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Saito J, Dave JM, Lau FD, Greif DM. Presenilin-1 in smooth muscle cells facilitates hypermuscularization in elastin aortopathy. iScience 2024; 27:108636. [PMID: 38226162 PMCID: PMC10788461 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Smooth muscle cell (SMC) accumulation is central to the pathogenesis of elastin-defective arterial diseases, including supravalvular aortic stenosis (SVAS). We previously demonstrated that elastin insufficiency activates Notch signaling in aortic SMCs. Activation of Notch is catalyzed by the enzyme gamma-secretase, but the role of catalytic subunits presenilin (PSEN)-1 or PSEN-2 in elastin aortopathy is not defined. Genetic approaches reveal that endothelial cell-specific Psen1 deletion does not improve elastin aortopathy whereas the deletion of either Psen1 in SMCs or Psen2 globally attenuates Notch pathway and SMC proliferation, mitigating aortic disease. With SMC-specific Psen1 deletion in elastin nulls, these rescue effects are more robust and in fact, survival is increased. SMC deletion of Psen1 also attenuates hypermuscularization in newborns heterozygous for the elastin null gene, which genetically mimics SVAS. Similarly, the pharmacological inhibition of PSEN-1 mitigates SMC accumulation in elastin aortopathy. These findings put forth SMC PSEN-1 as a potential therapeutic target in SVAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junichi Saito
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
- Department of Genetics, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
- Stem Cell Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Jui M. Dave
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
- Department of Genetics, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
- Stem Cell Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Freddy Duarte Lau
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
- Department of Genetics, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Daniel M. Greif
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
- Department of Genetics, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
- Stem Cell Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
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2
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Xining Z, Sai L. The Evolving Function of Vasculature and Pro-angiogenic Therapy in Fat Grafting. Cell Transplant 2024; 33:9636897241264976. [PMID: 39056562 PMCID: PMC11282510 DOI: 10.1177/09636897241264976] [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: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Autologous fat grating is a widely-accepted method to correct soft tissue deficiency. Although fat transplantation shows excellent biocompatibility and simple applicability, the relatively low retention rate caused by fat necrosis is still a challenge. The vasculature is integral after fat grafting, serving multiple crucial functions. Rapid and effective angiogenesis within grafts is essential for supplying oxygen necessary for adipocytes' survival. It facilitates the influx of inflammatory cells to remove necrotic adipocytes and aids in the delivery of regenerative cells for adipose tissue regeneration in fat grafts. The vasculature also provides a niche for interaction between adipose progenitor cells and vascular progenitor cells, enhancing angiogenesis and adipogenesis in grafts. Various methods, such as enriching grafts with diverse pro-angiogenic cells or utilizing cell-free approaches, have been employed to enhance angiogenesis. Beige and dedifferentiated adipocytes in grafts could increase vessel density. This review aims to outline the function of vasculature in fat grafting and discuss different cell or cell-free approaches that can enhance angiogenesis following fat grafting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhang Xining
- The Plastic and Aesthetic Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Luo Sai
- The Plastic and Aesthetic Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
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3
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Zhao L, Lee AS, Sasagawa K, Sokol J, Wang Y, Ransom RC, Zhao X, Ma C, Steininger HM, Koepke LS, Borrelli MR, Brewer RE, Lee LL, Huang X, Ambrosi TH, Sinha R, Hoover MY, Seita J, Weissman IL, Wu JC, Wan DC, Xiao J, Longaker MT, Nguyen PK, Chan CK. A Combination of Distinct Vascular Stem/Progenitor Cells for Neovascularization and Ischemic Rescue. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2023; 43:1262-1277. [PMID: 37051932 PMCID: PMC10281192 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.122.317943] [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: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Peripheral vascular disease remains a leading cause of vascular morbidity and mortality worldwide despite advances in medical and surgical therapy. Besides traditional approaches, which can only restore blood flow to native arteries, an alternative approach is to enhance the growth of new vessels, thereby facilitating the physiological response to ischemia. METHODS The ActinCreER/R26VT2/GK3 Rainbow reporter mouse was used for unbiased in vivo survey of injury-responsive vasculogenic clonal formation. Prospective isolation and transplantation were used to determine vessel-forming capacity of different populations. Single-cell RNA-sequencing was used to characterize distinct vessel-forming populations and their interactions. RESULTS Two populations of distinct vascular stem/progenitor cells (VSPCs) were identified from adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal cells: VSPC1 is CD45-Ter119-Tie2+PDGFRa-CD31+CD105highSca1low, which gives rise to stunted vessels (incomplete tubular structures) in a transplant setting, and VSPC2 which is CD45-Ter119-Tie2+PDGFRa+CD31-CD105lowSca1high and forms stunted vessels and fat. Interestingly, cotransplantation of VSPC1 and VSPC2 is required to form functional vessels that improve perfusion in the mouse hindlimb ischemia model. Similarly, VSPC1 and VSPC2 populations isolated from human adipose tissue could rescue the ischemic condition in mice. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that autologous cotransplantation of synergistic VSPCs from nonessential adipose tissue can promote neovascularization and represents a promising treatment for ischemic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liming Zhao
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., X.Z., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., R.E.B., L.Y.L., T.H.A., R.S., M.Y.H., I.L.W., J.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., L.L.Y.L., T.H.A., D.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China (L.Z., Y.W., J.X.)
| | - Andrew S. Lee
- School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, China (A.S.L.)
- Institute for Cancer Research, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, China (A.S.L.)
| | - Koki Sasagawa
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute (K.S., J.S., X.Z., X.H., J.C.W., M.T.L., P.K.N., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine (K.S., J.S., X.Z., X.H., J.C.W., P.K.N.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Jan Sokol
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute (K.S., J.S., X.Z., X.H., J.C.W., M.T.L., P.K.N., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine (K.S., J.S., X.Z., X.H., J.C.W., P.K.N.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Center for Integrative Medical Sciences and Advanced Data Science Project, RIKEN, Tokyo, Japan (J.S.)
| | - Yuting Wang
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., X.Z., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., R.E.B., L.Y.L., T.H.A., R.S., M.Y.H., I.L.W., J.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., L.L.Y.L., T.H.A., D.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China (L.Z., Y.W., J.X.)
