1
|
Klessinger D, Mamazhakypov A, Glaeser S, Emig R, Peyronnet R, Meier L, Proelss K, Marenne K, Smolka C, Grundmann S, Pankratz F, Esser PR, Moser M, Zhou Q, Esser JS. Divergent and Compensatory Effects of BMP2 and BMP4 on the VSMC Phenotype and BMP4's Role in Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm Development. Cells 2024; 13:735. [PMID: 38727271 PMCID: PMC11083443 DOI: 10.3390/cells13090735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) play a key role in aortic aneurysm formation. Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) have been implicated as important regulators of VSMC phenotype, and dysregulation of the BMP pathway has been shown to be associated with vascular diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate for the first time the effects of BMP-4 on the VSMC phenotype and to understand its role in the development of thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAAs). Using the angiotensin II (AngII) osmotic pump model in mice, aortas from mice with VSMC-specific BMP-4 deficiency showed changes similar to AngII-infused aortas, characterised by a loss of contractile markers, increased fibrosis, and activation of matrix metalloproteinase 9. When BMP-4 deficiency was combined with AngII infusion, there was a significantly higher rate of apoptosis and aortic dilatation. In vitro, VSMCs with mRNA silencing of BMP-4 displayed a dedifferentiated phenotype with activated canonical BMP signalling. In contrast, BMP-2-deficient VSMCs exhibited the opposite phenotype. The compensatory regulation between BMP-2 and BMP-4, with BMP-4 promoting the contractile phenotype, appeared to be independent of the canonical signalling pathway. Taken together, these results demonstrate the impact of VSMC-specific BMP-4 deficiency on TAA development.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Animals
- Male
- Mice
- Angiotensin II/pharmacology
- Aortic Aneurysm, Thoracic/metabolism
- Aortic Aneurysm, Thoracic/pathology
- Aortic Aneurysm, Thoracic/genetics
- Apoptosis/drug effects
- Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2/metabolism
- Bone Morphogenetic Protein 4/metabolism
- Disease Models, Animal
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/metabolism
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/pathology
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/metabolism
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/pathology
- Phenotype
- Signal Transduction
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Klessinger
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, University Heart Center Freiburg-Bad Krozingen, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany (C.S.); (S.G.); (F.P.); (M.M.); (Q.Z.)
| | - Argen Mamazhakypov
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany;
| | - Sophie Glaeser
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, University Heart Center Freiburg-Bad Krozingen, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany (C.S.); (S.G.); (F.P.); (M.M.); (Q.Z.)
| | - Ramona Emig
- Institute for Experimental Cardiovascular Medicine, University Heart Center Freiburg-Bad Krozingen, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79110 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; (R.E.); (R.P.)
- CIBSS Centre for Integrative Biological Signalling Studies, Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Remi Peyronnet
- Institute for Experimental Cardiovascular Medicine, University Heart Center Freiburg-Bad Krozingen, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79110 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; (R.E.); (R.P.)
| | - Lena Meier
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, University Heart Center Freiburg-Bad Krozingen, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany (C.S.); (S.G.); (F.P.); (M.M.); (Q.Z.)
| | - Kora Proelss
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, University Heart Center Freiburg-Bad Krozingen, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany (C.S.); (S.G.); (F.P.); (M.M.); (Q.Z.)
| | - Katia Marenne
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, University Heart Center Freiburg-Bad Krozingen, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany (C.S.); (S.G.); (F.P.); (M.M.); (Q.Z.)
| | - Christian Smolka
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, University Heart Center Freiburg-Bad Krozingen, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany (C.S.); (S.G.); (F.P.); (M.M.); (Q.Z.)
| | - Sebastian Grundmann
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, University Heart Center Freiburg-Bad Krozingen, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany (C.S.); (S.G.); (F.P.); (M.M.); (Q.Z.)
| | - Franziska Pankratz
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, University Heart Center Freiburg-Bad Krozingen, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany (C.S.); (S.G.); (F.P.); (M.M.); (Q.Z.)
| | - Philipp R. Esser
- Allergy Research Group, Department of Dermatology, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany;
| | - Martin Moser
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, University Heart Center Freiburg-Bad Krozingen, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany (C.S.); (S.G.); (F.P.); (M.M.); (Q.Z.)
| | - Qian Zhou
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, University Heart Center Freiburg-Bad Krozingen, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany (C.S.); (S.G.); (F.P.); (M.M.); (Q.Z.)
- Division of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jennifer S. Esser
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, University Heart Center Freiburg-Bad Krozingen, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany (C.S.); (S.G.); (F.P.); (M.M.); (Q.Z.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Grewal N, Dolmaci O, Klautz A, Legue J, Driessen A, Klautz R, Poelmann R. The role of transforming growth factor beta in bicuspid aortic valve aortopathy. Indian J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2023; 39:270-279. [PMID: 38093932 PMCID: PMC10713891 DOI: 10.1007/s12055-023-01513-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
A bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is the most prevalent congenital cardiac deformity, which is associated with an increased risk to develop a thoracic aortic aneurysm and/or an aortic dissection as compared to persons with a tricuspid aortic valve. Due to the high prevalence of a BAV in the general population and the associated life-long increased risk for adverse vascular events, BAV disease places a considerable burden on the public health. The aim of the present review is to discuss the role of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling in the development of the vascular wall and on how this complex signaling pathway may be involved in thoracic aortic aneurysm formation in tricuspid and BAV patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nimrat Grewal
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Onur Dolmaci
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Arthur Klautz
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Juno Legue
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Antoine Driessen
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Robert Klautz
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Robert Poelmann
- Institute of Biology, Animal Sciences and Health, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Initial Angiotensin Receptor Blocker Response in Young Marfan Patients Decreases After 3 Years of Treatment. Pediatr Cardiol 2022; 43:586-595. [PMID: 34757469 PMCID: PMC8933348 DOI: 10.1007/s00246-021-02761-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Marfan syndrome is caused by mutations of the fibrillin-1 gene, which weakens the connective tissue integrity. Since 2003, bioavailability regulations of TGF-ß through fibrillin alterations have been presumed of being the culprit mechanisms for aortic aneurysm development. We present the analysis of our single-center Marfan children and adolescents cohort to assess the influence of age, sex, degree of cardiovascular involvement and dosage on losartan effectivity. This prospective longitudinal registered echocardiographical investigation (EudraCT 2009-016139-36) of 49 patients with an average follow-up of 72 months focused on aortic root z-scores, elasticity, and yearly progression rates. The 33 patients under medication with losartan showed an aortic root z-score reduction during the first 36 months compared to 22 patients without medication presenting constant mild progression. Yet, results diminished under losartan thereafter, adding up to similar progressions over 72 months in both groups (0.07 ± 0.10/year versus 0.04 ± 0.11/year). Although male patients exhibited higher root z-scores, progression with and without medication was comparable to females and not age-dependent. In conclusion, losartan evoked a significant aortic root z-score regression in young Marfan patients over the first 3 years, but this effect mitigated thereafter. The initial improvement concurred with ameliorated elasticity; lower stiffness levels predicted better clinical outcome, but likewise only up to 36 months. Sex differences in dilatation severity were observed but neither age nor sex had significant influence on progression rates. Losartan dosages were gradually increased in more severely affected patients and provided an equal rate of root progression over 72 months in comparison to patients under losartan treatment with lesser baseline dilatation severity.
