibin-2, HIF-1α, Angiopoietin-1 and Angiopoietin-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Bowler
- Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Medical School, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4PY, UK.
| | - Sebastian Oltean
- Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Medical School, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4PY, UK.
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29
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Tooke K, Girard B, Vizzard MA. Functional effects of blocking VEGF/VEGFR2 signaling in the rat urinary bladder in acute and chronic CYP-induced cystitis. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2019; 317:F43-F51. [PMID: 30995112 DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00083.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
High expression of VEGF is associated with immature angiogenesis within the urinary bladder wall and bladder afferent nerve sensitization, leading to visceral hyperalgesia and pelvic pain. Research suggests a shift in VEGF alternative splice variant (VEGF-Axxxa and VEGF-Axxxb) expression with several pathologies (e.g., neuropathic pain and inflammation) as well as differing effects on pain. Translational studies have also demonstrated increased total VEGF expression in the bladders of women with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome. In the present study, we quantified VEGF alternative splice variant expression in lower urinary tract tissues under control conditions and with cyclophosphamide (CYP)-induced cystitis. Using conscious cystometry and intravesical instillation of a potent and selective VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR2) tyrosine kinase inhibitor (Ki-8751, 1 mg/kg) in Wistar rats (male and female) with acute and chronic CYP-induced cystitis and control (no CYP) rats, we further determined the functional effects of VEGFR2 blockade on bladder function. With VEGFR2 blockade, bladder capacity increased (P ≤ 0.01) in male and female control rats as well as in male and female rats with acute (P ≤ 0.05) or chronic (P ≤ 0.01 or P ≤ 0.05, respectively) CYP-induced cystitis. Void volume also increased in female control rats (P ≤ 0.01) and female rats with acute (P ≤ 0.05) or chronic (P ≤ 0.05) CYP-induced cystitis as well as in male control rats (P ≤ 0.05) and male rats with chronic CYP-induced cystitis (P ≤ 0.01). These data suggest that VEGF may be a biomarker for interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome and that targeting VEGF/VEGFR2 signaling may be an effective treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine Tooke
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont , Burlington, Vermont
| | - Beatrice Girard
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont , Burlington, Vermont
| | - Margaret A Vizzard
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont , Burlington, Vermont
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30
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Modulation of Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Activity through Alternative Splicing of Ligands and Receptors in the VEGF-A/VEGFR Axis. Cells 2019; 8:cells8040288. [PMID: 30925751 PMCID: PMC6523102 DOI: 10.3390/cells8040288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Revised: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) signaling is essential for physiological and pathological angiogenesis. Alternative splicing of the VEGF-A pre-mRNA gives rise to a pro-angiogenic family of isoforms with a differing number of amino acids (VEGF-Axxxa), as well as a family of isoforms with anti-angiogenic properties (VEGF-Axxxb). The biological functions of VEGF-A proteins are mediated by a family of cognate protein tyrosine kinase receptors, known as the VEGF receptors (VEGFRs). VEGF-A binds to both VEGFR-1, largely suggested to function as a decoy receptor, and VEGFR-2, the predominant signaling receptor. Both VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2 can also be alternatively spliced to generate soluble isoforms (sVEGFR-1/sVEGFR-2). The disruption of the splicing of just one of these genes can result in changes to the entire VEGF-A/VEGFR signaling axis, such as the increase in VEGF-A165a relative to VEGF-A165b resulting in increased VEGFR-2 signaling and aberrant angiogenesis in cancer. Research into this signaling axis has recently focused on manipulating the splicing of these genes as a potential therapeutic avenue in disease. Therefore, further research into understanding the mechanisms by which the splicing of VEGF-A/VEGFR-1/VEGFR-2 is regulated will help in the development of drugs aimed at manipulating splicing or inhibiting specific splice isoforms in a therapeutic manner.
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Stevens M, Neal CR, Craciun EC, Dronca M, Harper SJ, Oltean S. The natural drug DIAVIT is protective in a type II mouse model of diabetic nephropathy. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0212910. [PMID: 30865689 PMCID: PMC6415805 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0212910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
There is evidence to suggest that abnormal angiogenesis, inflammation, and fibrosis drive diabetic nephropathy (DN). However, there is no specific treatment to counteract these processes. We aimed to determine whether DIAVIT, a natural Vaccinium myrtillus (blueberry) and Hippophae Rhamnoides (sea buckthorn) extract, is protective in a model of type II DN. Diabetic db/db mice were administered DIAVIT in their drinking water for 14 weeks. We assessed the functional, structural, and ultra-structural phenotype of three experimental groups (lean+vehicle, db/db+vehicle, db/db+DIAVIT). We also investigated the angiogenic and fibrotic pathways involved in the mechanism of action of DIAVIT. Diabetic db/db mice developed hyperglycaemia, albuminuria, and an increased glomerular water permeability; the latter two were prevented by DIAVIT. db/db mice developed fibrotic glomeruli, endothelial insult, and glomerular ultra-structural changes, which were not present in DIAVIT-treated mice. Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) splicing was altered in the db/db kidney cortex, increasing the pro-angiogenic VEGF-A165 relative to the anti-angiogenic VEGF-A165b. This was partially prevented with DIAVIT treatment. Delphinidin, an anthocyanin abundant in DIAVIT, increased the VEGF-A165b expression relative to total VEGF-A165 in cultured podocytes through phosphorylation of the splice factor SRSF6. DIAVIT, in particular delphinidin, alters VEGF-A splicing in type II DN, rescuing the DN phenotype. This study highlights the therapeutic potential of natural drugs in DN through the manipulation of gene splicing and expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Stevens
- Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, United Kingdom