| | - Ryan C. Ransom
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., X.Z., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., R.E.B., L.Y.L., T.H.A., R.S., M.Y.H., I.L.W., J.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., L.L.Y.L., T.H.A., D.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Xin Zhao
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., X.Z., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., R.E.B., L.Y.L., T.H.A., R.S., M.Y.H., I.L.W., J.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute (K.S., J.S., X.Z., X.H., J.C.W., M.T.L., P.K.N., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine (K.S., J.S., X.Z., X.H., J.C.W., P.K.N.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Chao Ma
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., X.Z., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., R.E.B., L.Y.L., T.H.A., R.S., M.Y.H., I.L.W., J.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., L.L.Y.L., T.H.A., D.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Holly M. Steininger
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., X.Z., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., R.E.B., L.Y.L., T.H.A., R.S., M.Y.H., I.L.W., J.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., L.L.Y.L., T.H.A., D.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Lauren S. Koepke
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., X.Z., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., R.E.B., L.Y.L., T.H.A., R.S., M.Y.H., I.L.W., J.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., L.L.Y.L., T.H.A., D.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Mimi R. Borrelli
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., X.Z., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., R.E.B., L.Y.L., T.H.A., R.S., M.Y.H., I.L.W., J.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Rachel E. Brewer
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., X.Z., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., R.E.B., L.Y.L., T.H.A., R.S., M.Y.H., I.L.W., J.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Lorene L.Y. Lee
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., X.Z., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., R.E.B., L.Y.L., T.H.A., R.S., M.Y.H., I.L.W., J.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., L.L.Y.L., T.H.A., D.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Xianxi Huang
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute (K.S., J.S., X.Z., X.H., J.C.W., M.T.L., P.K.N., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine (K.S., J.S., X.Z., X.H., J.C.W., P.K.N.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Thomas H. Ambrosi
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., X.Z., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., R.E.B., L.Y.L., T.H.A., R.S., M.Y.H., I.L.W., J.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., L.L.Y.L., T.H.A., D.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Rahul Sinha
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., X.Z., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., R.E.B., L.Y.L., T.H.A., R.S., M.Y.H., I.L.W., J.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Malachia Y. Hoover
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., X.Z., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., R.E.B., L.Y.L., T.H.A., R.S., M.Y.H., I.L.W., J.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Jun Seita
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., X.Z., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., R.E.B., L.Y.L., T.H.A., R.S., M.Y.H., I.L.W., J.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., L.L.Y.L., T.H.A., D.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute (K.S., J.S., X.Z., X.H., J.C.W., M.T.L., P.K.N., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine (K.S., J.S., X.Z., X.H., J.C.W., P.K.N.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Department of Developmental Biology (I.L.W., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China (L.Z., Y.W., J.X.)
- School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, China (A.S.L.)
- Institute for Cancer Research, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, China (A.S.L.)
- Center for Integrative Medical Sciences and Advanced Data Science Project, RIKEN, Tokyo, Japan (J.S.)
| | - Irving L. Weissman
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., X.Z., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., R.E.B., L.Y.L., T.H.A., R.S., M.Y.H., I.L.W., J.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Department of Developmental Biology (I.L.W., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Joseph C. Wu
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., X.Z., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., R.E.B., L.Y.L., T.H.A., R.S., M.Y.H., I.L.W., J.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute (K.S., J.S., X.Z., X.H., J.C.W., M.T.L., P.K.N., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine (K.S., J.S., X.Z., X.H., J.C.W., P.K.N.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Derrick C. Wan
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., L.L.Y.L., T.H.A., D.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Jun Xiao
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China (L.Z., Y.W., J.X.)
| | - Michael T. Longaker
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., X.Z., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., R.E.B., L.Y.L., T.H.A., R.S., M.Y.H., I.L.W., J.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., L.L.Y.L., T.H.A., D.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Patricia K. Nguyen
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute (K.S., J.S., X.Z., X.H., J.C.W., M.T.L., P.K.N., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine (K.S., J.S., X.Z., X.H., J.C.W., P.K.N.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
| | - Charles K.F. Chan
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., X.Z., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., R.E.B., L.Y.L., T.H.A., R.S., M.Y.H., I.L.W., J.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (L.Z., Y.W., R.C.R., C.M., H.M.S., L.S.K., M.R.B., L.L.Y.L., T.H.A., D.C.W., M.T.L., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
- Department of Developmental Biology (I.L.W., C.K.F.C.), Stanford University School of Medicine, CA
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4
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Abdelazim H, Payne LB, Nolan K, Paralkar K, Bradley V, Kanodia R, Gude R, Ward R, Monavarfeshani A, Fox MA, Chappell JC. Pericyte heterogeneity identified by 3D ultrastructural analysis of the microvessel wall. Front Physiol 2022; 13:1016382. [PMID: 36589416 PMCID: PMC9800988 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.1016382] [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: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Confident identification of pericytes (PCs) remains an obstacle in the field, as a single molecular marker for these unique perivascular cells remains elusive. Adding to this challenge is the recent appreciation that PC populations may be heterogeneous, displaying a range of morphologies within capillary networks. We found additional support on the ultrastructural level for the classification of these PC subtypes-"thin-strand" (TSP), mesh (MP), and ensheathing (EP)-based on distinct morphological characteristics. Interestingly, we also found several examples of another cell type, likely a vascular smooth muscle cell, in a medial layer between endothelial cells (ECs) and pericytes (PCs) harboring characteristics of the ensheathing type. A conserved feature across the different PC subtypes was the presence of extracellular matrix (ECM) surrounding the vascular unit and distributed in between neighboring cells. The thickness of this vascular basement membrane was remarkably consistent depending on its location, but never strayed beyond a range of 150-300 nm unless thinned to facilitate closer proximity of neighboring cells (suggesting direct contact). The density of PC-EC contact points ("peg-and-socket" structures) was another distinguishing feature across the different PC subtypes, as were the apparent contact locations between vascular cells and brain parenchymal cells. In addition to this thinning, the extracellular matrix (ECM) surrounding EPs displayed another unique configuration in the form of extensions that emitted out radially into the surrounding parenchyma. Knowledge of the origin and function of these structures is still emerging, but their appearance suggests the potential for being mechanical elements and/or perhaps signaling nodes via embedded molecular cues. Overall, this unique ultrastructural perspective provides new insights into PC heterogeneity and the presence of medial cells within the microvessel wall, the consideration of extracellular matrix (ECM) coverage as another PC identification criteria, and unique extracellular matrix (ECM) configurations (i.e., radial extensions) that may reveal additional aspects of PC heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanaa Abdelazim
- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute (FBRI) at Virginia Tech-Carilion (VTC), Roanoke, VA, United States,FBRI Center for Vascular and Heart Research, Roanoke, VA, United States
| | - Laura Beth Payne
- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute (FBRI) at Virginia Tech-Carilion (VTC), Roanoke, VA, United States,FBRI Center for Vascular and Heart Research, Roanoke, VA, United States
| | - Kyle Nolan
- Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, VA, United States
| | - Karan Paralkar
- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute (FBRI) at Virginia Tech-Carilion (VTC), Roanoke, VA, United States
| | - Vanessa Bradley
- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute (FBRI) at Virginia Tech-Carilion (VTC), Roanoke, VA, United States
| | - Ronak Kanodia
- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute (FBRI) at Virginia Tech-Carilion (VTC), Roanoke, VA, United States
| | - Rosalie Gude
- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute (FBRI) at Virginia Tech-Carilion (VTC), Roanoke, VA, United States
| | - Rachael Ward
- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute (FBRI) at Virginia Tech-Carilion (VTC), Roanoke, VA, United States
| | - Aboozar Monavarfeshani
- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute (FBRI) at Virginia Tech-Carilion (VTC), Roanoke, VA, United States
| | - Michael A. Fox
- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute (FBRI) at Virginia Tech-Carilion (VTC), Roanoke, VA, United States,FBRI Center for Neurobiology, Roanoke, VA, United States,School of Neuroscience, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - John C. Chappell
- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute (FBRI) at Virginia Tech-Carilion (VTC), Roanoke, VA, United States,FBRI Center for Vascular and Heart Research, Roanoke, VA, United States,Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, VA, United States,Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, United States,*Correspondence: John C. Chappell,
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5
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Beth Payne L, Tewari BP, Dunkenberger L, Bond S, Savelli A, Darden J, Zhao H, Willi C, Kanodia R, Gude R, Powell MD, Oestreich KJ, Sontheimer H, Dal-Pra S, Chappell JC. Pericyte Progenitor Coupling to the Emerging Endothelium During Vasculogenesis via Connexin 43. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2022; 42:e96-e114. [PMID: 35139658 PMCID: PMC8957572 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.121.317324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vascular pericytes stabilize blood vessels and contribute to their maturation, while playing other key roles in microvascular function. Nevertheless, relatively little is known about involvement of their precursors in the earliest stages of vascular development, specifically during vasculogenesis. METHODS We combined high-power, time-lapse imaging with transcriptional profiling of emerging pericytes and endothelial cells in reporter mouse and cell lines. We also analyzed conditional transgenic animals deficient in Cx43/Gja1 (connexin 43/gap junction alpha-1) expression within Ng2+ cells. RESULTS A subset of Ng2-DsRed+ cells, likely pericyte/mural cell precursors, arose alongside endothelial cell differentiation and organization and physically engaged vasculogenic endothelium in vivo and in vitro. We found no overlap between this population of differentiating pericyte/mural progenitors and other lineages including hemangiogenic and neuronal/glial cell types. We also observed cell-cell coupling and identified Cx43-based gap junctions contributing to pericyte-endothelial cell precursor communication during vascular assembly. Genetic loss of Cx43/Gja1 in Ng2+ pericyte progenitors compromised embryonic blood vessel formation in a subset of animals, while surviving mutants displayed little-to-no vessel abnormalities, suggesting a resilience to Cx43/Gja1 loss in Ng2+ cells or potential compensation by additional connexin isoforms. CONCLUSIONS Together, our data suggest that a distinct pericyte lineage emerges alongside vasculogenesis and directly communicates with the nascent endothelium via Cx43 during early vessel formation. Cx43/Gja1 loss in pericyte/mural cell progenitors can induce embryonic vessel dysmorphogenesis, but alternate connexin isoforms may be able to compensate. These data provide insight that may reshape the current framework of vascular development and may also inform tissue revascularization/vascularization strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Beth Payne
- Center for Vascular and Heart Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech-Carilion, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
| | - Bhanu P. Tewari
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - Logan Dunkenberger
- Center for Vascular and Heart Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech-Carilion, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
| | - Samantha Bond
- Center for Vascular and Heart Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech-Carilion, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
| | - Alyssa Savelli
- Center for Vascular and Heart Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech-Carilion, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
- Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
| | - Jordan Darden
- Center for Vascular and Heart Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech-Carilion, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
- Graduate Program in Translational Biology, Medicine and Health, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Huaning Zhao
- Center for Vascular and Heart Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech-Carilion, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Caroline Willi
- Center for Vascular and Heart Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech-Carilion, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
| | - Ronak Kanodia
- Center for Vascular and Heart Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech-Carilion, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
| | - Rosalie Gude
- Center for Vascular and Heart Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech-Carilion, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
| | - Michael D. Powell
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Kenneth J. Oestreich
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Harald Sontheimer
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - Sophie Dal-Pra
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine and Mandel Center for Hypertension Research and Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - John C. Chappell
- Center for Vascular and Heart Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech-Carilion, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
- Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
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6
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Tefft JB, Bays JL, Lammers A, Kim S, Eyckmans J, Chen CS. Notch1 and Notch3 coordinate for pericyte-induced stabilization of vasculature. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2022; 322:C185-C196. [PMID: 34878922 PMCID: PMC8791789 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00320.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The Notch pathway regulates complex patterning events in many species and is critical for the proper formation and function of the vasculature. Despite this importance, how the various components of the Notch pathway work in concert is still not well understood. For example, NOTCH1 stabilizes homotypic endothelial junctions, but the role of NOTCH1 in heterotypic interactions is not entirely clear. NOTCH3, on the other hand, is essential for heterotypic interactions of pericytes with the endothelium, but how NOTCH3 signaling in pericytes impacts the endothelium remains elusive. Here, we use in vitro vascular models to investigate whether pericyte-induced stabilization of the vasculature requires the cooperation of NOTCH1 and NOTCH3. We observe that both pericyte NOTCH3 and endothelial NOTCH1 are required for the stabilization of the endothelium. Loss of either NOTCH3 or NOTCH1 decreases the accumulation of VE-cadherin at endothelial adherens junctions and increases the frequency of wider, more motile junctions. We found that DLL4 was the key ligand for simulating NOTCH1 activation in endothelial cells and observed that DLL4 expression in pericytes is dependent on NOTCH3. Altogether, these data suggest that an interplay between pericyte NOTCH3 and endothelial NOTCH1 is critical for pericyte-induced vascular stabilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliann B. Tefft
- 1The Biological Design Center and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jennifer L. Bays
- 1The Biological Design Center and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts,2The Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Alex Lammers
- 1The Biological Design Center and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts,2The Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sudong Kim
- 1The Biological Design Center and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts,2The Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jeroen Eyckmans
- 1The Biological Design Center and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts,2The Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Christopher S. Chen