Collapse
|
4
|
Connective Tissue Disorders and Cardiovascular Complications: The Indomitable Role of Transforming Growth Factor-β Signaling. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1348:161-184. [PMID: 34807419 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-80614-9_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Marfan Syndrome (MFS) and Loeys-Dietz Syndrome (LDS) represent heritable connective tissue disorders that segregate with a similar pattern of cardiovascular defects (thoracic aortic aneurysm, mitral valve prolapse/regurgitation, and aortic dilatation with regurgitation). This pattern of cardiovascular defects appears to be expressed along a spectrum of severity in many heritable connective tissue disorders and raises suspicion of a relationship between the normal development of connective tissues and the cardiovascular system. With overwhelming evidence of the involvement of aberrant Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling in MFS and LDS, this signaling pathway may represent the common link in the relationship between connective tissue disorders and their associated cardiovascular complications. To further explore this hypothetical link, this chapter will review the TGF-β signaling pathway, the heritable connective tissue syndromes related to aberrant TGF-β signaling, and will discuss the pathogenic contribution of TGF-β to these syndromes with a primary focus on the cardiovascular system.
Collapse
|
5
|
Akerman AW, Collins EN, Peterson AR, Collins LB, Harrison JK, DeVaughn A, Townsend JM, Vanbuskirk RL, Riopedre‐Maqueira J, Reyes A, Oh JE, Raybuck CM, Jones JA, Ikonomidis JS. miR-133a Replacement Attenuates Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm in Mice. J Am Heart Assoc 2021; 10:e019862. [PMID: 34387094 PMCID: PMC8475064 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.120.019862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Background Thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAAs) occur because of abnormal remodeling of aortic extracellular matrix and are accompanied by the emergence of proteolytically active myofibroblasts. The microRNA miR-133a regulates cellular phenotypes and is reduced in clinical TAA specimens. This study tested the hypothesis that miR-133a modulates aortic fibroblast phenotype, and overexpression by lentivirus attenuates the development of TAA in a murine model. Methods and Results TAA was induced in mice. Copy number of miR-133a was reduced in TAA tissue and linear regression analysis confirmed an inverse correlation between aortic diameter and miR-133a. Analyses of phenotypic markers revealed an mRNA expression profile consistent with myofibroblasts in TAA tissue. Fibroblasts were isolated from the thoracic aortae of mice with/without TAA. When compared with controls, miR-133a was reduced, migration was increased, adhesion was reduced, and the ability to contract a collagen disk was increased. Overexpression/knockdown of miR-133a controlled these phenotypes. After TAA induction in mice, a single tail-vein injection of either miR-133a overexpression or scrambled sequence (control) lentivirus was performed. Overexpression of miR-133a attenuated TAA development. The pro-protein convertase furin was confirmed to be a target of miR-133a by luciferase reporter assay. Furin was elevated in this murine model of TAA and repressed by miR-133a replacement in vivo resulting in reduced proteolytic activation. Conclusions miR-133a regulates aortic fibroblast phenotype and over-expression prevented the development of TAA in a murine model. These findings suggest that stable alterations in aortic fibroblasts are associated with development of TAA and regulation by miR-133a may lead to a novel therapeutic strategy.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Animals
- Aorta, Thoracic/metabolism
- Aorta, Thoracic/pathology
- Aortic Aneurysm, Thoracic/chemically induced
- Aortic Aneurysm, Thoracic/genetics
- Aortic Aneurysm, Thoracic/metabolism
- Aortic Aneurysm, Thoracic/prevention & control
- Calcium Chloride
- Cell Adhesion
- Cell Movement
- Cells, Cultured
- Dilatation, Pathologic
- Disease Models, Animal
- Fibroblasts/metabolism
- Fibroblasts/pathology
- Furin/genetics
- Furin/metabolism
- Genetic Therapy
- Genetic Vectors
- Lentivirus/genetics
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- MicroRNAs/genetics
- MicroRNAs/metabolism
- Phenotype
- Vascular Remodeling
- Mice
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adam W. Akerman
- Division of Cardiothoracic SurgeryDepartment of SurgeryUniversity of North CarolinaChapel HillNC
| | - Elizabeth N. Collins
- Division of Cardiothoracic SurgeryDepartment of SurgeryUniversity of North CarolinaChapel HillNC
| | - Andrew R. Peterson
- Division of Cardiothoracic SurgeryDepartment of SurgeryUniversity of North CarolinaChapel HillNC
| | - Lauren B. Collins
- Division of Cardiothoracic SurgeryDepartment of SurgeryUniversity of North CarolinaChapel HillNC
| | - Jessica K. Harrison
- Division of Cardiothoracic SurgeryDepartment of SurgeryUniversity of North CarolinaChapel HillNC
| | - Amari DeVaughn
- Division of Cardiothoracic SurgeryDepartment of SurgeryUniversity of North CarolinaChapel HillNC
| | - Jaleel M. Townsend
- Division of Cardiothoracic SurgeryDepartment of SurgeryUniversity of North CarolinaChapel HillNC
| | - Rebecca L. Vanbuskirk
- Division of Cardiothoracic SurgeryDepartment of SurgeryUniversity of North CarolinaChapel HillNC
| | | | - Ailet Reyes
- Division of Cardiothoracic SurgeryDepartment of SurgeryUniversity of North CarolinaChapel HillNC
| | - Joyce E. Oh
- Division of Cardiothoracic SurgeryDepartment of SurgeryUniversity of North CarolinaChapel HillNC
| | - Charles M. Raybuck
- Division of Cardiothoracic SurgeryDepartment of SurgeryUniversity of North CarolinaChapel HillNC
| | - Jeffrey A. Jones
- Division of Cardiothoracic SurgeryDepartment of SurgeryMedical University of South CarolinaCharlestonSC
- Research ServiceRalph H. Johnson VA Medical CenterCharlestonSC
| | - John S. Ikonomidis
- Division of Cardiothoracic SurgeryDepartment of SurgeryUniversity of North CarolinaChapel HillNC
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zhao H, Yang Y, Pan X, Li W, Sun L, Guo J. Identification of clinically relevant variants by whole exome sequencing in Chinese patients with sporadic non-syndromic type A aortic dissection. Clin Chim Acta 2020; 506:160-165. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2020.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2019] [Revised: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
|
7
|
Nuche J, Palomino-Doza J, Ynsaurriaga FA, Delgado JF, Ibáñez B, Oliver E, Subías PE. Potential Molecular Pathways Related to Pulmonary Artery Aneurysm Development: Lessons to Learn from the Aorta. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21072509. [PMID: 32260370 PMCID: PMC7177585 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21072509] [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: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare disease caused by pulmonary vascular remodeling. Current vasodilator treatments have substantially improved patients’ survival. This improved survival has led to the appearance of complications related to conditions previously underdiagnosed or even ignored, such as pulmonary artery aneurysm (PAA). The presence of a dilated pulmonary artery has been shown to be related to an increased risk of sudden cardiac death among PAH patients. This increased risk could be associated to the development of left main coronary artery compression or pulmonary artery dissection. Nevertheless, very little is currently known about the molecular mechanisms related to PAA. Thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) is a well-known condition with an increased risk of sudden death caused by acute aortic dissection. TAA may be secondary to chronic exposure to classic cardiovascular risk factors. In addition, a number of genetic variants have been shown to be related to a marked risk of TAA and dissection as part of multisystemic syndromes or isolated familial TAA. The molecular pathways implied in the development of TAA have been widely studied and described. Many of these molecular pathways are involved in the pathogenesis of PAH and could be involved in PAA. This review aims to describe all these common pathways to open new research lines that could help lead to a better understanding of the pathophysiology of PAH and PAA and their clinical implications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Nuche
- Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Red de enfermedades CardioVasculares (CIBERCV), 28029 Madrid, Spain; (J.N.); (J.P.-D.); (F.A.Y.); (J.F.D.); (B.I.)
- Servicio de Cardiología, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), 28041 Madrid, Spain
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Julián Palomino-Doza
- Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Red de enfermedades CardioVasculares (CIBERCV), 28029 Madrid, Spain; (J.N.); (J.P.-D.); (F.A.Y.); (J.F.D.); (B.I.)