- School of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- Bristol Renal, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (MS); (SO)
| | - Christopher R. Neal
- School of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- Bristol Renal, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Elena C. Craciun
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratory, School of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Iuliu Hatieganu” Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Maria Dronca
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Iuliu Hatieganu” Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Steven J. Harper
- School of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- Bristol Renal, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Sebastian Oltean
- Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, United Kingdom
- School of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- Bristol Renal, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (MS); (SO)
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Zamora‐Gutiérrez D, Guzmán A, Hernández‐Coronado CG, Castillo‐Juárez H, Fierro F, Gutiérrez CG, Bojalil R, Rosales‐Torres AM. Co‐ordinated expression of the VEGF system components in granulosa cells to develop a proangiogenic autocrine milieu during ovarian follicle development. Mol Reprod Dev 2018; 86:156-165. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 11/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Diana Zamora‐Gutiérrez
- Doctorado en Ciencias Biológicas y de la SaludUniversidad Autónoma Metropolitana XochimilcoCiudad de México México
| | - Adrian Guzmán
- Departamento Producción Agrícola y AnimalUniversidad Autónoma Metropolitana‐XochimilcoCiudad de México México
| | - Cyndi G. Hernández‐Coronado
- Departamento Producción Agrícola y AnimalUniversidad Autónoma Metropolitana‐XochimilcoCiudad de México México
| | - Héctor Castillo‐Juárez
- Departamento Producción Agrícola y AnimalUniversidad Autónoma Metropolitana‐XochimilcoCiudad de México México
| | - Francisco Fierro
- Departamento de BiotecnologíaUniversidad Autónoma Metropolitana‐IztapalapaCiudad de México México
| | - Carlos G. Gutiérrez
- Departamento de Reproducción, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y ZootecniaUniversidad Nacional Autónoma de MéxicoCiudad de México México
| | - Rafael Bojalil
- Departamento de InmunologíaInstituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio ChávezCiudad de México México
- Departamento de Atención a la SaludUniversidad Autónoma Metropolitana XochimilcoCiudad de México México
| | - Ana Ma. Rosales‐Torres
- Departamento Producción Agrícola y AnimalUniversidad Autónoma Metropolitana‐XochimilcoCiudad de México México
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Beazley-Long N, Moss CE, Ashby WR, Bestall SM, Almahasneh F, Durrant AM, Benest AV, Blackley Z, Ballmer-Hofer K, Hirashima M, Hulse RP, Bates DO, Donaldson LF. VEGFR2 promotes central endothelial activation and the spread of pain in inflammatory arthritis. Brain Behav Immun 2018; 74:49-67. [PMID: 29548992 PMCID: PMC6302073 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2018.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Revised: 03/02/2018] [Accepted: 03/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain can develop in response to conditions such as inflammatory arthritis. The central mechanisms underlying the development and maintenance of chronic pain in humans are not well elucidated although there is evidence for a role of microglia and astrocytes. However in pre-clinical models of pain, including models of inflammatory arthritis, there is a wealth of evidence indicating roles for pathological glial reactivity within the CNS. In the spinal dorsal horn of rats with painful inflammatory arthritis we found both a significant increase in CD11b+ microglia-like cells and GFAP+ astrocytes associated with blood vessels, and the number of activated blood vessels expressing the adhesion molecule ICAM-1, indicating potential glio-vascular activation. Using pharmacological interventions targeting VEGFR2 in arthritic rats, to inhibit endothelial cell activation, the number of dorsal horn ICAM-1+ blood vessels, CD11b+ microglia and the development of secondary mechanical allodynia, an indicator of central sensitization, were all prevented. Targeting endothelial VEGFR2 by inducible Tie2-specific VEGFR2 knock-out also prevented secondary allodynia in mice and glio-vascular activation in the dorsal horn in response to inflammatory arthritis. Inhibition of VEGFR2 in vitro significantly blocked ICAM-1-dependent monocyte adhesion to brain microvascular endothelial cells, when stimulated with inflammatory mediators TNF-α and VEGF-A165a. Taken together our findings suggest that a novel VEGFR2-mediated spinal cord glio-vascular mechanism may promote peripheral CD11b+ circulating cell transmigration into the CNS parenchyma and contribute to the development of chronic pain in inflammatory arthritis. We hypothesise that preventing this glio-vascular activation and circulating cell translocation into the spinal cord could be a new therapeutic strategy for pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Beazley-Long
- Arthritis Research UK Pain Centre & School of Life Sciences, Medical School, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK.
| | - Catherine Elizabeth Moss
- Arthritis Research UK Pain Centre & School of Life Sciences, Medical School, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | - William Robert Ashby
- Arthritis Research UK Pain Centre & School of Life Sciences, Medical School, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Samuel Marcus Bestall
- Cancer Biology, School of Medicine, QMC, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Fatimah Almahasneh
- Arthritis Research UK Pain Centre & School of Life Sciences, Medical School, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Alexandra Margaret Durrant
- Arthritis Research UK Pain Centre & School of Life Sciences, Medical School, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Andrew Vaughan Benest
- Cancer Biology, School of Medicine, QMC, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Zoe Blackley
- Cancer Biology, School of Medicine, QMC, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | | | - Masanori Hirashima
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Richard Phillip Hulse
- Cancer Biology, School of Medicine, QMC, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | - David Owen Bates
- Cancer Biology, School of Medicine, QMC, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK,COMPARE University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham Midlands, UK
| | - Lucy Frances Donaldson
- Arthritis Research UK Pain Centre & School of Life Sciences, Medical School, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
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34