- 1The Biological Design Center and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts,2The Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
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7
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Abstract
Of the 21 members of the connexin family, 4 (Cx37, Cx40, Cx43, and Cx45) are expressed in the endothelium and/or smooth muscle of intact blood vessels to a variable and dynamically regulated degree. Full-length connexins oligomerize and form channel structures connecting the cytosol of adjacent cells (gap junctions) or the cytosol with the extracellular space (hemichannels). The different connexins vary mainly with regard to length and sequence of their cytosolic COOH-terminal tails. These COOH-terminal parts, which in the case of Cx43 are also translated as independent short isoforms, are involved in various cellular signaling cascades and regulate cell functions. This review focuses on channel-dependent and -independent effects of connexins in vascular cells. Channels play an essential role in coordinating and synchronizing endothelial and smooth muscle activity and in their interplay, in the control of vasomotor actions of blood vessels including endothelial cell reactivity to agonist stimulation, nitric oxide-dependent dilation, and endothelial-derived hyperpolarizing factor-type responses. Further channel-dependent and -independent roles of connexins in blood vessel function range from basic processes of vascular remodeling and angiogenesis to vascular permeability and interactions with leukocytes with the vessel wall. Together, these connexin functions constitute an often underestimated basis for the enormous plasticity of vascular morphology and function enabling the required dynamic adaptation of the vascular system to varying tissue demands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich Pohl
- Walter-Brendel-Centre of Experimental Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany; Biomedical Centre, Cardiovascular Physiology, LMU Munich, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany; German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany; and Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
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8
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Abstract
Purpose of review Pericytes are essential components of capillaries in many tissues and organs, contributing to vessel stability and integrity, with additional contributions to microvascular function still being discovered. We review current and foundational studies identifying pericyte differentiation mechanics and their roles in the earliest stages of vessel formation. Recent findings Recent advances in pericyte-focused tools and models have illuminated critical aspects of pericyte biology including their roles in vascular development.Pericytes likely collaborate with endothelial cells undergoing vasculogenesis, initiating direct interactions during sprouting and intussusceptive angiogenesis. Pericytes also provide important regulation of vascular growth including mechanisms underlying vessel pruning, rarefaction, and subsequent regrowth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Beth Payne
- Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech-Carilion, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
| | - Maruf Hoque
- Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech-Carilion, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA.,Graduate Program in Translational Biology, Medicine and Health, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Clifton Houk
- Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, VA, 24016, USA.,Previous Affiliations
| | - Jordan Darden
- Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech-Carilion, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA.,Graduate Program in Translational Biology, Medicine and Health, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA.,Previous Affiliations
| | - John C Chappell
- Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech-Carilion, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA.,Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, VA, 24016, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
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9
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Payne LB, Zhao H, James CC, Darden J, McGuire D, Taylor S, Smyth JW, Chappell JC. The pericyte microenvironment during vascular development. Microcirculation 2019; 26:e12554. [PMID: 31066166 PMCID: PMC6834874 DOI: 10.1111/micc.12554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Vascular pericytes provide critical contributions to the formation and integrity of the blood vessel wall within the microcirculation. Pericytes maintain vascular stability and homeostasis by promoting endothelial cell junctions and depositing extracellular matrix (ECM) components within the vascular basement membrane, among other vital functions. As their importance in sustaining microvessel health within various tissues and organs continues to emerge, so does their role in a number of pathological conditions including cancer, diabetic retinopathy, and neurological disorders. Here, we review vascular pericyte contributions to the development and remodeling of the microcirculation, with a focus on the local microenvironment during these processes. We discuss observations of their earliest involvement in vascular development and essential cues for their recruitment to the remodeling endothelium. Pericyte involvement in the angiogenic sprouting context is also considered with specific attention to crosstalk with endothelial cells such as through signaling regulation and ECM deposition. We also address specific aspects of the collective cell migration and dynamic interactions between pericytes and endothelial cells during angiogenic sprouting. Lastly, we discuss pericyte contributions to mechanisms underlying the transition from active vessel remodeling to the maturation and quiescence phase of vascular development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Beth Payne
- Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
| | - Huaning Zhao
- Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Polytechnic State Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Carissa C. James
- Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
- Graduate Program in Translational Biology, Medicine, and Health, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Jordan Darden
- Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
- Graduate Program in Translational Biology, Medicine, and Health, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - David McGuire
- Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
- Graduate Program in Translational Biology, Medicine, and Health, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Sarah Taylor
- Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
| | - James W. Smyth
- Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Virginia Polytechnic State Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
- Department of Basic Science Education, Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
| | - John C. Chappell
- Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Polytechnic State Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
- Department of Basic Science Education, Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
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10
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Pogoda K, Kameritsch P, Mannell H, Pohl U. Connexins in the control of vasomotor function. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2019; 225:e13108. [PMID: 29858558 DOI: 10.1111/apha.13108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Revised: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial cells, as well as smooth muscle cells, show heterogeneity with regard to their receptor expression and reactivity. For the vascular wall to act as a functional unit, the various cells' responses require integration. Such an integration is not only required for a homogeneous response of the vascular wall, but also for the vasomotor behaviour of consecutive segments of the microvascular arteriolar tree. As flow resistances of individual sections are connected in series, sections require synchronization and coordination to allow effective changes of conductivity and blood flow. A prerequisite for the local coordination of individual vascular cells and different sections of an arteriolar tree is intercellular communication. Connexins are involved in a dual manner in this coordination. (i) By forming gap junctions between cells, they allow an intercellular exchange of signalling molecules and electrical currents. In particular, the spread of electrical currents allows for coordination of cell responses over longer distances. (ii) Connexins are able to interact with other proteins to form signalling complexes. In this way, they can modulate and integrate individual cells' responses also in a channel-independent manner. This review outlines mechanisms allowing the vascular connexins to exert their coordinating function and to regulate the vasomotor reactions of blood vessels both locally, and in vascular networks. Wherever possible, we focus on the vasomotor behaviour of small vessels and arterioles which are the main vessels determining vascular resistance, blood pressure and local blood flow.