- Servicio de Cardiología, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), 28041 Madrid, Spain
| | - Fernando Arribas Ynsaurriaga
- Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Red de enfermedades CardioVasculares (CIBERCV), 28029 Madrid, Spain; (J.N.); (J.P.-D.); (F.A.Y.); (J.F.D.); (B.I.)
- Servicio de Cardiología, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), 28041 Madrid, Spain
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan F. Delgado
- Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Red de enfermedades CardioVasculares (CIBERCV), 28029 Madrid, Spain; (J.N.); (J.P.-D.); (F.A.Y.); (J.F.D.); (B.I.)
- Servicio de Cardiología, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), 28041 Madrid, Spain
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Borja Ibáñez
- Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Red de enfermedades CardioVasculares (CIBERCV), 28029 Madrid, Spain; (J.N.); (J.P.-D.); (F.A.Y.); (J.F.D.); (B.I.)
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Eduardo Oliver
- Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Red de enfermedades CardioVasculares (CIBERCV), 28029 Madrid, Spain; (J.N.); (J.P.-D.); (F.A.Y.); (J.F.D.); (B.I.)
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: (E.O.); (P.E.S.)
| | - Pilar Escribano Subías
- Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Red de enfermedades CardioVasculares (CIBERCV), 28029 Madrid, Spain; (J.N.); (J.P.-D.); (F.A.Y.); (J.F.D.); (B.I.)
- Servicio de Cardiología, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), 28041 Madrid, Spain
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: (E.O.); (P.E.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Akerman AW, Blanding WM, Stroud RE, Nadeau EK, Mukherjee R, Ruddy JM, Zile MR, Ikonomidis JS, Jones JA. Elevated Wall Tension Leads to Reduced miR-133a in the Thoracic Aorta by Exosome Release. J Am Heart Assoc 2020; 8:e010332. [PMID: 30572760 PMCID: PMC6405702 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.118.010332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [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] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Reduced miR‐133a was previously found to be associated with thoracic aortic (TA) dilation, as seen in aneurysm disease. Because wall tension increases with vessel diameter (Law of Laplace), this study tested the hypothesis that elevated tension led to the reduction of miR‐133a in the TA. Methods and Results Elevated tension (1.5 g; 150 mm Hg) applied to murine TA ex vivo reduced miR‐133a tissue abundance compared with TA held at normotension (0.7 g; 70 mm Hg). Cellular miR‐133a levels were reduced with biaxial stretch of isolated murine TA fibroblasts, whereas smooth muscle cells were not affected. Mechanisms contributing to the loss of miR‐133a abundance were further investigated in TA fibroblasts. Biaxial stretch did not reduce primary miR‐133a transcription and had no effect on the expression/abundance of 3 microRNA‐specific exoribonucleases. Remarkably, biaxial stretch increased exosome secretion, and exosomes isolated from TA fibroblasts contained more miR‐133a. Inhibition of exosome secretion prevented the biaxial stretch‐induced reduction of miR‐133a. Subsequently, 2 in vivo models of hypertension were used to determine the effect of elevated wall tension on miR‐133a abundance in the TA: wild‐type mice with osmotic pump–mediated angiotensin II infusion and angiotensin II–independent spontaneously hypertensive mice. Interestingly, the abundance of miR‐133a was decreased in TA tissue and increased in the plasma in both models of hypertension compared with a normotensive control group. Furthermore, miR‐133a was elevated in the plasma of hypertensive human subjects, compared with normotensive patients. Conclusions Taken together, these results identified exosome secretion as a tension‐sensitive mechanism by which miR‐133a abundance was reduced in TA fibroblasts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adam W Akerman
- 1 Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery Department of Surgery Medical University of South Carolina Charleston SC.,4 Cardiothoracic Surgery Research University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill NC
| | - Walker M Blanding
- 1 Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery Department of Surgery Medical University of South Carolina Charleston SC
| | - Robert E Stroud
- 1 Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery Department of Surgery Medical University of South Carolina Charleston SC
| | - Elizabeth K Nadeau
- 1 Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery Department of Surgery Medical University of South Carolina Charleston SC
| | - Rupak Mukherjee
- 1 Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery Department of Surgery Medical University of South Carolina Charleston SC.,2 Research Service Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical Center Charleston SC
| | - Jean Marie Ruddy
- 3 Division of Vascular Surgery Medical University of South Carolina Charleston SC
| | - Michael R Zile
- 1 Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery Department of Surgery Medical University of South Carolina Charleston SC.,2 Research Service Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical Center Charleston SC
| | - John S Ikonomidis
- 4 Cardiothoracic Surgery Research University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill NC
| | - Jeffrey A Jones
- 1 Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery Department of Surgery Medical University of South Carolina Charleston SC.,2 Research Service Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical Center Charleston SC
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Gasiulė S, Stankevičius V, Patamsytė V, Ražanskas R, Žukovas G, Kapustina Ž, Žaliaduonytė D, Benetis R, Lesauskaitė V, Vilkaitis G. Tissue-Specific miRNAs Regulate the Development of Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm: The Emerging Role of KLF4 Network. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8101609. [PMID: 31623405 PMCID: PMC6832203 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8101609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Revised: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are critical regulators of the functional pathways involved in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. Understanding of the disease-associated alterations in tissue and plasma will elucidate the roles of miRNA in modulation of gene expression throughout development of sporadic non-syndromic ascending thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA). This will allow one to propose relevant biomarkers for diagnosis or new therapeutic targets for the treatment. The high-throughput sequencing revealed 20 and 17 TAA-specific miRNAs in tissue and plasma samples, respectively. qRT-PCR analysis in extended cohort revealed sex-related differences in miR-10a-5p, miR-126-3p, miR-155-5p and miR-148a-3p expression, which were the most significantly dysregulated in TAA tissues of male patients. Unexpectedly, the set of aneurysm-related miRNAs in TAA plasma did not resemble the tissue signature suggesting more complex organism response to the disease. Three of TAA-specific plasma miRNAs were found to be restored to normal level after aortic surgery, further signifying their relationship to the pathology. The panel of two plasma miRNAs, miR-122-3p, and miR-483-3p, could serve as a potential biomarker set (AUC = 0.84) for the ascending TAA. The miRNA-target enrichment analysis exposed TGF-β signaling pathway as sturdily affected by abnormally expressed miRNAs in the TAA tissue. Nearly half of TAA-specific miRNAs potentially regulate a key component in TGF-β signaling: TGF-β receptors, SMADs and KLF4. Indeed, using immunohistochemistry analysis we detected increased KLF4 expression in 27% of TAA cells compared to 10% of non-TAA cells. In addition, qRT-PCR demonstrated a significant upregulation of ALK1 mRNA expression in TAA tissues. Overall, these observations indicate that the alterations in miRNA expression are sex-dependent and play an essential role in TAA via TGF-β signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stasė Gasiulė
- Institute of Biotechnology, Vilnius University, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania.
| | | | - Vaiva Patamsytė
- Institute of Cardiology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-50103 Kaunas, Lithuania.
| | - Raimundas Ražanskas
- Institute of Biotechnology, Vilnius University, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania.
| | - Giedrius Žukovas
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-50103 Kaunas, Lithuania.
| | - Žana Kapustina
- Thermo Fisher Scientific Baltics, LT-02241 Vilnius, Lithuania.
| | - Diana Žaliaduonytė
- Department of Cardiology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-50161 Kaunas, Lithuania.
| | - Rimantas Benetis
- Institute of Cardiology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-50103 Kaunas, Lithuania.
| | - Vaiva Lesauskaitė
- Institute of Cardiology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-50103 Kaunas, Lithuania.