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Zhang H, Jia E, Xia W, Lu C, Zhu W. VEGF165b mutant with a prolonged half-life and enhanced anti-tumor potency in a mouse model. J Biotechnol 2018; 284:84-90. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiotec.2018.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Revised: 08/04/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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Boudria A, Abou Faycal C, Jia T, Gout S, Keramidas M, Didier C, Lemaître N, Manet S, Coll JL, Toffart AC, Moro-Sibilot D, Albiges-Rizo C, Josserand V, Faurobert E, Brambilla C, Brambilla E, Gazzeri S, Eymin B. VEGF 165b, a splice variant of VEGF-A, promotes lung tumor progression and escape from anti-angiogenic therapies through a β1 integrin/VEGFR autocrine loop. Oncogene 2018; 38:1050-1066. [PMID: 30194450 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-018-0486-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Revised: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 07/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) is highly subjected to alternative pre-mRNA splicing that generates several splice variants. The VEGFxxx and VEGFxxxb families encode splice variants of VEGF-A that differ only at the level of six amino acids in their C-terminal part. The expression level of VEGFxxx splice variants and their function as pro-angiogenic factors during tumor neo-angiogenesis have been well-described. The role of VEGFxxxb isoforms is less well known, but they have been shown to inhibit VEGFxxx-mediated angiogenesis, while being partial or weak activators of VEGFR receptors in endothelial cells. On the opposite, their role on tumor cells expressing VEGFRs at their surface remains largely unknown. In this study, we find elevated levels of VEGF165b, the main VEGFxxxb isoform, in 36% of non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC), mainly lung adenocarcinoma (46%), and show that a high VEGF165b/VEGF165 ratio correlates with the presence of lymph node metastases. At the molecular level, we demonstrate that VEGF165b stimulates proliferation and invasiveness of two lung tumor cell lines through a VEGFR/β1 integrin loop. We further provide evidence that the isoform-specific knockdown of VEGF165b reduces tumor growth, demonstrating a tumor-promoting autocrine role for VEGF165b in lung cancer cells. Importantly, we show that bevacizumab, an anti-angiogenic compound used for the treatment of lung adenocarcinoma patients, increases the expression of VEGF165b and activates the invasive VEGFR/β1 integrin loop. Overall, these data highlight an unexpected role of the VEGF165b splice variant in the progression of lung tumors and their response to anti-angiogenic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asma Boudria
- INSERM U1209, UMR CNRS 5309, Team RNA splicing, Cell Signaling and Response to Therapies, Grenoble, 38042, France.,Université Grenoble Alpes, Institut Pour l'Avancée des Biosciences, Grenoble, 38041, France
| | - Cherine Abou Faycal
- INSERM U1209, UMR CNRS 5309, Team RNA splicing, Cell Signaling and Response to Therapies, Grenoble, 38042, France.,Université Grenoble Alpes, Institut Pour l'Avancée des Biosciences, Grenoble, 38041, France
| | - Tao Jia
- INSERM U1209, UMR CNRS 5309, Team RNA splicing, Cell Signaling and Response to Therapies, Grenoble, 38042, France.,Université Grenoble Alpes, Institut Pour l'Avancée des Biosciences, Grenoble, 38041, France
| | - Stephanie Gout
- INSERM U1209, UMR CNRS 5309, Team RNA splicing, Cell Signaling and Response to Therapies, Grenoble, 38042, France.,Université Grenoble Alpes, Institut Pour l'Avancée des Biosciences, Grenoble, 38041, France
| | - Michelle Keramidas
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Institut Pour l'Avancée des Biosciences, Grenoble, 38041, France.,INSERM, U1209, UMR CNRS 5309, Team Cancer Targets and Experimental Therapeutics, Grenoble, 38042, France
| | - Chloé Didier
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Institut Pour l'Avancée des Biosciences, Grenoble, 38041, France.,INSERM, U1209, UMR CNRS 5309, Team Cancer Targets and Experimental Therapeutics, Grenoble, 38042, France
| | - Nicolas Lemaître
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Institut Pour l'Avancée des Biosciences, Grenoble, 38041, France.,INSERM U1209, UMR CNRS 5309, Team Tumor Molecular Pathology and Biomarkers, Grenoble, 38042, France
| | - Sandra Manet
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Institut Pour l'Avancée des Biosciences, Grenoble, 38041, France.,INSERM U1209, UMR CNRS 5309, Team Cell Adhesion Dynamics and Differentiation, Grenoble, 38042, France
| | - Jean-Luc Coll
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Institut Pour l'Avancée des Biosciences, Grenoble, 38041, France.,INSERM, U1209, UMR CNRS 5309, Team Cancer Targets and Experimental Therapeutics, Grenoble, 38042, France
| | - Anne-Claire Toffart
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Institut Pour l'Avancée des Biosciences, Grenoble, 38041, France.,INSERM U1209, UMR CNRS 5309, Team Tumor Molecular Pathology and Biomarkers, Grenoble, 38042, France
| | - Denis Moro-Sibilot
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Institut Pour l'Avancée des Biosciences, Grenoble, 38041, France.,INSERM U1209, UMR CNRS 5309, Team Tumor Molecular Pathology and Biomarkers, Grenoble, 38042, France
| | - Corinne Albiges-Rizo
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Institut Pour l'Avancée des Biosciences, Grenoble, 38041, France.,INSERM U1209, UMR CNRS 5309, Team Cell Adhesion Dynamics and Differentiation, Grenoble, 38042, France
| | - Véronique Josserand
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Institut Pour l'Avancée des Biosciences, Grenoble, 38041, France.,INSERM, U1209, UMR CNRS 5309, Team Cancer Targets and Experimental Therapeutics, Grenoble, 38042, France
| | - Eva Faurobert
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Institut Pour l'Avancée des Biosciences, Grenoble, 38041, France.,INSERM U1209, UMR CNRS 5309, Team Cell Adhesion Dynamics and Differentiation, Grenoble, 38042, France
| | - Christian Brambilla
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Institut Pour l'Avancée des Biosciences, Grenoble, 38041, France.,INSERM U1209, UMR CNRS 5309, Team Tumor Molecular Pathology and Biomarkers, Grenoble, 38042, France
| | - Elisabeth Brambilla
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Institut Pour l'Avancée des Biosciences, Grenoble, 38041, France.,INSERM U1209, UMR CNRS 5309, Team Tumor Molecular Pathology and Biomarkers, Grenoble, 38042, France
| | - Sylvie Gazzeri
- INSERM U1209, UMR CNRS 5309, Team RNA splicing, Cell Signaling and Response to Therapies, Grenoble, 38042, France.,Université Grenoble Alpes, Institut Pour l'Avancée des Biosciences, Grenoble, 38041, France
| | - Beatrice Eymin
- INSERM U1209, UMR CNRS 5309, Team RNA splicing, Cell Signaling and Response to Therapies, Grenoble, 38042, France. .,Université Grenoble Alpes, Institut Pour l'Avancée des Biosciences, Grenoble, 38041, France.