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Affiliation(s)
- K. Pogoda
- Walter-Brendel-Centre of Experimental Medicine; University Hospital; LMU Munich; Munich Germany
- Biomedical Center; Cardiovascular Physiology; LMU Munich; Munich Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research); Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance; Munich Germany
| | - P. Kameritsch
- Walter-Brendel-Centre of Experimental Medicine; University Hospital; LMU Munich; Munich Germany
- Biomedical Center; Cardiovascular Physiology; LMU Munich; Munich Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research); Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance; Munich Germany
| | - H. Mannell
- Walter-Brendel-Centre of Experimental Medicine; University Hospital; LMU Munich; Munich Germany
- Biomedical Center; Cardiovascular Physiology; LMU Munich; Munich Germany
| | - U. Pohl
- Walter-Brendel-Centre of Experimental Medicine; University Hospital; LMU Munich; Munich Germany
- Biomedical Center; Cardiovascular Physiology; LMU Munich; Munich Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research); Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance; Munich Germany
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy); Munich Germany
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11
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Liu X, Jakus AE, Kural M, Qian H, Engler A, Ghaedi M, Shah R, Steinbacher DM, Niklason LE. Vascularization of Natural and Synthetic Bone Scaffolds. Cell Transplant 2018; 27:1269-1280. [PMID: 30008231 PMCID: PMC6434463 DOI: 10.1177/0963689718782452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascularization of engineered bone tissue is critical for ensuring its survival after implantation. In vitro pre-vascularization of bone grafts with endothelial cells is a promising strategy to improve implant survival. In this study, we pre-cultured human smooth muscle cells (hSMCs) on bone scaffolds for 3 weeks followed by seeding of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), which produced a desirable environment for microvasculature formation. The sequential cell-seeding protocol was successfully applied to both natural (decellularized native bone, or DB) and synthetic (3D-printed Hyperelastic "Bone" scaffolds, or HB) scaffolds, demonstrating a comprehensive platform for developing natural and synthetic-based in vitro vascularized bone grafts. Using this sequential cell-seeding process, the HUVECs formed lumen structures throughout the DB scaffolds as well as vascular tissue bridging 3D-printed fibers within the HB. The pre-cultured hSMCs were essential for endothelial cell (EC) lumen formation within DB scaffolds, as well as for upregulating EC-specific gene expression of HUVECs grown on HB scaffolds. We further applied this co-culture protocol to DB scaffolds using a perfusion bioreactor, to overcome the limitations of diffusive mass transport into the interiors of the scaffolds. Compared with static culture, panoramic histological sections of DB scaffolds cultured in bioreactors showed improved cellular density, as well as a nominal increase in the number of lumen structures formed by ECs in the interior regions of the scaffolds. In conclusion, we have demonstrated that the sequential seeding of hSMCs and HUVECs can serve to generate early microvascular networks that could further support the in vitro tissue engineering of naturally or synthetically derived bone grafts and in both random (DB) and ordered (HB) pore networks. Combined with the preliminary bioreactor study, this process also shows potential to generate clinically sized, vascularized bone scaffolds for tissue and regenerative engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Liu
- 1 Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Yale University School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Adam E Jakus
- 2 Department of Materials Science and Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.,3 Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Mehmet Kural
- 4 Department of Anesthesiology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.,5 Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Hong Qian
- 4 Department of Anesthesiology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.,5 Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Alexander Engler
- 4 Department of Anesthesiology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.,5 Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Mahboobe Ghaedi
- 4 Department of Anesthesiology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.,5 Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Ramille Shah
- 2 Department of Materials Science and Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.,3 Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.,6 Department of Biomedical Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.,7 Division of Organ Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Comprehensive Transplant Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Derek M Steinbacher
- 1 Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Yale University School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Laura E Niklason
- 4 Department of Anesthesiology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.,5 Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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12
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Ek-Vitorín JF, Pontifex TK, Burt JM. Cx43 Channel Gating and Permeation: Multiple Phosphorylation-Dependent Roles of the Carboxyl Terminus. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E1659. [PMID: 29867029 PMCID: PMC6032060 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19061659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Revised: 05/22/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexin 43 (Cx43), a gap junction protein seemingly fit to support cardiac impulse propagation and synchronic contraction, is phosphorylated in normoxia by casein kinase 1 (CK1). However, during cardiac ischemia or pressure overload hypertrophy, this phosphorylation fades, Cx43 abundance decreases at intercalated disks and increases at myocytes' lateral borders, and the risk of arrhythmia rises. Studies in wild-type and transgenic mice indicate that enhanced CK1-phosphorylation of Cx43 protects from arrhythmia, while dephosphorylation precedes arrhythmia vulnerability. The mechanistic bases of these Cx43 (de)phosphoform-linked cardiac phenotypes are unknown. We used patch-clamp and dye injection techniques to study the channel function (gating, permeability) of Cx43 mutants wherein CK1-targeted serines were replaced by aspartate (Cx43-CK1-D) or alanine (Cx43-CK1-A) to emulate phosphorylation and dephosphorylation, respectively. Cx43-CK1-D, but not Cx43-CK1-A, displayed high Voltage-sensitivity and variable permselectivity. Both mutants showed multiple channel open states with overall increased conductivity, resistance to acidification-induced junctional uncoupling, and hemichannel openings in normal external calcium. Modest differences in the mutant channels' function and regulation imply the involvement of dissimilar structural conformations of the interacting domains of Cx43 in electrical and chemical gating that may contribute to the divergent phenotypes of CK1-(de)phospho-mimicking Cx43 transgenic mice and that may bear significance in arrhythmogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- José F Ek-Vitorín
- Department of Physiology, University of Arizona, P.O. Box 245051, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA.
| | - Tasha K Pontifex
- Department of Physiology, University of Arizona, P.O. Box 245051, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA.
| | - Janis M Burt
- Department of Physiology, University of Arizona, P.O. Box 245051, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA.