| | - Giedrius Vilkaitis
- Institute of Biotechnology, Vilnius University, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ngai D, Lino M, Bendeck MP. Cell-Matrix Interactions and Matricrine Signaling in the Pathogenesis of Vascular Calcification. Front Cardiovasc Med 2018; 5:174. [PMID: 30581820 PMCID: PMC6292870 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2018.00174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2018] [Accepted: 11/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular calcification is a complex pathological process occurring in patients with atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes, and chronic kidney disease. The extracellular matrix, via matricrine-receptor signaling plays important roles in the pathogenesis of calcification. Calcification is mediated by osteochondrocytic-like cells that arise from transdifferentiating vascular smooth muscle cells. Recent advances in our understanding of the plasticity of vascular smooth muscle cell and other cells of mesenchymal origin have furthered our understanding of how these cells transdifferentiate into osteochondrocytic-like cells in response to environmental cues. In the present review, we examine the role of the extracellular matrix in the regulation of cell behavior and differentiation in the context of vascular calcification. In pathological calcification, the extracellular matrix not only provides a scaffold for mineral deposition, but also acts as an active signaling entity. In recent years, extracellular matrix components have been shown to influence cellular signaling through matrix receptors such as the discoidin domain receptor family, integrins, and elastin receptors, all of which can modulate osteochondrocytic differentiation and calcification. Changes in extracellular matrix stiffness and composition are detected by these receptors which in turn modulate downstream signaling pathways and cytoskeletal dynamics, which are critical to osteogenic differentiation. This review will focus on recent literature that highlights the role of cell-matrix interactions and how they influence cellular behavior, and osteochondrocytic transdifferentiation in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular calcification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Ngai
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Marsel Lino
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Michelle P Bendeck
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Defective NOTCH signaling drives increased vascular smooth muscle cell apoptosis and contractile differentiation in bicuspid aortic valve aortopathy: A review of the evidence and future directions. Trends Cardiovasc Med 2018; 29:61-68. [PMID: 30621852 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcm.2018.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2018] [Revised: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) disease remains the most common congenital cardiac disease and is associated with an increased risk of potentially fatal aortopathy including aortic aneurysm and dissection. Mutations in the NOTCH1 gene are one of only a few genetic anomalies identified in BAV disease; however evidence for defective NOTCH signaling, and its involvement in the characteristic histological changes of VSMC apoptosis and differentiation in ascending aortae of BAV patients is lacking. This review scrutinizes the evidence for the interactions of NOTCH signaling, cellular differentiation and apoptosis in the context of aortic VSMCs and provides focus for future research efforts in the diagnosis of BAV aortopathy and prevention of catastrophic complications through NOTCH signaling manipulation.
Collapse
|
12
|
Sophocleous F, Milano EG, Pontecorboli G, Chivasso P, Caputo M, Rajakaruna C, Bucciarelli-Ducci C, Emanueli C, Biglino G. Enlightening the Association between Bicuspid Aortic Valve and Aortopathy. J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2018; 5:E21. [PMID: 29671812 PMCID: PMC6023468 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd5020021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2018] [Revised: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) patients have an increased incidence of developing aortic dilation. Despite its importance, the pathogenesis of aortopathy in BAV is still largely undetermined. Nowadays, intense focus falls both on BAV morphology and progression of valvular dysfunction and on the development of aortic dilation. However, less is known about the relationship between aortic valve morphology and aortic dilation. A better understanding of the molecular pathways involved in the homeostasis of the aortic wall, including the extracellular matrix, the plasticity of the vascular smooth cells, TGFβ signaling, and epigenetic dysregulation, is key to enlighten the mechanisms underpinning BAV-aortopathy development and progression. To date, there are two main theories on this subject, i.e., the genetic and the hemodynamic theory, with an ongoing debate over the pathogenesis of BAV-aortopathy. Furthermore, the lack of early detection biomarkers leads to challenges in the management of patients affected by BAV-aortopathy. Here, we critically review the current knowledge on the driving mechanisms of BAV-aortopathy together with the current clinical management and lack of available biomarkers allowing for early detection and better treatment optimization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Froso Sophocleous
- Bristol Heart Institute, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol BS2 89HW, UK.
| | - Elena Giulia Milano
- Bristol Heart Institute, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol BS2 89HW, UK.
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Verona, 37100 Verona, Italy.
| | - Giulia Pontecorboli
- Structural Interventional Cardiology Division, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50100 Florence, Italy.
| | - Pierpaolo Chivasso
- Cardiac Surgery, University Hospitals Bristol, NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol BS2 8HW, UK.
| | - Massimo Caputo
- Bristol Heart Institute, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol BS2 89HW, UK.
- Cardiac Surgery, University Hospitals Bristol, NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol BS2 8HW, UK.
| | - Cha Rajakaruna
- Bristol Heart Institute, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol BS2 89HW, UK.
- Cardiac Surgery, University Hospitals Bristol, NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol BS2 8HW, UK.
| | - Chiara Bucciarelli-Ducci
- Bristol Heart Institute, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol BS2 89HW, UK.
- Cardiac Surgery, University Hospitals Bristol, NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol BS2 8HW, UK.
| | - Costanza Emanueli
- Bristol Heart Institute, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol BS2 89HW, UK.
- Cardiac Surgery, University Hospitals Bristol, NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol BS2 8HW, UK.
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK.
| | - Giovanni Biglino
- Bristol Heart Institute, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol BS2 89HW, UK.
- Cardiorespiratory Unit, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, NHS Foundation Trust, London WC1N 3JH, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Epigenetic regulation of TGF-β1 signalling in dilative aortopathy of the thoracic ascending aorta. Clin Sci (Lond) 2017; 130:1389-405. [PMID: 27389586 DOI: 10.1042/cs20160222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The term 'epigenetics' refers to heritable, reversible DNA or histone modifications that affect gene expression without modifying the DNA sequence. Epigenetic modulation of gene expression also includes the RNA interference mechanism. Epigenetic regulation of gene expression is fundamental during development and throughout life, also playing a central role in disease progression. The transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) and its downstream effectors are key players in tissue repair and fibrosis, extracellular matrix remodelling, inflammation, cell proliferation and migration. TGF-β1 can also induce cell switch in epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, leading to myofibroblast transdifferentiation. Cellular pathways triggered by TGF-β1 in thoracic ascending aorta dilatation have relevant roles to play in remodelling of the vascular wall by virtue of their association with monogenic syndromes that implicate an aortic aneurysm, including Loeys-Dietz and Marfan's syndromes. Several studies and reviews have focused on the progression of aneurysms in the abdominal aorta, but research efforts are now increasingly being focused on pathogenic mechanisms of thoracic ascending aorta dilatation. The present review summarizes the most recent findings concerning the epigenetic regulation of effectors of TGF-β1 pathways, triggered by sporadic dilative aortopathy of the thoracic ascending aorta in the presence of a tricuspid or bicuspid aortic valve, a congenital malformation occurring in 0.5-2% of the general population. A more in-depth comprehension of the epigenetic alterations associated with TGF-β1 canonical and non-canonical pathways in dilatation of the ascending aorta could be helpful to clarify its pathogenesis, identify early potential biomarkers of disease, and, possibly, develop preventive and therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
|
14
|
Forte A, Bancone C, Cobellis G, Buonocore M, Santarpino G, Fischlein TJM, Cipollaro M, De Feo M, Della Corte A. A Possible Early Biomarker for Bicuspid Aortopathy: Circulating Transforming Growth Factor β-1 to Soluble Endoglin Ratio. Circ Res 2017; 120:1800-1811. [PMID: 28420669 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.117.310833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE The pathogenesis of bicuspid aortic valve (BAV)-associated aortopathy is poorly understood, and no prognostic biomarker is currently available. OBJECTIVE We aimed to identify putative circulating biomarkers pathogenetically and prognostically linked to bicuspid aortopathy. METHODS AND RESULTS By reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, we evaluated gene expression variations (versus normal aorta) of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), connective tissue growth factor, matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), MMP-14, endoglin (ENG), and superoxide dismutase 3 in ascending aorta samples from 50 tricuspid and 70 patients with BAV undergoing surgery for aortic stenosis (aorta diameter ≤45 mm: BAVnon-dil or >45 mm: BAVdil). Expression changes of the TGF-β1 active dimer and ENG were analyzed also by Western blot in ascending aorta samples from other 10 tricuspid aortic valve, 10 BAVnon-dil, and 10 BAVdil patients. The serum concentration of study targets was assessed through ELISA and the ratio of serum TGF-β1/ENG (T/E) was evaluated. All BAVnon-dil patients underwent follow-up echocardiography to assess aortic growth rate. In BAVnon-dil patients, TGF-β1 and MMP-2 gene expression increased significantly, whereas MMP-14 and ENG expression decreased versus controls. Expression changes were confirmed at protein level for TGF-β1 and ENG. TGF-β1 serum concentration significantly decreased in tricuspid aortic valve and BAVnon-dil patients versus healthy subjects. ENG serum concentration decreased in all patients, more markedly in BAVdil. A significant increase of the T/E ratio versus healthy subjects was unique of patients with BAV. In BAVnon-dil patients, a T/E ≥9 was independently associated in multivariable analysis with higher MMP-2 and lower superoxide dismutase 3 gene expression, independent of age and aortic diameter. A significant correlation was observed between baseline T/E ratio and aortic diameter growth rate in BAVnon-dil patients (r=0.66, P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS The novel evidence of a possible value of the T/E ratio as a biomarker of BAV aortopathy was presented: further validation studies are warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amalia Forte
- From the Experimental Medicine (A.F., M.C.), Cardiothoracic Sciences (C.B., M.B., M.D.F., A.D.C.), and Biophysics, Biochemistry, and General Pathology (G.C.), University of Campania "L.Vanvitelli", Naples Italy; and Department of Cardiac Surgery, Cardiovascular Center, Paracelsus Medical University, Nürnberg, Germany (G.S., T.J.M.F.).