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36
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Peach CJ, Kilpatrick LE, Friedman-Ohana R, Zimmerman K, Robers MB, Wood KV, Woolard J, Hill SJ. Real-Time Ligand Binding of Fluorescent VEGF-A Isoforms that Discriminate between VEGFR2 and NRP1 in Living Cells. Cell Chem Biol 2018; 25:1208-1218.e5. [PMID: 30057299 PMCID: PMC6200776 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2018.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2018] [Revised: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 06/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Fluorescent VEGF-A isoforms have been evaluated for their ability to discriminate between VEGFR2 and NRP1 in real-time ligand binding studies in live cells using BRET. To enable this, we synthesized single-site (N-terminal cysteine) labeled versions of VEGF165a, VEGF165b, and VEGF121a. These were used in combination with N-terminal NanoLuc-tagged VEGFR2 or NRP1 to evaluate the selectivity of VEGF isoforms for these two membrane proteins. All fluorescent VEGF-A isoforms displayed high affinity for VEGFR2. Only VEGF165a-TMR bound to NanoLuc-NRP1 with a similar high affinity (4.4 nM). Competition NRP1 binding experiments yielded a rank order of potency of VEGF165a > VEGF189a > VEGF145a. VEGF165b, VEGF-Ax, VEGF121a, and VEGF111a were unable to bind to NRP1. There were marked differences in the kinetic binding profiles of VEGF165a-TMR for NRP1 and VEGFR2. These data emphasize the importance of the kinetic aspects of ligand binding to VEGFR2 and its co-receptors in the dynamics of VEGF signaling. VEGF165a, VEGF121a, and VEGF165b were single-site labeled with tetramethylrhodamine NanoBRET quantified that VEGF-A isoforms have similar binding properties at VEGFR2 NRP1 expressed in live cells does not bind VEGF165b, VEGF121a, VEGF-Ax, or VEGF111a VEGFR2 and NRP1 have markedly distinct kinetic profiles binding VEGF165a-TMR
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe J Peach
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors, University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Laura E Kilpatrick
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors, University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | | | - Kris Zimmerman
- Promega Corporation, 2800 Woods Hollow Road, Madison, WI 53711, USA
| | - Matthew B Robers
- Promega Corporation, 2800 Woods Hollow Road, Madison, WI 53711, USA
| | - Keith V Wood
- Promega Corporation, 2800 Woods Hollow Road, Madison, WI 53711, USA
| | - Jeanette Woolard
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors, University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK.
| | - Stephen J Hill
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors, University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK.
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37
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Ye X, Beckett T, Bagher P, Garland CJ, Dora KA. VEGF-A inhibits agonist-mediated Ca 2+ responses and activation of IK Ca channels in mouse resistance artery endothelial cells. J Physiol 2018; 596:3553-3566. [PMID: 29862503 DOI: 10.1113/jp275793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS Prolonged exposure to vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) inhibits agonist-mediated endothelial cell Ca2+ release and subsequent activation of intermediate conductance Ca2+ -activated K+ (IKCa ) channels, which underpins vasodilatation as a result of endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization (EDH) in mouse resistance arteries. Signalling via mitogen-activated protein/extracellular signal-regulated kinase kinase (MEK) downstream of VEGF-A was required to attenuate endothelial cell Ca2+ responses and the EDH-vasodilatation mediated by IKCa activation. VEGF-A exposure did not modify vasodilatation as a result of the direct activation of IKCa channels, nor the pattern of expression of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor 1 within endothelial cells of resistance arteries. These results indicate a novel role for VEGF-A in resistance arteries and suggest a new avenue for investigation into the role of VEGF-A in cardiovascular diseases. ABSTRACT Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) is a potent permeability and angiogenic factor that is also associated with the remodelling of the microvasculature. Elevated VEGF-A levels are linked to a significant increase in the risk of cardiovascular dysfunction, although it is unclear how VEGF-A has a detrimental, disease-related effect. Small resistance arteries are central determinants of peripheral resistance and endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization (EDH) is the predominant mechanism by which these arteries vasodilate. Using isolated, pressurized resistance arteries, we demonstrate that VEGF-A acts via VEGF receptor-2 (R2) to inhibit both endothelial cell (EC) Ca2+ release and the associated EDH vasodilatation mediated by intermediate conductance Ca2+ -activated K+ (IKCa ) channels. Importantly, VEGF-A had no direct effect against IKCa channels. Instead, the inhibition was crucially reliant on the downstream activation of the mitogen-activated protein/extracellular signal-regulated kinase kinase 1/2 (MEK1/2). The distribution of EC inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3 ) receptor-1 (R1) was not affected by exposure to VEGF-A and we propose an inhibition of IP3 R1 through the MEK pathway, probably via ERK1/2. Inhibition of EC Ca2+ via VEGFR2 has profound implications for EDH-mediated dilatation of resistance arteries and could provide a mechanism by which elevated VEGF-A contributes towards cardiovascular dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Ye
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Mansfield Road, Oxford, UK
| | - Taylor Beckett
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Mansfield Road, Oxford, UK.,School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Pooneh Bagher
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Mansfield Road, Oxford, UK.,Department of Medical Physiology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Bryan, TX, USA
| | | | - Kim A Dora
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Mansfield Road, Oxford, UK
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38