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13
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Haefliger JA, Allagnat F, Hamard L, Le Gal L, Meda P, Nardelli-Haefliger D, Génot E, Alonso F. Targeting Cx40 (Connexin40) Expression or Function Reduces Angiogenesis in the Developing Mouse Retina. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2017; 37:2136-2146. [PMID: 28982669 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.117.310072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cx40 (Connexin40) forms intercellular channels that coordinate the electric conduction in the heart and the vasomotor tone in large vessels. The protein was shown to regulate tumoral angiogenesis; however, whether Cx40 also contributes to physiological angiogenesis is still unknown. APPROACH AND RESULTS Here, we show that Cx40 contributes to physiological angiogenesis. Genetic deletion of Cx40 leads to a reduction in vascular growth and capillary density in the neovascularization model of the mouse neonatal retina. At the angiogenic front, vessel sprouting is reduced, and the mural cells recruited along the sprouts display an altered phenotype. These alterations can be attributed to disturbed endothelial cell functions as selective reexpression of Cx40 in these cells restores normal angiogenesis. In vitro, targeting Cx40 in microvascular endothelial cells, by silencing its expression or by blocking gap junction channels, decreases their proliferation. Moreover, loss of Cx40 in these cells also increases their release of PDGF (platelet-derived growth factor) and promotes the chemoattraction of mural cells. In vivo, an intravitreal injection of a Cx40 inhibitory peptide, phenocopies the loss of Cx40 in the retinal vasculature of wild-type mice. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our data show that endothelial Cx40 contributes to the early stages of physiological angiogenesis in the developing retina, by regulating vessel growth and maturation. Cx40 thus represents a novel therapeutic target for treating pathological ocular angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacques-Antoine Haefliger
- From the Department of Medicine (J.-A.H., F.A., L.H., L.L.G., F.A.) and Department of Urology (D.N.H.), Lausanne University Hospital, Switzerland; Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva Medical Center, Switzerland (P.M.); and Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux (INSERM U1045), Université de Bordeaux, France (E.G., F.A.).
| | - Florent Allagnat
- From the Department of Medicine (J.-A.H., F.A., L.H., L.L.G., F.A.) and Department of Urology (D.N.H.), Lausanne University Hospital, Switzerland; Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva Medical Center, Switzerland (P.M.); and Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux (INSERM U1045), Université de Bordeaux, France (E.G., F.A.)
| | - Lauriane Hamard
- From the Department of Medicine (J.-A.H., F.A., L.H., L.L.G., F.A.) and Department of Urology (D.N.H.), Lausanne University Hospital, Switzerland; Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva Medical Center, Switzerland (P.M.); and Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux (INSERM U1045), Université de Bordeaux, France (E.G., F.A.)
| | - Loïc Le Gal
- From the Department of Medicine (J.-A.H., F.A., L.H., L.L.G., F.A.) and Department of Urology (D.N.H.), Lausanne University Hospital, Switzerland; Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva Medical Center, Switzerland (P.M.); and Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux (INSERM U1045), Université de Bordeaux, France (E.G., F.A.)
| | - Paolo Meda
- From the Department of Medicine (J.-A.H., F.A., L.H., L.L.G., F.A.) and Department of Urology (D.N.H.), Lausanne University Hospital, Switzerland; Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva Medical Center, Switzerland (P.M.); and Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux (INSERM U1045), Université de Bordeaux, France (E.G., F.A.)
| | - Denise Nardelli-Haefliger
- From the Department of Medicine (J.-A.H., F.A., L.H., L.L.G., F.A.) and Department of Urology (D.N.H.), Lausanne University Hospital, Switzerland; Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva Medical Center, Switzerland (P.M.); and Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux (INSERM U1045), Université de Bordeaux, France (E.G., F.A.)
| | - Elisabeth Génot
- From the Department of Medicine (J.-A.H., F.A., L.H., L.L.G., F.A.) and Department of Urology (D.N.H.), Lausanne University Hospital, Switzerland; Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva Medical Center, Switzerland (P.M.); and Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux (INSERM U1045), Université de Bordeaux, France (E.G., F.A.)
| | - Florian Alonso
- From the Department of Medicine (J.-A.H., F.A., L.H., L.L.G., F.A.) and Department of Urology (D.N.H.), Lausanne University Hospital, Switzerland; Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva Medical Center, Switzerland (P.M.); and Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux (INSERM U1045), Université de Bordeaux, France (E.G., F.A.).
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Peters EB. Endothelial Progenitor Cells for the Vascularization of Engineered Tissues. TISSUE ENGINEERING PART B-REVIEWS 2017; 24:1-24. [PMID: 28548628 DOI: 10.1089/ten.teb.2017.0127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Self-assembled microvasculature from cocultures of endothelial cells (ECs) and stromal cells has significantly advanced efforts to vascularize engineered tissues by enhancing perfusion rates in vivo and producing investigative platforms for microvascular morphogenesis in vitro. However, to clinically translate prevascularized constructs, the issue of EC source must be resolved. Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) can be noninvasively supplied from the recipient through adult peripheral and umbilical cord blood, as well as derived from induced pluripotent stem cells, alleviating antigenicity issues. EPCs can also differentiate into all tissue endothelium, and have demonstrated potential for therapeutic vascularization. Yet, EPCs are not the standard EC choice to vascularize tissue constructs in vitro. Possible reasons include unresolved issues with EPC identity and characterization, as well as uncertainty in the selection of coculture, scaffold, and culture media combinations that promote EPC microvessel formation. This review addresses these issues through a summary of EPC vascular biology and the effects of tissue engineering design parameters upon EPC microvessel formation. Also included are perspectives to integrate EPCs with emerging technologies to produce functional, organotypic vascularized tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica B Peters
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado , Boulder, Colorado
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Li L, Zhang W, Shi WY, Ma KT, Zhao L, Wang Y, Zhang L, Li XZ, Zhu H, Zhang ZS, Liu WD, Si JQ. The enhancement of Cx45 expression and function in renal interlobar artery of spontaneously hypertensive rats at different age. Kidney Blood Press Res 2016; 40:52-65. [PMID: 25791497 DOI: 10.1159/000368482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS This study was designed to investigate the expression and function of gap junction protein connexin 45 (Cx45) in renal interlobar artery (RIA) of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), and the association between hypertension and enhanced vasoconstrictive response in SHR. METHODS Western blot analysis and pressure myography were used to examine the differences in expression and function of Cx45 in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) of RIA between SHR and normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. RESULTS Our results demonstrated that 1) whole-cell patch clamp measurements showed that the membrane capacitance and conductance of in-situ RIA VSMCs of SHR were significantly greater than those of WKY rats (p<0.05, n=6), suggesting that the coupling of gap junction between VSMCs of RIA was enhanced in SHR; 2) the KCl or phenylephrine (PE)-stimulated RIA constriction was more pronounced in SHR than that in WKY rats (p<0.05, n=10). After applying a gap junction inhibitor 18β-glycyrrhetintic acid (18β-GA), the inhibitory effect of 18β-GA on KCl or PE-induced vasoconstriction was greater in SHR (p<0.05, n=10); and 3) the expression of Cx45 in RIA of SHR was greater than that in WKY rats (p<0.05, n=3) at 4, 12 and 48 wks of age. CONCLUSIONS The hypertension-induced elevation of Cx45 may affect communication between VSMCs and coupling between VSMCs and endothelium, which results in an increased vasoconstrictive response in renal artery and might contribute to the development of hypertension.