| | - Ciro Bancone
- From the Experimental Medicine (A.F., M.C.), Cardiothoracic Sciences (C.B., M.B., M.D.F., A.D.C.), and Biophysics, Biochemistry, and General Pathology (G.C.), University of Campania "L.Vanvitelli", Naples Italy; and Department of Cardiac Surgery, Cardiovascular Center, Paracelsus Medical University, Nürnberg, Germany (G.S., T.J.M.F.)
| | - Gilda Cobellis
- From the Experimental Medicine (A.F., M.C.), Cardiothoracic Sciences (C.B., M.B., M.D.F., A.D.C.), and Biophysics, Biochemistry, and General Pathology (G.C.), University of Campania "L.Vanvitelli", Naples Italy; and Department of Cardiac Surgery, Cardiovascular Center, Paracelsus Medical University, Nürnberg, Germany (G.S., T.J.M.F.)
| | - Marianna Buonocore
- From the Experimental Medicine (A.F., M.C.), Cardiothoracic Sciences (C.B., M.B., M.D.F., A.D.C.), and Biophysics, Biochemistry, and General Pathology (G.C.), University of Campania "L.Vanvitelli", Naples Italy; and Department of Cardiac Surgery, Cardiovascular Center, Paracelsus Medical University, Nürnberg, Germany (G.S., T.J.M.F.)
| | - Giuseppe Santarpino
- From the Experimental Medicine (A.F., M.C.), Cardiothoracic Sciences (C.B., M.B., M.D.F., A.D.C.), and Biophysics, Biochemistry, and General Pathology (G.C.), University of Campania "L.Vanvitelli", Naples Italy; and Department of Cardiac Surgery, Cardiovascular Center, Paracelsus Medical University, Nürnberg, Germany (G.S., T.J.M.F.)
| | - Theodor J M Fischlein
- From the Experimental Medicine (A.F., M.C.), Cardiothoracic Sciences (C.B., M.B., M.D.F., A.D.C.), and Biophysics, Biochemistry, and General Pathology (G.C.), University of Campania "L.Vanvitelli", Naples Italy; and Department of Cardiac Surgery, Cardiovascular Center, Paracelsus Medical University, Nürnberg, Germany (G.S., T.J.M.F.)
| | - Marilena Cipollaro
- From the Experimental Medicine (A.F., M.C.), Cardiothoracic Sciences (C.B., M.B., M.D.F., A.D.C.), and Biophysics, Biochemistry, and General Pathology (G.C.), University of Campania "L.Vanvitelli", Naples Italy; and Department of Cardiac Surgery, Cardiovascular Center, Paracelsus Medical University, Nürnberg, Germany (G.S., T.J.M.F.)
| | - Marisa De Feo
- From the Experimental Medicine (A.F., M.C.), Cardiothoracic Sciences (C.B., M.B., M.D.F., A.D.C.), and Biophysics, Biochemistry, and General Pathology (G.C.), University of Campania "L.Vanvitelli", Naples Italy; and Department of Cardiac Surgery, Cardiovascular Center, Paracelsus Medical University, Nürnberg, Germany (G.S., T.J.M.F.)
| | - Alessandro Della Corte
- From the Experimental Medicine (A.F., M.C.), Cardiothoracic Sciences (C.B., M.B., M.D.F., A.D.C.), and Biophysics, Biochemistry, and General Pathology (G.C.), University of Campania "L.Vanvitelli", Naples Italy; and Department of Cardiac Surgery, Cardiovascular Center, Paracelsus Medical University, Nürnberg, Germany (G.S., T.J.M.F.)