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Bates DO, Beazley-Long N, Benest AV, Ye X, Ved N, Hulse RP, Barratt S, Machado MJ, Donaldson LF, Harper SJ, Peiris-Pages M, Tortonese DJ, Oltean S, Foster RR. Physiological Role of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors as Homeostatic Regulators. Compr Physiol 2018; 8:955-979. [PMID: 29978898 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c170015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family of proteins are key regulators of physiological systems. Originally linked with endothelial function, they have since become understood to be principal regulators of multiple tissues, both through their actions on vascular cells, but also through direct actions on other tissue types, including epithelial cells, neurons, and the immune system. The complexity of the five members of the gene family in terms of their different splice isoforms, differential translation, and specific localizations have enabled tissues to use these potent signaling molecules to control how they function to maintain their environment. This homeostatic function of VEGFs has been less intensely studied than their involvement in disease processes, development, and reproduction, but they still play a substantial and significant role in healthy control of blood volume and pressure, interstitial volume and drainage, renal and lung function, immunity, and signal processing in the peripheral and central nervous system. The widespread expression of VEGFs in healthy adult tissues, and the disturbances seen when VEGF signaling is inhibited support this view of the proteins as endogenous regulators of normal physiological function. This review summarizes the evidence and recent breakthroughs in understanding of the physiology that is regulated by VEGF, with emphasis on the role they play in maintaining homeostasis. © 2017 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 8:955-979, 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- David O Bates
- Cancer Biology, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | | | - Andrew V Benest
- Cancer Biology, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Xi Ye
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Nikita Ved
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Richard P Hulse
- Cancer Biology, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Shaney Barratt
- Academic Respiratory Unit, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Maria J Machado
- Cancer Biology, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Lucy F Donaldson
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Steven J Harper
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology & Neuroscience, Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Maria Peiris-Pages
- Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Domingo J Tortonese
- Centre for Comparative and Clinical Anatomy, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Sebastian Oltean
- Institute of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca R Foster
- Bristol Renal, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
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39
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Peach CJ, Mignone VW, Arruda MA, Alcobia DC, Hill SJ, Kilpatrick LE, Woolard J. Molecular Pharmacology of VEGF-A Isoforms: Binding and Signalling at VEGFR2. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E1264. [PMID: 29690653 PMCID: PMC5979509 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19041264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 267] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Revised: 04/14/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) is a key mediator of angiogenesis, signalling via the class IV tyrosine kinase receptor family of VEGF Receptors (VEGFRs). Although VEGF-A ligands bind to both VEGFR1 and VEGFR2, they primarily signal via VEGFR2 leading to endothelial cell proliferation, survival, migration and vascular permeability. Distinct VEGF-A isoforms result from alternative splicing of the Vegfa gene at exon 8, resulting in VEGFxxxa or VEGFxxxb isoforms. Alternative splicing events at exons 5⁻7, in addition to recently identified posttranslational read-through events, produce VEGF-A isoforms that differ in their bioavailability and interaction with the co-receptor Neuropilin-1. This review explores the molecular pharmacology of VEGF-A isoforms at VEGFR2 in respect to ligand binding and downstream signalling. To understand how VEGF-A isoforms have distinct signalling despite similar affinities for VEGFR2, this review re-evaluates the typical classification of these isoforms relative to the prototypical, “pro-angiogenic” VEGF165a. We also examine the molecular mechanisms underpinning the regulation of VEGF-A isoform signalling and the importance of interactions with other membrane and extracellular matrix proteins. As approved therapeutics targeting the VEGF-A/VEGFR signalling axis largely lack long-term efficacy, understanding these isoform-specific mechanisms could aid future drug discovery efforts targeting VEGF receptor pharmacology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe J Peach
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK.
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, Midlands NG7 2UH, UK.
| | - Viviane W Mignone
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK.
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, Midlands NG7 2UH, UK.
- CAPES-University of Nottingham Programme in Drug Discovery, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK.
| | - Maria Augusta Arruda
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK.
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, Midlands NG7 2UH, UK.
- CAPES-University of Nottingham Programme in Drug Discovery, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK.
| | - Diana C Alcobia
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK.
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, Midlands NG7 2UH, UK.
| | - Stephen J Hill
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK.
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, Midlands NG7 2UH, UK.
| | - Laura E Kilpatrick
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK.
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, Midlands NG7 2UH, UK.
| | - Jeanette Woolard
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK.
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, Midlands NG7 2UH, UK.
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Modulation of VEGF-A Alternative Splicing as a Novel Treatment in Chronic Kidney Disease. Genes (Basel) 2018; 9:genes9020098. [PMID: 29462869 PMCID: PMC5852594 DOI: 10.3390/genes9020098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2017] [Revised: 02/08/2018] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) is a prominent pro-angiogenic and pro-permeability factor in the kidney. Alternative splicing of the terminal exon of VEGF-A through the use of an alternative 3' splice site gives rise to a functionally different family of isoforms, termed VEGF-Axxxb, known to have anti-angiogenic and anti-permeability properties. Dysregulation of the VEGF-Axxx/VEGF-Axxxb isoform balance has recently been reported in several kidney pathologies, including diabetic nephropathy (DN) and Denys-Drash syndrome. Using mouse models of kidney disease where the VEGF-A isoform balance is disrupted, several reports have shown that VEGF-A165b treatment/over-expression in the kidney is therapeutically beneficial. Furthermore, inhibition of certain splice factor kinases involved in the regulation of VEGF-A terminal exon splicing has provided some mechanistic insight into how VEGF-A splicing could be regulated in the kidney. This review highlights the importance of further investigation into the novel area of VEGF-A splicing in chronic kidney disease pathogenesis and how future studies may allow for the development of splicing-modifying therapeutic drugs.