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Kreuger J, Phillipson M. Targeting vascular and leukocyte communication in angiogenesis, inflammation and fibrosis. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2015; 15:125-42. [PMID: 26612664 DOI: 10.1038/nrd.2015.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Regulation of vascular permeability, recruitment of leukocytes from blood to tissue and angiogenesis are all processes that occur at the level of the microvasculature during both physiological and pathological conditions. The interplay between microvascular cells and leukocytes during inflammation, together with the emerging roles of leukocytes in the modulation of the angiogenic process, make leukocyte-vascular interactions prime targets for therapeutics to potentially treat a wide range of diseases, including pathological and dysfunctional vessel growth, chronic inflammation and fibrosis. In this Review, we discuss how the different cell types that are present in and around microvessels interact, cooperate and instruct each other, and in this context we highlight drug targets as well as emerging druggable processes that can be exploited to restore tissue homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johan Kreuger
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Husargatan 3, Uppsala, 75123, Sweden
| | - Mia Phillipson
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Husargatan 3, Uppsala, 75123, Sweden
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Peters EB, Christoforou N, Leong KW, Truskey GA, West JL. Poly(ethylene glycol) Hydrogel Scaffolds Containing Cell-Adhesive and Protease-Sensitive Peptides Support Microvessel Formation by Endothelial Progenitor Cells. Cell Mol Bioeng 2015; 9:38-54. [PMID: 27042236 DOI: 10.1007/s12195-015-0423-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of stable, functional microvessels remains an important obstacle to overcome for tissue engineered organs and treatment of ischemia. Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are a promising cell source for vascular tissue engineering as they are readily obtainable and carry the potential to differentiate towards all endothelial phenotypes. The aim of this study was to investigate the ability of human umbilical cord blood-derived EPCs to form vessel-like structures within a tissue engineering scaffold material, a cell-adhesive and proteolytically degradable poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) hydrogel. EPCs in co-culture with angiogenic mural cells were encapsulated in hydrogel scaffolds by mixing with polymeric precursors and using a mild photocrosslinking process to form hydrogels with homogeneously dispersed cells. EPCs formed 3D microvessels networks that were stable for at least 30 days in culture, without the need for supplemental angiogenic growth factors. These 3D EPC microvessels displayed aspects of physiological microvasculature with lumen formation, expression of endothelial cell proteins (connexin 32, VE-cadherin, eNOS), basement membrane formation with collagen IV and laminin, perivascular investment of PDGFR-β and α-SMA positive cells, and EPC quiescence (<1% proliferating cells) by 2 weeks of co-culture. Our findings demonstrate the development of a novel, reductionist system that is well-defined and reproducible for studying progenitor cell-driven microvessel formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica B Peters
- Fitzpatrick CIEMAS Building, Room 1427, Box 90281, Duke University, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Durham, NC 27708
| | - Nicolas Christoforou
- P.O. Box 127788, Khalifa University, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Kam W Leong
- 1210 Amsterdam Avenue, Mail Code 8904, Columbia University, Department of Biomedical Engineering, New York, NY 10027
| | - George A Truskey
- Fitzpatrick CIEMAS Building, Room 1427, Box 90281, Duke University, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Durham, NC 27708
| | - Jennifer L West
- Fitzpatrick CIEMAS Building, Room 1427, Box 90281, Duke University, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Durham, NC 27708
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Lilly B. We have contact: endothelial cell-smooth muscle cell interactions. Physiology (Bethesda) 2015; 29:234-41. [PMID: 24985327 DOI: 10.1152/physiol.00047.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Blood vessels are composed of two primary cell types, endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells, each providing a unique contribution to vessel function. Signaling between these two cell types is essential for maintaining tone in mature vessels, and their communication is critical during development, and for repair and remodeling associated with blood vessel growth. This review will highlight the pathways that endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells utilize to communicate during vessel formation and discuss how disruptions in these pathways contribute to disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda Lilly
- Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Heart Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
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Thalgott J, Dos-Santos-Luis D, Lebrin F. Pericytes as targets in hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia. Front Genet 2015; 6:37. [PMID: 25763012 PMCID: PMC4327729 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2015.00037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2014] [Accepted: 01/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Defective paracrine Transforming Growth Factor-β (TGF-β) signaling between endothelial cells and the neighboring mural cells have been thought to lead to the development of vascular lesions that are characteristic of Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT). This review highlights recent progress in our understanding of TGF-β signaling in mural cell recruitment and vessel stabilization and how perturbed TGF-β signaling might contribute to defective endothelial-mural cell interaction affecting vessel functionalities. Our recent findings have provided exciting insights into the role of thalidomide, a drug that reduces both the frequency and the duration of epistaxis in individuals with HHT by targeting mural cells. These advances provide opportunities for the development of new therapies for vascular malformations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jérémy Thalgott
- INSERM, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, UMR CNRS 7241/INSERM U1050, Group Pathological Angiogenesis and Vessel Normalization, Collège de France Paris, France
| | - Damien Dos-Santos-Luis
- INSERM, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, UMR CNRS 7241/INSERM U1050, Group Pathological Angiogenesis and Vessel Normalization, Collège de France Paris, France
| | - Franck Lebrin
- INSERM, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, UMR CNRS 7241/INSERM U1050, Group Pathological Angiogenesis and Vessel Normalization, Collège de France Paris, France