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Ikonomidis JS, Nadeau EK, Akerman AW, Stroud RE, Mukherjee R, Jones JA. Regulation of membrane type-1 matrix metalloproteinase activity and intracellular localization in clinical thoracic aortic aneurysms. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2016; 153:537-546. [PMID: 27923483 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtcvs.2016.10.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2016] [Revised: 09/19/2016] [Accepted: 10/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Membrane type-1 matrix metalloproteinase (MT1-MMP) is elevated during thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) development in mouse models, and plays an important role in the activation of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and the release of matrix- bound transforming growth factor-β. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that MT1-MMP is subject to protein kinase C (PKC)-mediated regulation, which alters intracellular trafficking and activity with TAAs. METHODS Levels of MMP-2, native and phosphorylated MT1-MMP, and PKC-δ were measured in aortic tissue from patients with small TAAs (<5 cm; n = 8) and large TAAs (>6.5 cm; n = 8), and compared with values measured in normal controls (n = 8). Cellular localization of green fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged MT1-MMP was assessed in aortic fibroblasts isolated from control and 4-week TAA mice. The effects of PKC-mediated phosphorylation on MT1-MMP cellular localization and function (active MMP-2 vs phospo-Smad2 abundance) were assessed after treatment with a PKC activator (phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate [PMA], 100 nM) with and without a PKC-δ-specific inhibitor (röttlerin, 3 μM). RESULTS Compared with controls, MT1-MMP abundance was increased in aortas from both TAA groups. Active MMP-2 was increased only in the large TAA group. The abundances of phosphorylated MT1-MMP and activated PKC-δ were enhanced in the small TAA group compared with the large TAA group. MT1-MMP was localized on the plasma membrane in aortic fibroblasts from control mice and in endosomes from TAA mice. Treatment with PMA induced MT1-MMP-GFP internalization, enhanced phospho-Smad2, and reduced MMP-2 activation, whereas röttlerin pretreatment inhibited these effects. CONCLUSIONS Phosphorylation of MT1-MMP mediates its activity through directing cellular localization, shifting its role from MMP-2 activation to intracellular signaling. Thus, targeted inhibition of MT1-MMP may have therapeutic relevance as an approach to attenuating TAA development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John S Ikonomidis
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Elizabeth K Nadeau
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Adam W Akerman
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Robert E Stroud
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Rupak Mukherjee
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC; Research Service, Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Charleston, SC
| | - Jeffrey A Jones
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC; Research Service, Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Charleston, SC.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Rabkin SW. Accentuating and Opposing Factors Leading to Development of Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms Not Due to Genetic or Inherited Conditions. Front Cardiovasc Med 2015; 2:21. [PMID: 26664893 PMCID: PMC4671360 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2015.00021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2014] [Accepted: 04/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding and unraveling the pathophysiology of thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA), a vascular disease with a potentially high-mortality rate, is one of the next frontiers in vascular biology. The processes leading to the formation of TAA, of unknown cause, so-called degenerative TAA, are complex. This review advances the concept of promoters and inhibitors of the development of degenerative TAA. Promoters of TAA development include age, blood pressure elevation, increased pulse pressure, neurohumeral factors increasing blood pressure, inflammation specifically IFN-γ, IL-1 β, IL-6, TNF-α, and S100 A12; the coagulation system specifically plasmin, platelets, and thrombin as well as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). SMAD-2 signaling and specific microRNAs modulate TAA development. The major inhibitors or factors opposing TAA development are the constituents of the aortic wall (elastic lamellae, collagen, fibulins, fibronectin, proteoglycans, and vascular smooth muscle cells), which maintain normal aortic dimensions in the face of aortic wall stress, specific tissue MMP inhibitors, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, protease nexin-1, and Syndecans. Increases in promoters and reductions in inhibitors expand the thoracic aorta leading to TAA formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simon W Rabkin
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia , Vancouver, BC , Canada
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Early cell changes and TGFβ pathway alterations in the aortopathy associated with bicuspid aortic valve stenosis. Clin Sci (Lond) 2012; 124:97-108. [PMID: 22857993 DOI: 10.1042/cs20120324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies on BAV (bicuspid aortic valve)-related aortopathy, whose aetiology is still debated, have focused mainly on severe dilatations. In the present study, we aimed to detect earlier signs of aortopathy. Specimens were collected from the 'concavity' (lesser curvature) and the 'convexity' (greater curvature) of mildly dilated AAs (ascending aortas; diameter ≤4 cm) with stenotic TAV (tricuspid aortic valve) or BAV and from donor normal aortas. Specimens were submitted to morphometry, immunohistochemistry and differential gene-expression analysis, focusing on SMC (smooth muscle cell) phenotype, remodelling, MF (myofibroblast) differentiation and TGFβ (transforming growth factor β) pathway. Smoothelin and myocardin mRNAs decreased in all the samples from patients, with the exception of those from BAV convexity, where a change in orientation of smoothelin-positive SMCs and an increase of α-SMA (α-smooth muscle actin) mRNA occurred. Dilated aortas from BAV and TAV patients showed both shared and distinct alterations concerning the TGFβ pathway, including an increased TGFβ and TGFβR2 (TGFβ receptor 2) expression in both groups and a decreased TGFβR1 expression in BAV samples only. Despite a decrease of the mRNA coding for the ED-A (extra domain-A) isoform of FN (fibronectin) in the BAV convexity, the onset of the expression of the corresponding protein in the media was observed in dilated aortas, whereas the normal media from donors was negative for this isoform. This discrepancy could be related to modifications in the intima, normally expressing ED-A FN and showing an altered structure in mild aortic dilatations in comparison with donor aorta. Our results suggest that changes in SMC phenotype and, likely, MF differentiation, occur early in the aortopathy associated with valve stenosis. The defective expression of TGFβR1 in BAV might be a constitutive feature, while other changes we reported could be influenced by haemodynamics.
Collapse
|
18
|
BMP signaling in vascular diseases. FEBS Lett 2012; 586:1993-2002. [DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2012.04.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 217] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2012] [Revised: 04/05/2012] [Accepted: 04/17/2012] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
|
19
|
Theruvath TP, Jones JA, Ikonomidis JS. Matrix metalloproteinases and descending aortic aneurysms: parity, disparity, and switch. J Card Surg 2011; 27:81-90. [PMID: 21958052 DOI: 10.1111/j.1540-8191.2011.01315.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Central to the pathologic changes in developing aortic aneurysms are alterations in the abundance and activity of proteases, of which the most important for aneurysm production comprise the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) family. In this review, literature demonstrating the role of MMPs in the development of aortic aneurysms is presented, with emphasis on the parity and disparity between the thoracic and abdominal aorta. Furthermore, the role of embryologic cellular origins and evidence of phenotypic switch will be addressed in terms of how this process alters MMP production during aneurysm development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tom P Theruvath
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina 29425, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Transcription factor Dlx2 protects from TGFβ-induced cell-cycle arrest and apoptosis. EMBO J 2011; 30:4489-99. [PMID: 21897365 DOI: 10.1038/emboj.2011.319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2011] [Accepted: 08/08/2011] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Acquiring resistance against transforming growth factor β (TGFβ)-induced growth inhibition at early stages of carcinogenesis and shifting to TGFβ's tumour-promoting functions at later stages is a pre-requisite for malignant tumour progression and metastasis. We have identified the transcription factor distal-less homeobox 2 (Dlx2) to exert critical functions during this switch. Dlx2 counteracts TGFβ-induced cell-cycle arrest and apoptosis in mammary epithelial cells by at least two molecular mechanisms: Dlx2 acts as a direct transcriptional repressor of TGFβ receptor II (TGFβRII) gene expression and reduces canonical, Smad-dependent TGFβ signalling and expression of the cell-cycle inhibitor p21(CIP1) and increases expression of the mitogenic transcription factor c-Myc. On the other hand, Dlx2 directly induces the expression of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) family member betacellulin, which promotes cell survival by stimulating EGF receptor signalling. Finally, Dlx2 expression supports experimental tumour growth and metastasis of B16 melanoma cells and correlates with tumour malignancy in a variety of human cancer types. These results establish Dlx2 as one critical player in shifting TGFβ from its tumour suppressive to its tumour-promoting functions.
Collapse
|
21
|
Moreno-Miralles I, Ren R, Moser M, Hartnett ME, Patterson C. Bone morphogenetic protein endothelial cell precursor-derived regulator regulates retinal angiogenesis in vivo in a mouse model of oxygen-induced retinopathy. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2011; 31:2216-22. [PMID: 21737784 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.111.230235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are potently proangiogenic; however, the mechanisms underlying the regulation of vessel development by BMPs are not fully understood. To assess the significance of BMP endothelial cell precursor-derived regulator (BMPER) in blood vessel formation in vivo, we investigated its role in retinal angiogenesis. METHODS AND RESULTS In a model of oxygen-induced retinopathy, Bmper mRNA expression and protein levels are downregulated, correlating with the initiation of Sma and Mad related protein phosphorylation in endothelial cells. Moreover, Bmper haploinsufficiency results in an increased rate of retinal revascularization, with retinas from Bmper+/- mice displaying increased numbers of branching points and angiogenic sprouts at the leading edge of the newly formed vasculature. Furthermore, although Bmper haploinsufficiency does not alter Bmp expression, it does lead to an increase in BMP signaling, as evidenced by increased phosphorylated Sma and Mad related protein levels in endothelial cells and increased expression of known BMP target genes. CONCLUSIONS These observations provide compelling evidence that BMPER is important in the regulation of BMP signaling and revascularization in the hypoxic retina. These bring forth the possibility of novel therapeutic approaches for pathological angiogenesis based on manipulation of BMP signaling.