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Stevens M, Neal CR, Salmon AHJ, Bates DO, Harper SJ, Oltean S. Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-A165b Restores Normal Glomerular Water Permeability in a Diphtheria-Toxin Mouse Model of Glomerular Injury. Nephron Clin Pract 2018; 139:51-62. [PMID: 29393270 DOI: 10.1159/000485664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2017] [Accepted: 11/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Genetic cell ablation using the human diphtheria toxin receptor (hDTR) is a new strategy used for analysing cellular function. Diphtheria toxin (DT) is a cytotoxic protein that leaves mouse cells relatively unaffected, but upon binding to hDTR it ultimately leads to cell death. We used a podocyte-specific hDTR expressing (Pod-DTR) mouse to assess the anti-permeability and cyto-protective effects of the splice isoform vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-A165b). METHODS The Pod-DTR mouse was crossed with a mouse that over-expressed VEGF-A165b specifically in the podocytes (Neph-VEGF-A165b). Wild type (WT), Pod-DTR, Neph-VEGF-A165b and Pod-DTR X Neph-VEGF-A165b mice were treated with several doses of DT (1, 5, 100, and 1,000 ng/g bodyweight). Urine was collected and the glomerular water permeability (LpA/Vi) was measured ex vivo after 14 days. Structural analysis and podocyte marker expression were also assessed. RESULTS Pod-DTR mice developed an increased glomerular LpA/Vi 14 days after administration of DT (all doses), which was prevented when the mice over-expressed VEGF-A165b. No major structural abnormalities, podocyte ablation or albuminuria was observed in Pod-DTR mice, indicating this to be a mild model of podocyte disease. However, a change in expression and localisation of nephrin within the podocytes was observed, indicating disruption of the slit diaphragm in the Pod-DTR mice. This was prevented in the Pod-DTR X Neph-VEGF-A165b mice. CONCLUSION Although only a mild model of podocyte injury, over-expression of the anti-permeability VEGF-A165b isoform in the podocytes of Pod-DTR mice had a protective effect. Therefore, this study further highlights the therapeutic potential of VEGF-A165b in glomerular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Stevens
- Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, United Kingdom.,School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neurosciences, Bristol, United Kingdom.,Bristol Renal, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher R Neal
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neurosciences, Bristol, United Kingdom.,Bristol Renal, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew H J Salmon
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neurosciences, Bristol, United Kingdom.,Bristol Renal, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - David O Bates
- Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Steven J Harper
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neurosciences, Bristol, United Kingdom.,Bristol Renal, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Sebastian Oltean
- Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, United Kingdom.,School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neurosciences, Bristol, United Kingdom.,Bristol Renal, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
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Clegg LE, Mac Gabhann F. A computational analysis of pro-angiogenic therapies for peripheral artery disease. Integr Biol (Camb) 2018; 10:18-33. [PMID: 29327758 PMCID: PMC7017937 DOI: 10.1039/c7ib00218a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Inducing therapeutic angiogenesis to effectively form hierarchical, non-leaky networks of perfused vessels in tissue engineering applications and ischemic disease remains an unmet challenge, despite extensive research and multiple clinical trials. Here, we use a previously-developed, multi-scale, computational systems pharmacology model of human peripheral artery disease to screen a diverse array of promising pro-angiogenic strategies, including gene therapy, biomaterials, and antibodies. Our previously-validated model explicitly accounts for VEGF immobilization, Neuropilin-1 binding, and weak activation of VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR2) by the "VEGFxxxb" isoforms. First, we examine biomaterial-based delivery of VEGF engineered for increased affinity to the extracellular matrix. We show that these constructs maintain VEGF close to physiological levels and extend the duration of VEGFR2 activation. We demonstrate the importance of sub-saturating VEGF dosing to prevent angioma formation. Second, we examine the potential of ligand- or receptor-based gene therapy to normalize VEGF receptor signaling. Third, we explore the potential for antibody-based pro-angiogenic therapy. Our model supports recent observations that improvement in perfusion following treatment with anti-VEGF165b in mice is mediated by VEGF-receptor 1, not VEGFR2. Surprisingly, the model predicts that the approved anti-VEGF cancer drug, bevacizumab, may actually improve signaling of both VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 via a novel 'antibody swapping' effect that we demonstrate here. Altogether, this model provides insight into the mechanisms of action of several classes of pro-angiogenic strategies within the context of the complex molecular and physiological processes occurring in vivo. We identify molecular signaling similarities between promising approaches and key differences between promising and ineffective strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay E Clegg
- Institute for Computational Medicine, Institute for NanoBioTechnology, and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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43
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Clegg LE, Ganta VC, Annex BH, Mac Gabhann F. Systems Pharmacology of VEGF165b in Peripheral Artery Disease. CPT-PHARMACOMETRICS & SYSTEMS PHARMACOLOGY 2017; 6:833-844. [PMID: 29193887 PMCID: PMC5744173 DOI: 10.1002/psp4.12261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Revised: 10/12/2017] [Accepted: 10/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
We built a whole‐body computational model to study the role of the poorly understood vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)165b splice isoform in peripheral artery disease (PAD). This model was built and validated using published and new experimental data from cells, mice, and humans, and explicitly accounts for known properties of VEGF165b: lack of extracellular matrix (ECM)‐binding and weak phosphorylation of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐2 (VEGFR2) in vitro. The resulting model captures all known information about VEGF165b distribution and signaling in human PAD, and provides novel, nonintuitive insight into VEGF165b mechanism of action in vivo. Although VEGF165a and VEGF165b compete for VEGFR2 in vitro, simulations show that these isoforms do not compete for VEGFR2 at much lower physiological concentrations. Instead, reduced VEGF165a may drive impaired VEGFR2 signaling. The model predicts that VEGF165b does compete for binding to VEGFR1, supporting a VEGFR1‐mediated response to anti‐VEGF165b. The model predicts a key role for VEGF165b in PAD, but in a different way than previously hypothesized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay E Clegg
- Institute for Computational Medicine, Institute for NanoBioTechnology, and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Vijay C Ganta
- Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Brian H Annex
- Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.,Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Feilim Mac Gabhann
- Institute for Computational Medicine, Institute for NanoBioTechnology, and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Regulation of human feto-placental endothelial barrier integrity by vascular endothelial growth factors: competitive interplay between VEGF-A 165a, VEGF-A 165b, PIGF and VE-cadherin. Clin Sci (Lond) 2017; 131:2763-2775. [PMID: 29054861 PMCID: PMC5869853 DOI: 10.1042/cs20171252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Revised: 10/03/2017] [Accepted: 10/19/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The human placenta nourishes and protects the developing foetus whilst influencing maternal physiology for fetal advantage. It expresses several members of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family including the pro-angiogenic/pro-permeability VEGF-A165a isoform, the anti-angiogenic VEGF-A165b, placental growth factor (PIGF) and their receptors, VEGFR1 and VEGFR2. Alterations in the ratio of these factors during gestation and in complicated pregnancies have been reported; however, the impact of this on feto-placental endothelial barrier integrity is unknown. The present study investigated the interplay of these factors on junctional occupancy of VE-cadherin and macromolecular leakage in human endothelial monolayers and the perfused placental microvascular bed. Whilst VEGF-A165a (50 ng/ml) increased endothelial monolayer albumin permeability (P<0.0001), equimolar concentrations of VEGF-A165b (P>0.05) or PlGF (P>0.05) did not. Moreover, VEGF-A165b (100 ng/ml; P<0.001) but not PlGF (100 ng/ml; P>0.05) inhibited VEGF-A165a-induced permeability when added singly. PlGF abolished the VEGF-A165b-induced reduction in VEGF-A165a-mediated permeability (P>0.05); PlGF was found to compete with VEGF-A165b for binding to Flt-1 at equimolar affinity. Junctional occupancy of VE-cadherin matched alterations in permeability. In the perfused microvascular bed, VEGF-A165b did not induce microvascular leakage but inhibited and reversed VEGF-A165a-induced loss of junctional VE-cadherin and tracer leakage. These results indicate that the anti-angiogenic VEGF-A165b isoform does not increase permeability in human placental microvessels or HUVEC primary cells and can interrupt VEGF-A165a-induced permeability. Moreover, the interplay of these isoforms with PIGF (and s-flt1) suggests that the ratio of these three factors may be important in determining the placental and endothelial barrier in normal and complicated pregnancies.