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Hill J, Rom S, Ramirez SH, Persidsky Y. Emerging roles of pericytes in the regulation of the neurovascular unit in health and disease. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2014; 9:591-605. [PMID: 25119834 PMCID: PMC4209199 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-014-9557-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2014] [Accepted: 07/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Pericytes of the central nervous system (CNS) are uniquely positioned within a multicellular structure termed the neurovascular unit (NVU) to provide crucial support to blood brain barrier (BBB) formation, maintenance, and stability. Numerous CNS diseases are associated with some aspect of BBB dysfunction. A dysfunction can manifest as one or multiple disruptions to any of the following barriers: physical, metabolic, immunological and transport barrier. A breach in the BBB can notably result in BBB hyper-permeability, endothelial activation and enhanced immune-endothelial interaction. How the BBB is regulated within this integrated unit remains largely unknown, especially as it relates to pericyte-endothelial interaction. We summarize the latest findings on pericyte origin, possible marker expression, and availability within different organ systems. We highlight pericyte-endothelial cell interactions, concentrating on extra- and intra- cellular signaling mechanisms linked to platelet derived growth factor-B, transforming growth factor -β, angiopoietins, Notch, and gap junctions. We discuss the role of pericytes in the NVU under inflammatory insult, focusing on how pericytes may indirectly affect leukocyte CNS infiltration, the direct role of pericyte-mediated basement membrane modifications, and immune responses. We review new findings of pericyte actions in CNS pathologies including Alzheimer's disease, stroke, multiple sclerosis, diabetic retinopathy, and HIV-1 infection. The uncovering of the regulatory role of pericytes on the BBB will provide key insight into how barrier integrity can be re-established during neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy Hill
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia PA
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia PA
| | - Slava Rom
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia PA
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia PA
| | - Servio H. Ramirez
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia PA
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia PA
| | - Yuri Persidsky
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia PA
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia PA
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen A Martin
- From the Departments of Internal Medicine (K.A.M., K.K.H.) and Pharmacology (K.A.M.), Yale Cardiovascular Research Center and Vascular Biology and Therapeutics Program, Yale University, New Haven, CT
| | - Karen K Hirschi
- From the Departments of Internal Medicine (K.A.M., K.K.H.) and Pharmacology (K.A.M.), Yale Cardiovascular Research Center and Vascular Biology and Therapeutics Program, Yale University, New Haven, CT.
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Stapor PC, Sweat RS, Dashti DC, Betancourt AM, Murfee WL. Pericyte dynamics during angiogenesis: new insights from new identities. J Vasc Res 2014; 51:163-74. [PMID: 24853910 DOI: 10.1159/000362276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2013] [Accepted: 03/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Therapies aimed at manipulating the microcirculation require the ability to control angiogenesis, defined as the sprouting of new capillaries from existing vessels. Blocking angiogenesis would be beneficial in many pathologies (e.g. cancer, retinopathies and rheumatoid arthritis). In others (e.g. myocardial infarction, stroke and hypertension), promoting angiogenesis would be desirable. We know that vascular pericytes elongate around endothelial cells (ECs) and are functionally associated with regulating vessel stabilization, vessel diameter and EC proliferation. During angiogenesis, bidirectional pericyte-EC signaling is critical for capillary sprout formation. Observations of pericytes leading capillary sprouts also implicate their role in EC guidance. As such, pericytes have recently emerged as a therapeutic target to promote or inhibit angiogenesis. Advancing our basic understanding of pericytes and developing pericyte-related therapies are challenged, like in many other fields, by questions regarding cell identity. This review article discusses what we know about pericyte phenotypes and the opportunity to advance our understanding by defining the specific pericyte cell populations involved in capillary sprouting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter C Stapor
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tulane University, Lindy Boggs Center, New Orleans, La., USA
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Pedersen TO, Blois AL, Xue Y, Xing Z, Sun Y, Finne-Wistrand A, Lorens JB, Fristad I, Leknes KN, Mustafa K. Mesenchymal stem cells induce endothelial cell quiescence and promote capillary formation. Stem Cell Res Ther 2014; 5:23. [PMID: 24533904 PMCID: PMC4055064 DOI: 10.1186/scrt412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2013] [Accepted: 02/12/2014] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Rapid establishment of functional blood vessels is a prerequisite for successful tissue engineering. During vascular development, endothelial cells (ECs) and perivascular cells assemble into a complex regulating proliferation of ECs, vessel diameter and production of extracellular matrix proteins. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to establish an endothelial-perivascular complex in tissue-engineered constructs comprising ECs and MSCs. Methods Primary human ECs and MSCs were seeded onto poly(L-lactide-co-1,5-dioxepan-2-one) (poly(LLA-co-DXO)) scaffolds and grown in dynamic culture before subcutaneous implantation in immunocompromised mice for 1 and 3 weeks. Cellular activity, angiogenic stimulation and vascular assembly in cell/scaffold constructs seeded with ECs or ECs/MSCs in a 5:1 ratio was monitored with real-time RT-PCR, ELISA and immunohistochemical microscopy analysis. Results A quiescent phenotype of ECs was generated, by adding MSCs to the culture system. Decreased proliferation of ECs, in addition to up-regulation of selected markers for vascular maturation was demonstrated. Baseline expression of VEGFa was higher for MSCs compared with EC (P <0.001), with subsequent up-regulated VEGFa-expression for EC/MSC constructs before (P <0.05) and after implantation (P <0.01). Furthermore, an inflammatory response with CD11b + cells was generated from implantation of human cells. At the end of the 3 week experimental period, a higher vascular density was shown for both cellular constructs compared with empty control scaffolds (P <0.01), with the highest density of capillaries being generated in constructs comprising both ECs and MSCs. Conclusions Induction of a quiescent phenotype of ECs associated with vascular maturation can be achieved by co-seeding with MSCs. Hence, MSCs can be appropriate perivascular cells for tissue-engineered constructs.
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Abstract
Vascularization of engineered tissues is critical for success. Adequate and physiologically regulated blood supply is important for viability of the implanted tissue but even more important for the proper function of parenchymal cells, which is the desired clinical outcome for most applications in regenerative medicine. Several methods are being developed to stimulate revascularization of engineered tissue. Prevascularized scaffolds with a hierarchical vascular pattern, allowing surgical hook-up of the inflow and outflow tracts, that are already preseeded and cultured with primary vascular cells or precursors will be required for larger tissues or tissues with an immediate high metabolism, such as myocardium. The preimplantation presence of a mature vasculature will improve differentiation and maturation of the parenchyma, thus meeting the functional demands of the host. This may also be true for smaller or metabolically less-active tissues, yet for viability and immediate function they may rely on facilitated postimplantation ingrowth of the host vasculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark J Post
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229 ER, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Nastaran Rahimi
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229 ER, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Vincenza Caolo
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229 ER, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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