Collapse
|
22
|
Min Y, Han D, Fu Z, Wang H, Liu L, Tian Y. α-MSH inhibits TNF-α-induced maturation of human dendritic cells in vitro through the up-regulation of ANXA1. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2011; 43:61-8. [PMID: 21131366 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmq109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
α-Melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), an anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory neuropeptide, has been shown to be effective in the experimental treatment of autoimmune diseases and allograft rejection. However, its regulatory mechanism is still unclear. Mature dendritic cells (DCs) are pivotal initiators of immune response and inflammation. We hypothesized that the regulatory role of α-MSH in DC maturation would contribute to the effects of α-MSH in immune-response-mediated disease models. It was found that α-MSH inhibited tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)-induced maturation of human peripheral-monocyte-derived DCs (MoDCs), both phenotypically and functionally. This occurred through the down-regulation of the expression of co-stimulatory molecules CD83 and CD86, the production of IL-12, the promotion of IL-10 secretion, and the MoDC phagocytic activity, suggesting that the inhibition of DC maturation by α-MSH could contribute to the anti-inflammatory effect of this neuropeptide. Furthermore, increased expression of annexin A1 (ANXA1) was found to be responsible for the α-MSH inhibiting effect on TNF-α-induced MoDC maturation, which could be abolished by the treatment of MoDCs with specific, small interfering RNAs targeting ANXA1 (ANXA1-siRNA), suggesting that α-MSH-induced ANXA1 mediates the inhibition. Therefore, α-MSH inhibits TNF-α-induced maturation of human DCs through α-MSH-up-regulated ANXA1, suggesting that inhibition of the maturation of DCs by α-MSH could mediate the anti-inflammatory effect of the neuropeptide. Furthermore, ANXA1 could be identified as a new therapeutic drug target based on the role of DCs in immune-mediated inflammatory diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Min
- Institute of Immunology and National Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Smith LB, Hadoke PWF, Dyer E, Denvir MA, Brownstein D, Miller E, Nelson N, Wells S, Cheeseman M, Greenfield A. Haploinsufficiency of the murine Col3a1 locus causes aortic dissection: a novel model of the vascular type of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Cardiovasc Res 2010; 90:182-90. [PMID: 21071432 PMCID: PMC3058731 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvq356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims The vascular type of Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (EDS IV) is an autosomal-dominant disorder characterized by thin translucent skin and extensive bruising. Patients with EDS IV have reduced life expectancy (median 45–50 years) due to spontaneous rupture of arteries (particularly large arteries) or bowel. EDS IV results from mutation of the COL3A1 gene, which encodes the pro-α1 chains of type III collagen that is secreted into the extracellular matrix, e.g. by smooth muscle cells. A mouse model of EDS IV produced by targeted ablation of Col3a1 has been of limited use as only 10% of homozygous animals survive to adulthood, whereas heterozygous animals do not die from arterial rupture. We report a novel, exploitable model of EDS IV in a spontaneously generated mouse line. Methods and results Mice were identified by predisposition to sudden, unexpected death from dissection of the thoracic aorta. Aortic dissection inheritance was autosomal-dominant, presented at an early age (median, 6 weeks) with incomplete penetrance, and had a similar sex ratio bias as EDS IV (2:1, male:female). Molecular genetic analysis demonstrated that the causal mutation is a spontaneous 185 kb deletion, including the promoter region and exons 1–39, of the Col3a1 gene. As in EDS IV, aortic dissection was not associated with elevated blood pressure, aneurysm formation, or infection, but may result from aberrant collagen fibrillogenesis within the aortic wall. Conclusion This novel, exploitable mouse line that faithfully models the vascular aspects of human EDS IV provides an important new tool for advancing understanding of EDS IV and of aortic dissection in general.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lee B Smith
- MRC Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, UK.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Forte A, Della Corte A, De Feo M, Cerasuolo F, Cipollaro M. Role of myofibroblasts in vascular remodelling: focus on restenosis and aneurysm. Cardiovasc Res 2010; 88:395-405. [PMID: 20621923 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvq224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Myofibroblasts (MFs) are contractile cells deriving from a multiplicity of resident cells and/or circulating progenitors that are known to play a key role in wound healing. They were first discovered and analysed in the early 1970s in granulation tissue. Since their first identification, the role of MF and their mechanisms of differentiation have been highlighted in a number of diseases, including organ fibrosis and tumours, with particular attention devoted to the liver, kidney, and pulmonary fibrosis. The aim of this review is to summarize the current evidence for the role played by MFs in two frequent vascular diseases related to the remodelling of the vascular wall: the different forms of arterial restenosis and the most common forms of thoracic aortic aneurysm. The in-depth knowledge of the molecular pathways involved in MF differentiation, contraction, and survival/apoptosis could contribute to the identification of novel therapeutic strategies for anti-fibrotic and anti-remodelling therapy of vascular diseases in which these cells are involved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amalia Forte
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Excellence Research Centre for Cardiovascular Diseases, Second University of Naples, Via L. De Crecchio, 7, 80138 Naples, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Mukherjee R, Rivers WT, Ruddy JM, Matthews RG, Koval CN, Plyler RA, Chang EI, Patel RK, Kern CB, Stroud RE, Spinale FG. Long-term localized high-frequency electric stimulation within the myocardial infarct: effects on matrix metalloproteinases and regional remodeling. Circulation 2010; 122:20-32. [PMID: 20566951 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.110.936872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Disruption of the balance between matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) and MMP inhibitors (TIMPs) within a myocardial infarct (MI) contributes to left ventricular wall thinning and changes in regional stiffness at the MI region. This study tested the hypothesis that a targeted regional approach through localized high-frequency stimulation (LHFS) using low-amplitude electric pulses instituted within a formed MI scar would alter MMP/TIMP levels and prevent MI thinning. METHODS AND RESULTS At 3 weeks after MI, pigs were randomized for LHFS (n=7; 240 bpm, 0.8 V, 0.05-ms pulses) or were left unstimulated (UNSTIM; n=10). At 4 weeks after MI, left ventricular wall thickness (echocardiography; 0.89+/-0.07 versus 0.67+/-0.08 cm; P<0.05) and regional stiffness (piezoelectric crystals; 14.70+/-2.08 versus 9.11+/-1.24; P<0.05) were higher with LHFS than in UNSTIM. In vivo interstitial MMP activity (fluorescent substrate cleavage; 943+/-59 versus 1210+/-72 U; P<0.05) in the MI region was lower with LHFS than in UNSTIM. In the MI region, MMP-2 levels were lower and TIMP-1 and collagen levels were higher with LHFS than in UNSTIM (all P<0.05). Transforming growth factor-beta receptor 1 and phosphorylated SMAD-2/3 levels within the MI region were higher with LHFS than in UNSTIM. Electric stimulation (4 Hz) of isolated fibroblasts resulted in reduced MMP-2 and MT1-MMP levels but increased TIMP-1 levels compared with unstimulated fibroblasts. CONCLUSIONS These unique findings demonstrate that LHFS of the MI region altered left ventricular wall thickness and material properties, likely as a result of reduced regional MMP activity. Thus, LHFS may provide a novel means to favorably modify left ventricular remodeling after MI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rupak Mukherjee
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, 29425, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Cellular phenotype transformation occurs during thoracic aortic aneurysm development. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2010; 140:653-9. [PMID: 20219212 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtcvs.2009.12.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2009] [Revised: 11/25/2009] [Accepted: 12/14/2009] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Thoracic aortic aneurysms result from dysregulated remodeling of the vascular extracellular matrix, which may occur as a result of altered resident cellular function. The present study tested the hypothesis that aortic fibroblasts undergo a stable change in cellular phenotype during thoracic aortic aneurysm formation. METHODS Primary murine aortic fibroblasts were isolated from normal and thoracic aortic aneurysm-induced aortas (4 weeks post induction with 0.5 mol/L CaCl(2) 15 minutes) by the outgrowth method. Normal and thoracic aortic aneurysm cultures were examined using a focused polymerase chain reaction array to determine fibroblast-specific changes in gene expression in the absence and presence of biological stimulation (endothelin-1, phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate, angiotensin-II). The relative expression of 38 genes, normalized to 4 housekeeping genes, was determined, and genes displaying a minimum 2-fold increase/decrease or genes with significantly different normalized cycle threshold values were considered to have altered expression. RESULTS At steady state, thoracic aortic aneurysm fibroblasts revealed elevated expression of several matrix metalloproteinases (Mmp2, Mmp11, Mmp14), collagen genes/elastin (Col1a1, Col1a2, Col3a1, Eln), and other matrix proteins, as well as decreased expression of Mmp3, Timp3, and Ltbp1. Moreover, gene expression profiles in thoracic aortic aneurysm fibroblasts were different than normal fibroblasts after equivalent biological stimuli. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated for the first time that isolated primary aortic fibroblasts from thoracic aortic aneurysm-induced mice possess a unique and stable gene expression profile, and when challenged with biological stimuli, induce a transcriptional response that is different from normal aortic fibroblasts. Together, these data suggest that aortic fibroblasts undergo a stable phenotypic change during thoracic aortic aneurysm development, which may drive the enhancement of extracellular matrix proteolysis in thoracic aortic aneurysm progression.