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Abstract
All known splice isoforms of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) can bind to the receptor tyrosine kinases VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2. We focus here on VEGF-A121a and VEGF-A165a, two of the most abundant VEGF-A splice isoforms in human tissue 1 , and their ability to bind the Neuropilin co-receptors NRP1 and NRP2. The Neuropilins are key vascular, immune, and nervous system receptors on endothelial cells, neuronal axons, and regulatory T cells respectively. They serve as co-receptors for the Plexins in Semaphorin binding on neuronal and vascular endothelial cells, and for the VEGFRs in VEGF binding on vascular and lymphatic endothelial cells, and thus regulate the initiation and coordination of cell signaling by Semaphorins and VEGFs. 2 There is conflicting evidence in the literature as to whether only heparin-binding VEGF-A isoforms - that is, isoforms with domains encoded by exons 6 and/or 7 plus 8a - bind to Neuropilins on endothelial cells. While it is clear that VEGF-A165a binds to both NRP1 and NRP2, published studies do not all agree on the ability of VEGF-A121a to bind NRPs. Here, we review and attempt to reconcile evidence for and against VEGF-A121a binding to Neuropilins. This evidence suggests that, in vitro, VEGF-A121a can bind to both NRP1 and NRP2 via domains encoded by exons 5 and 8a; in the case of NRP1, VEGF-A121a binds with lower affinity than VEGF-A165a. In in vitro cell culture experiments, both NRP1 and NRP2 can enhance VEGF-A121a-induced phosphorylation of VEGFR2 and downstream signaling including proliferation. However, unlike VEGFA-165a, experiments have shown that VEGF-A121a does not 'bridge' VEGFR2 and NRP1, i.e. it does not bind both receptors simultaneously at their extracellular domain. Thus, the mechanism by which Neuropilins potentiate VEGF-A121a-mediated VEGFR2 signaling may be different from that for VEGF-A165a. We suggest such an alternate mechanism: interactions between NRP1 and VEGFR2 transmembrane (TM) and intracellular (IC) domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarvenaz Sarabipour
- a Institute for Computational Medicine, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Institute for NanoBioTechnology , Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Feilim Mac Gabhann
- a Institute for Computational Medicine, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Institute for NanoBioTechnology , Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA
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Dynamics and implications of circulating anti-angiogenic VEGF-A 165b isoform in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction. Sci Rep 2017; 7:9962. [PMID: 28855597 PMCID: PMC5577291 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-10505-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2017] [Accepted: 08/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis is crucial to restore microvascular perfusion in the jeopardized myocardium in the weeks following reperfused ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). (VEGF)-A165b, an anti-angiogenic factor, has been identified as a regulator of vascularization; however, it has not been previously implicated in acute myocardial infarction. We sought to investigate the dynamics of circulating VEGF-A165b and its association with cardiac magnetic resonance-derived infarct size and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). 50 STEMI patients and 23 controls were included. Compared with control individuals, serum VEGF-A165b was elevated in STEMI patients prior to primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Following PCI, serum VEGF-A165b increased further, reaching a maximum level at 24 h and decreased one month after reperfusion. VEGF-A165b levels at 24 h were associated with a large infarct size and inversely related to LVEF. VEGF-A165b expression was increased in myocardial infarct areas from patients with previous history of AMI. An ex vivo assay using serum from STEMI patients showed that neutralization of VEGF-A165b increased tubulogenesis. Overall, the study suggests that VEGF-A165b might play a deleterious role after AMI as an inhibitor of angiogenesis in the myocardium. Accordingly, neutralization of VEGF-A165b could represent a novel pro-angiogenic therapy for reperfusion of myocardium in STEMI.
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Antiangiogenic Therapy for Diabetic Nephropathy. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 2017:5724069. [PMID: 28835895 PMCID: PMC5556994 DOI: 10.1155/2017/5724069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2017] [Revised: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 06/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Angiogenesis has been shown to be a potential therapeutic target for early stages of diabetic nephropathy in a number of animal experiments. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is the main mediator for abnormal angiogenesis in diabetic glomeruli. Although beneficial effects of anti-VEGF antibodies have previously been demonstrated in diabetic animal experiments, recent basic and clinical evidence has revealed that the blockade of VEGF signaling resulted in proteinuria and renal thrombotic microangiopathy, suggesting the importance of maintaining normal levels of VEGF in the kidneys. Therefore, antiangiogenic therapy for diabetic nephropathy should eliminate excessive glomerular angiogenic response without accelerating endothelial injury. Some endogenous antiangiogenic factors such as endostatin and tumstatin inhibit overactivation of endothelial cells but do not specifically block VEGF signaling. In addition, the novel endothelium-derived antiangiogenic factor vasohibin-1 enhances stress tolerance and survival of the endothelial cells, while inhibiting excess angiogenesis. These factors have been demonstrated to suppress albuminuria and glomerular alterations in a diabetic mouse model. Thus, antiangiogenic therapy with promising candidates will possibly improve renal prognosis in patients with early stages of diabetic nephropathy.