Collapse
|
27
|
Wang Y, Ait-Oufella H, Herbin O, Bonnin P, Ramkhelawon B, Taleb S, Huang J, Offenstadt G, Combadière C, Rénia L, Johnson JL, Tharaux PL, Tedgui A, Mallat Z. TGF-beta activity protects against inflammatory aortic aneurysm progression and complications in angiotensin II-infused mice. J Clin Invest 2010; 120:422-32. [PMID: 20101093 DOI: 10.1172/jci38136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 315] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2008] [Accepted: 11/04/2009] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Complicated abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a major cause of mortality in elderly men. Ang II-dependent TGF-beta activity promotes aortic aneurysm progression in experimental Marfan syndrome. However, the role of TGF-beta in experimental models of AAA has not been comprehensively assessed. Here, we show that systemic neutralization of TGF-beta activity breaks the resistance of normocholesterolemic C57BL/6 mice to Ang II-induced AAA formation and markedly increases their susceptibility to the disease. These aneurysms displayed a large spectrum of complications on echography, including fissuration, double channel formation, and rupture, leading to death from aneurysm complications. The disease was refractory to inhibition of IFN-gamma, IL-4, IL-6, or TNF-alpha signaling. Genetic deletion of T and B cells or inhibition of the CX3CR1 pathway resulted in partial protection. Interestingly, neutralization of TGF-beta activity enhanced monocyte invasiveness, and monocyte depletion markedly inhibited aneurysm progression and complications. Finally, TGF-beta neutralization increased MMP-12 activity, and MMP-12 deficiency prevented aneurysm rupture. These results clearly identify a critical role for TGF-beta in the taming of the innate immune response and the preservation of vessel integrity in C57BL/6 mice, which contrasts with its reported pathogenic role in Marfan syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wang
- INSERM U970, Paris Cardiovascular Research Center, Université Paris-Descartes and Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
A combination of PPAR-γ agonists and HMG CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) as a new therapy for the conservative treatment of AAS (aortic aneurysm syndromes). Med Hypotheses 2009; 73:614-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2009.04.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2009] [Revised: 04/20/2009] [Accepted: 04/22/2009] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
|
29
|
Jones JA, Beck C, Barbour JR, Zavadzkas JA, Mukherjee R, Spinale FG, Ikonomidis JS. Alterations in aortic cellular constituents during thoracic aortic aneurysm development: myofibroblast-mediated vascular remodeling. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2009; 175:1746-56. [PMID: 19729479 DOI: 10.2353/ajpath.2009.081141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The present study tested the hypothesis that changes in the resident endogenous cellular population accompany alterations in aortic collagen and elastin content during thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) development in a murine model. Descending thoracic aortas were analyzed at various time points (2, 4, 8, and 16 weeks) post-TAA induction (0.5 M CaCl2, 15 minutes). Aortic tissue sections were subjected to histological staining and morphometric analysis for collagen and elastin, as well as immunostaining for cell-type-specific markers to quantify fibroblasts, myofibroblasts, and smooth-muscle cells. Results were compared with reference control mice processed in the same fashion. Aortic dilatation was accompanied by changes in the elastic architecture that included: a decreased number of elastic lamellae (from 6 to 4); altered area fraction of elastin (elevated at 4 weeks and decreased at 16 weeks); and a decreased area between elastic lamellae (minimum reached at 4 weeks). Total collagen content did not change over time. Increased immunoreactivity for fibroblast and myofibroblast markers was observed at 8- and 16-week post-TAA-induction, whereas immunoreactivity for smooth-muscle cell markers peaked at 4 weeks and returned to baseline by 16 weeks. Therefore, this study demonstrated that changes in aortic elastin content were accompanied by the emergence of a subset of fibroblast-derived myofibroblasts whose altered phenotype may play a significant role in TAA development through the enhancement of extracellular matrix proteolysis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey A Jones
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery Research, Department of Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Strom Thurmond Research Building, 114 Doughty Street, Suite 625, Charleston, SC 29425, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Mechanics of carotid arteries in a mouse model of Marfan Syndrome. Ann Biomed Eng 2009; 37:1093-104. [PMID: 19350391 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-009-9686-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2008] [Accepted: 03/27/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Mouse models of Marfan Syndrome (MFS) provide insight into the type and extent of vascular abnormalities manifested in this disease. Inclusion of the mgR mutation causes the otherwise normal extracellular matrix glycoprotein fibrillin-1 to be under-expressed at 15-25% of its normal level, a condition seen in MFS. Aortas in patients with MFS are generally less distensible and may experience dissecting aneurysms that lead to premature death, yet little is known about effects on other large arteries. In this study, common carotid arteries from mice heterozygous (R/+) and homozygous (R/R) for the mgR mutation were studied under biaxial loading and compared to results from wild-type controls (+/+). Carotids from +/+ and R/+ mice exhibited similar biomechanical behaviors whereas those from R/R mice were slightly stiffer in the circumferential direction while dramatically different in the axial direction. That is, R/R carotids were stiffer axially and had lower in vivo axial prestretches. Biaxial stress-stretch data were fit with a four-fiber family constitutive model. The fitted data yielded a lower value of an isotropic parameter for the R/R carotids, which reflects a compromised elastin-dominated amorphous matrix. Overall, it appeared that changes in axial mechanical properties afforded R/R carotids a means to compensate, at least early in maturity (9 weeks of age), for the loss of an important structural constituent as they attempted to maintain structural integrity in response to normal mean arterial pressures and thereby maintain mechanical homeostasis.
Collapse
|
31
|
Yetman AT, Graham T. The dilated aorta in patients with congenital cardiac defects. J Am Coll Cardiol 2009; 53:461-7. [PMID: 19195601 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2008.10.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2008] [Revised: 10/21/2008] [Accepted: 10/26/2008] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Many patients with congenital cardiac disease are at risk for progressive aortic dilation. The mechanisms underlying aortic dilation in this patient cohort are described, and the similarities to the pathophysiologic alterations seen in Marfan syndrome are highlighted. Indications for treatment are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anji T Yetman
- Adult Congenital Cardiology Program, Department of Pediatrics and Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Primary Children's Medical Center, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|