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48
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Shi YN, Zhu N, Liu C, Wu HT, Gui Y, Liao DF, Qin L. Wnt5a and its signaling pathway in angiogenesis. Clin Chim Acta 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2017.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Stevens M, Neal CR, Salmon AHJ, Bates DO, Harper SJ, Oltean S. VEGF-A 165 b protects against proteinuria in a mouse model with progressive depletion of all endogenous VEGF-A splice isoforms from the kidney. J Physiol 2017; 595:6281-6298. [PMID: 28574576 PMCID: PMC5621502 DOI: 10.1113/jp274481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Accepted: 05/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Key points Progressive depletion of all vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF‐A) splice isoforms from the kidney results in proteinuria and increased glomerular water permeability, which are both rescued by over‐expression of VEGF‐A165b only. VEGF‐A165b rescues the increase in glomerular basement membrane and podocyte slit width, as well as the decrease in sub‐podocyte space coverage, produced by VEGF‐A depletion. VEGF‐A165b restores the expression of platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule in glomerular endothelial cells and glomerular capillary circumference. VEGF‐A165b has opposite effects to VEGF‐A165 on the expression of genes involved in endothelial cell migration and proliferation.
Abstract Chronic kidney disease is strongly associated with a decrease in the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF‐A). However, little is known about the contribution of VEGF‐A splice isoforms to kidney physiology and pathology. Previous studies suggest that the splice isoform VEGF‐A165b (resulting from alternative usage of a 3′ splice site in the terminal exon) is protective for kidney function. In the present study, we show, in a quad‐transgenic model, that over‐expression of VEGF‐A165b alone is sufficient to rescue the increase in proteinuria, as well as glomerular water permeability, in the context of progressive depletion of all VEGF‐A isoforms from the podocytes. Ultrastructural studies show that the glomerular basement membrane is thickened, podocyte slit width is increased and sub‐podocyte space coverage is reduced when VEGF‐A is depleted, all of which are rescued in VEGF‐A165b over‐expressors. VEGF‐A165b restores the expression of platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule‐1 in glomerular endothelial cells and glomerular capillary circumference. Mechanistically, it increases VEGF receptor 2 expression both in vivo and in vitro and down‐regulates genes involved in migration and proliferation of endothelial cells, otherwise up‐regulated by the canonical isoform VEGF‐A165. The results of the present study indicate that manipulation of VEGF‐A splice isoforms could be a novel therapeutic avenue in chronic glomerular disease. Progressive depletion of all vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF‐A) splice isoforms from the kidney results in proteinuria and increased glomerular water permeability, which are both rescued by over‐expression of VEGF‐A165b only. VEGF‐A165b rescues the increase in glomerular basement membrane and podocyte slit width, as well as the decrease in sub‐podocyte space coverage, produced by VEGF‐A depletion. VEGF‐A165b restores the expression of platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule in glomerular endothelial cells and glomerular capillary circumference. VEGF‐A165b has opposite effects to VEGF‐A165 on the expression of genes involved in endothelial cell migration and proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Stevens
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neurosciences, University of Bristol, UK.,Bristol Renal, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.,Present address: Institute of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, UK
| | - Christopher R Neal
- Bristol Renal, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Andrew H J Salmon
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neurosciences, University of Bristol, UK.,Bristol Renal, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - David O Bates
- Cancer Biology, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Steven J Harper
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neurosciences, University of Bristol, UK.,Bristol Renal, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Sebastian Oltean
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neurosciences, University of Bristol, UK.,Bristol Renal, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.,Present address: Institute of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, UK
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50
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Ourradi K, Blythe T, Jarrett C, Barratt SL, Welsh GI, Millar AB. VEGF isoforms have differential effects on permeability of human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells. Respir Res 2017; 18:116. [PMID: 28578669 PMCID: PMC5457598 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-017-0602-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2017] [Accepted: 05/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alternative splicing of Vascular endothelial growth factor-A mRNA transcripts (commonly referred as VEGF) leads to the generation of functionally differing isoforms, the relative amounts of which have potentially significant physiological outcomes in conditions such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The effect of such isoforms on pulmonary vascular permeability is unknown. We hypothesised that VEGF165a and VEGF165b isoforms would have differing effects on pulmonary vascular permeability caused by differential activation of intercellular signal transduction pathways. METHOD To test this hypothesis we investigated the physiological effect of VEGF165a and VEGF165b on Human Pulmonary Microvascular Endothelial Cell (HPMEC) permeability using three different methods: trans-endothelial electrical resistance (TEER), Electric cell-substrate impedance sensing (ECIS) and FITC-BSA passage. In addition, potential downstream signalling pathways of the VEGF isoforms were investigated by Western blotting and the use of specific signalling inhibitors. RESULTS VEGF165a increased HPMEC permeability using all three methods (paracellular and transcellular) and led to associated VE-cadherin and actin stress fibre changes. In contrast, VEGF165b decreased paracellular permeability and did not induce changes in VE-cadherin cell distribution. Furthermore, VEGF165a and VEGF165b had differing effects on both the phosphorylation of VEGF receptors and downstream signalling proteins pMEK, p42/44MAPK, p38 MAPK, pAKT and peNOS. Interestingly specific inhibition of the pMEK, p38 MAPK, PI3 kinase and eNOS pathways blocked the effects of both VEGF165a and VEGF165b on paracellular permeability and the effect of VEGF165a on proliferation/migration, suggesting that this difference in cellular response is mediated by an as yet unidentified signalling pathway(s). CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that the novel isoform VEGF165a and VEGF165b induce differing effects on permeability in pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khadija Ourradi
- Academic Respiratory Unit, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Thomas Blythe
- Academic Respiratory Unit, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Caroline Jarrett
- Academic Respiratory Unit, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Shaney L Barratt
- Academic Respiratory Unit, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Gavin I Welsh
- Bristol Renal, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bistol, UK
| | - Ann B Millar
- Academic Respiratory Unit, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
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